Chapter 523 - Southern Cruisers Riding Club

News from sunny Florida

2012-02-18T11:49:00.000-05:00

THIS WILL MAKE YOU GUYS FEEL BETTER,SUNDAY THE HIGH WAS COLD SEE MY CHAPS,I THINK I WAS THE ONLY ONE SMILING,AND WE LEFT AT 11.00,BY THE TIME WE GOT TO BROOKSVILLE FOR LUNCH,I WAS THE ONLY ONE LEFT WITH FEELING IN MY HANDS.LMAO.SEE YOU GUYS SOON. V MAX KEITH.

Welcome to Texas

2012-02-02T09:00:00.001-05:00

Just a few pictures taken with new and old friends in Texas.

News from Florida

2012-01-12T15:44:00.000-05:00

Nice picture just sent from Keith in the "Sunshine State" hanging out with the local Southern Cruisers Chapter there at where else but Crabby Bill's.

First Breakfast of the New Year 2012

2012-01-09T11:35:00.000-05:00

Thanks to Blanca for the pictures of the first breakfast get together in 2012. Looks like another great turnout of members and friends enjoying each other's company. The next and subsequent breakfast get togethers will be on the first Sunday of each month. Thanks also to Steve S for contacting everyone for this event. Good to see Larry back, hope the ankle is doing well after the surgery. More pictures by clicking on Photo Gallery 2012 on the right side of this page.

First Breakfast of the winter season

2011-12-05T11:37:00.002-05:00

Thanks to everyone that showed up for the first breakfast get together at Just Eddies last Sunday morning. Looks like a great turnout and thanks also go to Blanka and Wally for sending in the pictures. Always more pictures can be seen by clicking on Photo Gallery 2011 on the right hand side of this page.

Rest stop in South Texas

2011-11-29T17:18:00.000-05:00

Just a little rest stop in South Texas during Rush Hour. Took a ride today from Baffin Bay through Falfurrias, Ramirez, Benavides, San Diego, Alice, Kingsville and home. If any of these places sound a bit Mexican, that's because this area was once part of Mexico.

Riding in Florida

2011-11-23T16:43:00.000-05:00

Keith met up with a Florida Chapter of the Southern Cruisers who invited him to join them on a ride. He said they ride about the same distance as we do but start earlier in the morning to avoid the heat of the day. Don't ya just feel so sorry for them. Thanks for the picture Keith.

Happy Birthday Tim

2011-11-20T15:19:00.000-05:00

Looks like a great turnout for Tim's 50 th. Birthday Bash, thanks to Blanka for the pictures. More can be seen by clicking on Photo Gallery 2011.

The Ride continues into November

2011-11-15T10:22:00.001-05:00

Good to see our Chapter still riding into November and enjoying reasonable temperatures and great company. Thanks to Steve for the ride and also the pictures, more can be seen by clicking on the Photo Gallery on the right side of this page. In the meantime, Barb and I wish you all well from Lucedale Mississippi. Tomorrow we head down to Bay St. Louis Mississippi to stock up on some local shrimp and enjoy the white sand beaches, look a bit like snow.

Pictures from Wally Zee

2011-10-31T20:16:00.000-04:00

Assorted pictures recently sent in from Wally, more by clicking on "Photo Gallery 2011"

Polar Bear Ride

2011-10-31T14:44:00.000-04:00

The temperature was a chilly minus 4 degrees when I crawled out of bed last Sunday morning to prepare myself for another Ride Day. By the time I left the house, it had risen to the dizzy heights of zero with ice still on the puddles. Imagine my surprise to find eleven hardy souls ready to ride and enjoy each others company on a beautiful cool sunny day in Muskoka. The initial decision was to keep the ride short but the ride up Coopers Falls Road and 118 into Bracebridge for a coffee stop soon changed to a normal Sunday ride of around 300 kms which took us up through Rosseau, Minet, Port Sandfield and lunch at Bass Lake Restaurant. Then on through Bala, Torrence and down the twisty Muskoka 13 to home. Great ride, Great company.

Cool Weather Riding

2011-10-28T11:34:00.000-04:00

Our Sunday rides are still providing us with very pleasant weather although a touch cool when we leave home. Last Sunday we had an amazing 15 bikes show up for the ride to Fenelon Falls with another three that turned up late and unfortunately missed the ride.
With the cooler temperatures, the rides will become a little shorter with perhaps more frequent stops to thaw out. To remain more comfortable, dress in layers and don't forget that throwing on the rain suit does an great job of keeping out the cold wind.

More pictures of the Fall Ride

2011-10-12T14:50:00.000-04:00

Thanks to Keith for more pictures taken on such a beautiful Fall day. Even more by clicking on the Photo Gallery 2011.

Thanksgiving weekend

2011-10-11T16:36:00.000-04:00

With sunny skies and warm temperatures, another spectacular Fall ride. This time along Muskoka 117 to Dorset and south to the Fire House Restaurant for lunch. The trip home took us along Muskoka 118 and south on Barkway Road to Coopers Falls Road through Washago, Rama and home. Thanks to the great turnout with a special thanks to the ladies that also showed up. Here are some of the pictures taken by Daphne, more can be seen by clicking on the Photo Gallery 2011.

Algonquin Park

2011-09-26T13:37:00.000-04:00

The weather for last Sunday's Colour Ride to Algonquin Park turned out to be about as perfect as it could get. Sunny skies, warm temperatures and calm winds greeted us on this spectacular ride through the Park to Whitney for an excellent lunch, then down hwy 127 and Peterson Road through Wilberforce, Kinmount and Norland for an ice cream stop arriving back in Orillia by 6.00 pm. Great day, great company. Another 450 kms. on the clock, time for new tires again. Thanks to Steve S for some of the pictures, more can be seen by clicking on Photo Gallery 2011.

Wednesday night Ride or Not to Ride.

2011-09-22T11:59:00.000-04:00

Can't say that I blame anyone for not showing up last night, who really wants to ride in the rain after dark anyway. This was the sorry scene outside Timmy's though with my bride and I inside the establishment putting another half an inch on the waistline.

Busy Weekend

2011-09-19T09:42:00.000-04:00

Saturday was the Midland Toy Ride with over 300 bikes taking part. The day was sunny and cool for the ride through Balm Beach, Midland and Penetang, arriving back at Mountain View Plaza for free pizza and pop. Thanks to Jim Wright for the pictures, much more by clicking on the Photo Gallery 2011 on the right side of this page.

Next day was the ride to Sprucedale along the same twisty route we took a few weeks ago. Weather was perfect, service in the Sprucedale Hotel a little less than perfect with several of us not getting lunch, too bad. However the ride was exciting to say the least with lots of really great company. Thanks to Steve Shane for these pictures and again, more to be seen by clicking on the Photo Gallery 2011.

Mating season appears to be getting under way for our beloved Moose, this ol' Boy may have just got lucky.

Last Bike Night at Gravenhurst

2011-09-15T10:05:00.000-04:00

Another party night on the wharf at Gravenhurst for their last Bike Night of the season. Weather was heavy overcast skies which turned to rain for the ride back home. Check out the party animals below.

Last Coldwater Bike Night of the Season

2011-09-14T11:41:00.000-04:00

A record number of 110 bikes showed up for the last night of the season at Midland Recreation in Coldwater. Free hamburgers and hotdogs and the chance to win the 50/50 draw and several door prizes including two new tires installed. Also a great opportunity to make new friends and re-visit old acquaintances. Over a thousand dollars has been collected which will be donated this time to the Coldwater Food Bank, so thank you everyone for your support and generosity. More pictures by clicking on the Photo Gallery.

Haliburton Highlands

2011-09-12T11:01:00.000-04:00

Sunny skies, dry roads and warm temperatures was the perfect combination for a great ride to Haliburton last Sunday. Expect the future rides to be cooler temperatures as we head into Fall, so a good idea to dress in layers. Picture below shows most of us on this ride outside the restaurant in Haliburton. Thanks to Murray and Steve for leading the ride, also Wally as the tail guard.

Haugan's BIG ONE Bike Night

2011-09-09T10:59:00.000-04:00

Another great night at Haugan's bike Night near Port Perry. Not quite the turnout that was expected but still lots of interesting bikes to see including this beautifully restored 1955 Vincent Black Prince, the last model to be produced by Vincent Motorcycles. This 998 cc bike was basically a Black Shadow with a fairing and was considered the finest machine of it's time with many design features adopted on today's bikes. The owner of this bike pictured below said he had $75,000 invested in it and probably won't loose any money if he had to sell. WOW.

Fall is in the air.

2011-09-08T10:44:00.000-04:00

This past Sunday saw a bunch of rather hardy members take off under overcast skies for the Blue Mountain area. Upon riding into Stayner, it was time to reach for the rain gear as the view of the mountain area ahead looked a bit dismal. Sure enough, the rain came down washing off the bugs on the visor but messing up the shiny bikes pretty bad. A welcome lunch stop just north of Flesherton was in order to dry out and fill the personal tank for the next part of the trip to Look out Point, an aircraft cockpit view of Collingwood and the shoreline of Georgian Bay. Thanks to all those that enjoyed this ride and also to Blanka for the pictures.

On the Tuesday Coldwater Bike Night we witnessed with pleasure, Blanka win a new bike tire and Dan ALMOST win the 50/50, nice try Dan, better luck next time.

Next evening was our normal Wednesday night ride, this time through Midland, Penetang and Awenda Provincial Park with trees forming a tunnel on it's twisty road. Great Ride.

Summer's not over yet.

2011-09-02T11:41:00.000-04:00

Last Tuesday evening there was another record number of bikes at the Coldwater Bike Night, 82 was the final count. September 13 will be the final Ride In of the season for this event with free hamburgers available for everyone that has supported the Coldwater Bike Night at Midland Recreation. I believe this will be a very special evening, so put this on your calender.

Wednesday evening under cloudy skies 13 of us took a very pleasant ride to Wasaga Beach, then back through Midland with a brief stop at Tim Horton's before heading home. The last part of the trip was quite dark and at least one rider (Barb) was not at all comfortable.

Next came the Thursday night Ride In sponsored by Pink Slips Car Club and Midland Recreation to raise funds for the Child's Voice Foundation. This was Classic Cars and Motorcycles. Again the skies were cloudy but NO rain.

Ride to Sprucedale

2011-08-30T12:04:00.000-04:00

Last Sunday's ride turned out to be the RIDE of the YEAR. A quick trip up the highway to Huntsville where we had the first stop at Tim Horton's. From there it was a spirited ride north along Muskoka Road 2 right into the village of Sprucedale for lunch at the only eating place in town. With 13 of us to feed, there's always going to be one of us that gets served last, this week was Darrell's turn who finally received his lunch just as the rest of us had finished. Next leg was west on Muskoka Road 518, another twisty route taking us to just south of Parry Sound, then south on hwy. 69 to Bala, finally riding yet another twisty along Muskoka Road 13 and home. Round trip for me was 350 kms. on some of the best roads we have to offer, must do this trip again for some of you that missed this memorable day.

Ride to Bobcaygeon

2011-08-22T14:58:00.001-04:00

Last Sunday, with plenty of rain in the forecast, 13 hardy souls left Orillia in light rain which got progressively worse as we neared Bobcaygeon. The Rain Gods looked at our group and saw only one rider with brains enough to put his rain suit on and was reputed to have said, "I'll show you guys".
Coming home we all got smarter by wearing our rain suits, this time the Rain Gods said once again, "I'll show you guys", so yes, we came home on nothing but dry roads.
Arriving in Bobcaygeon, I did look around at our wet and bedraggled group and saw nothing but smiling faces and knew I was riding with the right group. Well done everyone, it was my pleasure to be with you. Thanks also to Blanka for some of the pictures, view more by clicking on the Photo Gallery 2011 over on the right side of the page.

Coldwater Bike Night

2011-08-20T19:00:00.000-04:00

Last Tuesday evening had a record number of bikes show up at the Coldwater Bike Night at Midland Recreation in Coldwater. 60 bikes turned out for the weekly ride in and our Chapter members walked away with all three door prizes, congratulations guys. Below are a couple of pictures taken at the Coldwater Seniors Apartments when a cheque for over $1000 was presented to Helping Hands that are located right in the Apartments. The seniors that live here are still talking about all the bikes that arrived for this presentation, your generosity and participation was greatly appreciated by everyone.

Orangeville Show n Shine

2011-08-15T14:02:00.002-04:00

Lousy forecast but managed to avoid getting even one drop of rain the entire day. 12 bikes left Orillia picking up two more south of Barrie for the ride to Orangeville. Dark clouds kept most people at home so the turnout for the Show n Shine was pretty dismal, at least we didn't have to lineup for food. Check out that nice old Kawasaki of Jean's, some 30 odd years young and still runs like a new one. Also click on Events & Rides at the right hand side of the page to see our long term ride schedule.

Sunday's Ride to Parry Sound

2011-08-08T10:39:00.000-04:00

Despite the gloomy forecast of imminent rain, 19 bikes showed up at Arby's intent on having a great day of riding. The route was north through Bracebridge, Rosseau and on to Parry Sound for a lunch stop in a very crowded fast food area on the outskirts of Parry Hoot. With rain expected soon, we chose to head off south rather than spending some time by the water front. My intention was to keep the rain gear safely packed away, get soaking wet on the next section and love every minute of it. Wouldn't you know it, never saw a drop, although we did see evidence of spoty showers by the damp roads. On through Bala, Gravenhurst to Frenchies Ice Cream stand in Orillia to finish the day in style. Great day, great company.

Coldwater Bike Night

2011-08-03T16:50:00.000-04:00

A very successfull night at the Coldwater Bike Night last evening with over 50 bikes showing up for hamburgers and door prizes followed by a slow ride into the Coldwater Seniors Apartments to present a cheque for over one thousand dollars to Heping Hands Coldwater. Many of the residents came out to socialize with the bikers and some to bring back old memories of their riding days. Many thanks to Midland Recreation in Coldwater for organizing this event and collecting funds for this worthwhile charity. Hopefully someone can provide me with some picture to post of this event.

Ride to Kirk Camp

2011-08-03T16:41:00.002-04:00

A very special ride put together by Tim Fountain and Pauline to Kirk Camp in Kirkfield. The camp is for children between the ages of 6 and 15 that are diagnosed with ADD, ADHD and various forms of autism. Our Chapter had the pleasure of riding along with members of the Star Riders of Orillia and hopefully new friendships made. Again, more pictures to be found in the Photo Gallery. Only problem we had all day was when Bart Simpson decided to take off and follow a couple of complete strangers from Tim Horton's in Beaverton.

Last Sunday's Chapter BBQ

2011-08-03T16:27:00.002-04:00

A huge THANK YOU to Ron and Marsha for opening up their home to us for our annual Chapter BBQ. Lots of door prizes that were donated by Midland Recreation in Coldwater and the Motorcycle Mojo Magazine in Barrie, plus the 50/50 which was won by "Your's Truly". Here are some pictures with lots more by clicking on the Photo Gallery.

More pictures on the Firehall restaurant Ride.

2011-08-03T16:15:00.000-04:00

More pictures submitted by Wally of the Coopers Falls Road and the Firehall restaurant Ride.

Haugan's Bike Night

2011-07-29T12:37:00.000-04:00

Dark clouds took it's toll on Haugan's Bike Night this past Thursday with only 150 bikes showing up, the lowest number I've ever seen. Somthing special always shows up though to command everyones attention.

Sunday Ride to the Fire Hall Restaurant

2011-07-29T12:32:00.000-04:00

A few Sunday's ago we had a very pleasant ride up Coopers Falls Road and along hwy 118 to the Firehall Restaurant for lunch. More pictures by going to the Chapter 523 Photo Gallery on the right.

More pictures taken at New Liskeard

2011-07-19T09:51:00.000-04:00

Thanks again to Daphne for more pictures of the Biker's Reunion in New Liskeard, even more pictures by clicking on the "Photo Gallery".

Great ride in Muskoka

2011-07-18T12:59:00.000-04:00

Last Sunday's ride took us to the Big Shute Marine Railway for a brief stop before heading to Bala for lunch. Temperatures climbed as the day wore on and the ride continued through Port Sandfield, Minet and on to Rosseau for another stop at the boat ramp. Best spot was in the shade of a lone tree on a grassy patch with a welcoming breeze off the lake. The above normal temperatures certainly wore this old guy down with sleep coming real easy in the early evening. Thanks to Carole Cook for the great pictures, the one taken at the Big Shute even had Barb's bike standing the right way up. My thanks to everyone that rushed to help her when she dumped her bike in the parking lot, it was most appreciated.

More pictures of the Biker's Reunion

2011-07-18T12:33:00.000-04:00

Thanks to Daphne for more pictures taken at the Biker's Reunion in New Liskeard. Don't forget to click on the Photo Gallery pictures on the RH side of this page for more pictures. This event is still the number one choice for a great weekend away with friends from our Chapter so check their site out by clicking on the "Biker's Reunion" and register for next year. My campsite is #77.

Biker's Reunion 2011

2011-07-05T11:08:00.001-04:00

Twelve members and wives from our Chapter enjoyed the Biker's Reunion in New Liskeard again this year. Aside from a few rain sprinkles on Saturday morning, the weekend weather was nothing short of perfect. First ride was the "Early Bird Ride" on Friday to Engleheart with a free lunch provided by this friendly community in their downtown park. On Saturday, our Chapter took a lunch ride across the Quebec border to where the beer and gas are cheaper than Ontario, don't forget there's a Provincial election coming up soon. Sunday was the "Big One", this is the famous Freedom Ride to the local cancer hospital to mingle with many of the patients and present them with care packages. All these organised rides are well attended by the public and they show their appreciation with many welcoming signs and flag waving. All this plus the constant entertainment going on "till the wee hours every night makes for a pretty tired ride home again and back to reality. Here are some pictures with more by clicking on "Bikers Reunion 2011 Pictures". If you want to be part of this next year, NOW is the time to register and get a campsite booked.

More pictures from Blanka of the Blue Mountain Ride

2011-06-27T12:42:00.000-04:00

There's always one idiot in the crowd, looks like it was my turn. That beach sand in Collingwood taste's awful.

Surely this can't be anyone we know

2011-06-26T19:13:00.000-04:00

Blue Mountain Ride

2011-06-26T19:02:00.000-04:00

17 bikes started out on a really nice ride along the Collingwood Escarpment to Markdale for lunch. Traffic situation was quite busy in places and our group became split up with the last group missing the road to the scenic caves. I believe one of our very few traffic circles was the culprit and despite myself doubling back for several miles to locate them, we ended the day as two groups. No doubt this will happen again in busy traffic areas as our riding group continues to grow. If anyone has any ideas to overcome this problem, please tell me about it. Anyway, here are a few pictures before we became two groups. More pictures in the Photo Gallery 2011 including Larry's new passenger that is a fixture on the front fender.

Texas to Ontario

2011-06-24T09:58:00.000-04:00

Ron Hare and Marsha spent part of last winter travelling down to Bandera Texas and points in between. Barb and I were able to enjoy their company during their stay in the Cowboy Capital of Texas, Bandera, so here are a few pictures taken by them on this trip, more pictures by clicking on Photo Gallery 2011.

Gravenhurst Bike Night

2011-06-23T11:37:00.001-04:00

Well it was a lonely night at Gravenhurst for the weekly Bike Night. With overcast skies and rain in the forecast for around the midnight hour, it was mostly our Chapter from Orillia that made a showing including Murray Hillis Granddaughter.

Ride to Buckhorn

2011-06-23T10:13:00.000-04:00

Last Sunday's ride to Buckhorn started out with 27 bikes showing up at Arby's. One bike was a non starter but the other 26 bikes took off with a brief stop in Cannington and a final destination of Buckhorn for lunch. With 30 odd members present, we split the group for lunch at two different restaurants and managed to all get well fed and back on the road for the trip home and French's Ice Cream Stand in Orillia. Thanks to Jim Wright for the pictures, more in the Photo Gallery 2011.

Halliburton for lunch

2011-06-13T10:46:00.001-04:00

Twelve bikes and sixteen members left Orillia last Sunday on a dismal cool morning in light drizzle. It was a pleasure to see quite a number of ladies toughing it out on this ride either as passengers or on their own bike. As always, you improve the overall appearance of our Chapter and we encourage your continued support. The return home from Halliburton through Kinmount and Norland was on dry roads with an occasional break in the clouds which improved as we got closer to French's Icecream Stand in Orillia. All the pictures can be seen by clicking on the Photo Gallery 2011 on the right hand side of this page.

Orangeville Show n Shine

2011-06-06T10:36:00.000-04:00

Another great turnout of 22 bikes to visit the Orangeville Show n Shine. Never ceases to amaze me how well our Chapter rides especially with such a large group, well done everyone.

Coldwater Bike Night May 31/11

2011-06-01T12:21:00.000-04:00

This past Tuesday evening had a good turnout again for the Coldwater Bike Night despite the very hot and humid conditions. Picture below was Mike dreaming of a new bike while Larry Whitehead won a new tire installed on his bike. Other prizes and the 50/50 were won by rider's outside our Chapter. This is a Ride-in every Tuesday evening at Midland Recreation on Hwy.12 at Coldwater. More pictures in the Photo Gallery 2011.

Sunday Ride to Rosseau

2011-05-29T15:49:00.000-04:00

A very wet start to the ride this past Sunday. Our only option was to head north running out of the rain by the time we went past Gravenhurst. Stopped at Tim Horton in Bracebridge before heading north again to the boat ramp at Rosseau. Lunch at Memories on hwy. 69 before coming home around mid afternoon in sunshine. Just three of us on this trip.

Ride for Dad

2011-05-29T15:43:00.000-04:00

Really great attendance from Chapter 523 for the Ride for Dad. Probably around 25 members once we all got together. The ride was very well organized this year with a lunch stop in Creemore and some time to meet old friends from other parts of the Province.

Coldwater Bike Night

2011-05-29T15:38:00.000-04:00

The first Coldwater Bike Night was held at Midland Recreation on hwy. 12 in Coldwater. This is the start of a weekly ride-in to be held every Tuesday evening from 6.00 pm until 9.00 pm. Hot dogs are $1 each, pop and water also at $1. Door prizes for the opening night were, one new tire installed, one full face helmet, one tee shirt. A total of $140 was collected for the 50/50 draw won by Tim Fountain who graciously put back most of his winnings to the Charity, Helping Hands Coldwater. Thanks to Keith Leigh for the pictures.

Last Sunday's wet ride.

2011-05-23T09:47:00.000-04:00

Great turnout of 15 members on a day that threatened rain right from the start. Plan A was to head for Thornberry, Plan B was a ride around Lake Simcoe to try and avoid the expected rain. We then opted for Plan C to Gravenhurst via Cooper Falls Road. Thats where the rain started and continued on until after our lunch stop. Once south of Gravenhurst, the roads became dry and the skies finally cleared as we rolled back at Orillia. Thanks to everyone that showed up and thanks to Daphne for the pictures.

First Gravenhurst Bike Night of 2011

2011-05-19T11:05:00.000-04:00

Despite the heavy clouds looking like they would dump their load at any time, the Doppler Radar on this Blog showed no rain until quite late at night which is exactly what happened. The result was a comfortable ride to Gravenhurst for their first Bike Night of the season. The attendance was better than I expected along with a live band and the Lions Club BBQ. More pictures by clicking on the "Picture Gallery 2011"

Base Borden Spring Warm Up.

2011-05-07T16:32:00.001-04:00

Ten members showed up this morning for the Base Borden Spring Warm Up. By the time we arrived, the course was already set out for anyone to test their slow riding skills, great job to all those that took part. This was followed by the blessing of the bikes and riders by the Base Padre, he made a comment that for all those that had the blessing last year and didn't drop the bike, it must have worked.
Hot dogs were $1 and hambugers $2, and that included a can of pop or bottle of water, what a deal. Jim Wright had organized a trip around the military museum which I personally found very interesting, lots of old trucks, motorcycles, engines, small arms, one CF 5 and much more. All these artifacts in excellent condition. I even found an old tank engine that was made at Tilling Stevens in Maidstone, England. This was the town I lived in during WW11 and later worked in a division of this same company.

Fenlon Falls Ride

2011-05-06T11:15:00.000-04:00

The ride to Fenlon Falls last Sunday started out with heavy overcast skies and rather cool temperatures. Despite the weather, nine hardy members turned up to sample the Texas hamburgers at the Falls. The ride home took us through about 15 minutes of moderate to heavy rain before clearing into a mostly sunny afternoon. Great day, great company. Next Saturday is the Base Borden MC Spring Warm Up, don't miss this event.

First Ride of the 2011 Season

2011-04-24T18:50:00.000-04:00

A huge thank you to 17 members that showed up on Easter Sunday to share my passion for riding. Your enthusiasm and dedication to the Southern Cruiser's Riding Club and in particular the Orillia Chapter 523 took me quite by surprise. The day was mostly sunny, a bit cool to start but warmed later in the day to provide us with an enjoyable ride to Baysville on nice clean roads and still plenty of snow off to the side. Thanks also to Jim Wright for the donation of the Official Calgary Flames NHL tee shirt that is being raffled off for the benefit of our Chapter. If this fantastic start to the season is anything to go by, WATCH OUT.

2011 Riding Season

2011-04-12T15:49:00.001-04:00

FIRST RIDE for 2011 will be Sunday April 24. Meet at Arby's at 11.00 am depart at 11.30 am depending on weather. Be sure to check your motorcycle out thoroughly prior to any ride to provide you with a safe machine and an enjoyable experience.
May looks like a very busy and exciting month for riding, click on "Events & Rides" under Chapter 523 on the right hand side of this page to view all that is happening. Our Chapter will be involved with most of these events and you will all receive a reminder as and when they occur.

Texas Hill Country

2011-03-08T13:15:00.001-05:00

Arrived in the Texas Hill Country March 1 to find Ron Hare and Marsha already here. There's usually three groups of riders head out every morning from this one RV park to enjoy the great scenery and laid back lifestyle. Last Sunday we took in Luckenbach for some good music, a hamburger at the "Feed Lot" and a cool beer in the post office, does it get any better ?

Celebrating Barb's 75 th. Birthday

2011-01-30T17:37:00.000-05:00

I'm lost for words here.

A View From Your Past

2011-01-30T17:20:00.000-05:00

I have heard it said that one of the first signs of spring is when you see a robin, well I got one better. Yesterday, in the town of Bracebridge, at -9 degrees celsius (that's right MINUS 9!) I saw my first bike of the year. It was one of those "dual sport" bikes that look more like off road bikes than anything we ride, but hey, he was ridin'! And I was jealous.
So when I got home I grabbed a cloth and cleared the dust from my own bike, sat on it and reminisced for a while. Stop laughing, I know you have all done it! At least once. Probably even at least once this year, and if not I bet you want to after reading this.
Now is probably a good time to do a mid-winter inspection of you bike.
Do things like making sure that battery tender didn't get inadvertently unplugged over the months.
If your bike is sitting on the cold hard concrete in your garage you might want to go out and roll it forward a couple of inches to avoid a flat spot in your tires, this is something you might want to do on a weekly basis between now and when you get it out for the summer ( Hopefully only 6 more times!!).
Look for signs of rodents around your bike, things like mouse droppings on the floor or maybe dried grass or twigs sticking out from places that are well hidden. Foam, leather or rubber on the floor could be an indication that a creature is living where it is not welcome.
If you are one that believes in starting you bike every week or so and haven't done it yet, you might want to consider contacting your mechanic for suggestions about first start in the spring. The internal parts of your engine will have dried up by now and first starts are very hard on an engine, it causes scratching of cylinder walls that will cause loss of compression over time, in turn this will cause loss of power. I am sure there are plenty of others problems that are associated with this start up.
Look for cracks in any visible belts hoses or fuel or air lines, now might be the time to replace them if you are at all handy or know someone who is. Doing it in April on the first real nice day when it feels like 25 degrees and everyone else is riding does not make for a good start to the season.
Anyway, I am going out to shovel the driveway now, my house will be the one that has a narrow path of dry pavement from my garage to the road. (You can't be too prepared.) And if you see me in the spring on a brand new KHYZS 650 street/dirt bike you will know I couldn't wait 'til spring. And I will probably have a new friend in Bracebridge!
Happy four wheeling, for now, and remember it is never too early to double check you rear view mirror that one last time to get "A View From Your Past" for motorcycles while you are still driving the cage.

Stephen Ballantyne,
Third Officer S.C.R.C.
Chapter 523

P.S. All the tips above are just things to think about, anything you do with you motorcycle should be approved and/or done by a certified mechanic.

Texas Ride to Palacios

2011-01-29T12:09:00.000-05:00

Found a couple of good friends to ride with in South Texas. This BMW is one of three that they own and is 25 years young and runs like a new one. The ride started out from Aransas Pass at 9.30 am heading north to Palacios, a small town on the Gulf Coast. Also took a look at the massive shrimp fleet they have there before enjoying a great shrimp lunch at Tran's, a restaraunt recommended by many of the locals. Another stop on the way home at the DQ in Tivoli before arriving back home with another 360kms on the bikes.

Toronto Bike Show

2011-01-11T10:03:00.000-05:00

Thanks to Jim Wright for the picture showing our Thom checking out what Mantha Insurance has to offer.

First Breakfast Get Together of 2011

2011-01-03T11:15:00.001-05:00

Looks like a lively group of eleven members enjoying breakfast together at Just Eddies last Sunday. Thanks to Jim Wright and Blanca for the pictures. Click on "Photo Gallery 2011" for more pictures.

South Texas

2010-12-20T13:10:00.000-05:00

We are now located in Aransas Pass Texas about half an hour's ride north of Corpus Christi. The whole of south Texas is very flat with long straight roads and very little traffic especially on the side roads. Even Barb was creeping up around 140 kph yesterday on our Breakfast Ride which ended up in Palacios, a rather small town with a huge shrimp fleet. Lots of oil rigs, natural gas wells and wind generators throughout the countryside but despite the wealth that this would bring, there are still many small towns that appear totally run down. First picture is the Cooks Truck at our breakfast spot, the other two pictures are of the water front in the beautiful town of Palacios.

Mississippi to Texas

2010-12-03T12:23:00.000-05:00

Beautiful white sand beaches along the Gulf mainland shore of Mississippi. Saw many workers walking the beach looking for globs of oil from the recent BP oil rig explosion. Fish for the table is still in abundance, see picture of our "Shrimp Lady" that was selling fresh table shrimp for $3/pound heads on in Bay St. Louis. Next stop was Baffin Bay, Texas for American Thanksgiving. Also met up with a group of biker friends from the Rio Grande Valley for Sunday Breakfast in Ramondville at the Casa Blanca Restaurant.

Dahlonega Georgia

2010-11-11T17:18:00.001-05:00

Gold, pretty much sums up the small town of Dahlonega in the northern part of Georgia. The main road in the town centre splits to surround the Gold Museum and just about everyone here pans for gold on a regular basis.

Situated at the southern edge of the Appalatian Mountains, riding anywhere to the north is a spectacular event on well maintained roads with breathtaking scenery. A typical 150 kms ride will take most of the day with a lunch stop if your lucky to find somewhere along these mountain roads with numerous hairpin bends and little more than a 100 feet of straight road on the entire trip.

Most days are frosty to start with but soon rising close to 80 degrees by afternoon with totally clear blue skies. Perhaps life does begin at 73 or so.

"The Magnificent Seven"

2010-11-09T18:27:00.000-05:00

Thanks to Blanka for sending in these pictures on the ride around the lake, Simcoe I presume. Brrrr, looks a bit cool.

Last Sunday's Ride to Meaford

2010-10-20T10:41:00.000-04:00

I believe the final count was 20 bikes that headed out on a beautiful mild and sunny Fall day through Stayner and Duntroon to our destination, Ted's Range Road Diner west of Meaford. The diner is pretty rustic but the food and the service are excellent. Took the quick route home through Meaford, Collingwood and Stayner arriving home just as the rain moved in at about 5.00 pm. Great day, Great Ride. Sorry, didn't have time for pictures, maybe next time.

Thanksgiving Rides

2010-10-12T12:34:00.002-04:00

A busy Thanksgiving weekend with a ride to Fenlon Falls on Sunday and Bala on Monday. Both days were perfect Fall weather, little cool to start but warming up nicely as the day progressed. Thanks to Blanka and Keith for the pictures, more to see by clicking on "Photo Gallery 2010".

Chapter 523 BBQ

2010-10-04T18:05:00.000-04:00

Many thanks to everyone that showed up for last Sunday's Chapter 523 BBQ. The day started off with a little frost on the pumpkin but with clear skies we thoroughly enjoyed a short ride up to Gravenhurst and Bala, across Muskoka Road 38 where I once lived and never tire of riding through. A quick detour along Quarry Road and in the back door to the village of Coldwater for the BBQ at our house. A very special thanks to all the ladies that turned out for this event, your presence is not only always welcome but actually makes us old guys look so much better. Every member ended up with a door prize of some kind and letters have been sent out to all the businesses that donated and supported our Chapter. You may notice that I have included a link to these businesses under "Friends of Chapter 523" on the right hand side of this page. Please visit these web sites and give them the same support that we have enjoyed from them. A special presentation from Georgian Bay Yamaha, the newest Yamaha dealer in Midland yielded a great 15% discount coupon for all our members on parts, labour and heated Winter storage plus a cheque for $100 to be credited to our Chapter funds.
Steve Shane has now been elected as our 4 th. Officer, congratulations Steve.
Sunday rides will now meet at Arby's at 11.00 am and depart at 11.30 am including this coming Thanksgiving Sunday.

Chapter 523 BBQ

2010-09-30T10:29:00.000-04:00

Sunday October 3 is our Chapter BBQ. A short ride starting at Arby's at 10.30 am will end at my home in Coldwater for the BBQ. Spouses or a friend are welcome to this event and the cost is $10 per person. If you decide to arrive by car, be at the house about 1.00 pm.
The last mid week ride of the season took place last night with a great turnout of nine bikes plus meeting up with two couples that reside in Wasaga Beach which was our destination. The evening was quite mild with fairly clear skies, a perfect end to our mid week rides.

Algonquin Fall Colour Ride

2010-09-27T11:05:00.002-04:00

Last Sunday saw thirteen riders turn out for the Fall Colour Ride up through Algonquin Park. It seems that once again I failed miserably to forecast the weather correctly, so despite my prediction of having a dry ride, we rode through fairly constant rain showers all the way to Whitney. Arriving at Whitney about 1.30 pm we found that the hydro had been out since 7.00 am, so NO gas pumps and NO food. The Rain Gods must have looked at this pitiful group and decided to not only quit raining at this point, but have a word with Hydro 1 and supply the hydro again to this small community. The Fall colours were spectacular and everyone appeared to be in good spirits so the ride home was down the Peterson Road, one of the nicest rides I have done. One country kilometer of gravel road, but the rest of the journey was fantastic. Thanks to the Ride Captains, Murray Beers, Steve Shane and Keith Leigh for a really great and safe ride. Thanks also to the "Eyes" at the rear, Steve Ballantyne.

Sunday Memorial Ride

2010-09-19T19:39:00.000-04:00

In honour of our "Brother" David Keeler that passed away last year, sixteen members turned out for a memorial ride along the Forks of the Credit Road south of Orangeville. Also took advantage of what the town of Erin had to offer in the way of a lunch and shopping at the local bike store.

Wasaga Beach Wedding

2010-09-19T19:27:00.000-04:00

Congratulations to Bill and Lou Banks on their Marriage in Wasaga Beach on Saturday September 18. We all wish you every happiness and many enjoyable miles on two wheels.

More pictures of the SCRC Bash

2010-09-14T10:24:00.000-04:00

More pictures of the SCRC Bash in Port Severn sent in by Jim Wright, even more by clicking on "Photo Gallery 2010"

Orangeville Bike Day

2010-09-13T08:52:00.000-04:00

Following the SCRC Bash, it was off to Orangeville on a rather dismall day that turned into clear skies. Great company, good food and a successful ride. Thanks to Keith for some pictures, more by clicking on "Picture Gallery 2010".

SCRC Bash in Port Severn

2010-09-13T08:43:00.000-04:00

The Sun Goddess shone on the Southern Cruiser's Riding Club for the BASH in Port Severn this past Friday and Saturday. Twenty of our Chapter Members turned out for this event which started with a corn roast on the Friday evening, then on the Saturday we enjoyed a spectacular ride up Cooper Falls Road through Bracebridge, Port Carling, lunching at the Bass lake Restaraunt and continuing through Bala and ending at Muskey's Motel in Port Severn. Chapter 523 had one successful pull in the Tug of War, not bad at all for a team that really hadn't prepared for this event. Several of our members collected door prizes to round off the afternoon. Great buffet dinner followed the games and prizes. Thanks to everyone that participated. For more pictures, please click on "Picture Gallery 2010". Also, thanks to Lou for some of the pictures.

Americade 2011

2010-09-08T08:51:00.000-04:00

Jim Wright is organizing a trip to Lake George NY next year to Americade 2011. Please click on "Events & Rides" on the right hand side of this page and scroll to the bottom of the page to access more information. You may contact him directly at afer@rogers.com

Sonny and Cher are in the building

2010-08-30T09:04:00.000-04:00

I've got you Babe, pretty hard to tell the difference between Larry and the real Cher. Great party by the lake last Saturday.

Baysville Car & Boat Show for our Sunday Ride

2010-08-15T20:05:00.000-04:00

The day looked great to start the ride off and we did manage to get to Baysville without getting wet. Over lunch, the skies opened up with quite the downpour and the air was as humid as a sauna. The first picture is what wealthy folk spend $275,000 on, this is a brand new boat with a Corvette engine. The second picture at the Bala Falls. See more pictures in the Photo gallery. From Baysville, everyone seemed to be parked all over the place so it was difficult to arrange a route home as a group. Four of us chose to head up to Bala and across Muskoka #38 with a side trip along South Bay Road before returning home.

Friday the Thirteenth

2010-08-14T12:02:00.002-04:00

Excellent turnout for the Port Dover Ride on Friday the Thirteenth. Some members went down the day before and stayed over, 15 of us went down for the day, while others went down on the Friday and stayed over Friday night. My experience as a lead rider coming home suggests that my capabilities in that capacity are flawed. Leaving Port Dover I could see bikes behind me in the rear view mirror, sad to say it was just a different group that was following me. Oh well, everyone arrived home safe. See some pictures that Jim Wright and Blanka sent me this morning. Only in Port Dover you say. More pictures in the gallery.

Wasaga Beach

2010-08-05T10:57:00.000-04:00

Another great turnout for a short Wednesday night ride to Wasaga Beach. One problem on the way home with Luc having a rear tire blowout on a fairly quiet farm road north of Phelpston. Thanks to cell phones and Larry Purdy that had a CAA plus card, Luc was picked up less than a hour later on a flat bed truck and transported home. No injuries from this unfortunate occurance due to some skillfull manoeuvrering by Luc who ended up with the front wheel down the ditch at the side of the road.

Classic Car Night in Barrie

2010-08-02T11:33:00.000-04:00

Last Wednesday evening was a short ride to see the Classic Cars in Barrie. Quite an impressive collection of these precious cars to view and enthusiastic owners to chat with. Here is a picture of one of our member's standing next to a Cobra.
Sunday's ride took us north on hwy. 11 and east on hwy. 117, one of the most scenic roads we have in this area, through Baysville and Dorset to the Firehall Restaurant on hwy. 35 for a very enjoyable lunch. From here, Barb and I had to get our Granddaughter back to Parry Sound, so broke away from the group on hwy.118 up through Bracebridge, and Rosseau clocking up over a 400 kms, day.

Sunday July 25 Ride to Orangeville

2010-07-26T10:56:00.000-04:00

Seventeen members enjoyed a perfect sunny day's ride through Beeton and Hockley Valley for a lunch stop at "The Deck Pub & Grill" in Orangeville. Don't forget to click on "Events & Rides" on thye right hand side of this page for important upcoming events. Also please notice a couple of NEW items on this page. "For Sale & Wanted" column and "Group Riding".

Last Sunday's Ride to Buckhorn

2010-07-19T13:15:00.000-04:00

16 bikes left Arby's for the ride through Lindsay to Buckhorn on a beautiful sunny day that gradually changed to overcast skies and a light sprinkle of rain on the way back to Orillia. Lunch at the Main Street Landings turned out fairly good for the ones that got served, but four of us ended up walking out after waiting close to an hour with no food in sight. The ice cream store across the road was real handy though.

More pictures by clicking on "Photo Gallery 2010" on the right hand side of this page.

Haugan's in Port Perry

2010-07-15T20:08:00.000-04:00

12 bikes turned out for last Wedneday night Ride. Decided on the Classic Car Night at Haugan's in Port Perry. Car show was a little dissapointing with only a sprinkling of classic cars in attendance and the whole event was over about half an hour after we arrived. Here are a couple of pictures showing the best of both sides of the Atlantic Pond.

Sunday Ride to Thornbury

2010-07-15T19:56:00.001-04:00

Seems like I confused Thornbury with Thornton. What do you expect from an old guy who forgets his name from time to time. 19 bikes showed up for this great ride with Bill and Lou meeting us in Stayner and Steve Shane catching up to us after a late start. Lunch in Thornbury was excellent before following the Georgian Bay shoreline back through Wasaga Beach to see what a parking lot looks like that was actually the road in to the beach. Totally missed a huge rain storm that had recently passed through only to catch up with it in Moonstone. Oh well, nobody melted.

Biker's Reunion 2010

2010-07-06T19:44:00.000-04:00

Perfect weather for this year's Biker's Reunion at new Liskeard last weekend. Thirteen member's of our Chapter showed up for this event for all or part of this fantastic weekend. About 250-300 rider's went on the "Early Bird Ride" on the Friday through Haileybury, Cobalt, Latchford ending in Temagami for a snack and some good social time. Saturday was a day of many activities in New Liskeard including dirt bike jumps and Mr. Rocket Man. Our Chapter went on a short ride over to Quebec past rolling farm land with neat well kept farm houses for lunch in Ville-Marie. Sunday was the Freedom Ride to the Cancer hospital then on through many small friendly town's for about 160 kms. The reception we received from the local people made us all feel proud to be biker's. Here are a few pictures with lots more by clicking on "Biker's Reunion 2010 Pictures" under Chapter 523 on the right hand side of this page. Any member's wishing to join us next year, please contact me as soon as possible to secure your camp site.

Aspen Valley Wildlife Sanctury

2010-06-30T10:41:00.000-04:00

Didn't quite make it to the Aspen Valley last Sunday due to rain shower's. Great lunch stop at Bass Lake Restaurant, then up through Port Sandfield, Minet and Rosseau, returning through Bracebridge and home. Eleven bikes turned out for the ride. Picture above is at the dock in Rosseau.

Penetang Ride

2010-06-25T14:32:00.001-04:00

Great ride last Thursday to the Penetang waterfront taking to back door into town avoiding all the traffic tie up in Midland due to the recent tornado devastation. More pictures in the Gallery and thanks to Jim Wright for bringing along the camera.

Haugan's Bike Night

2010-06-18T10:27:00.000-04:00

Beautiful evening ride down to Port Perry and Haugan's Bike Night. More pictures in the Photo Gallery.

Yellow Ribbon Ride

2010-06-14T14:56:00.000-04:00

   Thanks to eleven member's with nine bikes that showed up last Sunday for an early morning departure from Arby's for the trip down to Base Borden on the Yellow Ribbon Ride. The morning started out looking quite crappy but the Dopplar Radar on this "Message Board" showed all the rain way to the south of us. Net result was a great riding day that just got better, finally ending in clear blue skies.
   Jim Wright lead the Chapter on a delightful ride along the Niagara Escarpment stopping for a brief time at the "Look Out" over Collingwood and surrounding area. Lunch at the Angus Legion was a real treat with a 5 star hamburger, potatoe salad and coleslaw which was included in the registration.
   Two winner's in our Chapter for the door prizes were Ron Hare who won a Harley Davidson key fob and myself that won an umbrella, great sun shade.
   Here is a picture of the group minus Larry Whitehead, sorry Larry, I guess you were hanging out behind a tree or something. See more pictures in the Gallery, including Larry.

Bradford Bike Night

2010-06-10T15:45:00.000-04:00

Ideal weather conditions last Tuesday evening saw eighteen member's of our Chapter and one guest attend the Bradford Bike Night. I might be the oldest member in the Chapter, but here's a great picture of the youngest one. His Dad Larry, has this little guy strapped into a harness on the front of him. More pictures of this event by clicking on "Photo Gallery 2010" on the right hand side of the page.
Just another reminder of the Yellow Ribbon Ride this Sunday June 13. Meet at Arby's at 8.45 am depart at 9.00 am for Base Borden to register and take part in the ride. We will ride as our own Chapter on the Yellow Ribbon Ride finishing at the Angus Legion for lunch, which is included in the registration fee. Registration fee is $20 and $5 for any passenger. This event is RAIN OR SHINE.

Last Saturday's Ride for Dad.

2010-05-31T17:05:00.002-04:00

Excellent turnout of about 25 bikes from our Chapter including member's and guest's for this worthwhile event. Trip from Orillia to Barrie was somewhat dis-organised but once clear of Barrie, enjoyed a very pleasant trip with just our group. See picture above, more in the Photo Gallery 2010.
Next day was again well attended for the ride through Collingwood, Thornton down Beaver Valley Road with a lunch stop in Singhampton. See you all Wednesday evening, weather permitting for the ride to the Classic Car Night in Port Perry.

Wednesday night ride to Gravenhurst

2010-05-27T11:20:00.000-04:00

   Great turnout again for the Gravenhurst Bike Night put on by the local Chapter of the SCRC. 15 bikes represented our Chapter including three lady rider's pictured above, Barb, Blanka and Carole. Carole came away with a prize, the only member of our Chapter to win anything, congratulations Carole. See a couple more pictures in the Photo Gallery 2010.
   Another reminder for the Ride for Dad, meeting at Arby's at 9.00 am, departing at 9.15 am SHARP on Saturday May 29.
   Sunday's ride will take us west through Collingwood, Thornton and lunch in the Beaver Valley area. See you at Arby's at 9.30 am on Sunday, departing at 10.00 am.

May 23 ride to Stouffville Flea Market

2010-05-24T08:33:00.000-04:00

Seventeen bikes attended the ride to Stouffville Flea Market which included some new member's and guests. Great turnout.

Busy week coming up with "Bike Night" at Gravenhurst on Wednesday evening, Ride for Dad on Saturday morning and our usual ride on Sunday. Click on "Events & Rides" on the right hand side of this page for the Ride for Dad web site.

Sunday May 16 Ride to Minden

2010-05-16T18:01:00.000-04:00

   The weather was sunny and warm for a perfect ride to Minden for lunch today. Seventeen rider's plus two passenger's were in attendance and I believe everyone had a great time. Three ladies again graced us with the presence, Dianne, Nicole and Barb, thank you again ladies for making our Chapter look better.

   Just a reminder that we are riding on Wednesday evening's from now on, meeting at Arby's at 6.oo pm and departing at 6.30 pm SHARP for a short ride.

   NEW START TIME FOR OUR SUNDAY RIDE IS MEET AT ARBY"S AT 9.30 am DEPART AT 10.00 am SHARP.

   Picture of a group of rider's in Minden, more pictures in the "Photo Gallery 2010"

Base Borden MC "Spring Warm Up"

2010-05-09T12:49:00.001-04:00

   It's sometimes a very fine line between "Hero's" and "Crazy Fool's", but seven "Hero's showed up for the Base Borden MC "Spring Warm Up" this past weekend. They were, Bill Banks and his soon to be Bride Lou, Dale Harris, Larry Purdy, Pete Randle, Jim Wright and myself.
   The day started off with rain and very cold, then progressed into more rain with wet snow and even colder, I got a little worried about the other rider's until I looked and saw everyone with a big smile on their face, well done guy's.
   The practise course was well set up by BBMC with a qualified motorcycle instuctor present to assist rider's through the course, it wasn't a "Cake Walk", one of our member's who shall remain "Nameless" blamed his bike for his performance. Seemed like a great idea which we all decided to follow.
   Sunday was Mother's Day and was way too cold for any Mother's to show up, we'll hope for warmer day's to come soon.

   WEDNESDAY NIGHT RIDE WILL START THIS WEEK, MAY 12. we will meet at Arby's at 6.00 pm and depart at 6.30 pm. These Wednesday rides will be mostly a short ride getting back to Orillia around 9.00--9.30 pm.

Sunday April 25 ride

2010-04-26T10:10:00.000-04:00

Only five member's showed up for last Sunday's ride probably due to a pretty dismal forecast of rain shower's. The doppler radar showed all the rain way to the south of our area so we enjoyed a very pleasant ride to Fenlon Falls for lunch. Please check out the doppler radar site immediately before your Family BBQ or a bike ride by clicking on this site on the right hand side of the page. This site is NOT a forecast, it's what's actually happening at the time you enter this site.

Sunday Ride April 18/2010

2010-04-18T17:13:00.000-04:00

Today was a beautiful sunny Spring day for a ride, a little cool by the water though. Our ride took us through Wasaga Beach and on to Collingwood for a lunch stop. Eleven bikes with twelve members and guest. I have noticed more ladies on the rides so far this year which is a very welcome surprise that I hope continues. Gentlemen, I thank you for inviting them along, we just look so much better for their presence. I'm also pleased to say that we now have three lady rider's in our Chapter, ladies, please tell your friends about us. Here are a couple of pictures taken on today's ride to Collingwood. Also would you click on "Events and Rides" on the right hand side of the page for some important information of upcoming events.

April 10-11/2010 Toronto Bike Show

2010-04-13T12:03:00.000-04:00

Couldn't resist taking a picture of the bike I was riding when I was twenty one years old. A beautifully restored 1952 Vincent Comet 500 cc single. These masterpieces where the "Super Bikes" of the 40's and 50's. I wasn't quite sure what the young lady in the last picture was selling, maybe it was knee warmer's.