ne2003 issue2

Yeah, I know. This newsletter is a little overdue and we’re sorry. For two reasons we wanted to wait until after the National to get this one out. First, to give ourselves some breathing room we decided to change our quarterly publishing to one each season. This issue is the first of that kind and is the Summer issue, which will be followed by the Fall, Winter and Spring issues. This is not a radical change, but it allows us some flexibility away from a rigid 4-month schedule publishing. It’s funny how life gets in the way of the good stuff.

Well, the big news announced at Asheville (and leaked to the listserv & forums) is that the National is coming to the Northeast in 2004. Anyone involved with the proposal process will tell you it was quite an experience. At the time we began I had no clue what the other areas were planning. I heard rumors of a proposal for Cody, WY, but when Carl called for proposals there were no proposals on the table and I figured we had a shot. I posed the task to the Northeast staff and other members who have organized Northeast rallies in the past. Like any other COG activity, the first criteria to host a national rally is someone has to volunteer to be the host/coordinator – a person to be the event champion. It does not matter if it is a local ride, regional rally, or national rally – the workload just grows a bit. The NE collective initially came up with a bunch of ideas, eleven in all. Eventually, for one reason or another, that number was whittled down to 6 or 7. Each of these was developed into a complete proposal and I asked the staff to rank them in order of preference. My plan was to present the top two proposals to the Executive Board and let them make the decision. When the time had come to pitch our ideas to the directors, one of the proposals was rescinded by the submitting coordinator. I presented our remaining proposal to the board and surprisingly no other area had proposed or even been working on a rally idea. Within a week the directors voted in favor of Johnstown, PA and the “Floodcity National Rally” was on it’s way. The rally host is the Northeast area’s own COG #62—Jason Kaplitz. He lives in Johnstown and has hosted regional rallies there before. This is a positive thing as many of the past National rally locations were “tested” as regional rallies first. Many of the past Floodcity rally attendees had much praise for Jason’s event and his attention to detail. Committee chairpersons are being selected now and committees will be formed soon. If you are interested in volunteering to chair a committee or just help out at the 2004 rally, call or email Jason at 814-535-8669 or [email protected]. Rally info has begun to appear online at www.concours.org/2004 and more links and stuff will be posted each month. Registration forms and other information will appear in future newsletters, Concourier issues and on the web.

The Spring Fling rally was a terrific success. Nearly 90 people attended and we managed to get everyone a room at the host hotel this year. And believe it or not, it did not snow like last year and we had a great no-rain day of riding. After 4 successful years, John Purdy & I will take a break as hosts to the spring event. We will pass the baton to Tony Shelver AAD-NH who volunteered to host the event next spring. As a little teaser, Tony is planning on holding the event “close to home”, and the literature he had with him at the fling from the proposed rally HQ location looked very appealing. I hope your interest is piqued, but that is all the detail I can provide at this time.

The next Northeast regional rally will be the Fall Foliage Tour, hosted this year by Scott Sorger & Terry Faherty. They have chosen to run the rally in Lake George again this coming October. Details of this event are on the NE website www.concours.org/ne/fallfoliage and a flyer is in this newsletter. There is great riding in the Adirondacks and traffic is always light. Mark your calendar now!

If you have an idea for a Northeast area rally, please let me know. If you wish to make it happen all you have to do is have a decent location in mind with great roads and decent accommodations. I can send you information and we can talk about making your ideas a reality. For you historical buffs, there is an idea on the table for a civil war themed rally. If you are willing to plan a day ride or other activity let me or one of the AADs know—we would be glad to assist you.

Ease of communication to our members is important to the Northeast staff, and it should be important you too. The methods available to us to communicate to the nearly 600 members in out area are: regular mail, The Concourier, NE Newsletter, telephone, email, and the NE web

(Continued on page 3)

From the Area Director By Steve Smith

No

rth

ea

st A

rea

Ne

ws

Summer 2003

New Members, Contact Info 2

Communicating with the Membership, Massachusetts Report 3

Crabcakes Ride 4

Slate Run, U.K. Ride 5

Chicken Corn Soup Gig, Spring Fling Wrap-up 6

Northeast Ride Schedule 7-9

My Spring Fling 10

Fall Foliage Rally Registration 12

Inside this issue:

July 13 - 17

NORTHEAST ARE A NEW S

Area Director Steven Smith Naugatuck, CT 203-720-7575 [email protected]

Webmaster Rick Miller 410-646-5963 [email protected]

Editors Doug Allen 518-731-9524 [email protected] Louis Caplan 703-978-9844 [email protected]

Assistant Area Directors

New Hampshire Tony Shelver Moultonborough, NH 603.520.0324 [email protected]

Massachusetts Kevin Martin Dracut, MA 978-459-6275 [email protected] Connecticut Brad May Wallingford, CT 203-269-9042 [email protected]

Metro NY/NJ Jim Clark Valley Stream, NY 516-872-3694 [email protected]

NY Hudson Valley Mike Flynn Bedford Hills, NY 914-244-3537 [email protected]

Pennsylvania - Western Eric Crookston North Huntingdon, PA 724-864-1972 [email protected]

DelMarVa & Philly burbs (PA/NJ)

Bob Chappell Claymont, DE 302-791-0582 [email protected]

Maryland Russell Fleming Hampstead, MD 410-374-9687 [email protected]

Mid-Atlantic States Patrick Sprague Luray, VA 540-743-4874 (home) 540- 743-5132 (work) 540-743-3229 (fax) [email protected]

Northeast Ontario, Canada Patty Smith-Verspoor Gloucester, ONT 613-830-4497 [email protected]

Northeast Area News Publisher: Steven Smith Editors: Doug Allen Louis Caplan

The Northeast Area News is a publication for Northeast Area members of the Concours Owners Group. Submissions are welcomed and members are encouraged to share information about a wide variety of topics on motorcycling. The preferred method is via e-mail, so the editor doesn’t have to do a lot of typing, but any type of legible submission will be gladly accepted. Digital images are welcome, but please do not

embed them in the document. Submissions may be edited to best fit available space. If you would like to have your material returned, please include a SASE. Please send submissions to: Doug Allen 2 Molly White Drive Coxsackie, NY 12051-1119 [email protected]

Many of the opinions stated in this publication may make no sense to those sound of mind and may just be conveniently ignored. If you use any of the information in this rag to incur damage to yourself, your motor or any innocent or not so innocent bystanders it is you own fault...you were warned!

Northeast Area Officers Peter Long, #5683 Vienna, VA

Ben Thompson, #5686 Bristol, NH

Edward Ressler, #5691 Apo, AE

Ryan Benett, #5689 Mercersburg, PA

Bruce Graham, #5707 Saco, ME

Dane Skelton, #5708 So. Boston, VA

Brian Gale, #5710 Murrysville, PA

Robert Curci, #5725 Port Nonmouth, NJ

Gary Krasny, #5731 Amherst, NY

Bernard Finney, #5732 Lindsay, ON

Christopher Brown, #5734 Ottawa, ON

Barbara Karcher, #5736 Woodbridge, VA

Dennis Pane, #5740 Penfield, PA

Richard Clarke, #5735 Montville, NJ

Corry & Lois Vanderlee , #5742 St. Catharines, ON

Robert Sosnowski, #5747 Monroe, NY

Douglas Miller, #5752 Hampton, VA

Daniel & Diane Crovo, #5757 Bradford, MA

Neil Baldwin, #5762 Burlington, ON

Robert Snow, #5768 Derry, NH

James & Joy Edwards, #5772 Greenbelt, MD

John Kelly, #5778 Newark, DE

Matthew Lane, #5779 Newark, DE

Herb Liebhaber, #5781 Utica, NY

Wes Youmans, #5786 Rochester, NY

Peter Fosbre, #5783 Brick, NJ

James Byrnes, #5803 Plymouth, CT

Lee Yeckel, #5804 Pittsburg, PA

Eric Sinkeldam, #5794 Waldorf, MD

Peter-Michael Knight, #5805 Keene, NH

Richard Lunetta, #5806 Woodbridge, NJ

Charles & Anne Rice, #5818 Greencastle, PA

Patrick & Margie Burke, #5819 Emmaus, PA

Ed Herbert, #5823 Fredericksburg, VA

Tom Couch, #5826 Sudbury, ON

Gerry & Marylou Corriveau, #5827 Bellingham, MA

Dan Olszewski, #5829 East Longmeadow, MA

John Mccrae, #5820 Pittston, PA

Edward Bath, #5834 Richmond, VA

Colin & Sharron Treeby, #5840 Oakville, ON

Shelton Miller, #5845 Randolph, MA

Robert Distler, #5842 Flushing, NY

Dave Roberts, #5853 Still Pond, MD

Ken & Erik Oag, #5856 Uxbridge, ON

Dean Chancey, #5857 Farmington, ME

Nazruddin Asgarali, #5858 Columbia, MD

Bram Frank, #5862 Dollard Des Ormeaux, PQ

Dennis Hultzapple, #5864 York Haven, PA

Nathaniel Chapinski, #5866 Carlile, PA

Dan & Jean Lawrence, #5867 Moira, NY

Tim Lennon, #5868 Plainville, CT

Lee Bettencourt, #5875 Shrewsbury, MA

Mark Lieberman, #5881 Northborough, MA

Welcome to our new Northeast Area Members

SUMMER 2003

Greetings, Massachusetts Coggers. By the time you all read this, we will have been well on our way to starting a new riding season up here in the Great State of Massachusetts! It’s been a long, cold, and white winter up here, and just to jog your memories a little, I’m drafting this report on the evening of February 18, the day after we had a record snow fall in most of the State including Boston. According to the record books, which go as far back as the late 1880’s, we received more snow fall from this storm then we got back during the Blizzard of ’78. Of course we didn’t get the high winds and damage the ’78 Blizzard raged upon us, thank God. Here in Dracut, we lucked out and got about 5 inches less than the predicted 25” of snow, (if you call that luck). I just spent most of the day clearing my property, including shoveling off my roof, just to prepare for the next storm that’s coming later in the week.

But that’s all behind us now, and it’s time to take advantage of the change in weather by preparing for a whole new riding season. One of the best ways I know of to prepare my bike for an enjoyable and trouble free riding season, is to do some spring maintenance to get Ole Connie ready to “Lean & Roll”. Here’s a list of some recommended pre-season checks & maintenance tips to keep your bike in tip top shape:

Check your tires for usable tread and proper air pressure. The recommended service limit for most motorcycle tires is approximately 1/32” for the front tire, and 3/32” for the rear tire. Many people push the limit of tire life trying to get a few extra miles out of a set of tires, but remember there’s a trade off and it’s usually safety. Use your own judgment, but keep in mind, that as you approach the service limit of your tires, usable tread life wears much faster than normal, primarily due to the tires inability to shed heat. That one last ride could melt that tire that’s down to the wear bars. For me, I’d rather put on new set of skins early than risk my safety for one last weekend ride. The recommended tire pressures for the OEM tires is 36 front / 41psi rear.

Change your oil. Even if you followed proper procedure and changed your oil & filter last fall when you put your bike up for winter storage, you should change your oil again in the spring. Over the course of winter storage, moisture can collect in the crankcase and the oil can trap some corrosives that you certainly don’t want to circulate thru the engine. I use Mobil 1 M/C oil during the riding season, but for winter storage I use a non-synthetic, low cost oil that I know I’m going to dump in the spring and replace with fresh Mobil 1.

Check your 3 Master cylinders, (2 brake, 1 clutch). Conduct a

visual inspection of the DOT 4 fluids in all three master cylinders for proper level and quality. When you look through the sight glass on the front brake and clutch master cylinders, the fluid color should appear clear to opaque. If the fluid looks gray or even worse, black, then the fluid is contaminated and needs to be replaced. Brake fluid is very susceptible to moisture and contaminates very easily. Riding around with contaminated fluid is an accident waiting to happen. Flushing your brake and clutch fluids is an easy job, just follow the procedure in your shop manual.

Battery. I’m sure you did a good job keeping that battery fully charged over the long winter, hopefully you used a regulated charging system like a Battery Tender, but whatever your method, before you put that battery back in the tray, make sure the water level is correct. When adding water to the battery cells, I recommend you use distilled water, it will help extend the life of your battery.

Fuel system. It’s a good idea to drain the carburetor float bowels to remove any sediment that may have collected throughout the previous riding season, I usually do this in the fall during winter storage. You should have put some dry gas or other type of water collector in your tank when you put your bike up for winter storage. I recommend that you continue to use some type of water emulsifier in your tank for the next couple of tank fulls to eliminate any moisture that may have collected during the off season. This will minimize the chances of rust forming inside the tank. As you probably heard, owners have reported problems with rusting of the Concours tank. I add 3 ounces of STP Water Remover, which is a non-alcohol based fuel dryer, to a full tank of gas. I use this product at least once a month throughout the entire year. My ’87 Connie had 14 years on the original tank when I sold it, and it had no signs of internal rust. My ’94 is the same way.

Electrics. Take the time to check to see that everything’s working properly. Horn, lights, directionals, emergency flashers, etc.

Routine maintenance. Check your service record to see what kind of routine maintenance needs to be done since your last scheduled maintenance, and take the time to do it now, early in the season, before you get into the better weather and more routine riding. When was the last time you cleaned your Air Filter? How long has it been since your last Valve Adjustment? What about changing the rear drive fluid, or


Massachusetts Report by Kevin Martin –AAD-MA

pages - the easiest and most efficient are the last three.

We are trying hard to contain costs, while still packing the newsletter with good stuff. Making the newsletter available for download from the web site is one way we can do this. There is a wave of change occurring. More and more people are hooking up to the World Wide Web and using email to chat and communicate. Now, anyone with internet can access can download past (and new) issues of the NE Newsletter when it is made available on the web. Last year we initiated the Northeast eNews – this is where members who signed up get an email notice containing a link to the new newsletter posted on the web before it is made available and to the general public. You will get this email 2-4 weeks before the deliver of the bulk mail delivered newsletter. Although many have signed up, it is still less than half of the northeast membership. If you have not signed up for our eNews delivery, please consider doing so. I would like to see all Canadian and European members on this as air mail is VERY expensive. Also, we can not bulk mail to you, leaving me and my kids to fold, stuff, and lick – not a pretty sight. If you sign up for eNews, you will not get a regular mail delivered newsletter. You always have the option to change this selection at any time.

I have found, and many of the AADs have told me, that our database

contains bad email addresses, and in some cases non-working phone numbers. Last minute ride notices & changes go out over email, and occasionally our AADs will phone members who don't have emails or who bounce.

If you have changed your email, phone number or mailing address, be sure to update that info with us. You can do this through your local AAD, the AD, or the COG membership director by calling, sending a letter or email. We have even set up a web form on the northeast web pages to allow you to submit your contact info. This same web form can be used to say YES or NO to eNews delivery of the newsletter. This form can be found by going to the NE web pages www.concours.org/ne and clicking on the NEWSLETTER link found at the top of any page, then follow the links to eNews sign-up.

Some of the AADs have their own web pages where they keep up to date info on their area rides and activities. We maintain a searchable database of ALL northeast rides. There is lots of information on our web pages. Take a look around the NE Web pages – you may be surprised what’s there.

Until next time—Ride Safe.

Steve

(From the Area Director - Continued from page 1)

greasing the Uni-Trak linkage. How many miles do you have on those Brake pads? You don’t have to be a professional motorcycle mechanic to do the types of routine maintenance I’ve mentioned here. Spending a little time up front will ensure many miles of trouble free riding. Finally, don’t forget to put a good coat of wax on that baby and go have some fun !

The Northeast Area has some great events scheduled in 2003 so try to find the time to attend at least one Rally this year if you can. I guarantee you won’t be disappointed. Fortunately for us, the Northeast Area has at least two Rallies scheduled this year that are easily accessible from Mass.

First, the Spring Rally in May was located in Delaware Water Gap PA, this event is less than a full days ride from us. I attended the first COG rally down in the Water Gap back in the early ‘90s, and it’s a great area to host a rally. Then there’s the COG National in Asheville NC planned for this June. I’ve always wanted to ride the Blue Ridge Parkway, and was never able to attend previous rallies down in that area, so I was real excited about doing this trip. And finally, as Steve mentioned in the last Newsletter, rumor has it that one of the Northeast Fall Rallies may be held close to home again this year, possibly Lake George, NY.

There are also numerous weekend events being planned throughout the Northeast Area, so make it a point to attend as many as you can this year. As you can see, 2003 is jam packed with COG Membership events, so don’t miss out on the fun, remember, participation is key to the success of our Club.

For the State of Massachusetts, I have local rides scheduled throughout the year and I look forward to seeing as many of you as possible throughout the ’03 riding season. Scheduled events are published in the Northeast Newsletter, however event dates or details can change, so to view the most current information check out our New & Improved Northeast Area Website, located at: http://www.concours.org/ne - or if you don’t have access to the internet, contact your AAD for the most up to date information on events scheduled in your area.

As for the NE Website, when you get to the front page, just select “Schedules” then click on the “COG Online Ride Schedules Link”, in the left column. This will bring you directly to the Concours Owners

Group ride schedule database. I also have web links on my Massachusetts NEAAD Homepage, to both the Northeast Area and COG websites, as well as some other club related links. My website is located at: http://home.sprintmail.com/~cog145

Before I forget to mention it, one of the easiest ways to get information out to the Membership, is via email but unfortunately many of the addresses we have on record are no longer active. If you have a new email address or your not sure if we have your current address in our database, then shoot me off an email to let me know, and I’ll update our records. This way you’ll be sure to stay informed of any last minute changes with local events.

For events scheduled in Massachusetts, please keep in mind that the current published schedule is not cast in stone, and additional events can be added and are welcome, providing of course people volunteer to host the activity! I encourage members to think about stepping up and hosting an event that YOU would like to see. Maybe you’d like to do a camping weekend out in the Berkshires, or you’d like to plan a cookout in your area. Maybe you have a favorite ice cream stand that you’d like to take a group of Coggers to this summer. (I never met a Cogger that doesn’t like ice cream). Maybe you have a favorite road that you’d like to ride some Saturday or Sunday, and your looking for company.

Sounds great doesn’t it, but it won’t happen unless people get involved and make it happen! Remember, “ The success of the Concours Owners Group is entirely dependent upon Membership involvement” and that holds true for the individual State Membership as well. If you’re entertaining the idea of volunteering for a local activity, contact me and I’ll be happy to help you coordinate it.

Hope to see everyone throughout the ’03 riding season either at one of the Club Rallies; Moto Market; or on one of my local rides. Or, better yet, on one of your rides! Until then, ride safe and above all, have fun!

(Mass Report - Continued from page 3)


“ The success of the Concours

Owners Group is entirely

dependent upon membership

involvement”

Crab cake ride 2003 had a slow start. The fellow coggers coming from the West had an 11/2 hour wait getting across the Chesapeake Bay Bridge because of a five car accident on the bridge. Some came just for breakfast on Saturday while others came for both Saturday and Sunday’s ride. In attendance were Russell Fleming, Pat Sprague, Ron Penn, Paul Genhardt, Dusty Schilling, Robert Winters, Warren Kuhn, Paul Farinholt, Rick Miller, Dan Mertz, Guy Young, Bruce Harbin, Brad Kragnesss, Renae Reinardy, Bob Chappell,

Melanie Chappell ,Herb Clendaniel, Gordon Smith, Trevor Angel, Jay Horine, Mike Schmidt, John Lippy, David and Carol LeBrun, and Amy Johnson our Waitress.

The breakfast at Holly’s was great like always. Our ride headed east into Delaware where we saw lots of chicken farms and the beginning of early planting by the farmers. Leaving Delaware, we headed for southern Maryland to ride through a Cyprus swamp, which had some very fun twisty roads to groom our tires on. We found an operating ferry ride that was at the right price, FREE. We made our way to Sandy Hill campground to camp, but some of us had to go to Salisbury for a motel because we had been sick a few weeks earlier. The people at the campground recommended we go to a restaurant called “BOONIES” which was in the middle of nowhere, but was a good place to go.

Sunday morning we met in Salisbury for breakfast. Breaking out the maps we planned a ride through Blackwater Wildlife Refuge. The ride ended at Suicide Bridge Restaurant for CRABCAKES. Everyone had a good time swapping stories. I would like to thank Pat Sprague for picking out the route for Saturday’s ride and getting the campground.

Crabcakes Ride by Russell Fleming –AAD-MD

NE AAD Russell Fleming

Whitehaven Ferry in Southern Maryland

SUMMER 2003

Slate Run for Buns and Wellsboro Gas Lights 2003 By Russell Fleming—AAD-MD Traditionally there is a pre-ride get together on Friday night at the Fleming’s house. There were 6 bikes that left the Fleming’s driveway on their way to Mechanicsburg Pa. This is where the group met up with other COGGERS. In attendance was Russell Fleming, Mike and Roseanne Schmidt, Dave and Carol LeBrum, Steve Browne, Paul Farinholt, Bobby Winters, Jay Shaffer, Charles and Ann Rice, Rick and Jean Miller, Shawn Adeling and Gerard Salmon showed up just for Sunday, John and Missy Lippy only went for a sandwich ride and Michael Killerbrew was fishing in the area.

Route sheets and maps were handed out and explained that there were several types of roads used but no DIRT so Rick’s GOLDWING wouldn’t get lost. The GOLDWING part of the ride was taken care of quickly by going up route 81 by the Susquehanna River. The river was actually up to what it was last summer. Traveling east to route 225 and threw coal strip mines of Pa. Went by Tower City, the area known for off road riding and motocross racing. At Tremont and to route 125 which is known for sport bike peg dragging. The CONCOURS’ had fun riding on this road. The ones who got behind the GOLDWING had even more fun watching the sparks from the foot pegs. When we got to route 54 nobody could believe that Russell actually picked a straight and flat road. Finally after Montgomery the roads became what the CONCOURS likes, up and down and twisty all the way to Jersey Shore and Slate Run where we had a fantastic sandwich.

The new COG members Charles and Ann brought up the most controversial conversation: “What tires do you recommend for the Connie and what brand of oil do you use.” With our belly’s full we

headed for Wellsboro. After checking into our rooms we then went to Grand Canyon of Pa. The question came up “How many would like to ride to New York.” On the way to New York the conversation on the Chatterbox was Russell do you have a something about buying gas, because we are on “E” Russell’s response was “Are you on reserve yet. NO then you have plenty of gas. Within the next few mile they stopped for gas. It was only 272 miles since the last gas stop and Bobby and Russell were the only ones on reserve. A short jaunt into New York then made a u turn and headed back to Wellsboro. We put our coats and helmets into the room and went across the street to Wellsboro Diner for Prime Rib. After dinner we walked through town to look at the gaslights.

The next morning started early with the car alarm on the Corvette going off. Everybody thought Russell bumped the car, maybe Paul but rumor also has it that Bobby made it back to the room before anybody could see him. WE went to breakfast at Harland‘s Restaurant. With tummies and tanks full we left for home. Head west on route 6 to Galeton and south route 144. From Galeton to Renovo we only had to share the road with 4 cars in 25 miles. I then told the group if you liked that part of route 144 you would love the next 35-mile. Make our way down to route 74 that has 2 mountain pass on the route to Carlisle. At Carlisle everybody went in different directions. The Maryland group went to Lincoln Diner in Gettysburg. New COG member Jay Schaffer said this was only his second Cog ride and he can’t wait for the national.

The Crew Left to Right is Steve Browne, Bobby Winters, Michael Killebrew, Russell Fleming and Paul Fairnholt

Ed Note: European members are part of the northeast.

March 17, 2003 - Had my first real ride of the year, down to see a client in deepest Kent. The weather promised bright and clear, and all the way to the Dartford crossing it was - just as well with 55 miles of lane splitting to do!

In the middle of the Thames the fog came down and boy did it get chilly, but after another 20 mins or so it was back out into the sun and the country roads of the Weald of Kent. The roads are great except for the lack of maintenance. In two or three place there were grooves and heaves that were 2-3" wide by the same deep - certainly enough to pitch an unsuspecting rider off.

The Hein Gericke Voyager gear pretty much did its job, only had a fleece, polo shirt and cargo pants on. My fingers got a bit nippy, but once back in the sun they were fine. By the time I got onto the twisties the bike head was very much back in place, and I was much happier with my riding. The lines through bends and assessment of

hazards were much more up to scratch.

Molly behaved very well - as you would expect! With the Givi Maxia on solo she has a little shimmy at around 80, get to 90 and it's gone!! I now realize that Bluebell did not have a stock screen, but probably a +4" M&P aftermarket one. I don't mind the buffeting and noise - so long as I have earplugs in - as it restricts my "progress" somewhat and will probably help me keep my license!

After a morning's business and a trip to a local pub (soft drinks only!) it was time to head back. I decided against the fleece, and packed that in the luggage. I thought about removing the jacket and pants liners, but didn't. Journey home was even nicer; less traffic and the 90 miles took less than 90 minutes. Went on to reserve just near home so decided to gas up - we'd done 236 on the fill up which equated to 49.5 miles per Imp. Gallon (about 41per US). Didn't see a cloud all day. Life don't get much better...

From the U.K.—First Real Ride of the Season By Larry Botheras


Chicken Corn Soup Gig - by Russell Fleming AAD –MD

Spring Fling Rally Wrap-up - by Steven Smith AD The annual Spring Fling and Delaware Water Gap, PA was the destination for nearly 90 people and their motorcycles. The hotel parking lot was filled with Conks of every color and age, along side a few “other” makes and models. John & I would like to thank everyone who helped out over the weekend—whether it was carrying supplies to taking pictures. There were at least 4 planned routes to choose to ride

on Saturday, all thanks to Bruce Slavinski and Jerry Gowen. It seems the two most popular rides were Jerry’s 248 mile PA loop that took riders out past Jim Thorpe to Route 125, an old coal-mining road. I heard NEAAD Mike Flynn call it the Deal’s Gap of Pennsylvania. The other route was Bruce’s 220 mile 3-state tour. Thanks to Kathy Fregens for her help at the registration table and everyone else that got

the name tags together and kept things in order. The banquet dinner buffet was splendid and I hope everyone enjoyed themselves. We had very positive feedback and most seemed to like the rally area. We may go back in the future. And we can not forget our special friends/sponsors who supplied us with some great door prizes. Be sure to patronize these vendors as they are very good to us.

Aero Design & Mfg - Andy Goldfine 8 South 18th Ave West Duluth,MN

Cee Bailey's - Steven D. Chlavin 6900 Acco Street Montebello,CA

Garden State BMW 1501 Route 46 West Ledgewood,NJ

Glacier Bay Enterprises - Stan Stagg PO Box 161 Honey Brook,PA

Ledgewood Kawasaki 1388 Route 48 Ledgewood,NJ

Washington Cycle Works 5 Route 31 North Washington, NJ

Whitehorse Press - Jeff Adams P.O. Box 60 North Conway,NH

Willows Motorsports Rt 10 Cheshire, CT

The chicken corn soup gig was held on February 15, 2003 hosted by John and Missy Lippy. In attendance was Russell and Martha Fleming, Rick Miller, Thom Chichester, Bobby Winters, Paul Farinholt, Mike Schmidt, Samantha, Logan, Luke Yox. Nobody was brave enough to fide their bike. We were in the beginning stages of the blizzard of 2003,which gave us 26 inches of snow total. The guys went out to the garage to check out John’s toys. He has 2 Concours, 1Ninja and a motorcycle cargo trailer. The house and garage once belonged to John’s grandparents. They checked out some of the antiques that were left there by family members.

Did anybody notice the chickens running for their lives? They heard that somebody was making chicken corn soup. The soup also contained about 1 bushel of corn and plenty of oodles of noodles. One pot also had potatoes in it. We can’t forget the other motorcyclist favorite food hot dogs and sauerkraut. Missy’s daughter, Samantha, made a batch of

M&M cookies, which everyone enjoyed.

There was discussion on going to the National in Ashville. We were telling stories of our past riding experiences. April of 1999 was Bobby’s first camping experience to Otter Creek. Bobby was on his Harley and Rick Miller was amazed at the sparks coming off the Harley as it went around the turns. The North/South of 2000, a mystery bike showed up in Russell’s garage and nobody knew who it belonged to. This had Guy scratching his head. The next morning Guy was still puzzled. Bobby shows up for breakfast on his Harley and he asked Guy if he had to own a Concours in order to join COG. Guy said to be politically correct no you don’t have to. Bobby said you should have told me this earlier because I wouldn’t have to buy the bike in the corner. The Mystery was solved. There are rumors that Russell, Bobby, and Guy are pranksters. NOT TRUE, NOT TRUE. I would like to thank John and Missy for some good soup and good times too bad the weather didn’t cooperate.

SUMMER 2003

ON South Central Ontario Get-Together, Milton ON 7/8/2003 Meeting at Bumpers in Milton at 7:30 PM. Just to meet, exchange factual anecdotes, plan rides, etc. From 401 S. on 25 through Milton to where 25 jigs left; keep going straight (Martin St.) until you come to a T (Main St.) turn right. Bumpers is on the right a block or so up. From QEW or Hwy 5, take 25 north (aka Bronte) to Milton.

MA - Western MA Day 7/12/2003 Meet at Moto Market, Acton, MA @ 9 am, and join me for a summer ride to South Deerfield MA to visit the Yankee Candle Shop and Antique Car Museum. This is a great take for guys & gals ! If you haven't been to the Candle Shop yet, you’re in for a real treat. We'll take the Mohawk Trail out to Millers Falls then head south into S. Deerfield stopping at the Yankee Candle Shop. Contact: Kevin Martin; [email protected] (978) 459-6265

CT Mini Iron Bottom Ride - Danbury, CT 7/12/2003 to 7/13/2003 Starting in Danbury, Connecticut heading Northeast into Massachusetts into Southeast, New Hampshire up into the White Mountains and winding up into Maine and Possibly as far as Montreal, Quebec then back down through Vermont, over into the Adirondacks of New York state and back to Danbury, Connecticut. This is not in anyway associated with the "Iron Butt" riding organization. Any bike welcome. More details to follow. Contact: Brad May; [email protected] 203.269.9042

MD/PA Breakfast Ride Shrewsbury, PA 7/13/2003 Meet for breakfast 8:30 at Shrewsbury Family Restaurant. The restaurant is located 2 mile south of Shrewsbury at the intersection of Susquehanna Trail and Keller Drive. With the weather being hot I any think about riding up to Strasburg Railroad Museum. Should be at the museum about 11 if you want to meet there. After checking the old trains out we hope to take a ride somewhere. Contact: Russell Fleming 410-374-9687 or [email protected]

VA/WV "Helvetia Ride", Luray, VA 7/18/2003 to 7/20/2003 This ride will depart from Pat and Sharry Sprague's One Wheel Only motorcycle campground Saturday morning at 8 AM. Those wishing to can join the ride at the 7-11 at the I-81 Route 211 exit in New Market at around 8:30 as we will ride right past the 7-11. This will be a 340 mile round trip to the Hutte Restaurant in Helvetia, WV where we will feast on a superb luncheon buffet. The peach cobbler dessert alone is worth the trip, and the charming Hutte Restaurant in quaint Helvetia is comfortable and friendly. Camping at OWO is available both Friday and Saturday nights, and a continental breakfast will be served there on

Saturday and Sunday morning as well as a supper on Friday and Saturday nights. To get to the Sprague's, from Luray, VA, ride north on Rt. 340 about 5 miles. When you see Springfield Elementary School on the left, go about 1/2 mile further and turn left on Rt. 661 (Cavalier Rd). Rt. 661 becomes a good gravel road. Ride 8/10 mile and turn right on Beylor's Ferry Road. Go 4/10 mile and their house is the third driveway on the left (#421 Beylor's Ferry Road). Turn left at the "Wheelie" and allow the dogs to sniff you. Please contact Pat and Sharry ahead of time if you are planning to come Contact: Patrick Sprague:[email protected] 540-743-4874

PA Mid Ohio Vintage Days 7/19/2003 Races, AMA Shows, Demo Rides, Trials, Swap Meet, Auctions... everything motorcycle. Located at the Mid Ohio race course in Lexington OH. not far from the AMA Museum. Camping is available on site w/o reservations. Book hotels early as they go fast. A few of us will be leaving from the Pittsburgh PA. area early Friday morning. More info as the show dates are set. The dates below may change. Contact: Eric Crookston; [email protected] 724-864-1972

NH Northern NH and Maine day ride 7/19/2003 Northern NH and Maine day ride. The planned route starts in Gorham, NH, shoots across to Rangeley, ME, returns via Errol, NH and Colebrook, NH, and wends its way to the finish in Sanbornville, NH for an early dinner. This one starts early, goes far, and finishes late... Latest and greatest details Contact: Peter Perkins.

CT Meet, Greet, Ride & Run Sundays, Southbury, CT 7/20/2003 Casual Sunday ride. See the 11/16/03 listing for details. Contact: Brad May; [email protected] 203.269.9042

CT Tue. Night Ride In—Old Saybrook, CT 7/29/2003 6:30 PM - Wednesday Night Ride in on "Tuesday" at Pat's Country Kitchen. This change is because "Pat's" is closed on Wednesday's. Informal Gathering for inexpensive dinner and conversation. Riding after. Bring your riding spirit and your best stories. I-95, exit 67 coming from the West. At end of ramp bear right, Restaurant on right. (Brown building) If coming from the east get off I-95 at first exit after the Rt. 9 exit. Follow ramp straight and bear right on Rt 1. At stop light go straight and "Pat's" is on the right. Contact: Brad May; [email protected] 203.269.9042

MA Trip to Ludlow VT 8/2/2003 Meet at Moto Market, Acton MA @ 8 am. Join

me for a scenic ride up NH RT-123 & 124 crossing the Connecticut River at Bellows Falls. We'll head north on RT-5 & 103 stopping for lunch at the Mill Restaurant on Main St. in Ludlow VT. After lunch we'll tour more of Vermont's best roads. Contact: Kevin Martin; [email protected] (978) 459-6265



VA/MD/PA Ride To Mr. B's, White Post, VA 8/17/2003 A group of Maryland/PA riders will meet at a yet to be determined location. A group of Virginia/WV/DC riders will meet at a yet to be determined location. Each group will ride approx. 150 miles to meet at 1 PM at Mr. B's Barbecue at Route 340, White Post, VA for some wonderful BBQ. If meeting with the MD/PA group, please contact Russell Fleming at [email protected] or call (410) 374-9687. Let's see lots of Concours at Mr. B's. B there or B square. Contact: Patrick Sprague 540-743-4874 [email protected]; Russell Fleming [email protected] 410-374-9687

NY Catskill Mountain Ride, Windham, NY 8/23/2003 We'll be starting off in Windham, meeting place/time to be determined. We'll head through the Catskills and around some of the terrific reservoirs. For those interested, I'll be heading back to Western New York on Sunday via a run up routes 10 and 8 through the Adirondacks. Look for more details to follow. Contact: Glen Liucci 585-671-2493 or [email protected]

CT Wednesday Night Ride In—Guilford, CT 8/27/2003 6:00 PM - Informal Gathering for inexpensive dinner and conversation. Riding after. Bring your riding spirit and your best stories. Tonight we will gather at the Guilford Diner. Take I-95 to exit 59. From both east/west take a right off ramp. Go to first stop light (Rt. 1) take a left. Diner is about 1/4 mile on left next to the water tower. Contact: Brad May; [email protected] 203.269.9042


Northeast Ride Schedule


“Run With the Wolf” Rally, Suches GA 9/4/2003 to 9/8/2003 A perennial favorite. Great roads, great destination (TWO), great food, great COG companions. This is about my favorite event. Hosted by the SEACOG, folks ride from Ontario, Florida, the mid-west and all points in between to enjoy this rally. Meet at Afton Mountain, Route 250 at the entrance to the Blue Ridge Parkway on Thursday at 8 AM sharp. It's about 420 miles to our first night stop at Blue Ridge Motorcycle Campground where we will spend the night and have breakfast Friday morning before riding some of the best motorcycle roads in the US before arriving at TWO in Suches, GA No reservations are required for camping at BRMC or at TWO. Lodging may be reserved at BRMC by calling (828) 235-8350 and at TWO by calling (706) 747-5151. Some will return to our homes on Sunday and some will make it a two (or three!) day jaunt. Contact: Patrick Sprague; [email protected] (540) 743-4874

MA Visit Queeche Gorge, VT 9/6/2003 Meet at Moto Market, Acton, MA @ 7:30 am. This is a longer trip than my other rides, so we'll have to leave a little earlier. Join me for an early morning ride up to Queeche Vermont to have lunch and view Vermont's Little Grand Canyon and ride Vermont. Contact: Kevin Martin; [email protected] (978) 459-6265


CT/NY Mike's Surprise Ride Part Deux - Danbury, CT 9/14/02 A fun run through the area's backroads (figure 150 miles or so) ending with some good grub (nothing too fancy or expensive). Meet at Marcus Dairy (I-84, exit 4, Danbury Airport) under the overpass (space permitting) around 9am. Route sheets will be on hand for all, so leave in your own groups for your own ride. Look for the red Connie with the Security Squad sized pilot. Contact: Mike Flynn; [email protected] 914-244-3537

VA "The General's Scouts", New Market, VA 9/19/2003 to 9/21/2003 Awright all you enlistees, draftees, and overnight officers who can read and rite, join up and serve your country (Blue or Gray), and help Cogdom scout out some roads, attractions, and

historical points to be featured in "The General's Ride", a Civil War theme rally to be held one year from now in New Market, VA. We muster men and materiel at The Southern Kitchen Restaurant on South Route 11 in New Market, VA at 9 AM. on Saturday morning. Camping is available at OWO both Friday and Saturday nights. Uncle COG wants YOU! Contact: Patrick Sprague; [email protected] (540) 743-4874

NH The 'Not-the-Fall-Foliage, Not-a-Rally' Rally 9/19/2003 to 9/21/2003 The rally will be based in the North Conway area in the White Mountains of New Hampshire. The rides will cover central and northern New Hampshire, as well as parts of western Maine and maybe even Vermont. There are a lot of scenic routes, interesting twisties and challenging roads in this area, with rivers, lakes, mountains and abundant wildlife to be seen. The full story... Contact: Tony Shelver; [email protected] 603.520.0324


CT Wed. Night Ride In - E. Haven, CT 9/24/2003 6:00 PM - Informal Gathering for cheap dinner and conversation. Riding after. Great way to meet and renew old friendships. Bring your riding spirit and your best stories. We will meet at Twin-Pines Diner on RT. 1. From the West 1-95 to Frontage Road exit. Go straight to third light take a right into diner. From the east go to exit 52. Take left at end of ramp, go over bridge, take right, at stop sign take right then immediate right at light. Go to 2nd light and take right into diner. Contact: Brad May; [email protected] 203.269.9042

MA Mt. Greylock Foliage Ride 10/4/2003 Meet at Moto Market, Acton MA @ 7:30 am. Join me for a ride out the Mohawk Trail into North Adams MA to ride up to the summit of Mt. Greylock, the highest point in the State of Massachusetts (3,491 ft). Bring your cameras to capture the early Seasonal colors of a 3 States view. We'll stop for lunch in the Berkshiers, or maybe have lunch at the Summit Lodge. Contact: Kevin Martin; (978) 459-6265 or [email protected]

MD/PA Breakfast Ride - Cozy's Restaurant Thurmont, MD 10/12/2003 Meet for breakfast 9 am Cozy's Restaurant 103 Frederick Road (Route 806) Thurmont MD. We will ride around Catoctin Mountains and South PA. Contact: Russell Fleming 410-374-9687 or [email protected]


VA "Fall Foliage Ride", Luray, VA 10/17/2003 to 10/19/2003 Pat and Sharry Sprague will host a weekend camp and ride at their home seven miles north of Luray. See the Helvetia Ride for directions and lodging. This will be a 235 mile ride from OWO, with camping available there Friday and Saturday nights. A continental breakfast will be served Saturday and Sunday mornings, barbecue on Friday night, and a chili with fixins' supper on Saturday night. Lunch on Saturday will be on the road. Come ride with friends, make some new ones, and see the beauty of Autumn in the mountains. Please call Pat and Sharry at (540) 743-4874 or email at [email protected] so they can plan the food requirements

MA S. Sugarloaf Mtn. 10/18/2003 Meet at Moto Market, Acton MA @ 9 am for a ride out to South Sugarloaf Mtn. (652 Ft) which overlooks all of S. Deerfield and Amherst MA. We'll have lunch at a local Restaurant then head back to Acton via some alternate routes. Contact: Kevin Martin; [email protected] (978) 459-6265


CT Wednesday Night Ride In - N. Haven,CT 10/29/2003 6:30 PM - Informal Gathering for cheap dinner and conversation. Riding after. Great way to meet and renew old friendships. Bring your riding spirit and your best stories. We met here for the first ride-in of the year when it was too cold to ride the bikes, so we are going to try "Athena Diner" again. Take I-91 to exit 12. Take a right at end of ramp (Both North or South) Go about 1/2 mile North of the interstate and the diner is on the right. Contact: Brad May; [email protected] 203.269.9042

MA Mass Burr Ride 11/1/2003 Meet at Moto Market, Acton MA @ 9:30 am. This will be a repeat of a ride I hosted last Fall through Carlise, Concord, Sudbury MA heading out around the Wachusett Reservoir and

(Continued from page 7)


SUMMER 2003

stopping in Clinton for lunch. The entire loop back to Moto Market is just under 100 miles. Contact: Kevin Martin; (978) 459-6265 or [email protected]

VA "Brrrrrr Ride", Natural Bridge, VA 11/7/2003 to 11/9/2003 Bundle up and point your headlight toward the Natural Bridge KOA campground where we will gather on Friday and Saturday nights to poke fires and partake of COG fellowship. For those not wanting to camp, cabins are available at the KOA. Call (540) 291-2770 to reserve one. Motels in the area are : Fancy Hill Motel, 4852 S. Lee Highway, Natural Bridge, VA (540) 291-2143 Natural Bridge Inn & Conference Center, Route 11 and route 130, Natural Bridge, VA (540) 291-2121 Red Mill Inn, 50 South Red mill Road, Natural Bridge, VA (540) 291-1704 Budget Inn, I-81 Ext 180 US route 11, Natural Bridge, VA (540) 291-2896 We will meet for breakfast 8:30 AM Saturday at the Fancy Hill Restaurant at 4832 S. Lee Highway, Natural Bridge, VA (540) 291-2860. After breakfast we will ride some favorite scenic roads before returning to the KOA. KOA info: http://www.koakampgrounds.com/where/va/46144.htm Contact: Patrick Sprague; [email protected] (540) 743-4874

Chunk Yer Punkins 6 11/8/2003 The World Championship Punkin Chunk is a Delaware original; 2003 marks its 18th year.

Originally conceived as a friendly competition - as well as a unique way to get rid of leftover pumpkins - it has grown tremendously, and has spawned similar competitions. Contact: Bob Chappell; [email protected] 302-791-0582


CT Meet, Greet, Ride & Run Sundays, Southbury, CT 11/16/2003 Meet at Dunkin Donuts in Southbury 9:00-10:00 AM. Riders present decide where they want to go. Nobody is expected to ride outside their ability. There are no time limits or restrictions. Kids are welcome. Any bike welcome. Directions: From I-84: Get off exit 15 go north to light at first shopping plaza (200-300 yards). Take a left and then an immediate left into white clapboard shopping plaza. Look for Dunkin Donuts. (Look carefully, zoning laws don't allow usual bright DD sign) Weather permitting. Contact: Brad May [email protected] 203.269.9042

CT Wed. Night Ride In - New Haven, CT 11/19/2003 6:00 PM - Informal Gathering for Pizza dinner and conversation. End of season get together. Great way to meet and renew old friendships. We will meet at GRAND APIZZA on Grand Avenue in New Haven. Some of the best pizza in Connecticut! Thank you to all who attended our Wednesday Night-Ride-ins for the bike season. If you need directions please e-mail me. Contact: Brad May; [email protected] 203.269.9042

ON South Central Ontario Get-Together, Milton ON 12/9/2003 Meeting at Bumpers in Milton at 7:30 PM. Just to meet, exchange factual anecdotes, plan rides, etc. From 401 S. on 25 through Milton to where 25 jigs left; keep going straight (Martin St.) until you come to a T (Main St.) turn right. Bumpers is on the right a block or so up. From QEW or Hwy 5, take 25 north (aka Bronte) to Milton. VA Breakfast and Ride, Dinwiddie, VA 12/14/2003 We'll meet at That's-A-Burger, Inc. at 19606 Carson Road, Dinwiddie, VA (804) 469-7716 at 9AM. This is on RT 703 near the intersection of RT 670. We'll leave around 10AM to ride some back roads ending up in Appomattox, VA for lunch. Contact: Patrick Sprague; [email protected] 540-743-4874

(Continued from page 8)

Pat Sprague—NEAAD mid-Atl

COG Clowns - Terry Faherty & Scott Sorger at the International Motorcycle Show in NYC.

4 Amigos--Mike Nasca, Pat Sprague, Bob Dombrowe with his new Gold Wing, Guy Young

From left: Herman Tessman, Thom DeCarlo, Bobby Winters, Bob Dombrowe standing, Pat Sprague (beret), Ron Penn seated, Russell Fleming, the Original Jay. All enjoying lunch and bluegrass music.

clockwise from bottom--Pat Sprague, Bob's daughter Danielle with cake, Bob Dombrowe, Guy Young


My Spring Fling by Terry Faherty

Rain... When you don't get enough of it, it's one thing. But when you get too much and you happen to be a rider, it's downright depressing. The two weeks before the Spring Fling 2003 fell into the latter. I was beginning to think that I had moved to Seattle, as the Big Apple seemed to be in a perpetual rain shower with an occasional flash of sun, just to remind you what you were missing. As I nervously checked the Weather Channel and the days slipped by things didn't look any better. Of all things, a Nor'easter was supposedly on the way promising gully washing rain and high winds. Luckily, I had planned to leave on Thursday and stay over at my brother's place in West Stroudsburg, and so far the weather was still dry. Unfortunately, I had to work that morning; my usual midnight to eight shift; so part of the day was lost to nap time.

After meeting Jim Clark, the NEAD-MetroNY, at 3 pm in NJ we took the direct route on I-80 and pulled into the Ramada before 5 pm as a light sprinkle began to fall. Oh well, I thought, here it comes! After a pleasant night at the Pennsylvania Faherty homestead, I got a call from Scott Sorger, my usual partner-in-crime, at about 10 am saying he had arrived. The sky looked threatening and my brother had graciously offered the use of his car, so I figured that today, being a wash anyway, we could make supply runs much easier on four wheels. As I pulled into the Ramada, I had a couple of surprises in store. Seems Scotty had made a new purchase he had neglected to tell anyone about. As soon as I saw the shiny new ZX-9 and no screaming yellow Bandit, I knew the little weasel had held out on me! He had been yammering about buying a ZX-9 or ZX-12 for the past year and obviously the price on the leftover 2002 was the final push over the brink. My second surprise was to see Scotty, Scott Schaeffer, Dick McWay, and Jim Clark, all walking out in full riding gear. Seems he had forgot to mention that they were going on a ride. Not wanting to hold them up, I decided to stay behind with Phil Rifkin, another of the Long Island crew, and make the supply run. I must admit that I secretly did a little rain dance to "make'em pay" but to no avail, not a single drop came down. So much for the big, bad Nor'easter!! No matter though, I got to stock up for the weekend and help our esteemed host, Steve Smith, with the preparations. Saturday promised to be a good day (so far) so I figured I'd make up for my missed ride. I headed back to my brother's place after dinner with my fellow Coggers just as the rain started to fall.

After a good night's rest, I said my goodbyes to the relatives and transferred over to the Ramada. I was rooming with Scott Schaeffer, as his better half Rosie had stayed home with the little ones. There was a slight mist falling as I pulled in, which soon stopped, and after dumping my baggage in the room I waited for the ride to start. We pulled out with Bruce Slavinski in the lead and after about 20 minutes our group had separated and consisted of Bruce, Jim (can we go a little faster) Clark, John Micca, Scott Schaeffer, Scott Sorger, John Purdy, Steve Smith, myself, Dick and Donna Mcway, and Phil Rifkin. The roads were drying

and we were having some fun. As we crossed over into NJ Scott Sorger pulled alongside and gave me some alarming news...my bike was leaking coolant. Sure enough, just as he told me I noticed the unmistakable smell of ethylene glycol, and it was a gusher! Luckily it happened in the middle of a town, 30 feet away from a hardware store. It took about twenty minutes to locate the problem. The bolt holding one of the water pump connections had vibrated loose and had taken a powder. Thanks to Kawasaki and their love of 10 mm bolts, I was able to switch off one of Murph's stainless steel fairing screws to snug it down. After topping off with coolant purchased at the aforementioned hardware store, and a 10 minute overheating test at idle was passed with flying colors, we put my baby's bodywork back on and got ready to head out. There was even a hose in a little park right around the corner to wash the worst of the coolant off the bike, tires and my formerly clean 'Stich. The most embarrassing part, other than holding up the group, was a Harley had passed by and he probably loved to see a "rice-burner" by the side of the road. DOOOH!!!

Well after about an hour we were back in business and were joined by Guy Young, who had stopped to lend his expertise. What a mensch! The rest of the day was a total blast with Bruce showing us all the best backroads in northern NJ and PA. We did lunch at Homer's Diner in Port Jervis. Note: stay away from the chili… it looks and tastes great, but hoo boy you pay for it later. Don't ask me how I know! We made a run through Hawk's Nest and after looping through NY we headed back south. All in all it was a great day even with my mechanical woes and none of us got burned too badly on that wicked little left-right-uphill decreasing radius curve. I was riding the double yellow and a couple of others in the group took an even (ahem!) wider line. Thankfully there was no oncoming traffic. Some of us are gonna have to do some Novinas and light some candles in thanks! One Cogger in another group wasn't quite as lucky and high sided, causing assorted scratches and one broken bag mount. After some emergency repairs he was able to ride back to the hotel, bruised but unbowed.

After the traditional tire-kicking session, the banquet started with a social hour with snacks. As the banquet proper started, we filled our bellies and then it was time for Steve Smith and John Purdy to do their host thing. I was pressed into service as photographer (I hope I got some decent shots!). After some announcements including the upcoming fall rally (Never say never, again!) the door prize raffle began. I won a stunning sportbike motif necktie courtesy of Riderwearhouse. After numerous other prizes, with a minimum of grumbling (Hey Elvin! How's that new windshield ...hmmm?), we headed to the parking lot for the requisite tasty beverages and good company. Did anyone else notice that overly friendly local young lady who just happened to be lingering about, striking rather...ahem...provocative poses, and just happening to mention how she was going to a bar down the road? I guess the oldest profession has a foothold in downtown Stroudsburg! Not that there's anything wrong with that!!

Sunday morning turned out dry and after saying our goodbyes I decided to forego the backroads and head straight home to make sure my repairs were more permanent. It had been another great weekend even with the weather and my bike problems. Steve and John once again did a great job and the routes were excellent. It's always great to see the familiar faces and to welcome newcomers. It looks like COG is alive and well in the Northeast thanks to our AD Steve Smith and all the AAD's. Let's all get involved and keep the good times rolling. Ride safe and I'll see you on the road!

SUMMER 2003

Run to the National and the bite of the Dragon by Brad May AAD-CT It all started last fall when my wife, Linda, and I decided that we would plan a vacation around the COG National in Asheville. Of course it didn’t take much prompting to venture off to some of the best roads in the country. I had read and heard about Deal’s Gap, the Cherohola Parkway, the Blue Ridge Parkway, and a handful of other roads. Friends and acquaintances only fueled my desire to “Tame the Dragon.” I was getting excited.

Then things took a turn for the worst Labor Day weekend of 2002. A disk ruptured in my lower back – surgery time. Then in November 2 more ruptured. I was a physical wreck. But my wife stood by me and my surgeon said he would do everything he could to try to get me ready for the NE Spring Fling (a little primer to Asheville) and the “Big Trip.” He did a great job; I was feeling wonderful, except for the pain and numbness that had started in my hands. Carpel Tunnel Syndrome…. Well 2 more surgeries in April. Would I even be able to ride to Pennsylvania? With a lot of work we got the PA and NC. Things were looking good.

Watching the list server I was intrigued with the thought that the Over the Ponders (OTP) would be going via New England. I thought about all things being equal and invited Daan and Hans to stay with us on Thursday evening and to join our group leaving from Connecticut Friday morning. Much to my surprise they accepted! So on a warm Thursday evening Steve Smith and Jon Coler came over to join me in greeting our guests. We were really happy to meet such nice people. Dinner went well and everyone had plenty to eat. The OTP’ers brought gifts and some wonderful stories. It was fun to pull out a world map in front of our daughter/step daughter Bonnie (10 y.o.) and learn about their countries and how they travel to here. The evening wrapped up with some preventative maintenance performed on the bikes with the help of Steve Smith and a late night phone call to Guy Young. All was well in bikedom.

Friday brought rain and a very wet start. We got to our meeting place and met up with the others in our group. Bud (What, another picture?)King and Dave (Mr. Steady) Fazzouli from MA, Ernie (Master of the GPS) Cote from NH, Ken (Mr. COGVette chase car) Knowles, our new OTP friends, Daan (This highway is making me tired) Zeydner and Hans(Come to Austria) Dressler, myself and my wife Linda (Where did you go on the BRP Saturday) May. We made it through the day only to get drenched pulling into Gettysburg, PA. What a way to show the OTP’ers American history. We cut that short and headed to the hotel to dry off. Thank you to Russ Fleming’s hospitality and a dry car ride for those

who went to his picnic along with a lesson in tire changing. The day has finally ended.

Saturday and Sunday brought some spectacular riding to Asheville on the BRP. Traffic? Where? We felt like the road was put there for us. Curve and twist, spectacular views. Picture postcard settings and great company. Our group had really bonded as a traveling unit. Our COGVette chase car was masterfully driven by Mr. Knowles leaving us all amazed that he was always there at every stop. (Not an easy task).

We made it to Asheville late Sunday afternoon to a wonderful sight of numerous Connie’s. Dinner and conversation wrapped up a wonderful 3 days of riding. Bed was an early destination for most of us.

Monday brought a trip to MR Motorsports (think that’s the name) and everything from brake pads, tires, water pumps and a plethora of other mechanical chores they did rapidly for many Cogger’s. Oh yeah, and the girl on the Suzuki 600….. Ask Ernie about that one when you see him. It was a deserved easy day.

Tuesday was the Crown Jewel of riding for us. Jim Clark and Scott Sorger joined up and led us on a terrific ride to The Dragon. Yup, it bite one of ours. Daan got tangled up on one of the Dragon’s tail scales and went down. Luckily he was ok and the bike only suffered minor cosmetic damage. After 3 runs through and plenty of souvenir buying we headed off for the last run through and a great ride out the Cherahola and back to Asheville. GREAT DAY.

Wednesday brought rain and a visit by many to Biltmore Estate. Some super Connie Guru’s spent their valuable time working on some fellow Cogger’s bikes. I wasn’t there so I can’t list everyone, but thank you all for your time. Following the impromptu tech sessions we all went to the Wednesday Banquet. It was wonderful to be part of the largest COG National ever. Tip of the hat to Calvin Underwood and his crew.

Thursday meant a lot of people heading home or to other destinations. There were some emotional goodbyes with Daan and Hans and hopes that we might see them if Linda and I can get to Europe to ride the Alps next summer. We will always hold them and our experiences as treasured moments of our lives. Linda and I headed off to SC and the beach before returning home on Monday.

Unfortunately, this is an abbreviated version of our trip. There were so many people that should be mentioned and so many wonderful things that happened that a short book could be written about our time together with some really wonderful people. I apologize to so many of you that I didn’t mention because of space. Thank you to those that helped and to those new and old friends.

From the left: Brad May AAD-CT, Hans Dresler & Daan Zeydner, Steve Smith-AD during the OTPers visit to CT


Yes folks, it’s that time again! Terry (aka COG crash dummy 2001) Faherty and Scott Sorger are at it again! We’re heading back to the Adirondacks to enjoy the great roads, scenery, and some COG camaraderie. Rally headquarters will again be O’Sullivans Motel, in the Village of Lake George. We have five different self-guided routes mapped out of varying lengths for your riding pleasure, and if the weather cooperates like the last time that won’t be a problem. For those that prefer a pool and hot tub, the EconoLodge right across the street from O’Sullivan’s is a good alternative, but a bit more expensive. The Sundowner next door is also hot tub equipped and a good middle of the road choice. Please mention that you are with Concours Owners group when calling O’Sullivan’s. A good time was had by all in 2000, so let’s keep the good times rolling!

Rally Headquarters: O’Sullivan’s Motel, 410 Canada St., Lake George, NY 12845, 518-668-5424 (rates: double occ. per night; northside motel-$40.00, southside motel-$48.00, housekeeping suites-$60.00, log cabins-$80.00, lakefront cottages-$37.00-$46.00 dbl occ/night; northside motel-$40.00, southside motel-$48.00, housekeeping suites-$60.00, log cabins-$80.00 lakefront cottages-$37.00-$46.00 Alternate Lodging: EconoLodge, 431 Canada St., Lake George, NY 12845, 800-477-3529 (rates: double occ. per night; deluxe (2 queen beds, whirlpool tub, etc)-$132.00 2 queen beds standard room-$76.99; 2 double beds-$64.99 double occ. per night; deluxe (2 queen beds, whirlpool tub, etc)-$132.00 2 queen beds standard room-$76.99; 2 double beds-$64.99 Sundowner Motel, 420 Canada St., Lake George, NY 12845, 518-668-5175 (rates: $45 for a one bed unit, $49 for a regular two double bed unit and up to $139 for a deluxe lakeside room. Housekeeping cabins are $89. $45 for a one bed unit, $49 for a regular two double bed unit and up to $139 for a deluxe lakeside room. Housekeeping cabins are $89.

Rally Fee (in US $): $35 per person for COG members, their family or significant other; $40 each for Non-COG members and their guests. Add an additional $5.00 fee for all registrations received after 9/15/03. Full refund issued before 9/15/03; refund less $5 after 9/15/03; no refund after 10/3/03. We cannot guarantee a banquet meal for registrations received after 10/3/03. Fee remittance address is listed in the box below:

Questions / Comments / Suggestions? Terry Faherty: 718-966-1559 e-mail: [email protected]

Scott Sorger: 516-546-2160

Rally web page: www.concours.org/ne/FallFoliage

Rally Registration Form (Please PRINT Clearly)

Name: (One person per form) ____________________________________________ AMA # _____________ COG #___________

Street: ____________________________________________________________________________________________________

City: ________________________________________________ State/Province: ________________ Zip Code: _______________

Phone: (______)_____-____________ E-Mail: ____________________________________________ Country: _______________

Emergency Contact Information: Name:________________________________________________________

Phone No.: (______)______-___________ Relationship:____________________

Motorcycle model: _____________________ License tag # _____________

Please read and sign the following Concours Owners Group Release: I understand that the Concours Owners Group (COG) cannot assume responsibility for my personal safety in this event. I choose to participate in this event voluntarily, based on my own assessment of my abilities, the routes conditions and facilities, and therefore assume all risks. I release and hold harmless COG, its officers, agents and members from any and all injury and/or loss to my person or property that may result from my participation in this event. I further certify that my vehicle and I are in compliance with all applicable license, insurance and financial responsibility laws applicable to my participation in this event.

All participants under 18 years of age must have their parent or guardian sign the following additional release. As the parent or guardian of the above participant, and being informed or familiar with the risks normally associated with motorcycle events, I hereby consent to his or her participation in this event, and accept and adopt all the representations and assumptions of risk set forth in the foregoing release.

Participant Parent or Signature: ______________________________________ Guardian (if applicable) ___________________________________

C o n c o u r s O w n e r s G r o u p F a l l F o l i a g e To u r, N o r t h

N o r t h e a s t A r e a R e g i o n a l R a l l y October 16th – 19th, 2003

Send lower portion of the Registration Form with rally fee payable to “Scott Sorger” to:

Scott Sorger 227 William St Merrick, NY 11566

ne2003 issue2

Documents