Nova Scotia Biker News

Biker in Need

2011-02-24T11:39:00.001-07:00

What: Peter Stevenson's Mini-FundRaiser
Where: West Side Charlies, New Minas
When: SAT Feb 26 @9pm
Kenny Ryan & the Good Feelin' Band playing**

**to raise some $$ to help offset their financial worry, and to show support for a biker brother and good Friend**

**Everyone is welcome ....please forward to anyone else you know that would like to attend, the more we can get out to this, the better the 'kitty' will be!!!!

For More Info:
678-8229 H
670-3893 Christine's Cell
679-2493 W (M/F 9-5)

Bikers Welcome..

2011-02-24T05:05:00.003-07:00

Thursday, July 14th (5PM-11PM)
Friday, July 15th (3PM-12AM)
Saturday, July 16th (12PM-12AM)
Sunday, July 17th (12PM-5PM)

Well, the demand is apparent and this will be the summer of the first Fox Mountain "SMOKIN' BLUES FEST" at the beautiful Fox Mountain Camping Park on the South Mountain behind Aylesford. With camping for over 5000 people and 1000+ RV spots, this is sure to be the spot for a good time. Over 20 bands in one weekend!!!!

Expecting our first year to be a modest event that creates a demand for successive years is exactly our plan. We are not looking to blow people's minds with the next Woodstock, we are just looking to create and start a tradition of a festival that the Valley so seems to need and want. Our focus will be on providing people with a fun, safe camping atmosphere that combines great music with great times and LOTS of BBQ's. We all know that summertime, music and outdoor BBQ's go so well together, that is why we are working hard year-round to make this event one that you will want to return to each year and bring more and more people with you.

We are looking to expose some of the great bands that the Valley has grown locally and bring in some bands that many of you have never seen before. Sticking to the Blues and Blues Rock theme of things, this will be a great weekend with all you need for good music, good times and good friends.

We will also be holding a washer tournament and an Arts Fair for some of the Valley's local artists to show off their stuff. More info on these things will come with time.

If you would like more info on having your Art displayed or setting up a Vendor booth, please send us your email address to be added to the list for updated info and how to submit for your booth.

Fox Mountain provides clean bathrooms, canteen and shower facilities and a shuttle to take you from one spot to the other during the weekend. The crew at the campground are all great people who want you to come back many times, so they keep the place very friendly, safe and clean. Full Security staff on site, as well as First Aid and Information staff.

Spread the word, invite people to join the group and let's put The Valley on the map for yet another great musical event. Thanks for the support and we hope you have marked your calendars for what is sure to be one wild-ride of a weekend.

*******And finally, the info some of you have been waiting for......... YES, it is B.Y.O.B!!!!! No glass please!

TICKET PRICES/CAMPING INFO
Early Bird tickets go on sale Saturday, January 8th at 1PM
To order tickets by Visa/Mastercard or reserve camp sites, call 1-902-847-3747
To order tickets to be delivered/mailed/picked up, please call 1-902-691-4747
Or to order tickets online, go to www.ticketatlantic.com

EARLY BIRD-
Only a limited number of these will be sold and for a limited time only.
Weekend pass!!!! Four days of camping, music and fun ONLY $75, plus tax. Total with tax $86.25. Just over $20 a day for this event. Powered site= $10 extra per day.

Regular tickets/"Day of" ($10 extra per day to camp)-
Weekend pass- $103.50 tax in.
Thursday, July 14th- $23.00 tax in.
Friday, July 15th- $40.25 tax in.
Saturday, July 16th- $40.25 tax in.
Sunday, July 17th- $17.25 tax in.
Add $10 per site, per night for powered lot.
Payments will be accepted at the gate by form of cash, Mastercard, Visa and Debit.

Now, if you choose to come up between the previous Sunday and the Wednesday before the event, we are offering an Early Bird special of $8 per day (insanely cheap!!!), $10 for powered lot.

Road Dawgs Winter Bash - February

2011-01-31T05:41:00.002-07:00

Road Dawgs are hosting our 2011 Winterbash on Saturday Feb 12, 2011 at the Springfield Lake Rec Centre, Lower Sackville NS. We are wondering if you would like to reserve any tickets. They are going fast! Tickets are $10 each. Those looking for a hotel can book at the Downsview on Sackville Dr. Shuttle service will be provided.

Please let me know as soon as possible. We would appreciate your support. You can email or call Bill at 902-462-7734.

Thank you and we hope to see some of you there.

Bill MacIntyre
VP-Road Dawgs

New Case in Rewards for Major Unsolved Crimes Program News

2011-01-27T17:06:00.003-07:00

New Case in Rewards for Major Unsolved Crimes Program News - Justice

Rustie And Ellen Hall - New Case in Rewards for Major Unsolved Crimes Program
News - Justice
Thursday, 13 January 2011 15:10
Tags:Barr SettlementDouble HomicideEllenGiovanna HallJames Russell Hall
Another case was added to Nova Scotia's Rewards for Major Unsolved Crimes today, Jan. 13.

The Department of Justice will offer a cash reward of up to $150,000 for information leading to the arrest and conviction of the person or people responsible in the double homicide case of James Russell "Rustie" Hall and "Ellen" Giovanna Hall of Barr Settlement, Hants Co.

On the morning of Feb. 26, 2010, Enfield RCMP responded to a 911 call from a family friend who went to pick up Rustie Hall for work. Police found Rustie and Ellen Hall dead inside their home.

"We all share a responsibility to keep our communities safe and I urge anyone with information to please come forward to police," said Justice Minister Ross Landry. "We need the public's help to ensure justice is served and closure is brought to the Hall family."

Anyone with information can call the Department of Justice, Rewards for Major Unsolved Crimes Program, toll-free at 1-888-710-9090.

Those who come forward will be expected to provide their name and contact information. They may be called to testify in court. All calls to the Rewards for Major Unsolved Crimes Program are recorded.

More information on this and other cases can be found at www.gov.ns.ca/just .

The Rewards for Major Unsolved Crimes Program was launched in October 2006 as another tool for law enforcement to use in solving crime. There are now 63 cases in the program.

Nova Scotia Department of Justice - Media Release - January 13, 2011

Up and Coming on the Calendar this year

2011-01-21T06:46:00.000-07:00

Atlantic Ride in Red
Op Order

Theme: SUPPORT OF OUR DEPLOYED HEROS

Purpose: To show on going support for our troops, by members of the motorcycle community.

Date: Friday 10 June 2011.

Time: 0700 – 1700.

Rules for the Ride: ALL riders are to be in control of their machines at all times.
ALL Riders will PLEASE wear Red over their leathers please, as a sign of support for our troops.
No rider shall be excluded regardless of the type of motorcycle they choose to ride, if you ride, you are welcome.
There will be a $10 dollar donation, per machine for the ride. All proceeds from the donations are for SOLDIER ON.
All Traffic laws will be obeyed. Speed limit on 100 Series highways will be 90kph after the Main Rally Point at EXIT 7 on Highway 102(Irving Big Stop in Enfield). All other speed limits will be observed.
Flags in Support of Our Troops and the Canadian Flags are encouraged.
Riders are reminded that this is an all clubs event and that Club colors are secondary.
Riders may join the ride at any point along the routes to the main RALLY POINT, if they wish.
Donations are to be given to the Road Captain at the rally point of whichever leg you are riding.
This event is a go RAIN OR SHINE, so dress appropriately.
Road Captains can decide to change the routes due to construction or timings.
Riders taking part in this ride do so, on a voluntary bases. Ride in Red organizers accept no liability for damage or accidents.
All riders will arrive at the Rally Points with a full tank of fuel, and are responsible for their own fuel and condition of their bikes, as there will be no recovery or trail party, at this time. Subject to change.
Accommodations, if required, are at the riders expense. Organizers will have a list of local biker friendly hotels.

Routes are as follow:

South Shore: Rally Point will be at the Canadian Tire parking lot in Bridgewater. Route is as follows. Depart from Canadian Tire parking lot and proceed south to Highway 3. Turn left on Highway 3 and proceed to Highway 14 in Chester. Turn Left on Highway 14 proceeding to Windsor. Turn right on Highway 1 to the Irving at Three Mile Plains. There will be a fuel stop at the Irving. Turn back on Highway 14 and proceed to Highway 214. Turn left on Highway 214 to Highway 2. Turn right on Highway 2 and proceed to the Irving Big Stop at Exit 7 on Highway 102 (Enfield Scales). All riders WEST of Bridgewater are to please meet at the Rally Point in Bridgewater. You will meet the Road Captain there. Road Captain for this leg will be Craig Leonard (VETERANS UN-NATO CANADA). Contact Number (902)223-1811.

Eastern Shore: Rally Point will be in Musguodoboit Harbour at the Musquodoboit Memorial Hospital, corner of Highway 7 and Route 357. Follow Highway 7 to Junction of Highway 107. Turn left on Highway 107 to Main Street in Dartmouth. Exit Main Street onto route 318 to Waverly. Follow Route 318 to Highway 2. Take Highway to the Irving Big Stop at Exit 7 on Highway 102 (Enfield Scales). All Riders EAST of Musquodoboit are to make meet the Road Captain at Musguodoboit Memorial Hospital. There will be a stop in Waverly for fuel and rest break. The Road Captain for this leg - TBA

Annapolis Valley: Rally Point will be the ESSO Service Centre, Exit 21, in Bridgetown. Any riders WEST of Bridgetown are to meet at the Rally Point of this leg. The Route is as follows. Take Highway 1 East to Windsor. Break point will be at the Irving Big Stop in Three Mile Plains. Depart Irving Big Stop and take Highway 14 to Highway 214. Turn left on Highway 214 to Highway 2. Turn right on Highway 2 to the Irving Big Stop at Exit 7 on Highway 102 (Enfield Scales). The Road Captain for this leg – Charly Dorais (AMMC) Contact Number – (902)847-1875

Northumberland Shore: Rally Point for this leg will be at Tim Horton’s, on Highway 348 in New Glasgow. All Riders EAST of New Glasgow are asked to meet at the Rally Point. Depart Tim Horton’s and turn left on Highway 348, continue on to Highway 104. Turn West on Highway 104 to Exit 15. Exit Highway 104 onto Highway 102. Continue on Highway 102 to Exit 13A. Rest stop will be there. Continue along 102 toward Halifax. Take Exit 12 (Brookfield), to Highway 298. Turn right on Highway 2. Continue along highway 2 to the Irving Big Stop at Exit 7 of Highway 102 (Enfield Scales). Road Captain for this leg – TBA

New Brunswick and PEI: Riders are asked to meet at the McDonalds Parking lot in Sackville NB. The Route will follow The Trans Canada Highway to Exit 7 on the 104 (Last exit before the Toll Road). Take Exit 7 and proceed through the Wentworth Valley to Masstown Exit of Highway 104. Turn onto Highway 104 and proceed to Truro. Take the Exit for Halifax, Highway 102(This is the ONLY exit for Halifax, so do not miss it) Proceed to the Tim Horton’s at Exit 13A on Highway 102, where you should meet up with the Road Captain from the Northumberland Shore. Continue along 102 toward Halifax. Take Exit 12 (Brookfield), to Highway 298. Turn right on Highway 2. Continue along highway 2 to the Irving Big Stop at Exit 8 of Highway 102 (Enfield Scales). Your Road Captain for this leg – Fabien Melanson (VETERANS UN-NATO CANADA) – (506)312-0047.

POPINT OF CONTACT: Craig Leonard CD (M) 902-223-1811. Email – craigleonard@ns.sympatico.ca

ALL RIDERS: Departure from the Irving Big Stop at Exit 7 will be No Later Than 1400 hours (2 PM). Riders are asked to be at the Main Rally point not less than 1 hour prior to departure for rest, fuel, flags, and any last minute instructions. The final route and destination will be announced at this time.

Any one wishing the purchase of Ride in Red merchandise (t-shirts, hoodies, pins, badges, ect.) can contact me at craigleonard@ns.sympatico.ca.

Sorry to hear this!!!

2011-01-21T06:38:00.003-07:00

Just thought we would pass this article in today's herald along to you in case you didn't read it.
In Dec around Christmas, we asked to set up in the Gateway Mall in Bridgewater. They pretty much told us we weren't good enough. We would attract the wrong type of people as customers.
We were quick to Point out to her (the manager) that many walks of life drive motorcycles, and not to paint everyone with the same brush.And that The Biking Community does a lot of good for the communities in Nova Scotia, and that we felt this was discrimination against Biker's.

Their comment was that our products were not in the Christmas spirit. and not a good fit with other tenants.

http://www.thechronicleherald.ca/NovaScotia/1222934.html

Biker Business gets brush-off
Couple says mall wrong to reject tenancy bid
By EVA HOARE Staff Reporter
Thu, Jan 20 - 4:54 AM

Marion and Jim McQuarrie tried to rent a kiosk in Bridgewater’s Gateway Mall in December for their biker accessory business but were turned down by mall management.

Marian and Jim MacQuarrie tried to rent a kiosk in Bridgewater’s Gateway Mall in December for their biker accessory business but were turned down by mall management.(MacQuarrie family photo)
A Bridgewater-area couple believes they’re being discriminated against because they sell biker-related accessories.
Jim and Marion McQuarrie said they tried to rent a kiosk for their business, Wolf Spirit Accessories, in the Gateway Mall in Bridgewater in early December, but they allege mall management refused because of worries about the type of clientele they might draw.
"We approached them; we used to be a tenant," Marion McQuarrie said in an interview from the couple’s home in Pleasant River. "We were a good tenant. The first thing out of (the manager’s) mouth was, ‘What kind of people are you going to attract?’
"We got the door slammed in our face pretty quick."
Susan McGuigan, manager of Gateway Realty, which runs the mall, said the company has "every right" to determine tenants that go into the mall.
McGuigan said discrimination had nothing to do with the decision not to let the McQuarries set up business in the shopping centre.
"We have a right to put in who and what we see fit," McGuigan said in an interview Wednesday. "It had nothing to do with them being bikers. That’s our comment."
The McQuarries said they don’t understand why their booth, which sells motorcycle accessories, jewelry and trinkets to motorcyclists, and has been welcomed "with open arms" by the Bedford Place Mall for the past few years.
"I said, ‘Don’t you think you’re being prejudiced?’ " said Marion McQuarrie, recounting her conversation with McGuigan.
McGuigan said the conversation didn’t go in that direction.
Jim McQuarrie said he thinks mall managers believe they will draw a criminal element to the centre, which he says is untrue.
"Sometimes we get the bad end of the stick and they paint us all with the same brush," he said, adding that their customers include Christian biker group members and charity organization workers. They also sell at the Wharf Rat Rally in Digby.
"We go all summer long," said Marion McQuarrie. "We’re at different bike rallies and different clubs."
The couple also operates a Fabrizone cleaning franchise and were thinking about opening up a full-time biker Accessories store at the mall.
"I had told (McGuigan) we had thought about opening a Wolf Spirit store," said Marion McQuarrie.
( ehoare@herald.ca)

Women on Wheels at Atlantic Motorcycle Show this year

2011-01-19T05:32:00.006-07:00

WOMEN ON WHEELS This year at the Atlantic Motorcycle and ATV Show we are having a “Women on Wheels” competition on the Saturday night from 5-9! The competition will be at the Seminar stage in Agrena C in the Moncton Coliseum. Women riders are asked to register in advance online at the Master Promotions Ltd. site. Click HERE to register now. The competition includes a Bike Lifting competition and a Fashion show component with safety approved gear. You will be judge on both events to come up with a final score! The Prize is supplied by Best Western Chocolate Lake Hotel in Halifax, and Kate King Jewellery. Get bedazzled and have a nice weekend away if you are the winner of Women on Wheels. Please submit your registration forms to Moira Pellerine by email at moirapellerine@mpltd.ca or by fax 902-468-2795. Space is limited so sign up now! Thank you, Moira~ Moira Pellerine Marketing & Operations Master Promotions Ltd.

Bike Lifting competition is as follows:

This requires properly picking up a bike once it has fallen on its
side. It will be demonstrated prior to having the ladies attempt it and
there will also be spotters and women there to coach them through this.

They will be evaluated on the effectiveness on this task. Here is a more detailed description and steps Catherine has supplied for me.

1. Turn the handlebars to full-lock position with front of tire pointed downward.

2. Find the "balance point" of the two tires and the engine, engine guard, or footpeg. The motorcycle will be fairly easy to lift until it reaches this point because it's resting on its side. Once you start lifting from there, you are responsible for the most of the weight of the bike.

3. "Sit" down with your butt/lower back against the motorcycle seat. Be very careful to keep your back straight and your head up. Put your feet solidly on the ground about 12 inches apart, with your knees bent slightly.

4. With one hand, grasp the handgrip (underhand, preferably), keeping your wrist straight.

5. With your other hand, grip the motorcycle framework (or any solid part of the motorcycle), being careful to avoid the hot exhaust pipe, turn signals, etc.

6. Lift with your legs by taking small steps backwards, pressing against the seat with your butt and keeping your back straight. On slippery or gravelly surfaces this technique probably won't work. On inclined surfaces this can be very dangerous.

7. Be careful not to lift the motorcycle up and then flip it onto its other side! If possible, put the sidestand down and the bike in gear.

8. Set the motorcycle on its sidestand and park it safely.

Harold and Wendy.. always doing a great job

2011-01-14T05:23:00.001-07:00

Check them out at http://www.motorcycletourguidens.com/

Remove the Snow from your cars!!!

2011-01-14T05:17:00.002-07:00

If you don't clean off your car before venturing out, you could be facing a fine.
A new law allows police to ticket people for not cleaning the snow and ice off their cars before driving it. A law that requires motorists to clean snow and ice off before hitting the road or face a fine of $167.71
In the past, motorists were only fined if snow or ice fell off their vehicle and it caused damage or injury The fines for causing damage or injury range from $200 to $1,000, or $500 to $1,500 for commercial drivers.
The law will be actively enforced and people will be pulled over and ticketed if they do not clear off their car. Crusty snow on top of vehicles in particular can cause hazards to the vehicles driving behind.
"If you don't want snow and ice flying at you while you drive on the highway, offer the same courtesy to others,". "Clean off your car before you drive."
While some exceptions to the rules apply-drivers will not be issued violations if snow accumulates during travel through snowstorms-motorists should always completely remove snow and ice from their vehicles whenever possible.
"You can take a few minutes to clean your car, or throw away your money on a ticket,". "Law enforcement will definitely be targeting violators; so, to me, it doesn't seem like such a tough decision to make."

Motorcycle Product of the Year: Clothing

2011-01-07T08:12:00.002-07:00

REV'IT! Defender GTX Outfit

Motorcycle clothing has also come a long way.

There once was a time, believe it or not, when you could be wet, cold, hot and sweaty -- during the same ride, no matter the season!

That's all changed with modern technology and top-notch construction techniques.

The Rev'it Defender GTX jacket and pants have it all: lightweight warmth, a waterproof and windproof guarantee and 2011 styling.

While the initial outlay for this outfit is a bit breathtaking, in the end, you'll probably save money with its four-season potential. And you'll look good (and feel good) doing it!

It would be nice to have a decent back protector thrown in at these prices, but nothing else came close to the Defender GTX jacket for utility and style, making it a 2010 webBikeWorld Motorcycle Product of the Year.

Check out the video here...... CLICK

Nice info on APD Motorsports from fellow lady rider

2011-01-07T06:03:00.001-07:00

I just wanted to let bikers know (especially lady bikers who feel ripped off at bike shops) that I found this amazing guy out in my neck of the woods, St. Margaret's Bay. His name is Aidrian Bolton and he's a certified Honda motorcycle mechanic in the UK and he can fix ANY bike at very reasonable rates and in short order. I like him because he's so close to my home that he drops me off after I've left my bike at his shop, no three day waits or trying to arrange for transportation home from the city. WONDERFUL. He did a tune-up and oil change for me for $70. Really good guy and very honest. Here are his particulars.

ADRIAN BOLTON, CAE MIMI
APD MOTORSPORTS
12280 Peggy's Cove Road
Glen Haven, NS
B3Z 2R6

902-821-2327
902-225-3515
apd.net@hotmail.com

Cape Breton Bikefest

2011-01-07T05:53:00.002-07:00

The third annual Cape Breton Bikefest runs July 29- August 1, 2011. Three nights of free Street Dances, including Matt Minglewood, Motorcycle Drag Racing, Escorted Rides, Stunt Shows, Burnout Pit and Vendor Village. Storm the Fortress of Louisbourg, an unforgetable 18th century experience. Take a leisurely ride around the Cabot Trail, enjoy the local festivals, Cape Breton hospitality and much more. Check out our website for more information www.capebretonbikefest.com

Atlantic Motorcycle & ATV Show

2011-01-06T06:46:00.002-07:00

Friday
February 11 12 noon – 9:00 p.m.
Saturday
February 12 10:00 a.m. – 9:00 p.m.
Sunday
February 13 10:00 a.m. – 5:00 p.m.
Friday, 11 February, 2011
12:00 PM - 09:00 PM

Peter Stevenson

2010-12-30T16:56:00.001-07:00

I wanted to let all the bikers out there know that Peter Stevenson was misdiagnosed at the kentville hospital last Friday as having a pulled muscle and was sent home. On Saturday he once again was sent home with a supposed pulled muscle and excrutiating pain. Monday morning he was admitted to the kentville hospital as critical at a 50/50 chance of survival because his gallbladder was infected and inflamed. Due to this not being diagnosed within 72 hours bloody tissue built up around the gallbladder which caused fluid to build on his right lung and was in early stages of pneumonia. He has been upgraded to serious and is on a combination of drug cocktails by IV and only sips of clear liquids. This is going to be a long road to recovery maybe 5 weeks. They have to wait for the infection to be gone before they can operate and then it probably has to be the abdominal incision, not the scope. So we are looking at probably into february before all is said and done. He is allowed visitors . It seems to brighten up his spirit. He will be home xmas day for a few hours. All prayers are welcome.

*** just a footnote that for those who would like to forward a message to Peter they can do so on e mail zelpet@hotmail.com and I will make sure he gets it and I will reply also. Thank you

Power Trend Up and Coming for 2011!!!!

2010-12-16T10:01:00.001-07:00

20 years.. like wow.. where did that time go.. visit them at www.powertrendcycles.ca

Scotts Rebuilds from Indonesia

2010-12-08T07:22:00.005-07:00

Thought I would share these photos with you from Scott Devlin ..... He just built this bike, when he got the bike it was in a Chicken coop in Sumatra Indonesia, He totally re built the motor, it’s a 1000cc Roadster HD, He is a Bluenoser from Waverley , Nova Scotia.
How cool is that!!! He is still in Indonesia and has built 5 bikes since this one, cost him a fortune on beer and almost got
divorced but worth all the hassle

Do enjoy..............

He can be reached at scott.devlin@maxidrill.net

Riding in Style in Sackville is MOVING!!! Dec 1st

2010-11-18T10:45:00.000-07:00

FARCEY, Michael Allen "Mike - Beer Belly" — 51, Wolfville, Kings ...visitation Friday Nov 5th

2010-11-04T12:32:00.001-06:00

Two Wheel Sunday - This upcoming Sunday!!!

2010-10-13T07:31:00.004-06:00

Hey..... we all know our lovely Pastor Reid Stairs..... also our Chief Instructor in the Provincial motorcycle training program.

Well here is your chance to hear him.... and also Pam Vickery - who everyone knows too!!! is going to share about her adventure this summer, and there will be prizes for 'people's choice' favorite bikes, and a light lunch after the service.

Everyone is welcome.

Two Wheel Sunday

October 17, 2010 at 10 AM

Theme

Itʼs All about the Journey @ Faith Community Church

Meeting at

Cole Harbour High School
Forest Hills Parkway
Cole Harbour

Cole Harbour High School, 2 Chameau Cr.
(off Forest Hills Parkway) in Dartmouth, NS Canada.

(Map For Directions)

Lunch (11 pm) to follow the service.

Prizes for ʻPeopleʼs Choiceʼ bike favorites

(Sports / Cruiser / Tourers )

Please RSVP

faithcommunity@eastlink.ca

Biker needs help!!!

2010-10-01T05:56:00.001-06:00

There were some problems with the road during the Cruise for Kids......

Brycon Const. who was responsible for the road condition on Saturday, are refusing to pay $1,144.00 for repairs to my motorcycle. They want me to go through my insurance which would give me a black mark.

I'm already going to have one on my driving record from the accident report.

I was wondering if anyone who had any problems there would send me an e-mail describing the road condition and any problems they might have had. I know there was some there because they helped me upright my bike.

Any e-mails would be greatly appreciated as I might have to take legal action. I need all the proof of conditions I can get.

Anyone there on Highway 1 when I laid my Yamaha Royal Star down please e-mail me about conditions at rhemino@hotmail.com.

Thanks for the help

Bob Emino

Remembering Grant Potter

2010-09-28T11:39:00.001-06:00

Annapolis Royal recreation director Grant Potter is seen here several years ago putting on snowshoes at Fort Anne. He died September 16 in a motorcycle accident.Lawrence Powell

Annapolis Royal recreation director Grant Potter is seen here several years ago putting on snowshoes at Fort Anne. He died September 16 in a motorcycle accident.Lawrence Powell
Published on September 28th, 2010
Lawrence Powell
October 2 event pays tribute to late recreation director, helps family

Topics : Annapolis Royal Fire Hall , Annapolis County Recreation , Annapolis , Mountain Road , 752 St George Street
Grant Potter, Town of Annapolis recreation director, will be remembered this weekend as friends, the town, and colleagues gather to pay tribute to his life and benefit his family.
Potter died September 16 as the result of a motorcycle accident on the Parker Mountain Road.
The Grant Potter Family Benefit will be held October 2 at the Annapolis Royal Fire Hall and includes a silent auction, ball hockey, children’s movie, bake sale, Chinese auction, music, a supper, and games for the children.
Silent Auction donations can be dropped off at Annapolis County Recreation office 752 St George Street or Town Hall. Items will be accepted at the Fire Hall Saturday morning 9:30 a.m.

Help a Bikers family in Need - October 2nd

2010-09-28T08:36:00.001-06:00

GRANT POTTER FAMILY BENEFIT
October 2, 2010
Annapolis Royal Fire Hall
Silent Auction donations can be dropped off at Annapolis County Recreation office 752 St George Street or Town Hall. Items will be accepted at the Fire Hall Saturday morning 930am.

2:30 to 4:30pm Pick-up Ball Hockey on Union Street – Bring Your Own Stick ($5.00 for ages 11 and up)

2:30 – 4:00pm Children’s Movie - 11 and under (free will)

2:30 – Sold out Bake Sale

2:30 to 7:00pm Chinese Auction

2:30 to 9:30pm Silent Auction

2:30 to 4:30pm Music

4:30 to 6:00pm Supper: ham, baked beans, potato salad, coleslaw, roll (free will)
OR
Hotdogs and Pop $1.00 each

4:30 to 7:00pm Games for children in the upstairs meeting room
“The Latest Wii” and New Playstation 3 Move
Pool (for ages 10 and up)
($1.00 for each 15 minutes)

7:00 to 10:00pm Musical entertainment
Hot dogs and pop (till sold out)
LIVE AUCTION

People are encouraged to walk or bike to the Fire Hall using St George Street, the trail behind the Fire Hall (the Membertou Trail), St Anthony Street, or the sidewalk along the causeway if possible. You can also park in Town at the Legion, at the Market or in other parking areas and walk. This will free up needed space at the Fire Hall for people who cannot walk to the Fire Hall.
All proceeds to the Potter Family

Miles for Smiles - IWK Toy Run - September 26th

2010-09-27T12:08:00.004-06:00

The Valley Shifters did a great job organizing and putting on this annual Ride from Digby to Halifax. The Miles for Smiles - IWK Childrens Toy Run...

Take a look at the pictures that Megan Squarebriggs Cairns has captured and would like to share.... Great job on the pictures and great job on the turn out..... Lots of toys for the Kiddies again.....

http://s380.photobucket.com/albums/oo249/craigandmeagan/Miles%20for%20smiles%202010/?albumview=slideshow

Enjoy.....

Can anyone answer this one?

2010-09-16T11:35:00.001-06:00

My name is Ron, I live in B.C. and am just in the process of buying a trike that is in Nova Scotia. Do you know if anyone can just buy and insure a trike without a license? I was thinking about putting a permit on it so i can bring her back to B.C. the bike is fitted with hand controls - as i am in a wheelchair, I've been dreaming of one of these forever and now i have the chance :)

Well, i guess i just want to know if i could insure a bike (trike) without a license. and maby my "friend" will drive it back for me.

Kindest Regards, Ron.

Notice to everyone

2010-09-15T04:31:00.001-06:00

To all bikers in Halifax,

Watch out for a light blue car with a Bobs Taxi sign on top, he is not biker friendly, ran a red light in front of Perks on Sunday afternoon, blew his horn and gave me the finger, dam near smoked me out.

BEWARE

Motorcycle Poker Run a way to help children

2010-09-14T05:54:00.003-06:00

After years of struggling to find ways to raise money within the motorcycle community, they have found a formula that is working to great effect.

For the past six years, the Nova Scotia motorcycle community has hosted the “Cruise for Kids” to raise awareness and money for charities, such as The Childrens Trust Fund.

The Motorcycle poker run, which this year is slated for September 25th, started back in 2005, when a desperate women came to the motorcycle community to help her brother that had been in a very bad motorcycle accident. The community banded together to raise $29,000 in 9 days for a man laying in a coma in the hospital. It was emotional to see the line of motorcycles riding to help this man and his family.

After taking a look at the motorcycle community coming together. It was decided to keep this event going, maybe find another local charity that was struggling with fundraising ideas. That is when the Childrens Trust fund was approached, and welcomed the idea. The idea of helping local children in need was appealing to the community.

Five years later, the motorcycle community is proud of how successful the event has become.

The inaugural event raised $12,000.00. And since then, the event has averaged about $15,000 a year.
The motorcycle community is great in helping raise money, especially for kids. They are very giving and supportive. Everyone works along together and the team work to get this together is outstanding.

The ride starts at Wellington Firehall in Wellington on September 25th, and is open to all makes and models of motorcycles. Registration starts at 10 and is $10 and if you want a 5 year crest for your collection you can get it for an additional $5. Additional poker hands also available.

Nonmotorcyclist are invited to attend the day long event. There will be a 50/50, a silent auction with many items available, which can be viewed at http://janice-cruiseforkidsauction2010.blogspot.com/ and for more information you can keep your eye on novascotiabikers.com. There will also be an all day barbeque with pulled pork, chili, hotdogs and hamburgers. Music provided by Q104.

Come out and help us help the kids. Its all good.

Miles of Bliss on September 17th in Halifax

2010-09-12T05:28:00.004-06:00

Miles of Bliss is an in-store exhibit of my recently completed body of mixed media paintings and ink drawings at Love Me Boutique. This is my newest work, celebrating the jumps, bumps, mud, rocks and dust of early motorcycle trials and scrambles (vintage motocross).

Date: Friday September 17th, 2010
Time: 5-7pm
Location: Love Me Boutique, 1539 Birmingham Street, Halifax
Map: http://tiny.cc/lovemeboutique

Facebook Event Page: http://tiny.cc/milesofbliss

If you cannot make the opening, the show will be on display until the end of October.
Store hours at www.lovemeboutique.ca

Hope to see you there!
Anna

---
www.stodesigns.com
www.gooddaystudio.etsy.com

Hurricane Earl cruising into Canadian motorcycle rally

2010-09-03T12:44:00.001-06:00

Friday, 03 September 2010 | Written by Asia | |

Officials in Canada are looking closely at a motorcycle event taking place this weekend, but not for gangs or troublemakers. It’s the impending tropical storm conditions from Hurricane Earl that has some worried.

Even governmental officials such as Canada’s minister in charge of the Emergency Management Office are concerned about the riders attending the Wharf Rat Rally taking place in Digby, Nova Scotia this weekend.

Organizers are expecting anywhere from 80,000 to 100,000 bikers to attend the motorcycle event running through the weekend, many of which will be camping in tents. Wharf Rat Rally, celebrating its fifth anniversary kicked off on September 1st and runs though until the 6th.The path of Hurricane Earl is expected to make land fall where the rally is located on Saturday morning bringing with it winds of 140kmh.

According to the latest tracking information at the time of this article, Earl was still barreling towards Digby, Nova Scotia with the enthusiasm of a biker.

Planned events for the rally include stunt shows by a variety of performers, music, a show-and-shine, rider training, tours of the region, a tattoo competition, demo rides, and more.

While no one doubts the enthusiasm of the rally’s attendees, a tough stance taken by local law enforcement may have to be relaxed. The Royal Canadian Mounted Police (RCMP) released a press statement earlier warning they’ll have "zero tolerance for violators caught speeding."

Whether they’ll suffer the high winds and driving rain may be another matter.

Governmental officials are allowing attendees and organizers to use their biker wisdom of whether to ‘weather’ the storm at the rally.

"It’s up to them to look at the conditions," minister in charge of the province’s Emergency Management Office Ramona Jennex told local papers on Thursday, "The very best we can do is offer the best advice that we have."

As for the riders at the center of the concerns, the biker attitude may keep the rally cruising along.

"I don't anticipate a problem," rally chairman Glenn Dunn told the Chronical Herald newspaper earlier this week, "Bikers are used to riding in the rain, and they carry rain suits."

Free Accomadation in Digby... very generous I would say

2010-09-02T19:24:00.001-06:00

Just a note to say that due to the impending weather the Barnwood Inn in Bear River has had two cancellations from out of province guests and so now have two rooms free for the Wharf Rat Rally ! Phone us on (902 467-0481 to secure a last-minute spot. Check out our website for more details.

Regards.

Ginny Hurlock (owner)

Hmmmm gasing up

2010-09-01T05:14:00.003-06:00

Subject: Shell Policy Issue

I received your email address from Mr. *** who suggested that I write to you regarding a problem I have encountered with Shell Canada. I first corresponded with a Mr. **** and was referred to Mr. *** and am now being referred to you. I am hoping that perhaps you and I can resolve my problem.

On June 4, 2010 I attempted to fuel my motorcycle at a Shell service station in Bridgewater , Nova Scotia . I was refused service because I would not have my wife disembark from the motorcycle while I fueled it. The Shell attendant stated that it was Shell Canada policy. I explained to him that neither he nor Shell had the legal authority to force my wife to get off and again asked that he have someone turn on the pump. Again I was refused service. I left Shell and fueled my motorcycle at one of your competitors with my wife still on the motorcycle.

The explanation that I have received is that this inane policy is strictly a fire safety issue. In fact Mr. **** went as far as to send me a photo of a motorcycle that went on fire AFTER it was fueled and the operator turned on the ignition. The operative word here is AFTER, not while it was being fueled. I replied with two videos of two automobiles that went on fire at the gasoline pumps WHILE being fueled by the driver. The operative word here of course is WHILE the automobile was being fueled. I asked Mr. **** if Shell Canada had policy requiring automobile passenger to disembark or was it Shell’s intention to create such a policy. I also asked him if it would be Shell’s intention to immediately cease the use of self service pumps as a result of the videos.

Bottom line is that not Shell, nor anyone else, can create policy relating to the services to the general public unless that policy is founded in law. I have researched provincial statutes and regulations governing the delivery of fuel to ANY motor vehicle and they are contained in the Motive Fuel and Fuel Oil Approval Regulations made under Section 84 of the Environment Act, Province of Nova Scotia - Section 13, subsections 1 to 6 inclusive. The only three (3) restrictions are 1) engine cannot be in operation 2) no smoking with 7.5 meter of the pump and 3) no using jumper cable within 7.5 meters of the pump. I have been advised by the Provincial Fire Marshal’s office, Province of Nova Scotia , that there is NO known requirement for the passenger to disembark from the motorcycle while it is being fueled. Obviously this makes your policy illegal and discriminatory.

I have explained to Shell Canada that, from time to time, I have a passenger who is disabled as a result of muscular sclerosis. I also have, on occasion, had passengers who are paraplegic on my motorcycle. I asked what I should do in those situations and they replied that I should either fuel my motorcycle prior to picking up my passenger or I would have to remove my passenger whether they are disabled or not. I have been advised that Shell requires that ALL passengers on motorcycles must disembark, including disabled and paraplegics. I was instructed that if I had a disabled person on my motorcycle I was to pull up in front of the Shell facility, go inside and get staff to assist me in getting that person off the motorcycle, go to the gasoline pumps and fuel up and then return to my passenger and Shell staff would assist me in putting the person back on the motorcycle. I find their advice to be offensive, insensitive, and discriminatory against motorcyclists and persons with disabilities.

I have asked on three (3) separate occasions that my concern be forwarded to Shell’s legal department for their interpretation; however that has not yet happened. I have also explained to Mr. **** and Mr. **** that if we cannot resolve this issue amicably that it is my intention to contact the media, disability rights groups and, if necessary, to file a complaint with the Human Right Commission for their ruling. I need assurances that it is Shell Canada’s intention to rescind this inane, illegal, and discriminatory policy.

I await your reply.

Subject: Shell Policy Issue

M

I thank you for bringing this policy issue to our attention. I can assure you we’ve looked into it with both our legal staff and our health and safety personnel, and we’ve had several internal discussions on the subject. Your many points have been noted and taken under advisement.

While you may not agree, we will not be making any changes to our policy as safety on our forecourts is of our utmost concern and in our experience fueling various vehicles for many decades across the globe this is the safety policy that we are satisfied best protects our customers, their passengers, our facilities and our staff when it comes to refueling motorcycles.

Plain and simple, it is a Shell policy that no fuelling takes place while someone is sitting on the motorcycle, disability or not. Please do not confuse “law” with policy. Shell is well within our rights to refuse service to a customer for many reasons, including safety to himself or others, and our legal department has confirmed that we have the legal authority to do so.

Shell is a private business and we can fully control the way those operations are carried out, which customers are served, and which are refused service (within certain parameters). You’ve discussed the Charter of Human Rights and Freedoms, but that particular charter does not include “motorcycles” or “motorcycle operators” as one of the prohibited areas that you must not discriminate against.

You also discussed passengers on your bike with disabilities. I would submit that such a person would be at even greater risk of being able to quickly get off the bike if a fire ignited and thus it be even more important that they not be seated while refueling. Our staff is instructed to accommodate the person with a disability if required by assisting in helping the person get off and back on the bike. The point is, however, ALL passengers on motorbikes must get off. That is our policy.

Now, I do understand your frustration even though we have different views of this situation. Nevertheless, our customer service staff, who have a very difficult job and are always looking for positive resolutions to these situations, have said you have become quite aggressive and threatening in your tone and manner as you’ve looked for resolution. I hope should there be further discussions you can maintain a civil manner in these policy discussions. We have no trouble discussing the situation, but our discussion should be civil and respectful.

Again, our legal department is well aware of your issue and has made their assessment. If there is any other clarification you require, I can look into it as long as you can be patient as I do the groundwork. We have an intricate retail network and a lot of our customers have questions. While I do consider your questions important, they are some of many that I deal with.

Regards,

Head Office in Calgary , Alberta , Canada

Thank you so very much for your prompt reply.

Obviously this issue is not going to be resolved with Shell and I will pursue a resolution through other avenues. I must say that I take exception to the statement that I have been aggressive and threatening in tone, according to your customer relations staff. If the fact that I have been persistent equates to being aggressive, in their opinions, that is unfortunate. As to the insinuation that I have been threatening, that simply is not true. I have each and every email between my self and Shell Canada and I challenge you or anyone else to supply me with an example of a threat. The fact that I stated that I would continue to make every effort to have Shell's policy changed through the media, disabilities groups or the Human Rights Commission should not, if this is what the threat reference is about, be considered a threat. It is a statement of fact. As to the only telephone conversation I have had on the issue with Shell staff, I would hope that it was not Mr. **** who suggested I was threatening. I was very pleased with that conversation and felt that Mr. **** was very professional and that we had a very positive conversation. In fact, when that telephone call ended Mr. **** thanked me for the discussion and went as far as to state that he could appreciate my point of view and that it why he forwarded my concern to Mr. C****.

In any event, I will not take up any more of your time and perhaps we will discuss this issue again.

Respectfully;

BEWARE of Bridge Toll.....

2010-08-27T12:11:00.001-06:00

I thought I should share this with you in hopes that it won't happen ever again. Sunday Aug.22 my wife and I were on the bridge at the tolls, the Any Vehicle lane #1. New Bridge. Two bikes and mine had a Macpass which activated the Go light and the gate but we both stopped at the booth too speak to the attendant. I asked her if my wife could go through and after that I could swipe my pass on the puck to let me through. No was the answer. You have to pay cash for the other bike. I said last time they put the gate on CONVOY so we could all go through on my pass and it was no problem. NO That's wrong. So I unzip my pocket and grab some change and she took 75 cents and threw it in and she told us to go through. My wife always rides up front and she went and I followed. The stop bar came down and I took a direct hit to my head. It knocked me silly. Didn't see it coming at all. Before I knew what happened I was on the ground, hands still at the bars, feet at the pegs, motor revving. I then realized what had happened and let go of the throttle and squeezed the clutch and then shut down. The damage was done. Myself and my ride and my wife had the pleasure of seeing this in her mirrors. I payed two tolls, used the recommended lane for motorcycles and the attendant didn't leave the gate up or switch it up. This is not a case of "shit happens". Human error that could have had a lot worse outcome. Just thought I should share this with you because I know you are "out there" and can pass this on to make others aware of what can happen and hopefully it won't again.

Motorcycle driver dies after collision with car

2010-08-26T04:43:00.000-06:00

A motorcycle rider died Wednesday shortly after his bike collided with a car near Fall River.

RCMP said the 39-year-old motorcyclist struck a 2003 Honda Civic after tipping his bike, a 2007 Kawasaki, and sliding into the car’s path on Windgate Drive.

The motorcyclist died on the way to hospital, and a 10-year-old passenger on the bike received injuries that were serious but not life-threatening.

The 23-year-old female driver of the Civic was not injured.

The crash happened at 4:15 p.m., said Const. Tamu Bracken, an RCMP spokeswoman

Annual 911 Ride from Nova Scotia, Canada to Maine, USA

2010-08-19T08:40:00.000-06:00

From:
Daniel Ross

Annual 911 Ride from Nova Scotia to Maine.pdf (547KB)
Hey Bikers,

I'm one month away from my first annual 911 ride. Pretty exciting to
start a lifelong tradition of riding to the USA every September 11th.
My ultimate goal is to ride there with my wife and kids all on their
own bikes. My youngest is only one year old...so I might be getting
ahead of myself here...

I have no idea of who (or how many), is coming with me. If you're
interested, let me know and I can be in touch about the details.

If you are from the States and would like to meet us in Bangor, drop me a line.

If you were on the Cabot Trail this year, and bought one of my
T-Shirts or Sunglasses, then I am pleased to inform you that $500 from
sales will be going to the Rolling Thunder Charities.

This whole idea of promoting the Cabot Trail has been so cool. Just
so you all know, I get emails from all over the world about this
place. It is truly unbelievable. It's not just the scenery, it's the
people that live and work on the Trail. I think they're one of the
reasons that caused 97% of Harley Davidson owners to choose the Cabot
Trail as the #1 famous road to explore in Canada*.

Most of the riders taking part in the site and buying the shirts are
Americans. They've been extremely nice and appreciative, making me
feel even more committed to this run. I think it is a great
opportunity for bikers from Nova Scotia to show how much we enjoy
their visits.

All the info is attached, and also on the website.
http://cabottrailbiker.com/911-ride/

Miles and miles,

Daniel

*HOG Magazine Canada, volume 2, issue 02, pg 14

--
Daniel Ross

www.Cabottrailbiker.com
cabottrailbiker@gmail.com
(902)870-4630
-----------------------------------------------
4053 South River Road, Antigonish, NS, B2G 2H6

Help with importing old bikes from England

2010-08-19T07:58:00.002-06:00

Greetings from Royal Berkshire in England. My name is Dave and I have a bit of a problem if you or any of Nova Scotia bikers can help. I have been a biker in England since my teens with a love for old British Iron in particular. My working days are numbered as I retire from being a telephone lineman this september and my partner Jen and I are looking to emigrate to Nova Scotia as soon as we can. Jen's parents live near Annapolis Royal and are not getting any younger. We have visited before and love the province, it has great roads, great people and scenery to die for. I was so jealous every time we passed a motorcycle on the road on our trips. To cut to the chase when we finally get through all the red tape with immigration to come over permanently we want to bring my bikes with us. I have owned them for many years and my kids loved the sidecar when they were young.
My bikes can be checked out on my website ( the first one done by Jen as she is trying to get into web design) at http://www.noroomintheshed.co.uk/ . I was wondering if anyone you know has experience of importing old bikes into Nova Scotia or Canada in general. Any pointers would be gratefully received. We yearn for space, fresh air and good roads with good people to share them with whilst we still can.

Ride safe,

Dave, Jen and Willow the collie.

Reply to email: davidtaylor85@btopenworld.com

Whoa baby - Driver faces fine for 'stunting'

2010-07-26T12:09:00.000-06:00

Driver faces fine for 'stunting'

By PATRICIA BROOKS ARENBURG Staff Reporter
Wed, Jul 21 - 2:09 PM

A man faces a $2,400 fine for excessive speeding on a road outside Halifax.

RCMP say they've charged a 21-year-old man with stunting after he was riding his motorcycle along Prospect Road at 112 kilometres an hour — nearly twice the posted limit, police said — shortly after 10 p.m. Tuesday.

Halifax District RCMP Metro Traffic Services charged him with stunting and failing to provide proof of insurance. His motorcycle was also impounded and is being held at the discretion of the Registry of Motor Vehicles, RCMP said in a news release.

The rider is expected to appear in court at a later date.

A stunting charge is laid under the Motor Vehicle Act when vehicles are caught travelling in excess of 50 kilometres an hour above the posted speed limit. Anyone who is charged with stunting automatically loses his licence for a week.

The minimum fine for a first conviction of stunting is $2,410.21.

Last weekend, RCMP charged five people with stunting on Highway 104 in Cumberland County.

Toad's Poker Run.. always a great time..

2010-07-26T08:13:00.000-06:00

Get your tickets now!!!

2010-07-26T08:11:00.001-06:00

Mel went down..... from the Christian Motorcycist Association

2010-07-25T18:25:00.003-06:00

The Biking community's faithful First Aider, Mel Walker had a bad encounter with a left turner on Friday evening in Auburn, on Rte. 1. He is in hospital with a broken collar bone, broken ribs, sprained thumb and worst of all, a smashed left foot. The heel, crucial to walking, balance and general well being is in several splinters of bone. The prognosis isn't good for his foot but he is already talking of a trike so he can get back riding. Pray for Mel and Margot as they deal with this crisis. We'll keep you informed about progress.

Doug Beattie

Inaugural Red Island Run Motorcycle Rally rolls into action in late August

2010-07-21T10:18:00.001-06:00

Topics : Red Island Run organizing committee , Harley Davidson , Heart and Stroke Foundation , Prince Edward Island , North America , Sturgis
A new motorcycle rally is seen as a strong vehicle to pitch Prince Edward Island as a great place for tourists to roll all over.
The Island has never been aggressively marketed as a destination for motorcycling, says Dave McLane, director of the first annual Red Island Run Motorcycle Rally set to roar into action here for three days in late August.
Organizers hope this inaugural rally will become an annual event that leads to motorbike enthusiasts racing to the province in large numbers.
Close to 1,000 motorcycles of all makes and models as well as about 1,500 visitors are expected to wheel in for this year's event, generating an estimated economic impact of about $1.5 million.
"It will take probably two to three years for us to get our niche in the market because it is a competitive market but we can do it," said McLane, 61, who has been riding a motorcycle on and off for more than 30 years.
"And I think the thing can grow to be bigger than we even think it can be right now."
Some motorcycle rallies in North America attract mind-boggling numbers, like the one in Sturgis, a sleepy town in the United States that draws as many as 600,000 people once a year in early to mid-August.
The key to growing the rally in P.E.I., says McLane, is to market to the target audience while also creating a very positive experience for those that come.
"Islanders are noted for being friendly and welcoming and warm … that will go a long way," he said.
"And you have to have the right activities that suit the interests and the needs of the biking community."
McLane is confident that the Red Island Run organizing committee, which includes knowledgeable bikers, has lined up an event-packed rally that will appeal to the two-wheeled riders.
The weekend rally (Aug. 27-29) will include a poker run with proceeds going to the Heart and Stroke Foundation of P.E.I., a motorcycle parade, entertainment, vendor village and trade show. The trade show will feature demo rides from participating motorcycle manufacturers, including Harley Davidson and others, a Dyno - a machine used to measure the horsepower and power output of a motorcycle - and other various exhibitors.
McLane, who rides a Harley Davidson Electra Guide Classic, says P.E.I. is an ideal destination for a biker's holiday.
"Well, the Island is actually great biking territory," he said.
"We have got the unique geography here. We've got hotel rooms all close and handy, entertainment venues, the lobster, the mussels - the whole thing. We've got everything to make this a really, really big show."
McLane would like to alleviate the concerns of Islanders who may have a negative image of bikers and find the thought of hundreds or perhaps even thousands of bikers descending on the province dreadful.
He notes bikers come from all walks of life. Professionals like professors and doctors are common participants at motorcycle rallies. Roughly three per cent of the population in the Maritimes has registered motorcycles with owners typically falling between the ages of 25 and 75 with an average household income of $60,000.
"We, like everybody else I guess probably have the odd bad apple that will make a lot of noise and be disruptive, but that is very much a minority," said McLane.
"So I think this is a good target market (for tourism)."
Tourism Charlottetown, along with the Red Island Run committee members, announced the new motorcycle rally Friday at the Seaport Event Centre.
For more information on the Red Island Run, go to www.redislandrun.com or call the Bell Aliant Festival Hotline at 1-800-955-1864.

Cabot Trail Biker

2010-07-21T05:42:00.001-06:00

Stacey - Jul 20, 2010

The Cabot Trail, located on Nova Scotia’s Cape Breton Island, is simply spectacular. As Nova Scotia’s Tourism website boasts: “The Cabot trail is where breathtaking was invented.” So I wasn’t surprised by a call from Daniel Ross, an entrepreneur living in Antigonish, who wanted to encourage others to experience the beauty of the trail. About two years ago, Daniel purchased a new Harley Davidson and he headed for the Cabot Trail. He tells me there’s a certain rush you experience when you reach the summit of Cape Smokey. An experience that can only be captured on a bike.

“I think that for what the Cabot Trail has to offer as a motorcycle experience, it should be a mandatory visit for every biker on the continent to experience at least once in their lifetime,” enthused Daniel.

Daniel has 19 years experience designing and printing t-shirts. He has also biked across Canada and has traveled to almost all the US states. More importantly, he loves his home province of Nova Scotia. So Daniel came up with an idea that married his three passions. He partnered with Jason LeBlanc and Keith More who own a restaurant called the Coastal Waters Restaurant in Ingonish, along the famed Cabot Trail, to hatch his plan.

“Nova Scotia's Cabot Trail is the best place to ride a motorcycle in Canada, said Daniel. “No one has anything to show for it...that was my opportunity.”

Inside this restaurant, you’ll find ‘the original’ t-shirts for bikers who’ve made the Cabot Trail pilgrimage. This is the only place you’ll find this t-shirt. It is designed and manufactured in Nova Scotia. Wrapped around each t-shirt is a little information about Nova Scotia, including a link to this site, and background on the t-shirt. Daniel has created an interactive website too: www.cabottrailbiker.com. You will find advice about riding the Cabot Trail and of course details on where to find the shirts! “This advice is not free…” the website says “you have to promise to go to Coastal Waters Restaurant and buy one of my t-shirts!”
The response? Overwhelmingly positive.
“We've sold a couple hundred shirts, and the restaurant certainly sold hundreds more meals than usual”, says Daniel. “The most rewarding result is hearing from the bikers after their trip, and how my tips helped their trip be more fun. I have even got letters from the people who were on the trip thanking me for helping out their buddy who planned it! I'm getting photos and comments that I keep putting on the site.”
And here are some of those comments Daniel mentioned:
Chip Galloway, Virginia: “I will be wearing my Original Cabot Trail T-Shirt often and I am sure I will be the envy of all my riding buddies.”
Harry Webber, New York “…would like to share my thanks to you for all your help planning our trip. It was in one word “fantastic”. Great weather, people, food and ride.”
Rob Bistro, New York: “One of us ran out of gas 3 miles from our stay for the night. It was late and all the stations were closed for the night. A total stranger went back to his house and brought back some gas for us. Enough to get us to the hotel and to an open station the next day. And that was right after a great meal at a restaurant that was just closing up. They welcomed us with open arms, served us a great dinner as we told stories of our journey”.
To read more about experiencing the Cabot Trail – visit Daniel’s website at http://cabottrailbiker.com. Happy Trails!

Help Johnny O with Annapolis Leather Barn

2010-07-19T05:31:00.000-06:00

Annapolis Royal is selling tickets on a hard Tail-pack full of goodies, gloves, t-shirt,du-rag..etc. worth $450.00 to raise money for Johnny O.
Tickets are $5 each or 3 for $10.
Draw will be at the 74th Crusaders clubhouse on Aug.8th. the day of the poker run for John.
Tickets can be bought at either Leather Barn store.
Thank you
Mike & Christine

Annapolis Leather Barn
www.annapolisleatherbarn.com

The Rage in the Gage - NB

2010-07-15T10:33:00.002-06:00

Just wanted to let you know that everyone is welcome to attend 2nd annual THE RAGE IN THE GAGE, a weekend of bikes, music and demos in beautiful Gagetown, N.B. August 6-8th, 2010! Admission is $35 for the weekend or $15 per day. Rough camping on site.

Check out our webpage at www.therageinthegage.webs.com. We're on Facebook too.

THE RAGE IN THE GAGE is presented by The Gagetown Rec Council and the Gagetown Rotary Club.

Hope to see you there!

cheers,

Lex Gigeroff
"Rage In The Gage" Committee, Gagetown
488-1930

Military Police National Motorcycle Relay Rally

2010-07-15T10:31:00.000-06:00

http://www.mpnmrr.ca

This is the Military Police National Motorcycle Relay Rally for the MP Fund for Blind Children (http://www.mpfbc.com) and the Wounded Warriors Fund. There are links on it to the info pages, registration, etc. We're looking for folks that might like to ride or even those who would like to donate or sponsor a rider. Bob Edwards and his wife Norma and I from the Blue Knights will be making the complete Cross Canada Tour and if anyone is interested in that, they can contact Bob at 427-1112. Unlike initially stated last year, this isn't just law enforcement, anyone can ride if they'd like. If you'd like more info Janice since this is our second time doing the complete Cross Canada ride, just contact Bob at redwards@accesswave.ca (don't know if he wants that on the web or not) or at 427-1112 or myself. I'll also hoping to stay put long enough to be back out at a few bike nights, and I'm at Privateers Harley Demo Rides tomorrow in Shearwater as well.

--
Andrew Stewart
Webmaster
Road-Captain
BK Nova Scotia 1

Looking for Swap meet items and Vendors for Truro Bike Week

2010-07-15T10:22:00.002-06:00

I am looking for people wanting to clean out their garages and sell at the swap meet at the Truro Bike week. If you can put the word out that there are spots left at the swap meet and if they can contact Marie at marie.macdow@hotmail.com or call her at 902-956-4798. The swap meet is Saturday Aug. 14, 2010 from 10am - 5pm. This year they will be allowing vendors in the swap meet so they can contact Marie too.

If you would like to enter your bike in the show. They will be closing Inglis Street in Truro and are looking for anyone interested in entering their bikes. Contact Marie at above info if you are interested.

Remembering Brenda Bremner

2010-07-13T16:53:00.002-06:00

he Motorcycle Ride For Dad 10th Anniversary

2010-07-09T09:36:00.000-06:00

Hello,

The Motorcycle Ride For Dad is travelling through your province this August as part of our 10th Anniversary Cross-Canada Tour Celebration! We invite you to join us as we raise awareness and funds for military families, and the most commonly diagnosed men’s cancer – prostate cancer.

Divided into seven stages, the Tour begins in St. John’s , Newfoundland on August 1st and ends in Victoria , British Columbia on August 29th. Anchored by Co-Chairs Don Cherry and Rick Hillier (ret.), and Powered by TELUS, the Tour promises to be a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to support two causes that affect each and every Canadian, with donations benefiting the Military Families Fund and prostate cancer research and awareness.

During our visit to your province, National Ride Marshall Wayne Rostad will ask your community to get involved, be committed, and lend their support at an event being held at CFB Shearwater. Local leaders and members of parliament will also be invited, along with military personnel, local supporters, the public, and the media.

Date: Aug 3, 2010
Time: 5p.m.-6p.m.
Location: CFB Shearwater

We encourage you to support this initiative by attending the event, spreading the news of the Tour’s arrival throughout your community, speaking to your local businesses and media, and inviting your friends and colleagues to the event.

To learn more, register for the event, or to make a donation, please visit www.RideForDadCanada.org or contact Kelly Goulet at kellygoulet@bell.net or 613-722-6131.

Registering for the Tour is easy through our online system, and with each $100 or more in on-line donations riders will qualify for a draw to win a custom painted 2010 Harley-Davidson® Softail® Fat Boy®! Riders will receive an additional chance to win with each increment of $100 raised on-line. Register for the entire Tour, or any number of stages!

Sincerely,

Kelly Goulet
Motorcycle Ride For Dad
Office: 613-722-6131
Cell: 613-447-6412

www.MotorcycleRideForDad.Org
www.RideForDadCanada.Org

ROAD WARNINGS - Please share!

2010-07-08T09:52:00.004-06:00

If you have any roads that you might be concerned with and want to caution people as Martin did here.. that would be great!... I know I went up Pleasant Street in Dartmouth out to Cow Bay and frig the road was the bumpiest ever... but still safe enough to ride.. Share your concerns with your fellow bikers....... many thanks. ~ Janice

This may actually be a good idea for a feature on your site – report an especially bad or dangerous road in Nova Scotia.
Yesterday I did the loop Bedford/Sheet Harbor/Stellarton/Brookfield/Bedford.

click here

There is a section of #374 from Sheet Harbor to Stellarton (about 6-7 kilometers long at about the highest elevation) that is very bad and bordering on dangerous for a bike. There are one foot square to two foot square patches of road way completely missing and many are 6 to 12 inches deep!!!! The damage is spread over the entire roadway. Any of these sink holes has the potential to seriously damage or upset the bike and rider. While it is passable with caution, I wouldn’t recommend anyone try this road at night or poor visibility conditions any time soon. There is plenty of evidence of cars making panic stops with tire damage after hitting these holes.

Boss Hoss is a big loss.....

2010-07-07T10:45:00.004-06:00

Its a sad day when you hear news of a fellow biker passing away at the prime of his life. Earle was an extraordinary man that loved to ride. He could shoot fire from his pipes like I have never seen before.. always pleasant and fun to be around.
Yeah he had the biggest bike around, but also a very big heart to go along with it. Him and Marlene were inseparable, and were most generous at all the charity events that popped up within the Motorcycle Community. He will be dearly missed
- our sincerely condolences to Marlene, family and friends of Earle. RIP

SCOTT, James “Earle” 61, Lower Sackville, passes away suddenly Monday July 5th, 2010 at the Halifax Infirmary QEII. Born in Halifax, he was a son of the late James and Beatrice (Rector) Scott.

Earle spent many years as a proud member of the Panthers. He was an avid outdoorsman, who enjoyed hunting, fishing and four-wheeling. His passion was his Boss Hoss Motorcycle. He was alway surrounded by family and friends who loved him dearly.

He is survived by his loving daughter, his “Doll”, Krista, his one and only granddaughter, Alissa, brothers Martin (Judy), Ross (Gail) and loving partner and friend Marlene. Former wife Michelle, a number of nieces and nephews, special life-long brothers and friends.

Along with his parents, he is predeceased by his son, Shawn.

Cremation has taken place under the direction of the Atlantic Funeral Home, 125 Sackville Drive, where visitation will be held 7 - 9 pm Friday. Memorial service is 2 pm on Saturday in the funeral home chapel with Rev James Haughn officiating. Reception to follow. Donations to charity of choice. Online condolences may be sent by visiting www.atlanticfuneralhomes.com

Bikers and Blues - cant get much better than that!

2010-06-25T04:20:00.001-06:00

Calling all Blues Fans! Tickets are on sale now for this year’s
Dutch Mason Blues Festival!

This year’s incredible lineup includes our international festival ambassador and Blues Legend, James Cotton, along with Robert Cray, Jonny Lang, Ronnie Hawkins, Johnny Winter, The Fabulous Thunderbirds, The Respectables, Garrett Mason and many, many more.

Can you feel the heat? This summer promises to be hot! Get yourself to the Truro Raceway the weekend of August 13th-15th for a sizzling weekend of Fiery Blues, Hot Bikes, and Smokin BBQ! We are located just 45 minutes from the city of Halifax and our venue offers amenities such as on-site camping, vendor’s village, a variety of great foods, VIP & disabilities seating, a free shuttle service to local accommodations and attractions.

Advanced tickets can now be purchased from various local vendors or by calling the Blues Line 1-866-99Dutch (38824)!

FRIDAY $45.00 VIP Friday $90.00
SATURDAY $65.00 VIP Saturday $130.00
SUNDAY $35.00 VIP Sunday $70.00
WEEKEND $135.00 VIP Weekend $265.00
All prices do not include HST or the $3 handling fee.

Get the VIP Experience! These tickets can ONLY be purchased through our festival box office by calling the Blues Line. VIPs will gain admission to all concerts, Motorcycle Lifestyle Show and BBQ Competitions. They will be given VIP seating on a covered, raised deck for premium concert viewing as well as gain access to preferred parking. Personal Bar and Food Service, VIP Restrooms and Security will be provided to all on the deck. You don’t want to miss your chance for an elite concert experience!

Also, included in your pass, Atlantic Canada’s Motorcycle Lifestyle Show, sponsored by Motercycle Mojo Magazine! This year’s show is shaping up to be bigger and better than ever. Check out the Big Bike Tent to see some of the hottest custom bikes, accessories, and apparel from Atlantic Canada! Cast your vote for your favorite Pro Builder and Custom Bike competition. Take in the Tattoo Competition or enter your body art for a chance to win great prizes!

Last but not least we offer you some of the best barbequing around! You will have the opportunity to check out the BBQ Competition on site, featuring a rib cook-off and Budweiser’s Best BBQ Sauce competition! What’s hotter, the summer heat or the 6th Annual Dutch Mason Blues Festival? Don’t miss your chance, you be the judge this coming August!

For more information on the weekend’s events, as well as complete schedules for all events, including main stage performers, visit our website at www.dutchmason.com or call our toll free number 1-866-99DUTCH (38824) or locally at (902) 843-3956.

Contact us using the numbers provided or dmbfinfo@eastlink.ca

Yamaha Demo Rides in Antigonish at Redline Sport & Cycle

2010-06-24T13:13:00.004-06:00

The Demo is scheduled for the 29th of this month and currently listed are 7 bikes. They are as follows:

FJR 1300
RAIDER 1900
V-STAR 950
T-MAX
BW125
WR250
FZ6R

The list is subject to change but should be fairly close. It will start at approx. 10am and run till about mid afternoon. Obviously a motorcycle licence is required and a waiver has to be signed. if you need any other info.

email Fred Bell at awb@ns.sympatico.ca

Address in Antigonish is 3201 HWY-4 Antigonish NS... Google it!

TOAD's HUGE SALE June 26th .. see this ad for more info

2010-06-23T11:02:00.003-06:00

A Special Announcement from Marlene "Momma Toad" Roach of Toad's Cycle Works Limited:

"After 32 Years in business, the Toad's Family wants to thank each and every one of our Customers old and new for more than three decades of joy.

We have loved "Doin' It Right" by being your Alternative to Overpriced Dealer Parts & Service.

To Thank You for Your Support, we are having a Celebration Sale...a
Total Inventory Blowout
unlike anything you have ever seen.

Everything in the store...including all new stock and our legendary backstock reserves of "hidden treasures", the items that nobody else carries...is being sold off at Liquidation Prices

ONE DAY ONLY:
This Saturday June 26th from 9am sharp until 4pm.

This is a 1 Day, 1 Time Opportunity for you to buy the things you want, the things you need, the things on your Wish List...all at Liquidation Prices.

A Huge Selection of our stock will be sold At Or Below Cost.

AND TO GET YOU WARMED UP FOR SATURDAY...we are Celebrating 32 Years in Business all this week by offering 32% off a wide selection of new inventory.

For example...we have over 500 new tires in stock...and all this week they are 32% off list price. Why? Well, because we have 500 tires in stock..and that's just too much Inventory! WE NEED TO LIQUIDATE.

DON'T WANT TO WAIT?...or stand in line on Saturday?... or take the chance on missing out on something you really need?

ALL THIS WEEK...come in with CA$H and HAGGLE over ANY Regular Priced Item.
Anything in the store.

Kuryakyn...Mustang...you name it...everything Must Go.

Let's have some fun while you get a Smoking Hot Deal!

(of course, we accept Visa, Mastercard and Interac...but nothing says you really care like Ca$h)

"Friends of Toad" and New Customers are ALL WELCOME...come in and say hello!

Thank You For Your Support these past 32 Years!

Marlene "Momma Toad" Roach
President
Toads Cycle Works Limited
30 Lake Major Road
Dartmouth
462-0681
"Family Owned & Operated Since 1979"

For anyone in the Digby Area

2010-06-23T07:48:00.001-06:00

We Bikers can make a difference!

2010-06-18T05:16:00.002-06:00

*A bridge over troubled waters*
by Carole Peterson
May 21 2010

I hope you all can answer this question with a firm "NO" . Have you ever been hungry? It is a humbling thing to go through a period of desperation, that time in your life when things are not good. You have lost a job, a husband or are just overcome with commitments you can't keep. None of us want to be poor. None of us want to see our children hungry and none of us want to depend on a food bank. That is never our intention. But life isn't always a smooth sail, waters get rough, waves of despair wash over many of us. Hunger is a real thing. Hunger might be in your neighbors house. You don't see hunger, its not like a flat tire, or runny nose, its a deep sadness. Matthew 25 has helped, and can help. Matthew 25 is a food bank, a friendly smile and a survival net. Matthew 25 Windsor and District Food Bank was started in 1977 . Over the years many families have been feed by Matthew 25. Down Home Deli is presenting "12 hours of giving" on June 26th. Come out and enjoy the fun and give if you can. Matthew 25 is the" bridge over troubled waters"

WE NEED YOUR HELP

"12 Hours of Giving" starts on **June 26 @ 12 noon until 12 Midnight
*Drop off a can or a dollar, bring the kids in the day for free fun & music outside on the grass around the big gazebo @ the Windsor Community Center NS Canada

From: Peter K. Lansing
Owner/Operator
Down Home Deli
798-0935

I would like you, if you would be so kind, if you would put the word out about something I'm doing in Windsor for the only food bank in Hants County. They have over 1,000 clients and when I had a look at there books for March they had fed close to 300 family's.

As I'm sure you know Hants County is a bit on the big side but not overly populated, something you and I certainly were not awhere of is the great need for food in this area. There are kids that go without food, here where I live and you ride. I would have never thought about it until one day it was pointed out to me that the only food bank in the area was closing because of no food or $$$ to pay there rent.

I have a small Deli in town (Down Home Deli), I'm in the food business and I felt a great responsibility to do something.
Could you help by posting this info or getting it out to your members?

What I hope you can make happen is: On Sunny Saturday, June 26 some time between 12 noon and 5pm just drive by the community center and show your support. Just by coming by the town always loves it when groups of your people come through.

There will be tickets available in advance & probably at the door. For $20 you get a sit down table service Turkey supper followed by a full night of casino game play followed by live action on some pretty goood items so fair like, a $200.00 date at the Clock Makers Inn. All through the night there will be live bands playing with a DJ. As a community that needs to be more of a community you and the connections you have to so many bikers would be a well welcomed addition to our community and for me, it would equal more food for some poor kid that needs to go without food. We can help their families and others that need the most basic think in our world, FOOD! Please come & help the hungers kids around us all.

Thanks,

Peter K. Lansing
Owner/Operator
Down Home Deli
798-0935

Victory Demo Rides June 18th and 19th

2010-06-17T11:58:00.008-06:00

Visit Route 1 Motorsports in Sackville for a Victory Test Ride to experience the performance, comfort and style born from our passion for riding. There will be a Bar-b-que and refreshments - and ample opportunity to try out each of the models.. Test rides are always lots of fun.. check them out.....

We can tell you about our bikes all day, but one ride on a Victory is worth a thousand descriptions. With Victory, riding is believing. So grab a friend and sign up for a test ride. Climb on a Victory and experience the value.

Friday, June 18th, 9:30 a.m.-6:00p.m. Sat., June 19th, 9:30 a.m.-4:00p.m.

You can find them at Unit 101-115 Sackville Drive in Lower Sackville, NS - Contact Dave Martel for any further info required.

Biker killed in Hubley area

2010-06-17T06:41:00.000-06:00

RCMP looking for clues after man's body, motorcycle found down embankment
By KELLY SHIERS Staff Reporter
Thu. Jun 17 - 8:29 AM
Halifax RCMP officers are asking for the public's help after they discovered the body of a missing motorcyclist down an embankment in Hubley late Wednesday night.

The 48-year-old man left his Hammonds Plains home Wednesday morning on a 2004 Yamaha motorcycle, but never arrived at his expected destination in Bridgewater.

Police were notified at about 8:30 p.m. that the man was missing and officers contacted his cell phone provider to get help in finding him.

"We had to utilize the GPS system (on the cell phone) to locate him, " Cpl. Joe Taplin told thechronicleherald.ca Thursday morning.

Even then, the GPS indicated only the area where the man's cell phone was, he said. Officers then began searching the area on foot, eventually finding him down an embankment near Joshua Slocum Drive on Highway 3 at about 11:30 p.m.

He was dead at the scene.

Taplin said it appears that the motorcycle left the highway and went over the embankment but an autopsy will be performed later today to determine the cause of the man's death.

If you have any information about the crash, contact any RCMP office, Halifax Regional Police or Crime Stoppers anonymously by calling 1-800-222-8477 or using the website www.crimestoppers.ca.

( kshiers@herald.ca)

New Bikers Down Webpage.. check it out!

2010-06-09T08:12:00.002-06:00

We are a not for profit organization established by Bikers to provide assistance to motorcycle enthusiasts of all ages, all makes and all clubs.

Check out the new updated webpage created by Richard Black

http://bikersdown.com/

Great Job!....

Make Tracks for Truro this August

2010-06-09T07:13:00.002-06:00

Motorcycle Weekend
August 13-15, 2010
Hosted by the Organization of Responsible Bikers
With support from the Town of Truro
Entertainment
Swap Meet * Show and Shine * Parade
Trick Riding * Poker Run * Barbecues
Contests…and more
For information: email: lloyd_rector@hotmail.com

Friday, August 13
6:00 p.m. – Bikers’ Hospitality Lounge with live entertainment at the Colchester Legion Stadium.

Saturday, August 14
10:00 to 11:30 a.m. – Poker Run Registration at The Cat Shack. Run is hosted by the Defenders Motorcycle Club Chapter #15.
10:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. – Swap Meet. For information, email marie.macdow@hotmail.com or telephone 902-956-4798.
12 noon – Motorcycle Weekend Opening Ceremony at Victoria Park, hosted
by the Organization of Responsible Bikers, featuring live entertainment and followed by a ride through town.
1:00 to 5:00 p.m. – Show and Shine sponsored by Inglis Jewellers.
TBA – Flea Market at the Colchester Food Bank.
10:00 a.m. – Trick Riding at The Cat Shack on the corner of West Prince and Juniper Streets.
2:00 to 4:00 p.m. – Tattoo Contest sponsored by Skin Decision Piercing and Tattoo Studio. For information and sign up 902-843-3525 or www.skindecision.ca.
6:00 p.m. – Bikers’ Hospitality Lounge with live entertainment at the Colchester Legion Stadium.
The Truro Farmer’s Market operates from 8:00 a.m. to 12 noon each Saturday between Outram and Havelock Streets in Downtown Truro.

Sunday, August 15
1:00 p.m. – Closing Ceremony at Victoria Park, hosted by the Organization
of Responsible Bikers with participation by the Christian Motorcyclists Association.
2:00 p.m. – Sunday in the Park concert series at Victoria Park.

*Please note that events, times and places are still being finalized and are subject to change as the planning process continues. Thank You!

Cathy von Kintzel
Special Events and Culture Co-ordinator
Town of Truro Parks, Recreation and Culture Department
Phone: 902-893-6093
Email: cvonkintzel@truro.ca

Man killed in motorcycle crash identified

2010-06-08T16:32:00.001-06:00

Published on June 7th, 2010
Staff ~ The Cape Breton Post
SYDNEY — Ingonish Beach RCMP have identified a man who died after a motorcycle crash near Ingonish Beach on the weekend.
Topics : RCMP and Emergency Medical Services , Cape Breton Regional Hospital , North Shore
At about 2:15 p.m., Saturday, RCMP and Emergency Medical Services and fire personnel responded to the single-vehicle crash on the Cabot Trail in North Shore.
The driver, Morris Musial, 59, of Dominion, went off the road to the right on a curve. He was transported to the Cape Breton Regional Hospital where he later died of his injuries. The cause of the accident is still unknown and alcohol is not suspected to have been a factor.
The crash remains under investigation.

Cabot Trail - Motorcycles Epic Ride

2010-06-08T07:25:00.003-06:00

If you choose Nova Scotia for your visit, browse around and let me help you out. The information on this site is not free – you’ve got to promise to buy one of my creations: The Original Cabot Trail Biker T-Shirt. It’s a big price to pay, because the shirt is sold at one location in the world only – at the very end of Nova Scotia!. So if you come visit, please buy one of the shirts I made, and drop me a line to tell me if you had a good time. If there is anything I can do to make your trip better while on your Nova Scotia bike vacation, give me a call and I’ll help the best I can.

Safe and Fun Miles!

Daniel Ross

www.Cabottrailbiker.com
cabottrailbiker@gmail.com
(902)870-4630

Hey, great idea for the right person.. check it out!

2010-06-08T07:16:00.004-06:00

This unusual request to those locations with the best visibility in the Halifax/Dartmouth area. It's a long shot but here goes anyway:

"I'm a Naval Reservist from Victoria BC working in Halifax over the next month and a bit looking for someone in the local area that is willing to do a motorcycle exchange with me. I have a 1995 Honda ST1100 sport tourer and am willing to let someone borrow it to ride during their stay or visit to the Lower Mainland or Vancouver Island this summer. In exchange, I am looking to borrow someone's ride that is sitting in their garage here in the Halifax area while they are working or on temporary duty in BC. I have 40 years of riding experience and have owned or ridden everything from dirt bikes, street bikes, sport bikes and cruisers including Harleys. I'm only looking for a few days of riding between now and 7 July as my work will keep me pretty busy. As I used to live here in Halifax and went to school in the Annapolis Valley, I would love to be able to do a couple of day trips back to my old haunts. Of course, in order to make this work, I would insist on both parties signing a waiver indemnifying the other from any damage or harm that they incur to themselves and also agreeing to cover all costs incurred in the event of an accident or spill.

I have never done this before and I, as well as the other party, would be assuming some risk. I do not have my gear with me so would need to borrow a helmet and jacket. I can provide photos of my bike and am willing to have someone test drive it in Victoria before agreeing to the exchange. It is in excellent condition and runs as smooth as silk. I would be happy with anything 750cc or above that would be comfortable for a couple of hours at a stretch. This would be a no cost exchange with someone like me who wants to enjoy a few days of riding while away from home and is who is serious about taking care of their own ride.

I can be contacted through my email address:

jdppleblanc@shaw.ca or by leaving a message at 902-422-5645 ext 7813 (Juno Tower at CFB Halifax) Dan LeBlanc

Atlanticade Motorcycle Festival June 30th - July 4th

2010-06-07T09:56:00.002-06:00

Hello 2010 riding season. It is time to forget about winter weather we all have been dealing with during the past months.

Now it is time to get the bikes out, mount up and ride!!!.

To all of you that know me and the rest that does not, my name is Randall Goodwin I'm from Saint John, New Brunswick Canada.

I'm sending this information attached to make all aware of the Fun Filled 5 days planned at Atlanticade Motorcycle Festival on June 30 to July 4, 2010 in St. Andrews by the Sea, New Brunswick Canada, located in the awesome riding areas of South Western New Brunswick.

St. Andrews is a 20 minute ride from the Calais, Maine/St. Stephen, New Brunswick border for our friends in the USA.

Atlanticade Motorcycle Festival, will have 5 days of activities planned for all that will be attending the event, having a solid reminder of good times with good friends!! The theme of the 5 days is to unite all bike riders together from Canada, United States and other countries that may come to the St. Andrews area during Atlanticade Motorcycle Festival. The saying for the
week is "UNITED WE RIDE" and ride we will !!!!!

Special events planned throughout the 5 days. Please visit Atlanticade's web
site at: www.atlanticade.com

You will not be disappointed!!!!!!!!!

If you decide to join us, registration is free for Atlanticade 2010, but we are asking everyone to make your reservations ASAP online through Atlanticade's web site or drop by the Welcome Center located at Atlanticade headquarters situated inside the W.C. O'Neill Arena Complex in St. Andrews, NB. There you can get information on the festival, sign the guest book, and
socialize with fellow riders from all across North America. For those looking to save some money during their visit, there will be a limited number of Value Incentive Packages (VIP) available at a cost of $50.00 per person. There is a direct web link off of the main Atlanticade's web page that has all the information posted regarding Atlanticade Motorcycle Festival. I have attached the same web link below.

Note.....PDF documents attached in this email regarding the registration form to be printed and partnership/sponsorship vendor information. Also attached is the Atlanticade Poster for anyone that would be kind enough to display the event for the committee. Much appreciation in doing so, to channel the information out. This is truly going to be an awesome event!!!!!

Attached contact info and web links regarding info......

Please go to the main web page of Atlanticade Motorcycle Festival.....www.atlanticade.com Dale Hicks Phone: 506-855-5749

http://www.adventuresuites.com/adventure-fest.php

Please feel free to contact me directly at 506-645-8145. I will be available to assist anyone regarding any information etc....

Please pass this information on to whom ever. Let's unite together from Atlantic Canada/USA and have the best time ever, in St. Andrews by the Sea!!!!!!

Randall Goodwin

Atlanticade Motorcycle Festival

June 30 - July 4, 2010

St. Andrews, New Brunswick

Canada

MAKE YOUR ONLINE "FREE" REGISTRATIONS

NOW!!!!!

Atlanticade May10.jpg

I love this!... Bikers helping bikers... good going!

2010-06-07T09:54:00.000-06:00

I don't know if this falls in line with the guidelines of your Blog or not but I would like to sing the praises of someone whom I bought my last motorcycle from.

Late last August, I was in the Valley on a road trip with my grandson. I had the 03 Ultra Classic Trike I was riding up for sale and this was our last hurrah on it before Brennan had to start back to school. I was riding past Henny Penny's Vegetable Market in New Minas and spotted a number of bikes outside by the end of his building that appeared to be for sale. One in particular caught my eye. An 03 Electra Glide Standard that looked very much like the bike I had been thinking of buying, a Street Glide. Through negotiations with the owner, Henry Messom, we struck a deal and he took my Trike and I rode home on the Standard with cash in my pocket. The Standard had been involved in a minor accident in the US and Henry had bought it as salvage, repaired the damage and sold it to me "as is where is".

I managed to put almost 2000 miles on the Standard before putting it away for the winter and the only thing I noticed about it was that it felt "sloppy" in the back end. This spring, the first thing I did was install a stabilizer on the back end to alleviate that "sloppy" feeling. To make a long story short, the problem with the back end turned out to be the swing arm mount on the transmission case was broken off. This was discovered when I removed the swing arm to inspected the bushings and rubbers. I had an expert look at it and he was reluctant to weld it as he felt the stress would be too great. So there I was in need of at the very least a new transmission casing or a used tranny. Either of which I couldn't afford and it looked like my riding season was over before it got started.

I called Henry and emailed him pictures of the damage, not really expecting him to do anything but give him something to pay particular attention to in future. Without hesitation, Henry offered me a transmission from an 05 Street Glide that he had at no cost. Needless to say, I was most appreciative of this offer. I had my brother who lives in Kentville pick up the transmission and he got it down to me. I told Henry I would bring the transmission out of the Standard up to him but he told me to hang onto it for spare parts.

In all fairness to Henry, I can see no way he'd notice the damage on the transmission casing unless the bike was torn down to the extent that I had done in order to find the problem. For Henry to take the action he did some 8 months after the sale makes him a stand up guy in my books and I make no hesitation in recommending him to anyone looking for a used motorcycle. I understand his fruits and vegetables are quite popular as well. Granted doing the repairs myself, brought me to an intimacy with my bike I had not intended, it was a rewarding experience albeit a challenging one.

I have no problem in complaining about poor service I get from anyone so it is only right that I sing the praises for those I encounter that deserve it and the service I got from Henry Messom is definitely something to Blog about.

Best regards,

Rod Salsman

S & S needs your help on the South Side

2010-06-05T18:06:00.001-06:00

Hey Guys,
Just getting word out about a Maritime Builder who lost his shop and all his personal rides in a fire on May 2nd. The article is online at Nova News Now. Sean Wallace and his wife Sue have been picking up the pieces since that terrible night. Sean owned S & S Custom Cycle Supply in Weymouth, Nova Scota. We are going to host an event to show them our love. Anyone who can come...its appreciated...any poster that can be hung...again, it'll be appreciated. Thanks to all who took the time to read this.
Andrew Maves
DC Riders Vice President

There's something to these three-wheel Spyders

2010-06-03T05:20:00.002-06:00

Auto Pilot by Michael Goetz

METRO CANADA

June 02, 2010 7:00 a.m.

The last time I drove a three-wheeler I didn’t wear a CSA-approved motorcycle helmet nor sign a five-page waiver.

But unlike my SuperCycle tricycle of long, long ago, the 2010 Can Am RS Spyder is packing a106-hp, 990-cc V-twin engine and is actually allowed on the highway. So helmet use is not only prudent, it’s the law. And I’m totally OK with waivers. Believe me, if there was some way I could “waiver myself” on occasion, to protect myself from myself, I would.

Notwithstanding the waiver and the helmet requirements, the good people running this ride and drive event, tell me that this three-wheeler is safe, safe, safe.

“The entire purpose of this three-wheel design is its inherent stability,” says Ben DaPonte, a district sales manager with Bombardier Recreational Products (BRP).

“It is designed to give you the same wind in your face motorcycle experience, but with the safety features of a sports car, such as ABS, stability control, and traction control.”

Yes, this is the same Bombardier firm from Quebec, which brought us the Ski-Doo and Sea-Doo. BRP has been making the Spyder at its Valcourt (Quebec) facility for three years already. (The very first Spyder RS was sold to Jay Leno.)

But you’re not alone if you are suddenly more aware of them. For one thing, the company is currently running its first print and TV advertising campaign. The campaign was precipitated around the arrival of Can-Am’s new touring model, the Spyder RT.

“For the first couple of years, we never ran a singe ad,” notes DaPonte.

For those initial Spyder RS years, the firm’s publicity efforts centred on press functions, and ride and drive events. It continues to use the “ride and drive” lever to get the word out. I participated in their Toronto event in late May, but they’re doing these right across North America all summer long (seetryspyder.com).

Business so far “has far exceeded our expectations,” said DaPonte.

The Spyder RS I took out, was my first (powered) three-wheeler. If you’re used to motorcycles and their leaning ways, the Spyder will feel oddly “level” around corners. Make no mistake, however, that it rips around corners, though a lot of that happens through computer-controlled technology.

The controls differ slightly. My tester had the optional semi-automatic transmission. No clutch. Gears are selected sequentially, via a thumb-activated selector on the left handlebar. One brake pedal, by your right foot, activates all three brakes. Simple as pie.

I’m even warming up to the styling, which I initially thought was “too Ski-Doo” and seemed always to look better when there was no rider sitting on it — not quite as integrated as the rider/motorcycle oneness.

But I'll leave you with this: I'm definitely intrigued and interested, and want to take one out for a long ride.

Speeding at 200 km/h? bad biker!

2010-06-03T05:08:00.000-06:00

METRO HALIFAX

May 27, 2010 1:05 a.m.

RCMP officers went fishing over the long weekend and came up with several bad drivers.

Officers held checkpoints throughout the province and handed out 113 tickets overall.

One of those tickets was for stunting. A man on a motorcycle was clocked at 200 km/h in a 100 km/h zone on Highway 102 near Lower Sackville. Police seized the motorcycle on site and the driver will appear in court.

Four other motorcyclists were issued tickets for speeding. They were travelling in a group going 149 km/h.

Two drivers, both men, were given a 24-hour suspension due to alcohol-related offences.

2010 National Motorcycle Relay across Canada

2010-06-02T10:05:00.002-06:00

The Military Police National Motorcycle Relay Run. This is a relay ride from Newfoundland to British Columbia, and involves Military Police and invited guests. Last year was such a success, they decided to make it an annual event and now it is open to the public, with proceeds going to the Military Police Fund for Blind Children (http://www.mpfbc.com/ ) and the Wounded Warrior Fund http://www.woundedwarriors.ca/. The ride will start in British Columbia and end in Newfoundland.

Not sure if you are familiar with this event, check out the attached the link to the website. Looks like something that would be alot of fun to do - and meet lots of other riders. If you want more information you can contact Deirdre McDonald at mcdon@eastlink.ca

http://www.mpnmrr.ca/

Looking for members

2010-06-01T07:35:00.002-06:00

NEW GLASGOW – The Pictou County Cruisers Motorcycle Club was formed 10 years ago and, although the club is visible in the county, it's looking to raise its profile even more.

It's looking to raise its profile by hosting events and welcoming new members. Club president Jim Worthen said the club is open to anyone with a bike.

"We are a group of motorcycle enthusiasts that enjoy safe, fun riding and going out in the community. We are looking for new members, male or female can join. You don't have to have a certain type of bike."

The club is an officially registered entity.

"We want to start working with the community," club member Shawn Crooks said. "We're an organized non-profit, everything is up to snuff."

The Pictou County Cruisers was formed by Rick Welbourn who is still very active in the club and takes a lead role in organizing the club's annual Awareness Ride.

When some people see bikers with a patch on their back they immediately think of outlaw motorcycle gangs but the Pictou County Cruisers couldn't be further from that type of club.

"It's a matter of respect and pride," Worthen said. "There's none of that activity. We may be guilty of drinking too much coffee but that's it."

Crooks said when he puts on his patch he remembers he's representing a group of his friends.

"There's more than just me involved."

The club has regular meetings at the New Glasgow legion and members can be frequently seen at one of their favourite hangouts – the 'hut' at Wendys/Tim Hortons.

"If they see somebody with our crest on, just go up and ask them about the club," Crooks said.

To join the club, a prospective rider has to go on a ride with the club. Worthen said this is so the club can see if they're safe and sensible on the road.

Worthen can be contacted at: jimworthen2010@hotmail.com or by phone at 752-0964.

howin' and shinin' bikers on the road for awareness

2010-06-01T05:10:00.005-06:00

Shawn Crooks and Jim Worthen - organizers of the Show and Shine - and Jim is the presidient of the Pictou County Cruisers Motorcycle Club in Pictou.... Great job!

The sun shone on the Pictou County Cruisers 10th annual Awareness Ride on Sunday afternoon as the bikers rolled along Park Street toward Summer Street Industries. The ride capped the club's motorcycle weekend. Ray Burns - The News

NEW GLASGOW – Shawn Crooks loves everything about biking – “the smells, the scenery and the wind in your face.”

“But probably the most important thing about biking is the camaraderie of the bikers,” he said. “You don’t get that in cars.”

About 150 bikers got to enjoy that camaraderie and show off their bikes Saturday as the Pictou County Cruisers Club held their first annual Show and Shine in the Thistle Bar parking lot in New Glasgow.

“We’re having a good time here,” said club president Jim Worthen. “We’ve got a good turnout of bikes and we got prizes for four categories of bikes. We have vintage and cruiser and sport and custom.”

The show was the first part of a motorcycle weekend in Pictou County. On Sunday the club held their 10th annual awarness ride.

“May is motorcycle awareness month,” Worthen said. “We want to make people aware that we’re out there on the roads. We want to be visible to the cars in traffic and let people know that motorcycles are sharing the road with them.”

The biking community is strong in Pictou County.

“The Pictou County Cruisers have been around for about 10 years and there have been other clubs off and on before that,” Worthen said. “We have a good strong sense of community.”

Money raised from the weekend events went to the Canadian Cancer Society and Summer Street Industries.

Participants came from across Nova Scotia with a handful from P.E.I and New Brunswick. There were even a couple visitors from Fort McMurray, Alta. who took part.

Hundreds of people stopped by to admire the bikes.

“We’re happy to be doing this and we look forward to doing it again,” Worthen said.

Watch the video here

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=s2YvACYllrA

This is NOT a CAR SHOW

2010-05-13T08:20:00.000-06:00

We would like to bring you up to date with what we feel will be a large attraction of tourists to the Eastern Shore.

A group of people has taken the time to start and plan a large market for the automotive, motorcycle and related industry.

The event will take place on the 12th and 13th of June 2010 at the Eastern Shore Community Center / Musquodoboit Harbor Arena. Sat the 12th we will open to vendors at 9:00AM and run until close or dusk at the discretion of staff.

General admission will start at 10:30AM at a cost of $3.00 per person, children 12 and under are free and there is canteen service on site.

Sunday, the 13th will open to vendors at 8:00AM and general public at 8:30AM closing promptly at 3:30 PM.

A small area will be set aside as a Car Corral for the sale of Project and Classic vehicles 25 years or older.

As a group we have found that many people from the Maritimes travel to places like Barrie Ontario and Carlisle Pennsylvania for this exact type of event. There is no event dedicated to the auto and cycle business such as we are purposing in Atlantic Canada. This is NOT a CAR SHOW. It is a market to used and new parts that people may have in there garage and available for sale.

The excitement is building as this vision is moving very quickly. We have sold out the allocated number of commercial advertisers already. This is the start of an annual event that will only grow with support, time and
people dedicated to making this a huge event.

It is important to bring this opportunity to the areas that will be affected by what we see will be a huge TOURISM component to the total Eastern Shore on Nova Scotia.

For those people that know me, you do understand my commitment to the Eastern Shore. An opportunity for an event like this is a great way of selling the strength and beauty of our shore and the business's that can be impacted so positively by an event of this caliber.

Your truly,
Mike McKinnon
Muscle N Classic Auto N Parts
30 Colford Drive, Eastern Shore Industrial Park
East Chezzetcook, NS
Mailing,, Box 100, Porters Lake, NS B3E 1M1

Mikem@musclenclassic.com
www.musclenclassic.com

May is Motorcycle Safety Awareness Month in Nova Scotia

2010-05-12T10:45:00.001-06:00

Transportation and Infrastructure Renewal - April 28, 2010 10:18 AM

--------------------------------------------------------------------------------
To raise driver awareness of increased motorcycle traffic on Nova Scotia roads, the province and Safety Services Nova Scotia are proclaiming May as Motorcycle Safety Awareness Month.

Transportation and Infrastructure Renewal Minister Bill Estabrooks read the proclamation to motorcyclists at a ceremony in Fall River today, April 28.

"Thanks to our warm dry spring, motorcyclists have been able to get on the road earlier than usual," said Mr. Estabrooks. "Designating May as Motorcycle Safety Awareness Month will help drivers realize the importance of being extra alert at this time of year."

"There are now more than 30,000 motorcycles registered in Nova Scotia," said Ed Snow of Safety Services Nova Scotia. "To improve their safety on our highways, motorcyclists should take a training course and wear proper equipment."

There were eight motorcycle fatalities in Nova Scotia last year and 38 during the last five years.

"It's the motorcycle user who is most at risk in collisions but it's important to realize that motorcycle awareness is everyone's responsibility," said Mr. Estabrooks. "All drivers need to be aware and look twice before proceeding from a stop or turn."

More information on motorcycle safety and training courses can be found on the Safety Services Nova Scotia at www.safetyservicesns.com .

--------------------------------------------------------------------------------
FOR BROADCAST USE:

May has been proclaimed Motorcycle Safety Awareness Month by

the province and Safety Services Nova Scotia to increase driver

awareness of additional motorcycle traffic on Nova Scotia roads.

Transportation and Infrastructure Renewal Minister Bill

Estabrooks says the designation will help drivers realize the

importance of being extra alert during this time of year.

More information on motorcycle safety and training courses

is available on the Safety Services Nova Scotia website.

-30-

Media Contacts: Steve Smith
Transportation and Infrastructure Renewal
902-424-2233
E-mail: smithest@gov.ns.ca

Ed Snow
Safety Services Nova Scotia
902- 454-9621 ext 232
E-mail: snow@safetyservicesns.ca

Coming from the Halifax Regional Police Dept

2010-05-11T11:35:00.000-06:00

Motorcycle Safety

The Motorcycling Community

The majority of today’s riders in the motorcycling community are mature, safety-conscious individuals. Many have taken a motorcycle safety course, and ride with due regard for their safety, their passenger’s safety, and with respect for those with whom they share the road. Further, many riders have taken advanced riding courses to better protect and equip themselves for the pleasures of riding.

The members of your local law enforcement community encourage you to follow the rules of the road, and become an ambassador for the motorcycling community.

Pre-Ride Check List

Am I mentally prepared to ride today?

Do I have all my safety gear with me?

Department of Transportation approved helmet
glasses
jacket
gloves
riding pants
riding boots
ear plugs

Do I have all the necessary documents for my bike?

Driver’s License
Permit
Registration
Insurance
Safety Inspection Checklist & Sticker

Mechanical Inspection

Tires

- pressure
- cracks
- cuts
- foreign objects

Oil Level
Brakes
Mirrors
Horn
Muffler
All lights - especially brake lights (foot and hand)
License Plate - clean and illuminated with a valid registration tag
Valid Safety Inspection - mounted on the lower left fork leg
Kill Switch - always test and use this switch
Look for obvious problems and items that require repair before riding

Riding Tips

Take the Canada Council Motorcycle Safety Course.
Practice what you’ve been taught.
Become an ambassador for your motorcycling passion.
Ride with respect for yourself and others. You will be judged by your riding actions.
Claim your lane - ride in a position that will allow all motorists (cars, trucks and buses) to see you.
Wear bright gear/helmet. Ultimately, you want to see and be seen.
Always shoulder check, even if you are just pulling away from a gas bar.
Use both electronic and hand signals.
Ride the posted speed limit (50 km/h maximum in all cities, towns and villages).
Never ride after consuming alcohol or drugs.
Adjust your speed for road and weather conditions (ie. fog, gravel, pot holes, etc.).
Beware of night time riding, particularly small animals that may be on the road.
Never loan your bike (in particular to riders without a license or those who are inexperienced with your ride, etc.).
Be prepared for the unexpected, ride both within your limits and the speed limit.
Join a recognized riding club. It’s a great way to meet new people and share information.
When riding with others, ride in a staggered formation.
Make frequent pit stops to keep yourself alert and rested.

Most Common Complaints received by Police about Motorcyclists:

Speeding
Loud exhaust pipes
Weaving in and out of traffic
Unsafe lane changes
Not using signals
Riding on one wheel
Racing and revving the engine
Wearing illegal helmets
Obscuring their license plates
Using bikes that are unfit for the road, including:
- bald tires
- no mirrors
- no mufflers
- burnt out or missing lights

Please ensure you do not contribute to these complaints. Thank you for motorcycling responsibly.

From Doug Beattie CMA

2010-05-11T10:40:00.000-06:00

All BIKERS WELCOME

Christian Motorcyclists Association’s Annual

Run for the Son

Saturday, May 29

Registration starts 9:30 a.m.

Leaving: 10 a.m.

From Arby’s, Bedford

For a two-hour scenic ride

Ending at Mahone Bay*

Donations $20 & up are tax deductible

See any CMA participant prior to the run

Inquiries: Doug at 240-5136

or dougbeattie@hotmail.com

*option to participate in SHAID Pet Food Run at 1 p.m.

Biker Fundraising BBQ in Truro

2010-05-11T09:45:00.002-06:00

Chapter "T" (Truro) of the Gold Wing Road Riders Association is holding a fundraising bbq in the parking lot in front of the M&M Meat Shop on 68 Robie Street, Truro, Fundy Trail Mall this Saturday, May 15th from 10 - 2.
Burgers and hotdogs will be on sale and proceeds support the Children's Wish Foundation. If it is a nice day it will be great to see bikers come up for a ride and to have lunch.

All are welcome.. nice ride from the city to support a great cause!

Motorcycle and motor-vehicle collision in Truro sends two to hospital with serious injuries

2010-05-03T05:50:00.002-06:00

Published on May 1st, 2010
Truro Daily News
Topics :: Truro Police Service , Colchester Regional Hospital

TRURO – A man and a woman were taken to hospital with serious injuries after a motorcycle and motor-vehicle collision in Truro Saturday afternoon.

Truro Police Service say the incident happened at the intersection of Prince and Golf streets at about 1:30 p.m.

The male driver of the motorcycle and a female passenger, both in their late 30s or early 40s, suffered undisclosed serious, but non life-threatening injuries and were being treated at Colchester Regional Hospital.

The female driver of the motor-vehicle, in her late teens, was not injured.

The accident is under investigation.

Nice weather draws large crowd to town for first ride of the season

2010-05-03T05:43:00.004-06:00

Nice weather draws large crowd to town for first ride of the season

Topics :: Organization of Responsible Bikers ,Colchester Regional Hospital , Victoria Park ,Newfoundland , Salmon River

TRURO – Mike Devine is all smiles as he roars into Victoria Park.

He parks his motorcycle beside an ever-growing lineup of bikes, removes his helmet and shares a story.

"My wife (Cathy) and I were biking in Newfoundland a few years ago and we had trouble getting on the ferry with the motorcycle and trailer," the Debert resident recalled.

"Horns were beeping for us to get moving and (ferry operators) finally waved us through and I took off. I looked in my rearview mirror and there was my wife with her helmet on ... I had left, got on the ferry, without her," he laughed at the memory.

Cathy got on the ferry with the help of a stranger and Mike's "two-second lapse in memory" made for a "very quiet crossing" once reunited with his wife on the boat.

That was only one of many stories and laughs shared at Victoria Park Saturday morning during the 22nd annual Blessing of the Bikes, hosted by the Organization of Responsible Bikers.

Organizers estimated more than 2,000 bikes came to town for the event, whichis considered the unofficial first motorcycle ride of the year.The gathering also included prayer, fellowship, entertainment, vendors and a barbecue.

"Driving motorcycles is a sport that there's an element of risk to. We practice safety and if God is on your side that helps," said Devine, a biker for 40 years, in regards to the bike blessing.

Harmony's Vanya and Gerald MacKenzie have been motorcyclists for about 30 years. The bike blessing continues to be a favourite event for them.

"It's amazing the number of people who come," said Vanya. "It's another world when you are on a bike. You forget everything else."

Gerald said a lot of motorcyclists are retirement age.

"It's about fellowship and freedom and a lot of people grew up around bikes," he said.

There were, however, some young fans at the bike blessing. Tristan Adshead, 11, from Salmon River, has been attending the gathering for a few years.

"I drive on the back with a (family) friend. It's really cool and I've always wanted a bike for myself," said Adshead. "In a car there's not enough freedom and the wind's not in your hair. Sometimes I feel trapped" in a car, he said.

Bikers also hoped the event would remind motorists that biking season has arrived and extra care should be taken to remember motorcycles will be sharing the roads with other vehicles.

Truro police said a man and a woman were taken to Colchester Regional Hospital with serious injuries after a motorcycle and motor vehicle collision at about 1:30 p.m. at the intersection of Prince and Golf streets.

The male driver of the motorcycle and a female passenger, both in their late 30s or early 40s, suffered undisclosed serious, but non life-threatening injuries. The female driver of the motor vehicle, in her late teens, was not injured.

The accident is under investigation.

mchiasson@trurodaily.com

BIKE BLESSING INFO BOX

What: 22nd annual Blessing of the Bikes

Where: Victoria Park

When: First Saturday of May

Hosted by: Organization of Responsible Bikers

Route driven around Truro to mark the event Saturday: Brunswick, Young, Glenwood, Willow, Prince, Inglis, Esplanade, Walker and Cottage

Participants: Come from all over the Maritimes

see pictures at

http://www.flickr.com/photos/janicegould/sets/

Public perception of bikers is changing: Rector

2010-05-03T05:43:00.003-06:00

Published on May 2nd, 2010
Monique Chiasson

Topics :: Organization of Responsible Bikers , Victoria Park

TRURO – Motorcyclists are becoming more respected on the road, says the president of a local bikers organization.

"We have changed the public perception in Truro of motorcycling. People used to look at bikers and think we were all outlaws but now they are looking at us just like all other (motorists)," said Lloyd Rector, president of the Organization of Responsible Bikers.

"Motorcyclists are lawyers ... doctors ... labourers and the population of motorcyclists has picked up in the last number of years."

Rector proudly looked around Victoria Park Saturday as hundreds of bikers gathered for the annual Blessing of the Bikes.

"We're getting bigger and bigger," Rector said of the event.

Weather plays a role in the number of people who attend the event, however, every year hundreds of motorcyclists participate. Rector said the event has had a huge impact on creating acceptance of motorcyclists within the community.

mchiasson@trurodaily.com

Motorcycle Awareness Launch 2010

2010-04-28T12:47:00.004-06:00

Safety Services and the Province Of Nova Scotia, On Wednesday

April 28,2010 at 10:00 amwe will be at the Sobey’s (Tim Horton’s)

parking lot in Fall River to launch May as Motorcycle

Awareness month. Bill Estabrooks, Minister Of Transport will be

reading a declaration, declaring May as motorcycle Awareness month.

As well we will have Cyril Lunney, Breakfast Television on hand to film

as well he will try his skills at motorcycle training in the parking lot.

We would like to see a great turnout to support Motorcycle

awareness and promote rider safety.

Keep Nova Scotia on Top.. do the vote.. its easy..

2010-04-27T12:00:00.002-06:00

Hello Everyone;

My HOG magazine (Harley-Davidson Owners Group) arrived today and they are

running a contest for the best Famous Road around the World for

motorcycling.

Our own Cabot Trail, Cape Breton is listed as #1 of 10 different routes from

around the world. When I voted this morning we had 86% of the vote to date.

There are a million HOG members around the world who receive this magazine

and will see this article.

VOTE today and ensure the Cabot Trail wins the race as the Best Famous Road

to Ride in the World.

http://www.harleypromos.ca/hogmag

(thanks Wendy)

What is legal and what is not?

2010-04-18T07:54:00.003-06:00

Anyone out there got any answers? I am going to try the Halifax Police Department - the ones who hand out the tickets and see if I can get some answers there.. then I will try Gary Manthorne, who sits on the board for the Bikers Down Society, since he is a lawyer, and then the Motor Vehicle section of Transportation and see if I can get any answers.. in the meantime - if anyone has any information...... PLEASE share.. its valuable to us all... Thanking you in advance.......... ~ J

From a concerned motorcyclist:

I have heard many mixed ideas as to what is legal and illegal as far as altering a motorcycle is concerned. I've tried in vain to find solid, accurate, and reliable information regarding this subject. Even searching through the very confusing "Nova Scotia Motor Vehicle Act" yielded very little as it was quite vague. When I consider modifications that would be exciting, I'm left wondering whether or not it would be legal. Things such as:

1. Is it mandatory that a motorcyle have a front fender?

2. Are two mirrors required.

3. What regulations exist governing the registration, purchase, fabrication of a hardtail.

4. Is there any legal precedent that states liscence plates can or cannot definitively be mounted vertically as opposed to horizontily?

Etc., etc. ...

I was genuinely hoping that you or someone else within the motorcycle community would be able to direct me (and probably others) as to where this information may be located.

Thank You,

Blessing of the Bikes in Truro - Time is early!

2010-04-16T07:58:00.004-06:00

We have a concern - and a valid one too.....

It deals with the Blessing of the Bikes in Truro, specifically the time, 12:00 noon. That time is waaaay tooooo early in the day for the time of the year. Why you ask.

Well I live in the Annapolis Valley and from my place (Kingston) it is two hours by car to Truro. By bike with even one stop in Winsor (avoiding Halifax or other areas to meet or pick up other riders) it is at least 2.5 hrs to Truro. Assuming that I want to arrive at least 30 minuses prior to the start of the blessing I would have to leave my place NO LATER THAN 09:00 am. If I were meeting other riders in the area then more likely I would have to leave my place at 08:30 am.

Now its not that I mind getting up at 07:00 am on a Saturday, its just that on the first weekend in May it can (and usually is) still VERY COOL at 08:30 or 09:00 in the morning --- ESPECIALLY IF YOU ARE ON A MOTORCYCLE TRAVELLING 110 KM/HR DOWN THE HIGHWAY.

It makes it a pain in the butt to layer on the cloths only to have to try and find a place to store them later when it warms up. You know what I mean, you ride.

What I would like to suggest is that the blessing be at 02:00 pm vice 12:00 pm. This would make it A LOT EASIER for riders from more than 2 hrs (riding time) away to attend. Please remember that with daylight savings time that "mid-day" is not until 1:00pm and the warmest part of the day until 3:00 - 4:00 pm.

I firmly believe that moving the Blessing to 2:00 pm would significantly increase the number of people attending and also increase the benefits to the Town of Truro.

New Laws for Emergency Vehicles - beware!!

2010-04-09T11:44:00.001-06:00

New NS Highway Law I saw on the K-Rock site.

Whether it's a Mountie giving a speeding ticket on the highway or paramedics responding to a car crash, a new law will require approaching drivers to slow down, starting May 1. The maximum speed when passing an emergency vehicle with its lights flashing at roadside will be 60 km/h or the posted speed limit, whichever is less. The new law will also cover vehicles used by chiefs and deputy chiefs of volunteer fire departments, conservation officers and motor vehicle inspectors.

Letter sent to Bill Estabrooks from concerned citizen

They are making it law May 1st that if you see any emergency vehicle at the roadside with lights flashing you have to slow to 60 kmh. I am all for the emergency responders being safe ... I don't think this is well thought out as a measure to increase safety. See below.

Good morning Bill,

I am reading about the new law regarding slowing down when passing emergency vehicles at work and I have some questions and concerns.

Has this been well thought out. Picture this scenario: Traffic travelling as it commonly does on divided highway at 120 kmh and ahead there is a Mountie car with lights flashing dealing with a speeder on the right shoulder. You want all of the approaching traffic to rapidly cut their speed in half. I believe it is also customary (if not law) to change lanes to give the officer more room and safety. And it is also law to put on your hazard lights (four way flashers) when operating a motor vehicle on such a highway at less than 70 kmh.

Now I know from experience that many of the drivers that would be approaching are unable to signal a lane change at the best of times. So we will now expect some of these drivers ( because many ....especially visitors won't know or care about this law) to do the following:

Upon seeing the flashing lights.. hit the brakes to cut speed in half.. hit them hard! Attention off the road while you do multiple checks of your speedometer. Oops ..need to change lanes... oh oh down to 70 kmh.. got to find that hazard light switch!!( again not looking at the road) ( or presumably the cars all around which are braking at various degrees ...or plowing through at 120 kmh, blissfully unaware of the new "LAW") Lane change ! Without signaling because 4 ways are on !!! If you are lucky, the Mountie ticketing the speeder will be safe because the multi-car pile up will occur before they get to him !

I hope you have a lot more emergency responders on call Bill because contrary to your hopes, I believe this initiative is a recipe for disaster.

I mean it.

I cringe at the thought of being one of the few drivers out there trying to obey this law and I hope you are willing and able to deal with the gory and expensive consequences.

And then to institute it with 3 weeks notice and no public education campaign... you folks really need to give your heads a shake.

Bruce Tramley

Female Ride Day - May 7th

2010-04-06T12:29:00.001-06:00

Female Ride Day is a campaign for women motorcyclists who own, ride or have access to a motorcycle; inviting women to “JUST RIDE”. By being on a motorcycle on the Female Ride Day, by participating and by riding, women enthusiastically contribute to building awareness of female motorcyclists. They also demonstrate to others the fun and enjoyment women of all diversities share in this wonderful activity—motorsport.
The event occurs on the first Friday of May each year, where women participate by simply being on their motorcycle to --JUST RIDE!

…TO WORK

…TO MEET A FRIEND(S)

…TO FITNESS CLASS

…TO YOUR LOCAL MOTORCYCLE RETAILER

…TO A COUNTRY ROAD

…TO TAKE AN ATV OR TRACK DAY COURSE

…TO A SHOPPING MALL

…TO MEET WITH YOUR RIDING CLUB

The day invites women to simply be on a motorcycle--avoiding too much structure. It is not an organised ride, not a charity or a fundraiser for reasons of ensuring its main message not become diluted—that of highlighting women motorcyclists! Just Ride!

Motorcycles of all brands, types and capacities--road bikes, scooters, off road/dirt category motorcycles and ATV’s are welcome and invited to partake.

This is one day devoted to women riders of all ages; all experience levels, demonstrating their personal passion, pleasure and camaraderie alone or together in the activity of motorcycling riding—worldwide!

At the end of International Female Ride Day, women are requested to send in their photo showing themselves and their motorcycle on Female Ride Day, capturing some aspect of how they enjoyed the experience. These photos are shared online and enjoyed by women Internationally.

http://www.motoress.com/femalerideday.asp

Need a trike.. not necessarily this one!! but that would be cool!

2010-03-30T07:58:00.003-06:00

Read below and if there is anyone out there that can help out or knows of someone, then you would making someone very happy and giving them the freedom to ride!!!...

We have a problem that we hope you might be able to help us with. We are looking for anyone with an automatic trike, to help a partially disabled man to obtain his motorcycle license. He wants to get his license, but they don't have a classification for the trike we now own. With the extra wheels they don't classify it as a motorcycle. Powertrend is installing a hand control to bypass the foot gears, because he doesn't have any muscle in his left leg (polio) to shift gears. He has been in contact with access N.S. and the Motor Vehicle branch and they suggest he take the scooter course, but again it's only two wheels. He has to lift his leg on and off, so when he comes to a stop he will always have to lean to the right or over he goes.

Someone suggested a trike they would test and put him in the drivers seat.

An appeal to the biker community might unearth someone with an automatic trike or even one of those new scooters with the two wheels in front or someone with a can am Spyder. He would only need it for the test. He is still going to practise on my bike once the hand control is installed. I'll take him to a parking lot so he can practise a lot before his test.

Any help would be greatly appreciated. If you need more info , please call either Judi or Earl at 835-4214 or you can email them at ladybugjms@hotmail.com

Thanking you in advance,

Judi and Earl

Bikers Down Annual Meeting - and dont miss the dance!

2010-03-08T07:11:00.002-07:00

It would be nice to get some participation with this meeting, its always nice to hear others opinions, suggestions and ideas on a committee like this... So see if you can make it.

Bikers Down Society - Toad Memorial Fund Annual General Meeting Tuesday, March 16, 2010 at 7:00pm If you wish to attend the Annual General Meeting, you must pre-register either by email at bikersdown@gmail.com or by phone (902) 462-7466 no later than Monday, March 9, 2010 at 5:00pm. Any member proposing changes to the By-Laws or to add an issue to the agenda, must do so by Monday, March 9, 2010 at 5:00pm.

Venue will be decided after number of registrants has been determined. Venue will be announced one week prior to meeting.

BIkers, Family Mourn slain couple

2010-03-05T10:00:00.002-07:00

Bikers, family mourn slain couple
Police monitor funeral for Rustie and Ellen Hall
By MARY ELLEN MacINTYRE Truro Bureau
Fri. Mar 5 - 4:53 AM

Motorcycle enthusiasts set off on a final ride in memory of Rustie and Ellen Hall on Thursday at their funeral ceremony. The Barr Settlement couple were found slain in their home last Friday. RCMP believe Rustie Hall was a member of the Bacchus motorcycle club, which recently moved into Nova Scotia. (Mary Ellen MacIntyre / Truro Bureau)

SHUBENACADIE — There wasn’t even standing room at the funeral service for a slain Barr Settlement couple here Thursday afternoon.

Bikers from across the Maritimes and Ontario gathered inside with family and friends of Rustie and Ellen Hall who were murdered in their home last Friday. Groups spilled out into the driveway of Ettinger’s Funeral Home, singing Amazing Grace in unison and wiping away tears.

RCMP say the 53-year-old man was a member of the so-called outlaw Bacchus motorcycle club, which recently formed a chapter in Nova Scotia. The New Brunswick-based group is allegedly affiliated with the Hells Angels.

Investigators who specialize in biker groups and organized crime have assisted local RCMP in the investigation. RCMP have not revealed how the couple died.

An RCMP forensics unit van was parked in plain sight of the funeral home Thursday and officers inside the van were busy taking photographs of those entering and leaving the building.

Plainclothes officers were parked in various locations around the area.

Inside, the service was solemn and respectful.

"Rustie loved the club as much as Ellen loved her Christmas trees and scrapbooking," said Paul Fowler, a longtime friend of the couple.

He told the gathering — some watched the service on wide-screen televisions in other rooms — that the couple were inseparable, devoted to their children and their "grandbabies" and loved to ride their motorcycle.

"Bacchus forever, forever Bacchus," he concluded, wiping his eyes.

The slain couple’s grown children, Ange and Mike, also took part in eulogizing their parents during the ceremony.

Mike Hall, standing proud in his Canadian Forces uniform, told of his parents’ deep love for their three grandchildren, fondly recalling his father’s stubbornness and sense of humour and his mother’s devotion.

Musical selections included Free Bird by Lynyrd Skynyrd.

Earlier in the ceremony, Pastor Paul Vanderkooy told the gathering they must remember that despite the pain, shock and sadness they feel at the violent deaths, they must take comfort in each other.

RCMP spokeswoman Brigdit Leger said the investigation into the deaths continues.

In Memory of Ellen Hall

2010-03-02T07:33:00.001-07:00

Ellen Hall

HALL (Oldreive), Ellen Giovanna, 53 of Barr Settlement, Nova Scotia. It is with profound and deep sadness that we announce the passing of an unbelievably amazing mother, wife, nana, sister and friend on February 25th, 2010. Born in Digby, NS, she was the daughter of Giovanna (Scicluna) Oldreive, of Milford Station and the late William Frank Oldreive. Ellen is survived and greatly missed by her daughter Ange (Chris), Alberta and her son, Mike (Elizabeth), Alberta; three beautiful grandbabies Selene, Brooklyn and Dylan; a sister, Verna , Enfield; brothers Peter (Jana),Lantz; Paul (Stefanie), Porter's Lake; Arthur (Angela), Stewiacke and many nieces and nephews. Ellen was predeceased by her father William Frank Oldreive. Cremation has taken place Friends may visit with family on Wednesday, March 3rd, 2010 from 7-9 PM at Ettinger Funeral Home, 2812 Highway 2, Shubenacadie from where a funeral service will be held at 2 PM, Thursday March 4th, 2010, Pastor Paul Vanderkooy officiating. Donations may be made to the IWK Children's Hospital, in lieu of flowers. Email condolences may be sent to the family by signing the guestbook at www.ettingerfuneralhome.com

In Memory of Rustie Hall

2010-03-02T07:30:00.002-07:00

Rustie Hall

HALL, Rustie, 53 of Barr Settlement, Nova Scotia. It is with profound sadness that we announce the passing of a loving and devoted husband, father, papa, brother and friend on February 25th, 2010. Born in Halifax, he was the son of Valerie (Walton) and James Russell Hall Sr, Truro. Rustie is survived and deeply missed by daughter Ange (Chris), Alberta and son Mike (Elizabeth), Alberta; three beautiful grandbabies Selene, Brooklyn and Dylan; brothers, Ronnie Hall, Truro; Thomas ,Ontario; John , Manitoba; sister Valerie "J.J." Bursey (Bill), Cambridge, ON and many nieces and nephews. Rustie was predeceased by his sister Sharon and nephew Corey. Cremation has taken place. Friends may visit with family on Wednesday, March 3rd, 2010 from 7-9 PM at Ettinger Funeral Home, 2812 Highway 2, Shubenacadie from where a funeral service will be held at 2 PM, Thursday March 4th, 2010, Pastor Paul Vanderkooy officiating. Donations may be made to the IWK Children's Hospital, in lieu of flowers. Email condolences may be sent to the family by signing the guestbook at www.ettingerfuneralhome.com

Rustie and Ellen Hall - Together forever

2010-02-27T06:08:00.006-07:00

WIth a very heavy heart I bring you this sad news. With no details other than I'm sure there are many with me that will say we will miss Rustie and Ellen. Both loved each other deeply, loved their children, and grandbabies with pride. And Rustie being a dedicated brother to all motorcyclists. You always saw Rustie and Ellen together at the charities runs, together greeting everyone as they came to support whatever cause it was. Ellen with her quiet shy personality and Rustie with his happy, caring, friendly personality. Together forever... you will be missed... God bless Rustie and Ellen............ RIP xo

Here is a blog to leave comments, your condolences to the family or just leave a memory of Rustie or Ellen.. The family will appreciate your comments. Thank you for being respectful...

If you are Anonymous because you don't have an account - please leave your name below your comment for the family. Thank you.

Very Sad News for us all

2010-02-27T05:05:00.002-07:00

RCMP ID couple found dead in East Hants homeCops find bodies inside home in Barr Settlement, hour outside HalifaxBy DAVENE JEFFREY and KELLY SHIERS Staff Reporters UPDATED AT 5:07 p.m.Fri. Feb 26 - 11:22 AM

An RCMP member carries a box into a Barr Settlement home Friday, where two bodies were found earlier in the morning. (CHRISTIAN LAFORCE / Staff)

RCMP have identified a couple whose bodies were found early Friday inside a home in Barr Settlement near Kennetcook.

They are Ellen Hall, 53, and Russell "Rustie" Hall, also 53, according to a police news release. According to provincial property records, the house is owned by Ellen and James R. Hall.

Officers found the bodies when they responded to a 911 call at 7:30 this morning, said RCMP Sgt. Brigdit Leger. Police have ordered an autopsy, though one is not scheduled yet.

"They are suspicious deaths. We suspect foul play," Leger said at the scene Friday afternoon, as investigators continued to gather evidence from inside a grey, two-storey home, trimmed in white.

Investigators were also interviewing nearby neighbours.When asked about possible connections between the deaths and motorcycle gangs, Leger would not comment. She also would not say if the 911 call was made by someone inside the house. "You have to understand this is very early in the investigation," she told thechronicleherald.ca Friday morning.On Friday afternoon, two vehicles, including a red pickup truck, could be seen in the driveway of the home. A neighbour on the Barr Settlement Road confirmed that the home belongs to James (Rustie) and Ellen Hall."It's a different shaped home. It has a lot of skylights," said the neighbour who explained that she never socialized with the couple.The woman moved to the road about 11 years ago and she believes the Halls had been living on the street sometime before her arrival.While some neighbours were reluctant to speak to reporters, one woman came to her door with her three-year-old daughter by her side."We don't know them very well at that house because we keep to ourselves," she said, as the little girl chewed on a soother and smiled shyly.

"It's usually so quiet on this road. I wonder what in the name of God happened inside that house." Another neighbour who came to her door was awake overnight Thursday and had seen a car drive by at about 2 a.m. headed in the same direction as the Halls' home.Other residents said the couple once owned a variety store in nearby Nine Mile River, but sold it a few years ago.One man described the Halls as "decent people."He said they are "hobby motorcyclists", but added "they weren't members of the Hells Angels, by any means, to my knowledge.

"On her Facebook profile, which had been removed by early Friday afternoon, Ellen Hall boasted of her love for her three "beautiful" grandchildren. Her page contained dozens of photos of them. Hall wrote that her adult children, both live in Alberta and that she missed them "very much". She said she liked to do crafts and scrapbooking in the winter, but she and Rustie "love going on our Harley to bike events" during the summer. Under her profile picture, Hall had written "Live out Loud very loud!!"

Many people were speculating about what was going on. Officers who have the road blocked off near the home were turning the curious away without giving any details, one man said.East Hants municipal councillor Greg Grant, who represents the area including Barr Settlement Road, said people in the neighbourhood would be shocked to learn what had happened in their community."It's a very quiet community on a dirt road," he said."Activity like that, it would be extremely rare anywhere, but it's unheard of out there."

Green County Choppers? OCC creates custom electric chopper

2010-02-23T09:54:00.002-07:00

Following Orange County Choppers' frequent use of alt-fuels (see E85 bike and natural gas bike) comes something a wee bit different from what we're used to seeing from the New York-based custom motorcycle crew: a fully electric chopper. Commissioned by Siemens USA, the zero-emissions motorcycle is powered by a 27-horsepower electric motor from Advanced DC and can go an estimated 60 miles after a five-hour charge. Top speed is listed at 100 miles per hour, likely making this one of the fastest bikes ever to roll out of the OCC showroom. Building an electric bike from recycled materials was something new for us, but we definitely enjoyed the challenge and think that the end product makes a great addition to our wide range of unique motorcycles. While electric bikes probably won't surpass traditional ones for the foreseeable future, we also think that energy efficient technologies are increasingly important for both manufacturers and consumers.

At this time, OCC says it has no plans to mass produce an electric chopper, but Senior says it's would consider it if adequate demand were there. In any case, you'll get the chance to own this example after Siemens take it on a worldwide tour in 2010, after which it will be auctioned off with the benefits going to "a charitable cause that will help benefit the environment."

Check out Powertrend Sale Feb 6th

2010-02-04T17:44:00.001-07:00

Hello;

We are having a 1 Day Tire Sale this Saturday and have an excellent deal for HD Owners on Dunlops we thought you'd like to hear about...and Forward to your fellow Members and friends.

We're staying open all day Saturday from 9-5...of course there will be lots of coffee and door prizes and a big Clearance Table with stupid low prices...but we thought you'd want to know about saving 40% on Harley tires...

(and tires for your Goldwings, BMW, Vulcans, Shadows, Intruders, Star and most other bikes, too!)

Hope to see you Saturday;

Garnet Hill & Sean McGowan
POWERTREND
461-8122

PS: We also have some great prices on custom bikes...if you're ready to scratch your itch for something special, Saturday's your day to deal!

Special Thanks

2010-01-28T07:39:00.000-07:00

Air Bag Jacket... very cool

2010-01-28T07:31:00.001-07:00

Function of Motorcycle Air Bag Jacket

The breathable and waterproof jacket and vest feature an intergrated airbag system with a small Co2 air cartridge and a ripcord, when triggered by the ripcord, the airbag will inflated instantly, reducing the injury before the accident occurs or before the motorcycle rider impacts onto another object.

It's inflation in about 0.2 to 0.5 second, and will develop an armour of extra protection to the most vulnerable parts of the rider body such as the neck area, chest area, back area and the spine area.

It could be used repeatedly. All replacing parts can be replace at a minimal cost

This is too cool.... check this out... http://www.mashgate.com/ (Thanks for the info Pam)

Check out this BIG BIKE!

2010-01-28T07:27:00.002-07:00

Gunbus is the world's largest bike for the roads. A man of average height standing next to a Gunbus looks very… modest. Its engine is of 6.72 liters and of 350 HP! Bike’s tires in size and shape can be comparable to those of planes. By the way, the price strikes too - 250 thousand Euros! Well, now let's look at this monster.

Check out the pictures of this monster below: (Thanks Martin)

http://damnfreshpics.blogspot.com/2010/01/worlds-largest-bike-for-roads.html

Chronicle Herald January 12th

2010-01-13T07:09:00.002-07:00

Halifax motorcycle club cements ties with Hells Angels

By DAN ARSENAULT Crime Reporter
Tue. Jan 12 - 4:46 AM

Halifax’s criminal landscape shifted last weekend as eight members of the former East Coast Riders Motorcycle Club patched over to form a new chapter of the Hells Angels-affiliated Bacchus club in New Brunswick.

"These guys are going hardcore," Cpl. Stephen MacQueen, with the RCMP-Halifax Regional Police integrated intelligence unit, said Monday.

"This group is making a stand to other organized crime groups to say we are here and this is our territory and don’t try to take it."

He called the Bacchus club an organized crime group that now has about 50 members. The club has been around for about 30 years and had two chapters in New Brunswick: one in Moncton, the other in Saint John. But last weekend, club members held a ceremony in Moncton to welcome the new Nova Scotia chapter, plus one in the St. Stephen, N.B., area.

"I believe that they’ll be (named) Bacchus Nova Scotia, with a Halifax chapter," Cpl. MacQueen said, referring to the Nova Scotia group.

Members of the East Coast Riders likely destroyed their old insignias as part of the ceremony.

"They burn their old patches, so that club is no longer in existence and no one can wear those patches anymore."

Cpl. MacQueen said the changeover signifies a couple major points: that club members are identifying themselves as a criminal organization and that Nova Scotia is their territory.

One significant change will see the bikers wearing patches that have Nova Scotia written on the bottom, a move that signifies they are staking claim to this province.

Cpl. MacQueen said police had checkpoints outside the Moncton ceremony and saw who was coming and going. Officers noticed bikers from five provinces, but no Hells Angels.

He said the East Coast Riders have acted as the eyes and ears for the Hells Angels since they officially closed their Halifax chapter in 2003. An Antigonish group called the Highlanders do the same thing, he said.

However, the situation started to change several months ago when members of some other biker groups visited the Halifax area, Cpl. MacQueen said.

"Over the last few months, there have been sightings of Rock Machine (members), sightings of Outlaws in Atlantic Canada, which has probably spurred the East Coast Riders to make a decision of where they were going to stand on the issue."

Cpl. MacQueen said the appearance of the rival bikers, who openly displayed their patches in Halifax-area bars, was a sign they were interested in the area and those visits demanded some type of response.

"Rival groups coming here wearing their colours in bars is a show of a lack of respect for the Hells Angels."

Before last weekend’s changeover, the bikers would have just reported the presence of the rivals to the Hells Angels, but now they’ll be expected to do more, Cpl. MacQueen said.

"If nobody bothers them, I don’t think there will be a problem. Where the problem exists is if a rival group decides to come here. Then the Bacchus Nova Scotia have a responsibility to step up and confront that and try to deter it.

"I think they are almost holding the territory for the Hells Angels."

Bacchus Nova Scotia will answer to its mother chapter in the Moncton area, he said.

The Highlanders and Bacchus Nova Scotia will likely get along fine, Cpl. MacQueen said, but they will differ because the Bacchus club will be expected to protect territory.

He said the East Coast Riders formed in 2001 and likely started as a club for motorcycle enthusiasts.

When the Hells Angels left the local scene, members of the East Coast Riders changed their patches to look more like a motorcycle club and were later seen in the company of Hells Angels members.

The police officer said he doesn’t know if the move means that the Hells Angels will try to resurrect a Halifax chapter. He said the outlaw biker gang is known to favour expansion but may not want to change the local scene without strong support from Bacchus.

Citizens shouldn’t fear an outbreak of violence because of these developments, Cpl. MacQueen said. He noted that police helped wipe out the Hells Angels when they were previously in Nova Scotia.

Cpl. MacQueen said he doesn’t know where the Bacchus club will set up its Halifax-area home. The East Coast Riders’ old digs in Waverley were badly damaged in a fire and are now up for sale.

He wouldn’t name any of the members of Bacchus or the East Coast Riders.

Attempts to contact anyone from the East Coast Riders or Bacchus club were not successful.

From CBC news

2010-01-12T07:50:00.000-07:00

Biker gang stakes claim in Nova Scotia

Last Updated: Tuesday, January 12, 2010 | 8:20 AM AT Comments48 Recommend52

CBC News

Police say an outlaw biker gang with close ties to the Hells Angels has established itself in Nova Scotia.

The Bacchus motorcycle gang has links to the Hells Angels. (CBC)Eight members of the East Coast Riders were "patched over" by the Bacchus motorcycle club Saturday night at the Bacchus main clubhouse in Albert County, N.B.

The new "1%" crest hasn't been seen in Nova Scotia since the Hells Angels chapter folded in 2003 after a series of police raids that put most of its members in prison.

Insp. Greg Laturnus, with the RCMP Intelligence Unit, said the 1% designation is an open claim of outlaw status among bike gangs.

"We have a national strategy to combat outlaw motorcycle gangs, and certainly the Bacchus motorcycle club is considered an outlaw motorcycle gang," Laturnus told CBC News.

But Paul Fowler, a new Bacchus Nova Scotia club member, disputes that, saying members have families and jobs.

"We are far from organized. And we're not a crime group neither," said Fowler.

"In our mind, the true meaning of the 1% is that we are the one per cent that doesn't fit in with the other 99 per cent of society, for whatever reason. You know, we like to do things our own way. We like to hang out together, ride motorcycles and party."

Longtime links

Bacchus is one of Canada's oldest biker clubs, with longtime links to the Hells Angels. Its members have been arrested in raids involving the Angels, and the club is respected in the outlaw biker world.

RCMP say the 1% patch indicates an outlaw biker gang. (CBC)Members of the East Coast Riders never wore a 1% crest. The clubhouse in Waverley, near Halifax, is for sale as Bacchus looks for something new.

Cpl. Steve MacQueen, head of the RCMP's outlaw motorcycle gang unit, said the takeover came after two Hells Angels rival clubs, the Outlaws and the Rock Machine, showed interest in establishing chapters in Nova Scotia.

Fowler agrees that being in a club like Bacchus will deter other groups. However, he said that's not why he and other members made the move.

"I don't think we have the ability to prevent other clubs from opening and doing their thing. We're just saying that we are here, this club's been around for 38 years or so and we're gonna continue hanging around together and being brothers," said Fowler.

The new Bacchus patch may go unnoticed by most Nova Scotians, but police said people in the criminal underworld have already noted its presence in the province.

Motorcycle Training - You can register now!

2010-01-06T08:10:00.000-07:00

Motorcycle Training registration
is now open for 2010!!
Book Your spot now......

11 Locations to serve you better!!
COURSES RUNNING WEEKDAYS, WEEKNIGHTS AND WEEKENDS

Motorcycle Training Course

***All classroom sessions will be completed in one evening prior to practical training**

A 20 hour program that provides you with the basic skills and confidence you will need in today’s traffic environment. We will supply you with a motorcycle and give you the knowledge, skills, and confidence you need to get the most from your motorcycling experience. You will need a DOT approved motorcycle helmet, gloves, sturdy jacket & pants (leather or denim), and boots that cover your ankle.

**PLEASE NOTE – This course can be physically demanding with 14 hours of riding during the course and it may not be suitable for all students. If you have any medical problems that will prevent you from pushing a motorcycle, please call for further information**

Register

Motorcycle Refresher Course

This 8 hour course is designed for persons who already have their motorcycle license and have been away from riding for awhile or would like to refine their skills. The course will include such things as slow speed and high speed manoeuvres, curves and emergency collision avoidance techniques. You can use your own motorcycle or, for an extra fee, rent one of ours. If you are using a motorcycle that is not registered to you, please bring written authorization from the registered owner.

**Please check Halifax and Dartmouth for dates**

Register

Motorcycle Advanced Course

Designed for individuals comfortable operating their motorcycle, this 8 hour course will provide a safe and instructional setting for you to test yourself and advance your skill set through self discovery with professional coaching. It includes an on-road exercise using your own motorcycle. Experience and professional training are integral parts of lifelong learning.

**Please check Halifax for dates**

Register

Scooter Training Course

Learn how to safely control a scooter in a variety of conditions including: slow speeds, tight turns, collision avoidance and proper road speeds. This is a 20 hour course taught on automatic scooters.

**PLEASE NOTE – This course can be physically demanding with 14 hours of riding during the course and it may not be suitable for all students. If you have any medical problems that will prevent you from pushing a scooter, please call for further information**

***All classroom sessions will be completed in one evening prior to practical training**

Register

Private Lessons

Sometimes 20 hours isn't quite enough time to become fully comforatble on a motorcycle. To meet this need we have developed a private "one on one" training curriculum to help our students get the comfort level required to be a safe and competent rider.
**PLEASE NOTE – Some conditions apply**

Contact Ed Snow at (902) 454-9621 Extension 232 for more information.

Message from Wharf Rat Rally

2010-01-05T15:23:00.000-07:00

Well Folks,

HAPPY NEW YEAR! As you know, with the new year, comes the new plans for this years' WHARF RAT RALLY. Each year, things keep getting better and better and this year will be no exception.

Once again, SMOKIN' ENTERTAINMENT will be providing the line-up of bands and performers for the Rally. There are going to be some AWESOME bands this year, as there were last year. There will be some Rock, some Blues, some Country, some Metal, some Jazz, basically enough of a mix to keep everyone happy.

Look for some MAJOR announcements to be made over the next few weeks regarding the plans for this year. If you are in a band, or know someone in a band that would like to play the Rally, please let us know by sending submissions (EPK, mp3 demo, etc.) to....

smokinentertainment@hotmail.com

Some of the bands that were not able to play last year will get to this year, especially those who were cancelled due to scheduling/budget obstacles that we had to deal with. Some bands to look forward to this year include BLACK MOOR, EDDY'S BASEMENT, THE PACK A.D. (fingers crossed), BLUEPRINT, THAT 70's BUSH, as well as dozens of others.

Also, take a moment to join this group and keep updated from two sources about the 2010 Wharf Rat Rally....
http://www.facebook.com/group.php?gid=5748215839

Start spreading the word... last years' Wharf Rat Rally had over 85,000 people... this year there will be more.

Thanks to Peter and the gang for all the hard work they do and if you have any ideas for entertainment at this years' Rally, let us know.

Thanks for the support!
SMOKIN' ENTERTAINMENT

Book for Wharf Rat Rally 2010 now!

2010-01-04T08:53:00.003-07:00

The snow maybe falling outside but I know all you bikers are dreaming for that day in early September to be on your bikes heading into Digby for WRR 2010.

Book early and if there a group of you have your Ride Captain book your rooms so we can try to make this the best year yet.

To make your booking please:

Call 1-888-830-4466 ex 0

Email frontdesk@abcc.ca

Please find attached the packages for 2010.

Happy New Year,

Rebecca LeBlanc

Room Division Manager

Annapolis Basin Conference Centre

Phone 902-638-8602 ex 1227

Cell 902-245-8959

Fax 902-638-8602

Jean Michaud of New Brunswick

2009-12-01T15:26:00.005-07:00

For any of you that were involved in the Vintage Motorcycle Community - you might have known Jean

Jean Michaud who crashed his 1940 HD Knucklehead and sidecar into a cement retaining wall 4 weeks ago in Grand Falls. See (http://victoriastar.canadaeast.com/front/article/771801). Jean is a life-time rider of vintage motorcycles… and with his brother Tin Man has assisted people all over the Maritimes and further with parts and assistance… helping them to keep their old bikes on the road. He is no longer in a coma, but still faces a long recovery. He currently has fluid on his lungs preventing the start of facial reconstruction. Those who were at the Vintage Motorcycle Weekend this spring at the Barn will remember him and his black knuckle sidecar rig.

See attached Picture of Jean........ Jean passed away last weekend. The recovery was too much for him - thank you Critter for letting us know...... Motorcyclists in Nova Scotia would like to extend our deepest sympathy to his family and friends at this very difficult time. RIP Jean