Two Decades of VRCC History

[Beer van Huet]

Colorado Chapter
http://www.valkyrieriders.com/co/

Initial State Rep was Spencer aka "Popsmcwhly", shortly after followed by Damon aka "Misfit" who is still listed in the Rep section. The above CO website adress mentions Raymond aka "Whooray" as State Rep.

Popsmcwhly
 
Well my story is just one of many in my short 1.5years of owning the Valk. On the way to InZane IV this last year when I found myself in Sleepy town AR. On a Saturday Evening I was lucky enough to make it to the Hotel. I made it to the hotel with Steel wear bands popping out of my rear tire.So here we are, Saturday Night in Mountain View AR. (Small Town) With a tire that is about to pop. On our way to Inzane. What to do? Well called a few towing companies, $300-500+ to get me and the bike to the next Large city. Motorcycle shops wernt going to be open till Tuesday. I was a sitting duck. I called my friend in KY who I had met through the VRCC board, and he said lets post a help message. I thought, What the heck it couldn't hurt. I was about to have the bike towed to Memphis TN to wait till Tuesday for the Honda shop to open. Well sure enough I got a phone call Saturday night from a fella in FL but no help there. So we went out for supper and I tried to find a local who wanted to make a couple Hundred to trailor me and the Valk to either Memphis or Little Rock. No Luck. Sunday Morning comes and the phone rings again. It is a VRCC member named John. He says he is about 1.5 hours north of us. He then says I have a old spare Avon, A lift and all the tools to change the tire. And that he could be there in the next 2 hours. WOW now here it is Sunday morning and this fella who I have never talked to or met before is willing to but his Sunday plans on hold and come out of his way to help a complete stranger. I am blown away by this, and accept his offer. So me and my 2 ridding buddies waited for him to show up. We started taking apart what we could to get to the rear tire before he showed up. Sure enough John, my new best friend in AR pulls up in his truck. Oh by the way thank God John also new how to change the tire. I have changed dirt bike tires on the trail but nothing like this. So here we are in the parking lot of the Best Western tearing it down. Well it took all 4 of us to monky that tire off the rim but lo and behold 2 hours later the tire was replaced and the bike was put back together. Now this fella John has just saved my bacon. And I donated a nice cash reward to him for his troubles and the old Avon. So we were back on the road again only 4 hours behind schedule. Now I had never really been much of a group person before. But let me say this really opened my eyes to the power of the group. We met up with John and his lovely wife @ Inzane a few days later. Awesome people associated with this group. I also met a bunch of other really nice people at the ralley. This by far is one story I will never forget. Out in the middle of no-where and SOL when the cavalry comes a callin. Amazing   I owe a favor back to someone in need at some point so if you ever find yourself SOL in Colorado, Pops will come a callin.

May the Power of the Group Ride On......

VRCC’s first mass ride to Colorado started in monsoon conditions, LOL


2006 oZ - Valkyrie Motorcycle Ride in Colorado
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=lfU4heGmmTY

2008 Gary’s Trip Report - Run for the border (southern Colorado)
http://forums.okvalks.com/index.php/topic,1334.0.html

I made a run up to southern Colorado today to check on my place in Alamosa. The weather was great, a tad nippy starting out in the mid 50's. The forecast had scattered showers so I had planned on getting wet at least on the return trip.
I got out of the house before 8 and was on my way. No stop at my usual spot to check out Rio Chama just before Abiquiu this morning since I had hoped to minimize my rain experience today and it was slated for somewhere around 11:00.
As I rolled into Chama I could tell the train was either getting ready to or had just taken off from all the black smoke in the air.
Lots of camera folks out after the train this morning. Got a few shots of the Rio Grande Express just north of Chama.


2009 GorisGreen - Colorado Motorcycle Ride Million Dollar highway
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=YTdNJPUTRiI

   
2012 Scott in Ok - Those great bucket list motorcycle trips - Colorado

Have you taken one of those great motorcycle trips, and marked one off the ole bucket list?  I have several still on my list, but when I got my first Valkyrie in 1999, that bucket list trip was to Colorado. When I was young, my family would take a trip every summer to Colorado on a family Vacation.  It had been twenty years and I wanted to go back and do it all again on a motorcycle.  That trip came together in 2005 with BlackPearl's Captain and Rhonda, Gary(NM), and Buzz(an early VRCC guy who was riding his BMW).
It all started in Alamosa, Co staying at Gary's house.
http://www.valkyrieforum.com/bbs/index.php/topic,39043.0.html



 

2013
Dennis from Blythe
RJ Hey good buddy, there are 752 members in Colorado.

2013 *!*! Colorado Riders !*!* Pikes Peak Or Bust Ride
http://www.valkyrieforum.com/bbs/index.php/topic,58433.0.html (pics at bottom of page)


Josh, our rideleader

2013 Gary’s Trip Report - Mesa Verde & Zion NP’s Run
http://forums.okvalks.com/index.php/topic,1609.0.html
 
I'd left off in San Clemente, leaving my bike at my sister place in SC.
My son and I headed back to New Mexico in his jeep to hold a Yard Sale at my place. Following the Yard Sale, we came back to San Clemente via the more scenic route vs I-40. We headed due NW to Mesa Verde NP. Mesa Verde offers some nice roads and scenic views, especially by bike.
If you're into cliff dwellings, this is the place for you. We have our own in Bandelier NP in my own backyard, this place exceeds that.

Imagine coming back from a long day at the... hunt, and then having to climb up to your complex with your days score? We did see a fellow Valker on the trip, didn't meet them but seemed to be a family of 4 on this pup with AZ plates.

South side distant view of Monument Valley traveling along Hwy 160W just before Kayenta, AZ. We did an overnighter in Kanab, UT and hit Zion NP in the a.m. Since this was tourist season, camp sites and most motels were booked solid. We lucked upon a decent place to stay, The Treasure Trails Motel and then had a nice dinner at The Rocking V Cafe. What kind of ale do you drink when in Zion???





Had a great trip, spending time with my son, daughter, dad and family in general.

In 2013, Misfit started a very nice and extensive thread about Colorado Rides.
http://www.valkyrieforum.com/bbs/index.php/topic,61580.0.html

2014 Poindexter Throckmorton - Heroes & Valkyries on Skyline Drive
Awesome narrow road on top of a 900ft high hogback ridge near Canon City Colorado. Dropoff cliffs on both sides of the narrow road. Traversing the ridge in this video on Valkyrie motorcycles, filmed at 720p front and rear views, picture-in-picture.

MarkT
Skyline Drive just west of Canon City, CO.  I did a couple videos of it on youtube.  That's Misfit in front.
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=r_tG2y3UPYg



2017
Mark T
http://www.f6rider.com/Valk/colorado.htm

I suppose but if we can make it to Crawford we'd like to see what has happened to the Mad Dog Ranch Fountain Cafe.  We have a history there 15 years ago, many trips to visit, stayed at the house, as friends of Pam & George Magenta (her brother) and acquaintances of Joe. Ate in the cafe many times. Pam had a GW trike, and a Shadow. I rode her trike - the only one I've ever been on.  She openly invited bike clubs on their web site.  Kind of annoyed the townfolk, I understood.  She and Joe hosted the VOA ride-in at the town park across the street around 2003 I think it was.  Pretty cool, Joe Cocker giving out the club awards. George had a black and jade '97 or '98. Very aggressive rider, he had a mishap with his niece on the back. We have some pieces from the Cocker's house yard sale around 2008, signed by Joe. We haven't been back since they closed the cafe and now that Joe is gone and Pam has sold the "big house".  As I said before, I noticed the Cafe is up and running again, on a recent ride - I wasn't leading and we just sailed by - I understand from a Western Slope VRCC local (He posted in this thread), under new ownership.
Back in the day, this was a High Country Cruisers ride I think - that's a HCC T-shirt by the front door.  That's George Jackson (who built my "George" bike) behind his yellow wing.


2017 Ron - Fall Color Ride

Well I’m just getting around to posting pictures of my Annual Fall Color Ride to Colorado that I took last week. I was a little early this year, but still got some good colors. I had a great ride and the weather was pretty good most of the ride. When I got to the top Wolf Creek Pass the bottom fell out on the way down. Heavy rain, strong winds, lighting, very close thunder and of course hail (Not to mention I was almost out of gas with 235 miles on the current tank). This went on for about 15 miles, but then I had blue skies again into Pagosa Springs. It was a great trip can’t wait until next year. Enjoy!!


                           Million Dollar Hwy                                                                         Above Lake City




                     The most beautiful out house in Colorado                                             Road to Creede

[Beer van Huet]

Wisconsin Chapter
http://www.valkyrieriders.com/wi/



The current Chapter’s Message board starts in 2004, mainly with concerns about the cold weather

2005 Richard (State Rep) Welcomes Cajun Angel from DFW VRCC



Welcome to the Dairy State, please bring some warm weather with you  . You'll find that the VRCC is a loose organization here in Cheese Land, I don't know why, but even my Honda Riders Club chapter based out of Sportland 2 in Oak Creek suffers from apathy. As always the Wisconsin VRCC Chapter will be what you make of it.

Present State Rep is the Don

2007 Ride Report by Kaz


On Saturday Jack, Lee, John & Travis led John, Denise, Marilyn and I on a ride from Two Rivers to the Kettle Moraine State Forest and back.
We left Jacks place near Two Rivers, WI and proceeded south through Manitowoc to county highway LS to Cleveland where we topped off the tanks. From there we went to Kiel, WI and onto Elkhart Lake where we stopped at a point behind the Road America race track where we watched what appeared to be Porches on the track. We left that stop and went onto Greenbush, WI where we got onto the Kettle Moraine Forest Scenic parkway and followed it through the twisties to a point near Hartford, WI. From there we dropped down to the man's mall commonly referred to as Cabelas, for a short walk about and then it was back on the road to Two Rivers and a barbecue at Jacks'.
In all we put on just a little over 200 miles before it was all said and done but we had great weather and roads. We saw some of Wisconsin’s finest country out there. It was just awesome. There were a total of six bikes and eight riders
When we got back to Jacks' place he threw a cookout for us that beyond words. Thanks for the great ride Jack! Marilyn and I are looking forward to the next one!

Trip Report to da nort
Earlier today, John and Denise Horton, Marilyn and I took a ride up into da nort woods to see the fall colors and some of Wisconsin’s Waterfalls.
We left Green Bay and rode up Interstate 43 until we hit US 41 / 141 and got to the Hwy B exit at Suamico. There, we got off the slab and followed the county roads J and S into Oconto, WI where due to road construction; we stayed on Cty Hwy S until it put us back out on US 41.
We then followed 41 through Peshtigo, WI until we got to the western edge of Marinette, WI. At the intersection of US 41 and WI 180, we turned left or North and started to follow the Menominee River on the Wisconsin side. The Menominee River forms from the confluence of the Brule and Paint Rivers and is part of the border between the states of Wisconsin and Michigan. It runs from its’ head waters north of Iron Mountain, MI to where it discharges into the Bay of Green Bay at the twin cities of Marinette, WI and Menominee, MI.

We stopped at a Marinette County park that was along Hwy 180 near Mc Allister, WI for a short break and some photos along the river and then we proceeded to Wausaukee, WI where we once again hooked up with Hwy 141. We turned north and followed it to Pembine, WI where we topped off the tanks. Then we rode south about two miles to Cty Hwy Z where we turned east and rode the eight miles or so to Miscuano Island and the Four Seasons Resort where we had lunch.
The Four Seasons Resort was built as a getaway for the rich and famous lumber barons back in the late 1800’s. It’s on Miscuano Island which sits in the middle of the Menominee River. A steam train would bring the guests to the island via two trestle’s which are now used as the roads onto the island. Once the guests were on the island, they would be entertained by golf, tennis, canoeing, fishing and swimming. You can still do that there today.

After lunch at the Boundary Waters Café, we left the island and returned to Hwy 141 for the trip back down to Green Bay. Before we would get to Green Bay however, we stopped at Dave’s Falls. Another Marinette County Park. There we walked through the woods to the Pike River and one of a series of waterfalls. Because its fall, the water is much lower than it was in the spring and some areas that were flowing then, were dry but the views were worth the walk.

After we had seen the falls, we saddled up for the ride back to town. We were about seventy miles out at that point so we got onto the bikes and pointed them south until we hit Crivitz, WI where we stopped for a beverage. Then it was back to Green Bay where John and Denise peeled off to the left and Kewaunee and Marilyn and I went down the street to our home.

2008 Copper Harbor Run
Mrs. K. and I hit our door today at approx. 3:30 PM after our trip with Michigan's Misguided to Copper Harbor. As always, we had a great time. Many thanks to Timbr and Chili for setting up such a way cool event. We definitely need to get more Wisconsin dragons into this herd!
Marilyn and I left after work on Friday and rode up to the cabin in Channing, MI where because of the time, we spent the night. This ended up being a good idea because of the storm that blew over us that night. She was a good one and boy did it rain.
 
When we got up on Saturday morning, the skies were clear and it was comfortably warm. We hit the road from Channing at about 09:00 AM and proceeded up M95 to the intersection of M28 & Hwy 41 where we turned left and pointed our Dragon west towards Lanse, Baraga and the Keweenaw Peninsula.
When we got to the Baraga State Park we pulled off the road for a short break and some photos of the Keweenaw Bay. After we dewatered, we pressed on until we hit the town of Chassell, MI where we got stopped by the annual Strawberry fest parade. Ironically, Timbr, Chili and Black Dog were there somewhere enjoying the festivities too.
We drove the parade route at a foot per hour and didn't see anyone we knew so once it was over, we kicked the dragon into hyper speed until we got to Han#### where we stopped for fuel.

When the beast was sated, we once again turned our attention to the ride and headed north to the tip of the Keweenaw and Copper Harbor. The farther we ranged the more desolate it got. There were however small pockets of civilization. Towns such as Calumet and Laurium. We really wanted to go to Gay, MI and have our picture taken in front of the Gay Bar but we were running late and wanted to get to Copper Harbor before the end of the day.
We rode Hwy 41 all the way to its end and then found the motel. Nothing fancy but nice, quiet, and clean. The dragon got fed earlier so once we got checked in, we walked up to the Tammerack Inn where the girls took care of us and we had lunch. Then it was off to the local junk shop for a tee shirt, ice cream or whatever Mrs. K wanted.

Copper Harbor, like most of the little towns up there are just full of little artsy shops and museums like the Finnish Homestead museum. It takes you back to an earlier time when life may not have been so hi tech but just as complicated. The next time we go there, we're going to leave early enough to ride the loop and get some bread from the Monks. We also want to ride to the top of Brockway Mountain and get some panoramic pictures.

Around 4:30 PM RTaz and Devlin pulled in and we paid them a quick visit. Then, a little while later Blackdog rapped at our door and checked in on us.
From Steve we learned about the dinner plans. Chili had made reservations for the group to have dinner at the Keweenaw Mt. Lodge at 7:30 PM.
So after a little goofing around at the motel we waited until the leader said "saddle up" and we all mounted our dragons, wings and VTXs and off we went up to the mountain and its lodge.
Holy wha, what a dinner! Dinner was superb! A salad and Prime Rib buffet fit for a King and what a place, absolutely gorgeous! The lodge has its history back to the 1920s or 30s and is comprised of a series of guest cabins, motel, the lodge itself and a beautiful golf course.

After dinner, we all returned to the motel for the evening’s festivities. Gary wanted some pictures of his dragon on one of the piers so out he drove and because he's such a stud muffin, all the girls decided that they had to have their picture taken with him around his dragon. After that we set up a Goldwing that had an XM radio and listened to the tunes until IT happened.
Someone had set up (I think by magic) three chairs in the middle of the circle and RTaz said "it was time". Earlier in the day I poked him about becoming one of Michigan's Misguided. After all, we now own property in upper Michigan and I figured what da heck?
 
Well, wouldncha know Old Nick himself was there that night and Black Dog, My Bride and I was led to them chairs where Black Dog said to me "if they start putting fire wood around our feet, run!" Then, all the misguided got up and started dancing around us and Old Nick appeared and we were initiated into one of the most prestigious and venerable groups in the VRCC. Michigan's Misguided. I don't think I have laughed so hard in a long time. It was fabulous!
We had a great time and I want to thank Timbr and Chili for all the effort they put into this ride. Mrs. K and I are signed up for the next one!





2008 Midwest Valk Ride In
Yes, it is that time of the year when the roads of Southwest Wisconsin call out to us to ride and have a very enjoyable weekend up in Prairie du Chien, Wisconsin and beyond.
Lee, Dale and I left for Prairie Du Chien on 9/11. We hit some light rain 25 miles into your trip. On with the rain suits all the way there. It was wet but no heavy rain. We stopped for lunch in Beaver Dam, then we stopped in Spring Green by The Ring Brothers to see the Good Guys street car of the year (2nd year in a row they won). It's a small shop that builds some of the best cars in the nation. Look for it on the cover of an upcoming Hot Rod mag. One more stop at a Honda dealer in Richland Center.
Once in Prairie Du Chien, 12 bikes went for a ride on Hwy C lots of turns & hills, then out to eat. The next day we rode north. This is a great place to ride all hills and some tight turns and great scenery. We ended up in Melrose. Dale & I headed home since I had to be home by noon on Saturday and they were talking about rain & more rain so I got home at 10 pm. Dry but tried. Lee stayed till Sunday. They went for a ride on Sat. but it was wet and no fun so they cut the ride short.
On Friday we had 12 or 14 bikes (not sure) On Sat I think they had about 18. Should have had 40 plus bikes but with all the rain some played it safe and stayed home.
Great ride, weather sucked.

2009 Kaz - The New Fox and Hound
Is definitely on the list for a run on the Valkyries this coming summer. Besides, the deserts alone are worth the ride. This was the first of the Wisconsin VRCC winter meetings and it was a huge success. I would like to thank everyone for coming.





2013 - Thedon

Hello Everyone,
We are Don (thedon) and Barb (Barbo) Bartz. We are the new state reps for Wisconsin. We live in Watertown which is in the South-central part of the state. We have been members of the VRCC for 4 years and were asked at Inzane XIII if we wanted to be the reps. We gladly accepted. Since Inzane we have received information on how to get an email list of all the Wisconsin VRCC members. We got that. Thanks Scott!!! Thanks to NICO from the Chicago area for sending me his survey which I edited and sent out to everyone on the list. If you did not receive an email with a link to the survey, please send me a PM and I'll get it to you. We look forward to, hopefully, getting the word out on rides or events from all parts of Wisconsin. Please check the Wisconsin board often as this will be used for posting of events.
 
2017 Oss - Highway 42, the northern end Door County

[Beer van Huet]

Georgia Chapter
http://www.valkyrieriders.com/ga/

Smilin’Jack

After many exceptional rides with Earthdog he mentioned that he road to Dayonta with some crazy folks. He told me they actually left him in the dust.... Jeff had his Valkyire at that time and thanks to Gary Williams showing off on Hwy 60 near Suschess I decided it was time to plunge and get a Valkyrie.
Nov 16, 2000. I purchased my Valkyrie in Southern Ill, Drove all night to get it and returned to GA the following day. Joined the VRCC and soon was involved in many of the activities such as the fund to help fellow members who were hurt. It was Lamont and Sonny in California who really got me involved with the VRCC. Although I had not ever met either of them.
Then.....I had a ride to Daytona with a lot of folks TNT. JW, Christian Earthdog and a host of others.. What a blast....I knew I found a great bunch of folks and met Lamont in Daytona also with Highlander whom I had posted with many times on the board. The rest is history.... Some of my dearest friends are right here. My daughter also joined us in Daytona and made a special friend with Christian....after a comment she'll never forget at dinner.
There are so many folks that ride Valkyries in GA because of Jeff and I letting them on our bikes. we have a great group here in GA and really feel great to belong to this group on the BBR. I have had the opportunity to see a lot of folks on the road while traveling such as RJ and others in Airzona. Folks like Ray Hall, Ray Oubre, Big Don and a host of others have made a life time of memories.

2000 Helen - As experienced by Jim Duffy

At the height of the activity there were some 75 or so bikes gathered in Helen, GA. for the weekend.
For those who couldn’t or didn’t make it, and have never been to Helen GA, it is a small, picturesque German Village nestled in the northeast corner of The Great State of Georgia.   As we neared Helen the roads just got better & better.  Vicki managed to scrape her pegs several times and declared she had done this in Jim’s (DIA BOH) honor, as his job kept him from attending the Gathering.

On Friday, guys and gals were arriving at the host Motel for the Southeastern Gathering of the Valkyries.  The event was sponsored by the Dixie Desperados and was hosted by Dave and Debbie Lott. Friday evening, as we waited in line to buy shirts and such, conversing with those who were also waiting, we enjoyed drinks and chips with one of the best cheese dips I’ve ever had, and those who met me can testify to the possibility of my having tasted many.

The host Motel was a choice of shear genius; I’ll go into that a little later.  The rooms didn’t have all the little niceties like a refrigerator, microwave, or coffeepot, but they were spacious, clean, and something high on my list, had plenty of hot water.  The beds were also comfortable so I’d give it at least an 8 rating so far.
As the evening approached, the dinner meal was drawing near. Earlier I had walked across the street in search of some adult beverages and supplies. We found a nice German Restaurant with wide selections on their menu.  The group we were with decided to make that our restaurant of choice, and as we entered, we found it was Karaoke night.  For some this is a fun thing, for me it means loud music and no conversation.
As is usually the case, there were some really good singers who must do this often, but there were also the rank amateurs who almost made you run for the doors?  The Karaoke Master had a little fun with the group of Valkyrie riders by starting a song most people knew, then shoving the microphone into someone’s face to sing a verse.  Fortunately, it never got to me.  Not only did I not know the words; I couldn’t see the monitor either.  Not to mention I can’t carry a tune in a bucket.

At my table was a friend, John Rogers, who attends a guitar work shop almost every year, so he’s not only familiar with a number of songs but does have a little experience performing in public.  He selected a song and sang to the delight of all.  One of the better singers if I do say so myself.  John is one of the parties I rode to the event with, he, on his Yellow and Cream Valkyrie, me, on my Magenta Goldwing, Miss Vicki, my SO, on her Purple and White Valkyrie with the beetle bags, and Lynda and Donnie Nelson on their White Goldwing.
After dinner, and enough song to last the evening, we headed back to the Motel, and this is where the choice of Motel really showed its brilliance.  Since all the room entrances were to the parking lot instead of a central hall way, groups of riders were pulling up chairs from the rooms and pool area to form up small “Parking Lot Camp Fires.”  The only thing missing was the fire.  It was great to sit and hear the stories of how everyone found themselves riding the Valkyrie, the personalizing touches made to their Bikes, and how many guys wanted their Ladies to ride their own Valk!
 

As a rider myself, and having had the opportunity to do a little time on my SO’s Valk, it’s easy to understand not only why so many have made the change to “The Fat Lady, or The Dragon”, which ever you prefer, but also why they are so excited about the Bike, and how it draws an otherwise diverse group into a close-knit knot of friends.  At one time I had already written an article on “Why a Valkyrie?” It may be still on my hard drive if anyone’s interested. As the night grew old, almost as if by magic, most everyone turned in for a little sack time before the coming day’s rides.
Saturday morning came quickly, and the activities in the parking lot started early.  The Deals Gap ride was pulling out at 08:00 sharp because it was pretty much an all-day ride.  This ride was being guided by Bubba Hog (Hal Hogan), who is well known for his ability to take the twisties with the best of them.
A short time after the Deals Gap riders pulled out, two more groups formed up. The common choice, it seems, of the two groups was the Highland ride, but fortunately we took different paths.  I estimate there were at least 25 bikes total between the second and third groups to pull out.  Our paths did cross at some point during the ride, and I believe both groups were in Highland, NC at the same time, but we never caused a problem with traffic anywhere we went.  It seemed we rode about 6 or 7 hours with a lunch break in the city of Highland, and traveled the States of Georgia, North Carolina, and a little piece of South Carolina.  We were led by Mark Bo and Tiny, who did a great job of navigating the back roads. All totaled, the Memphis group rode in 6 states this weekend, the above mentioned three as well as Tennessee, Alabama, and Mississippi.  

As our host had commented, you can’t make a bad turn in this neck of the woods.  Every road has its challenges and was fun to ride.  Mark’s SO, Miss Karen, was riding her own V Star and she hung with the best of them.  Strangely, Sunday morning as we were getting ready to leave I noticed her front tire had most of the center tread intact and the side tread worn down about a sixteenth of an inch.  Not like riding in Memphis where we wear our tires flat.

After returning to the Motel for a little refreshment, we heard about Phil Ferguson, the fellow from Alabama, who lost it during his ride and was taken to the Hospital.  He was riding one of the other two purple and white Valkyries.  Vicki and I had talked with him earlier that morning while refueling.  This was sad news and dampened our spirits, but we soon heard he was banged up and had a few broken bones but nothing life threatening.  Later on the web page a picture showed Phil sitting up in the hospital smiling with the V sign for Valkyrie.  I’m sure I speak for everyone when I wish him a speedy recovery and an insurance adjuster who rides.

Before the planned group dinner at Unicoi Lodge we visited the local leather and T-shirt stores for a little shopping.  There was a nice leather jacket that John wanted, but the price was a little too steep, so we had to let it go.  The owner demonstrated a pocket hidden in the jacket he said would be perfect for carrying a piece (Handgun).  He commented that he always carried one when he rode.  I asked why he felt it necessary to carry a gun, and he related an incident that happened to him.  “I was riding, approaching an intersection when a four-wheeler ran the stop sign.  He asked if I knew what he had done, to which I replied…” You shot the SOB”!?  The owner, after hearing my reply, looked at me a little funny and said…” No! I laid my bike down!”  It was about this time another customer distracted him and we all looked at each other trying to figure out what that story had to do with carrying a gun.  I guess you had to be there?  
 
After that amazing story we went upstairs to the shirt shop and I selected a T-shirt for my upcoming weekend with my brothers on Dale Hollow Lake. We then headed back to the Motel to prepare for the ride to Dinner.
Now this was pretty impressive too, some 50 or so bikes about 99% Valkyries, pulled onto the main drag through town to ride to dinner.  I believe we counted 56 bikes at the dinner, and a few more later at the group photo.
The Lodge was a huge place who served dinner to others as well as our group; we did however have our own dining room.  On the menu were…let’s see, shrimp cocktail, salad, beef tips, pork and sauerkraut, scalloped potatoes, notice the “S” on potato, nobody eats just one, and many desserts.  For Banquet food, it was pretty good.  

After dining, Dave got up to say a few words, and updated us on Phil Ferguson’s condition.  It sounded like Phil would be OK.  Dave and Debbie got a standing ovation for the work they had put into making this ride the best motorcycle event I’ve even been to.
There were door prizes too, and as they were drawn, a strange thing happened.  Dave asked the Rabbi to draw from the hat, actually more like a piece of Tupper Ware. With his head twisted away and looking to the heavens, he drew about three or four names of people who were sitting close to him.  Bill Carty and his wife, from the Nashville, TN area, were both winners. This looked a little strange, but that’s about it.  He reached into the hat, and drew I believe five times.

Now luck is a strange thing and can be amazing too.  One of the guys from the Memphis group, Mr. Ed Bell riding a Red and White Valkyrie, won the $40.00 gift certificate from the leather shop mentioned earlier.  Ed knew John wanted that expensive jacked from the leather shop, you know, the one with the carry pocket, so he offered the certificate to John, who added it to the already generous 10% discount, and picked up the jacket for the ride home.  It’s nice to know people of this caliber, and the amazing thing is we were with a whole room full of them.  Lastly, while picking up the jacket, they asked the owner if he was going to take a loss on the jacket and he said no, he wouldn’t make much but wouldn’t lose either…another winner.
After dinner, at the Motel, another evening of “Parking Lot Campfires” was under way.  Miss Vicki treated some to her special recipe Margarita, a real treat.

I’d also like to mention one other aspect of Valkyrie life.  Those of you who go to the VRCC website and visit the chat room will be familiar with Barbarian and his “Band of Hooligans”.  Well, they were well represented too.  Of course, the ranking member of the Band of Hooligans on site was the VP, Miss Vicki, my own SO.  Also in attendance was Mark Bo, DCO i.e. the Director of Culvert Operations, Tiny, VFT i.e. Valkyrie food tester, Bubba Hog, DOVAH, i.e. Director of Valkyrie Approved Highways, and 8ball, NPTI i.e. National Pool Table Inspector.  (If any other Hooligans were present and I missed you please forgive Miss Vicki & I).  Conspicuously absent…Barbarian himself.  After making all the noise about Black Valkyries being fastest and challenging my SO to a race to prove his theory, he candied out. ;-) It’s probably best he wasn’t there, as I understand it, the race was supposed to be a straight-line race, and as we all realize, there would have been no place to hold it.

At the dinner, the people who had the longest ride from home to Helen were recognized, and it was a couple of guys (sorry I can’t remember all the names) from Pennsylvania.  However, after dinner at the parking lot campfire, who should arrive…late but still smiling…Crazy Al.  He had come from some point north of Chicago.  
He pulled up on his Black Valkyrie, with GPS and radar detector wrapped in Baggies, and a hand-written scrolling device for directions.  I think Al deserves some recognition for having ridden the furthest and dealing with the worst weather and still making it even if it was all but over when he got there. A true example of the Valkyrie Spirit!  As the British would say…” We Shall Endeavor to Persevere!”  He did however, get to enjoy some of the campfires.

Sunday morning started out dark and rainy.  A quick glance of the parking lot showed all the chairs had been returned to their proper location and no signs of the parties the night before.
I had to make room in my Wing to stow the old jacket John had worn to the event (typical of an ex-Harley rider), and with this done, most of the Memphis group was ready for the road.
We rode for about an hour and a half before we ran out of the rain, but it took several more hours before the clouds cleared and the sky looked good.  We arrived home some 10 hours later. I know this doesn’t do justice to the weekend, but I didn’t want to take weeks writing up the event.  It’s also just one man’s experience, and I never really got to see the West Side of the Motel.
I really enjoyed the weekend and look forward to next year’s Helen Gathering as well as Montrose, CO. in July.







The Annual Southeastern Gathering of the Valkyries takes place in Helen from Friday through Sunday.  While focused on the 'Cruiser of the Decade' - the magnificent Honda Valkyrie - the event is open to all riders and makes of motorcycles.  The primary objective of the Gathering is to allow Valkyrie owners to get together at the beginning of the prime riding season and taste once again the delights of the north Georgia roads.  We start with a Reception and Registration on Friday evening.  For those that arrive early, there will be a couple of escorted rides around the area on Friday afternoon.  Saturday will be a full day with lots of rides (escorted and self-directed) and a group ride up for another great dinner and door prizes. Sunday morning will see folks starting to pack; but some may get in one more ride before heading home.

Warren
Gosh there are so many but for me the coolest thing was the fact that the Valk group changed my life. I have a bunch of great high speed riding memories that I'll never forget but it's been the people that are my favorite story. I have never been a people person. I have had a few close friends in my life but not just a whole bunch of friends. I had wrenched on a few bikes before the Valk thing but never met so many folks that loved to tear their bikes apart and make them "better." I rode out to Montrose for the VOA rally all by myself. That was right after I got my first new Valk and wanted to see what this whole thing was about. The rest is history. On the way home I was deep in thought about how a lot of my life had been wasted by not reaching out more to people and making new friends. Long story short...since that time I have made a bigger effort to meet new people and make new friends. Who ever woulda thunk that having a love for bikes would lead to having such a big love for other people that also love bikes (there's a lot of LOVE in that sentence   ) I still have a long way to go in the area of people skills but this fine group of Valkyrie folks and BBR folks has made me a better person.

2004 5th Annual Southeastern Gathering of the Valkyries in Helen, GA
https://web.archive.org/web/20040404111551/http://www.voaridein.com:80/helenmain.htm
 
2006 - Dragons on the Beach Multistate Event
http://www.valkyrieriders.com/panamaride/Home.htm



Weekend Events:  Thursday through Friday:  Morning and evening
Registrations

Thursday evening: tire kicking in parking lot and BLUE MOOSE lounge for
socializing

Friday: 11:30 kickstand up Lunch group ride to OUTLAWS for
some "Q"
Friday Evening at 5:45 kickstands up for group ride to Tony Romas for group dinner. Afterwards, Tire Kicking and REELAY the DJ in the BLUE MOOSE Lounge

Saturday Morning: Kickstands up at 9:00 for group ride to the WALL in Milton, FL then lunch.
Saturday Evening: PAVILLION Party with Reelay the DJ, raffles, Chinese
Auction, Grand Prize, Ladies tattoo Contest (if wanted) and socializing.



2013 Andy (Germany Rep) pays a visit to Duffy

Duffy
I am happy to report that I will be riding up to meet Yuri (Ice) and Petra, and Andy and Biene from Germany Sunday.  
We plan to ride around that area some (maybe Skyline Dr and New River Gorge..) and may head further south. Anyone in the area want to hook up Monday thru... (?) next week let us know.
It will be great to see the Germans again, they are all very nice. Andy and Biene invited me to stay with them in Berlin when I went over for Werner's memorial service in 2011. They are awesome
And Ice heard I was trying to hook up with Andy while he is here visiting his mom and opened his home. What great people VRCC friends are, around the world.  Thanks Yuri and Petra!
See y'all Sunday.  


Andy
This Club Rocks, what great people are here.
Hope to meet some of you on our way down south.

Jess from VA

Well, Yuri, Petra, Duffy, Andy and Biene and I departed Winchester VA for a long WVa loop yesterday... Seneca Rocks, then up the mountain to Cacapon State park and Blackwater Falls.  We did not get any rain, we got a snowstorm.  Stopped in a nice custom coffee shop and took a break, and watched the heavy blowing snow with some humor.  It slowed, we got on the road, and it started again.  I've been in colder weather and in snow fluries before, but never ridden a motorcycle in a near whiteout blizzard that covered my windshield before.  Everyone lived.  Off the mountain and halfway home the sun came out and 50* never felt so good before.


Short video of lid falling off Andy's hardbag
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=G-RbADaE1MA

2018 T-Bird about Smokin Joe's Fall Color Ride

Smokin Joe, always a great time at one of your rides....even if you don't ride   It's all about the company now, But I had a great time hanging with the women folk Saturday!
Joe, Rick & Christy, Mark, Preston, Gorden, Roger, Mike, Robin & Judy,  Keith, Jane, Big Tom, Jim & wife, Duffy, Coot, Lance, Stanley, Binky, Skin head Joe, Dan, & Trish, Tom & Joyce, Mac,  Gig, LuLu, Mitch, Dex, & Sugar thanks for all the good memories over the years, you guys are family, A special  thank you to 2 great roommates every year, Steve (Rainman) Hal (hal47)
I hope to start caging to more of these rides  
 
P.S. Britman, I never did get to talk with you, hope to see you in the future, I miss that damn accent!

[Beer van Huet]

Kentucky



2004 Indiana Covered Bridge Ride



 



2010 Lady Draco – Whiskey Run
Each year Highbinder and Smokin’Joe set up a big ride a VRCC Event …This year was not different… This year’s destination was Bardstown
                                                          We checked out the Dinner Train.

Saturday morning staging. And of course, some tire kicking. Ya always like to see what someone else has done to their Valk. We had 60 bikes but a few riders heard that big rains where coming, and some locals just stopped by to say Howdy.
Pibit headed home to Can... To try and beat some heavy rain up his way.

So, we now left with 54 bikes in all… Heading to Makers Mark Distillery.  Ah time for Dragon herding… Highbinder takes point. Wow!! That is some line of riders… That's our buddy Smokin'Joe behind me.
The group stayed together very well. Highbinder is an excellent Dragon herder… We had other CB's in the group that really helps to keep a group of Dragons together. Our buddies Thom & Mike rode Drag. They are way in the back...

Once we got to Makers Mark and settled down. The Tour will start.

With that finished it was time to take in a little country side ride and eat at the River Bend State Park. The rain was holding off... Once we snaked our way to the state park... Bandit knows what's under a kilt: evil. He told the ladies: augie at this point my cameras batteries died...Once we ate we were to go to the Corvette museum, but it was so bloody hot that we all scattered like a covey of quail and headed back to the hotel. Once back to the hotel everyone jumped in the pool

We sure had a grand time. With our old and new friends.
Bikes ~Good Friends~ Whiskey~ Pool. It just doesn't get any better than that... Yes, life is good...


https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=MEw2pkfgfak

5 years ago we started these rides, 1st was the Blue/Gray Ride to Gettysburg, Pa., 2nd was the Whiskey Run to Bardstown, Ky., 3rd Hillbilly Highways to Franklin, W.Va., then Hillbilly Highways II to Marion, Va. This year its back to Kentucky to the Cumberland Gap….if you haven’t join in on any of these rides in the past now is the time!


The ride starts at the Landmark Inn in Corbin, Ky. on Friday May 24th and ends Sunday morning May 26th….Friday night is when everyone gets acquainted around the pool area and parking lot, kicking tires, telling stories, and enjoying the company of your fellow riders…The ride starts out Saturday morning at 9 am taking a leisurely ride thru the back country of Kentucky, over the ridges and along the rivers until we get to the Cumberland Gap stopping at the visitor center and museum, from there lunch at Ryan’s. After lunch we head back to the motel stopping at the Cumberland Falls State Park along the way…this area is rich with history and historical places and great scenery, so if you can, come join us and experience the camaraderie of the VRCC and what makes this club so special, riding the Valkyrie Motorcycle or whatever you may be riding.
 

2013 Rainman - Ky Memorial Day Ride




Highbinder - What I learned at the Kentucky Memorial Day Ride…
1.   I learned that after doing 5 years of these rides that each one is as good the last  one or better..
2.   I learned that in KY,VA. And TN., the speed limit is just a suggestion….
3.   I learned not to stand next to trailers that look like boats because they leak..
4.   I learned that riding between Fudgie and Kip is not a healthy thing to do because their bikes are kissing cousins…
5.   I learned that Oss’s slow ride abilities can be put to use as drag rider and he does a great job….
6.   I learned that when you blow your horn with 75-100 Valkyries in the parking lot, it looks like someone yelled “START YOUR ENGINES’, people snapping down helmets, putting on gloves, buttoning jackets, adjusting sunglasses, engines revving and hands on the handlebars waiting for the first bike to move…you’ve have to see it someday..
7.   I learned that Lawdog, one of our latest members, can stop 4 lanes of traffic without getting off his motorcycle, good job Lawdog..
8.   I learned that if you want a manly message delivered to your wife just grab 3valks and have him deliver the message, it gets profane results…
9.   I learned that with all the spare parts that Valk riders carry, if you put them all together you could probably build another motorcycle…
10.  I learned after 5 years these rides, that you can put 75-100 motorcycles together in one ride and keep it together for a couple of hundred miles and still have fun, these rides seem to bond the riders closer together, having all the bikes in one group at gas and break stops, folks share ride experiences with each other and such…plus one big group meal together…… with almost all the folks being together from the start of the event to good-byes on Sunday…seems to work, because each year I see a lot of the same friendly faces every year….its the bikes that start the bond and it’s the bikes that strengthen it..
11.  I learned that when you call Ryan’s Restaurant and tell them you coming with 100 people in about 1 hour, they tend not to believe you,..Robin and Judy went ahead and informed them we were really coming and they still had their doubts..when we pulled into the parking lot they were all smiles...
12.  I learned a lot about the bikes we ride, talking to different people who have tried different equipment, tires and such…we have a great time talking bikes..
13.  I learned that next years ride will be called “Return to Hillbilly Highways” hope to see you all again next year…

2013 Robert H - Kentucky Mountain Ride
Another great ride with the VRCC crowd.  Rode some bodacious roads.  If you have not ridden the Daniel Boone National Forest or Cumberland Gap area, I highly recommend it.  What a great time.  Fantastic ride.
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=bC-lvR7Qxo4



 

 

[Beer van Huet]

NW Chapter

In 2010, VERMIN from Washington State and the Pacific NW was incorporated in the VRCC.

2010 Redline - Northwest Valkyrie Spring Roundup

The new Washington State Chapter, the Vermin Club, extends an invitation to join us on our excursion into Idaho to ride Lolo Pass, May 14-16. The Lolo Pass area is a central location for WA, OR, ID, MT, and Southern BC Valk riders.
Lolo Pass, elevation 5,233 feet, is a mountain pass in the northern Rocky Mountains on the border between Montana and Idaho, approximately 25 miles west-southwest of Missoula, Montana. It is famous as the location where the Lewis and Clark Expedition crossed the summit of the Bitteroot Range via the Lolo Trail on their outward and return journeys in 1805-06.
If you like curves, this is one of the best roads West of Deals Gap. US Highway 12, consisting of predictable, constant radius sweepers along the river with some twisties up towards the top of the pass, is Valk nirvana! The road surface is abundantly wide and generally in good repair. However, as great as the road is, the scenery is better, it’s beautiful country.
The Vermin will arrive in Orofino, Idaho Friday afternoon/evening, May 14th and be staying at the White Pines Motel. We reserved the entire motel, it’s not real big, as of this writing rooms are still available. There are other motels in the area if needed.
There will be a meet and greet dinner Friday evening at the Ponderosa Cafe. Saturday we ride US Highway 12 towards Lolo Pass and stop for lunch at Lochsa Lodge. Continue on to Lolo, fuel, turn around, and ride back to Orofino for another fun filled evening. The Vermin will ride back to Seattle on Sunday. So...round'em up and ride'em to Idaho...we’ll meet ya there.
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=utQu38FVQzg - Warning: This video contains annoying BMW sounds.

2016 Photochaser - Pics from NW Chapter ride from Port Angeles to Cape Flattery
http://www.valkyrieforum.com/bbs/index.php/topic,88425.0.html





2007 Tour Mt St. Helens
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=H-UogdeXva8

2014 Whooray
 
VRCC ROCKS....I know that there are a lot of us Valkyrie riders out here and I just wanted a place where we could make contact without going to the "VRCC general board"

First of all if any of you in your areas are having a get together at any time please put a note here so everyone can read it. If given enough advanced notice it could be possible for others to attend that are further away.

INZANE....If you have never been, you need to go...seriously, I know you won’t regret it.  I’m already planning on going to the next one... we have the dates. We can meet up and ride out together wherever it is. Get together with someone from your area and share a room if possible.

I know the VRCC members and they want to help you love on your Valkyrie.
Thanks for your time and let’s stay in touch.... now get out there and ride.     
 
2014 Greg Cremer - Ride to Glacier
The nature and scenery shots are stunning. 
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=x1kryQHT9ko

[Beer van Huet]

Oregon Chapter
http://www.valkyrieriders.com/or/home.htm



The Oregon Chapter was founded in January of 2002 by Kirk Baumann, Doug Filer and Ric Martin.

2005 - Craig "FlatSixRider" Adrien     
With some encouragement from a few fellow Valkyrie riders, I (Craig, FlatSixRider) have decided to resurrect the Oregon Chapter website.  With much thanks going to Kirk Baumann who designed the website and assisted in starting the Oregon Chapter nearly 4 years ago.   Having had the good fortune of meeting several local riders, I feel there is a need to organize more rides and meetings.  Let's show the likes of RatDog, Strider, Oz, and f6gal what we can do!

Our goal is to highlight the Valkyrie community here in Oregon, as well as provide riders everywhere with information about riding in Oregon. We feel our state has some of most beautiful scenery and best motorcycle roads you'll find anywhere. From the steep rocky coastline to the snowcapped mountains to the high desert rim rock canyons, you'll find something to float your boat here. Turn the Fat Lady on and go for a ride!

Since Oregon is a large state, we encourage members throughout the state to plan rides in their area. Feel free to send us the ride info such as dates, meeting places, locations, etc. and we'll post it on the site for you.  A big thanks goes out to Lamont & Oz for creating a place where all Valkyrie riders can come together and share their knowledge and camaraderie.

2002 Ride-In by the Kirkster
We had a pretty decent turnout for our first ride-in. All in all, we had about twenty people for breakfast each morning and eleven bikes on our Saturday ride. Our route took us from Bend through Alfalfa and across the dam at Prineville Reservoir. Then in to Prineville and out to Smith Rock State Park. From there we went to Sisters for lunch and on up the McKenzie pass road to the big lava fields. We went back to Bend after that and relaxed a bit before meeting for dinner. Sunday, we had a big breakfast and chatted for a long time in the IHOP parking lot, before everyone went their separate ways home. We had members from Klamath Falls, Heppner, Hermiston, Bend, Redmond, Spokane and the PDX area. It was a great weekend and many new friendships were made. We will definitely do this again... it was mucho fun.












2001 - VRCC & Vermin Invade Detroit, Oregon

50's Cruise In at the Lake September 15th, 2001
A few of us from the Portland area took a nice little cruise to a car and bike show in the tiny mountain town of Detroit Oregon. Drifter (Doug Filer) entered and walked away with first place in the stock category leaving a few Harley riders scratching their heads but acknowledging the work Doug put into his ride and giving him due respect. Sadly, I missed the obligatory "rolling burnout" that Doug did during the parade of winners but I was able to capture the award ceremony.







Valks Over the Cascades

Wow, what a trip!
It all started on Friday morning, June 29th. I met Ric (Valkano) and George Yarbourough at the Elmer's restaurant in Clakamas, OR for breakfast and then we took off for what was to be a great weekend of riding in the incredible natural beauty of Central Oregon.

Friday, June 29th, 2001
I met Ric Martin (Valkano) and George Yarbourough at the Elmer's at OR 211 and I-205. After a nice omelet and coffee, we took off up the twisty Clakamas River Road and over the lower Cascades to Detroit, Oregon. Detroit Lake was all but dried up due to the drought this year, but we stopped for a photo anyway. It was the 3 musketeers on 3 black Valks, heading for the hills.
From Detroit we headed over the high Cascades to Sisters. The Harley dealer in Bend has a shop in Sisters to sell t-shirts, hats, stuffed animals and all those other Harley accoutrements. We decided to park there while we ran across the street to get a bite to eat.
After leaving Sisters, we headed to Bend to check out the Bend Bikefest. The event was sponsored by the Norwestars (a Yamaha club) and there were mostly metric V-Twins there at this point. We saw one Valk there (black of course) and what do you know, it was Musclehead (Tom Rudd). Now we had 4 black Valks (Hmmm, where are all the 2-tones... Still back in Portland? LOL!) We chatted with Tom a bit but he had to go to work, so we rode out to Prineville.
I was staying with friends there and Ric and George were heading back to Portland that evening. We stopped for gas in Prineville and the kid at the service station said, "Man, this is the most impressive motorcycle I've ever seen". I told him he'd probably never see three at the same time anytime soon.
As Ric and George headed west back to Portland, I headed up the steep dirt road to Uncle Cliffie's hideaway, where fried chicken, jo-jos (potato wedge fries) and cold beverages were awaiting my arrival.



Saturday June 30th, 2001
Cliff and Jerrie have had a peacock squatting on their land for about a year. If you've never heard a peacock squawking at 6am you're luckier than I am, and Clyde who lives on the end of the ridge don't like the daggone thing either. So I guess I shouldn't have been surprised when I heard a gunshot while lying there in bed at 6:30am. Clyde missed, so I guess old "Biggie" gets away with it this time.
After getting my usual daily dose of java, I called Musclehead to see what the plan was. We met at the Bikefest at around 11:00am and walked around to check out the machinery. There were actually some Valks there that day including a wild custom named Valkzilla. We walked around for a bit and then took off for a ride up on the Cascade Lakes Highway. Upon our return to the Bikefest, we were informed that we had missed the bikini bike wash. DOH!   
Tom and I hung around at the Bikefest for a while and then I decided to head back over to Prineville. When I got back to Cliff and Jerrie's, I stuffed the Valk back in the woodshed and headed in to get some grub. After dinner, we dragged some chairs up on top of the ridge to do some stargazing.
The night was crystal clear and the breeze was cool. As the sun tucked itself away behind Grizzly Mountain, the sky above us was transformed into a black swatch with a billion twinkling pinpoints scattered across the horizon.



Sunday July 1st, 2001
I woke up Sunday to a homemade breakfast of waffles, bacon and plenty of hot coffee (black, of course). After helping Cliff load some junk in his truck for a trip to the landfill, I packed up my gear and prepared for a scenic ride home. One more time down that daggone dirt road and then off to my first scenic stop.

 
Smith Rock State Park is only about 8 miles from Cliff's place as the crow flies, but on the road it's about 20 miles. The beauty of this place never ceases to amaze me and I stop here every chance I get when I'm in this neck of the woods. After leaving Smith Rock I headed back to Sisters and grabbed a bite to eat.
After lunch, I decided to take the scenic route back over the Cascades and I headed up McKenzie Pass. Mother nature did some serious regurgitating up here and there are huge lava fields that stretch for miles scattered between the high Cascade peaks.

 The road is narrow and twisty and you really have to watch out for gravel in the turns. As I was pulling over at a scenic overlook, what to my wandering eyes should appear, but yet another black Valk! It was Keith (K-man) and Terri Odoms from Bend. Keith is involved in the Christian Motorcyclists Association and is a member of the Prison Ministry Team. He told me that he rides his Valk into the prisons and that really gets their attention. Keith has been with the VRCC for a while (member # 498)! OK, so I'm only about 10,000 behind him at 10,419.

After riding down the twisty McKenzie pass road, I hit Highway 126 and backtracked about 20 miles so I could pick up Highway 20 to Albany. I practically had the whole road to myself for miles, but finally hit a string of vehicles with trailers. The first chance I got I kicked it down a gear and blasted past them. When I was gassing up in Albany, the attendant asked me how to pronounce the name of my bike. He said he had never seen one and that they get bikes coming through there all the time. He couldn't stop staring at the Valk and my head was getting too big to fit back into my helmet at this point.
Well, it was all highway back home from there on out. What a great weekend! To Ric (Valkano) and George, thanks for riding out with me. It was a blast! To Tom (Musclehead), thanks for the ride to the Cascade Lakes area and thanks to your daughter for the extra roll of film! Keith and Terri, it was great meeting you and I hope to run into you again out there in God's country! And finally, to all you folks out there in VRCC land... come and visit us out here in the Great Northwest. We'll show you a good time!







2015 - Whooray
We (Kirk, Gary, Greg. Merle and me (Raymond) certainly had a great time on the Pacific Coast last week. From Boise and back we did about 1800 miles all total. We stayed in Lincoln City the whole time and took in as many sights as we could up and down the Oregon coastline.  Like I said it was a great ride with great friends except........ the smoke from all the fires. We had smoke from Boise to just west of Eugene Oregon.
On the way back, we even went to Crater Lake and rode the rim but the smoke was so thick that you couldn't see the beauty of the lake its self, maybe next time.

[Beer van Huet]

Idaho Chapter


                                     Pic by Hershell Phillips                                                                        State Rep Whooray

2010 Mikes1800 - This is the third leg of the Lowman Loop, Banks ID to Garden Valley ID on the Banks-Lowman Road.
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=mOgHq8JfvG8

2013 Greg Cremer - Greg & Doug's Excellent Florida Motorcycle Adventure
Great Vid - Florida to Idaho, 3500 miles in 20 minutes
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=odNluvZSzEY&list=UU_Z_sG8UTdpGbyDkqZDoAMA

2014 …….and Greg has more!
Riding down the Pacific Coast Highway on a motorcycle has been on my bucket list since I first rode it in the rain on a Yamaha 650 twin back in 1978. Well, fast forward to February 2014. The bike is a 6-cylinder Honda Valkyrie. Smoothest sport cruiser on the road. My brother and his wife and I took a trip down to Santa Barbara, CA from southern Idaho in February. We trailered the bikes to Sacramento (mainly because there was so much ice on the road and it was -17 outside). Then rode from Sacramento down, and then back up again on Coast highway 1. What an awesome trip!

Coast highway 1 or bust by njs
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=8jwLHUhQiTI

2014 Nogrey
I've been riding Honda Valkyries for about 5 years now. I've personally taken maybe 20 Honda Valkyries from junk to beautiful. I currently own all 3 models. I have sold or caused several friends to buy them and enjoy riding with my Valk buddies. My question is this: What does it take to have an "Official" "Idaho Chapter" of the VRCC?

Willow
Just you and Whooray (Chapter Rep) and a few Valkyrie riding friends.

Redline
Our Idaho brothers have started a Chapter Board for Northwest Valkyrie Riders. I found this video staring our new member LocoMech and his wife Gina. The video was produced by VRCC member Greg Cremer (Nogrey) from Nampa, Idaho. It's worth a watch.

2014 Nogrey - Coeur D’Alene
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=rUpJrZdNpUM&feature=player_embedded

It was a BLAST for Gina and I. It was our first a definitely not last meet-n-greet with them. What awesome people to spend time with! Greg is a first-rate videographer and they showed us an awesome part of their wonderful state.

Greg Cremer/Nogrey
I just have to say, as I get ready to ride to the Oregon coast with some of my best friends. It wouldn't be so where it not for the Valkyrie. I honestly believe that someday, it will be heralded as one of the greatest motorcycles ever commercially built. Even if it isn't, and I really just can't believe that it isn't, it's the most amazing bike I've ever seen, heard, or ridden. Call me smitten, but this is the bike for me. I know, the triumph rocket is awesome, so is the Hyabusa, and a myriad of other smokin' machines. But none of them garner what I perceive to be the "true American Motorcycle". I mean, there's a bike in my mind that I see to be the "Charles Bronson" bike. The "real" sports cruiser. It's the Honda Valkyrie, a true biker’s motorcycle. Just my opinion.

2014 Nogrey - Great ride to Bogus Basin
Had a great ride today(short but sweet) Rode up to Bogus Basin in Boise with Greg, Gary and Shaun. Good times! Found some really nice older sports cars in the parking lot at the top. What a great day! We had a huge breakfast, then went and saw some Indian Motorcycles, rode to the top of Bogus, then had a huge pizza for lunch. Man, that's the way to spend a Saturday!

[Beer van Huet]

Alaska


                        Al in AK

The VRCC BBS contains many great Valkyrie Trip reports to Alaska
Some examples

2004 Daniel Meyer
http://lifeisaroad.com/stories/2004/10/23/alaska2004index.html








2008 Alaska Journal by Bonnie & John Bowman
On my first trip up through Canada I entered through Sweetgrass, Montana and rode up through Edmonton and to the Alaska Highway. I'd recommend this route. Your only other choice, in my opinion, is to enter through Blaine, Washington at Peace Arch Park. This is where we entered Canada on the second trip. Once in BC, you can pick up the Sea to Sky Highway and on the Cassiar Highway. Sounds great, but this route proved to be slow-going. The Cassiar was only paved in sections. Once on the Cassiar you'll go all the way to the AK HWY before you find a place to stay...unless you're camping. We only made 190 miles in eleven hours of steady riding on the Cassiar because of construction, rough roads, etc. If we hadn't thought to pack a sandwich, we'd have not eaten because it is desolate. If this all this appeals to you, and appreciate a bit more of an adventure, then enter in Blaine. If you want to make 4-600 miles a day, enter in Sweetgrass. Either way, the scenery is stunning and you'll have a blast. I think you can click on the PDF below and see our "Alaska Journal."
http://www.okvalks.com/files/alaskatrip.pdf

RJ
The Milepost was the best information I ever found for my runs to Alaska.   Been up there 3 times.  1st trip was on a Cog-A-Sock-I 2 stroke, in 1979. vibrated the fairing off of it.   That was a fly into Alaska and ride the bike to my home.   Son was up there, graduated from the University of Alaska, and moving back here.   NO room on the moving van for the Cog.   He had a truck & heavily loaded double axle trailer loaded to the gills to bring back and his wife, Army brat, had a car, so good old natured dad said he's ride it down......  I probably should have rented a trailer to put on the back of Kathy's car and then drive it, but hind sight is not always present at the decision making time.       
For many years I said I'd never do it again.   I got a 86 Wing SEi with fuel injection and rode it a round trip, then in 98 my Valkyrie made the round trip.   Wing I pulled a trailer, will never do that again.  That sucker was all over 7734 behind me.   Couldn't run over 70 with it on, mostly around 55 to 60 and that makes for a long trip from Fairbanks to the states............

2017 DDT Reflections

Well, the big adventure to Alaska has concluded. We came out from the ride down HWY 37 just up the road from where we'd stopped on that first day to don the Gerbings. We turned south again and headed through Kamloops for the return to Washington state...
Forest fires had dictated our route selection once we'd left Hyder... We did make the ride out to Prince Rupert, though... I hadn't planned on going out there, but the ride to the coast at Hyder had turned out to be such a pleasant surprise, I thought "why not?" That was a most pleasant surprise, as well! Great scenery and a good road all the way following along a river.
I'd wanted to ride down HWY 97, then across HWY 99 through Whistler, BC, but fires had parts of both of those roads closed at the time, so... We took what was available - the detour east off HWY 97 on HWY 24 back to HWY 5. It was at HWY 5 the big loop had been completed.
I'd also thought about swinging over to Jasper and down through Calgary to visit friends there, as well. However, there were also fires being reported around Banff and in the national parks in that area, so, I passed on one of the top rides in all of North America. Natural events do play a roll more than we might suspect, and that was certainly the case this time.
Ahhhh, but what an adventure it was! It started out as a whim... I suppose you could argue that it had been in the back of my mind for some time, and the combination of opportunity and lack of reasons not to go had pushed me to pull the trigger. Possibly, I think it is conceivable that my subconscious had been moving me imperceptibly along that path for longer than I knew... Who knows?
As with all 'open-ended trips', this one afforded me the luxury of coming and going, staying or moving on, as events and opportunities presented themselves... No boundaries or limits to force me to go one way or another, I could literally just roll with the flow... I like it that way...
There were several surprises on this outing... and all were pleasant. First, the roads were vastly superior to what we'd encountered back in '94! I've made mention of that already, so I won't go into it too much here, but suffice to say, there were no really bad stretches like I'd worried there might be. I guess what we see depends to a large extent upon what we look for and what our frame of reference is, however...
That nice guy trying to be helpful back in Ft. Nelson on the way up, who'd tried to warn me off taking that ride in the first place... To him, the road was terrible, and he was clear on that. Myself, I found it, in comparison to really bad stretches I've encountered over the years, to be a wonderful road! Not perfect by any means, but there was nothing I came across that had caused me to think about turning around and abandoning the trek...
The bugs were another surprise! My recollection of mosquitos, flies, and other insects was seriously bad!!! Not this time. The locals told me that the weather since winter had been too cold and otherwise not good for them to develop like they certainly can, so they were not nearly the annoyance this time that I'd experienced on the previous journey... Luck of the draw, I guess... Some years it can still be like I remembered, just not this year... thankfully!
Wild life viewing seemed much better this time... We did see plenty on the previous trip, but there just seemed to be more of it, and greater varieties of it this time. A real bonus, as I do enjoy seeing critters unlike anything to be found where I'm from... The novelty alone is fascinating, but the thoughts it generates, and the fantasies it creates make this aspect of travel that much better...
Fuel and motels were never a real problem. I wasn't sure what to expect this time, but even modest caution and watchfulness got us through this challenge with no issues... Prices were even not as bad as I'd expected. Very high, to be sure, but again, ones expectations play a large roll in how things are perceived.
Contact with Native Americans was very different, and I'm particularly happy with the way that turned out, and that I had a chance to gain a different perspective... The vast majority of my previous contacts, but based upon an admittedly small base of actual contacts, had caused me to see them as quite reserved, stoic, even a bit stand-off-ish... Not so this time!
I had many contacts on this trip, and they all without exception were pleasant. I found them to be warm, friendly, and just like any other folks! A really good lesson here on being careful about forming opinions with limited information or experience! What you think you see may not be what is actually the case!!! And that goes both ways... where we are mentally at any given point can influence how others see and respond to us!
Contacts generally with all people were most positive and pleasant! I was amazed at this. Usually I get along well with everyone, and I easily meet folks along the way. This time, however, it all seemed better... easier and even more enjoyable than usual...
I suspect it must have something to do with me and the aura I projected this time. I am a work in progress, and I have been evolving over the years... Is it possible I've actually 'improved' a bit?
That brings me to one of the biggest revelations of all... the roll my own thinking, perceptions, and state of mind plays in the interpretation of events unfolding around me. How much of the 'difference' in everything I thought I saw was really pretty much the same as it had been before, and how much had my own thinking and perception evolved over time? I was clearly in a different mental place twenty-three years ago than I am today, so... Hmmmm...

2018 bg
This is a short video of my friends Doug and Dave.....they are twins and were my riding buddies when I lived in Michigan.
They are BMW riders and I would tag along on my Interstate. We had numerous great rides in Northern Michigan, The Upper Peninsula and Canada. They documented their last trip to Alaska....they have been 2 times....and this video is done in a professional manner.
enjoy the ride........make a memory
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=q8ERGm3SZYY

threevalks
Jane and I left West Virginia June 10, rode to Chicago to start the route 66 Mother road Rally. We joined 56 other bikes for 12 days on Route 66 to Santa Monica Pier, Ca. From there we headed north with 7 couples including our VRCC brother and sister Robin and Judy. Three days later Robin, Judy and New York George & Judy dropped off to continue their separate rides home. The 5 remaining couples continued on to Alaska.
We have taken the Alaskan Highway thru British Columbia and the Yukon. We visited Dalson City for 2 days, returned to White Horse YT, then to Beaver Creek YT. After 28 days and 7100 miles. (Jane ain't killed me YET) we crossed the border into Alaska and rode to Chicken, turned around and rode to Tok to spend the night. We're headed to Valdez tomorrow. Then 9 more days in Alaska before going to Glacier National park and parts yet to be determined.
As our main man Bruce said after his trip up here last year, if you're thinking about riding to Alaska. Do It, you will not be disapointed. You will not believe the amazing beauty of this great continent. This size of it is mind boggling. Snow covered mountain tops, lakes upon lakes, spruce trees large and small. We have met people from all over the world, bikers, motor home campers, blue hair bus tours, and best of all locals, and as Will Rogers said, I never met a man I didn't like.The roads have been great, compared to what I've heard for years. The are a few rough spots, a few off and on miles of gravel, but really not all that bad. I am yet to bottom out. The road to Chicken has so far been the worst we've traveled to date, quite a bit of gravel and washboard.
So far we have not been attacked by bugs, though the bike does babe a pretty good collection each evening. Unlike Bruce I have started off each day with a somewhat clean bike so I can collect a fresh batch.
Weather wise, the temps have been high 40's in the mornings to mid 70's in the afternoon. We've had maybe 12-15 hours of off on light rain since leaving the US. It looks like it rains all the time in Valdez, so our rain time may go sour tomorrow.
I know I should post pics, but I am doing this on a tablet. With all the hoops you need to jump through, I'm not computer savvy enough to resize this, download that, etc, etc, etc.
Maybe I need to take a picture posting class from Dennis.
One last quote from Bruce, and I'm outa here. If you are considering riding to Alaska, don't just talk about, DO IT. Start saving you Nickels and dimes, cause it's pricey.

KUGO - Tips

Yes, it IS expensive.  Costs a lot to get anything up there, obviously, and then costs more to those who want/need the stuff sold back to them (food, gas, everything), but the trade-off this time of year is the near-constant sunlight.  (We set off fireworks into a huge canyon at 2 AM on the “night” of July 4th, after playing volleyball until well after midnight, all with sunlight still keeping things semi-lit.  Fun!)

Depending on what you’re up to (camping?/motels?), mosquitoes can be worse than brutal.  They have specimens that look like pterodactyls in little Lucite blocks on key-chains with the words “I Gave Blood in Alaska” imprinted.  Seriously.

Back to camping/hiking: it can be dangerous.  Follow all food rules, “stay out” areas, etc. as if they were important.  I could give you a couple of funny stories about my experiences up there, but I’ll wait until you get home safe before I share.  I’m not trying to take away your fun!
 
Gas up whenever you get the opportunity when going off the “beaten path”, which is not as evident as you may be used to.  Gas stations/restaurants can be very sparse, depending on where you head.  (I remember thinking at the time, while behind the wheel of a monster motorhome with a gas-tank that required second/third mortgages when filling up, that my bike, with a slightly 100+ mile range at the time, would never make it w/o additional gas brought along.) 

Gravel roads are NOT the same as here in the rural Midwest.  The individual pieces of gravel can be really large, some slippery-round, some razor-sharp, so just know what your tires and bike (and you) are capable of and be prepared for flats.  People who may occasionally drive by are usually helpful in a pinch.  They seem to kind of have a “code” up there to survive.  They also don’t seem to “suffer fools lightly”, either.  “Don’t go where ya don’t know.”  I have a friend there who is a professional hunting/fishing guide, complete with float-plane, who gave us a week-long tour beyond belief.  He impressed upon me that there really are things you’d better pay attention to.  He flew me hundreds of miles over areas WAY back into the hinterlands and we could see crashed aircraft deep in the woods, some of WWII vintage, that he said no one knows the stories about.  There’s no one up there to save your butt when you need it, and I don’t care what apps you have in your smart phone.

There are some roads that are just the opposite of what I described above, with stunningly beautiful scenery, smooth pavement and sweeping curves.  What could be any better?  Just don’t get numbed into not watching for moose around those curves.  Re-read that last sentence as many times as necessary, and if traveling after “dark”, ask yourself, “why didn’t I read that one more time?”

Best to all of you, ride safely, and thank you for sharing your experiences from up there.  Especially with your limited access/tablet capability.  More people should put that place on their bucket lists.  If they had only known how amazingly varied their experiences can be in that vast state, they’d have put that much higher on the list!  Bravo to you guys!!

[Beer van Huet]

Canada


http://www.valkyrieriders.com/chapters/canada.htm

2001 1st Annual Canadian Ride to the Falls
Come hang with us, you hosers! Drink some of that good Canadian Beer and smoke Cuban cigars.
https://web.archive.org/web/20010423165415/http:/www.valkyrieriders.com:80/mi/canuck.htm

In 2006, Adrian V inherited the all Canadian VRCC website http://www.oocities.org/vrcc_canada/


2009 Bludragon
It was a pleasure to meet fellow Canadian valk riders at Inzane.
I also want to thank chrome for the VRCC Canada souvenirs. Stephanie will be sending you pictures soon so you can post them. The one with Oz draped with the Canadian flag is too much
We made it home safe and sound on Saturday night.
We visited Flaming Gorge, Grand Teton and Yellowstone not to mention some incredible mountain passes in Western Wyoming



Chrome
Hi Louis and Stephanie It was real nice and a pleasure meeting you two folks. Glad you made it home OK. I would love to see some of the pics your lovely daughter took.The one of Oz really interests me.
No problem on the Canadian Valk swap. Anytime.
Happy trails

Ontario Chapter
http://www.oocities.org/vrcc_swont/

Chapter Rep is Adrian Vanderwel




      2002 Ron at Cape Breton                                                                                   2003 Port Dover – Great Minds                                  …… Nice Bikes


      2003 Coffee Run, Grand Bends                                                                           2004 London                                                                …. KC & Jacket

Hotglue # 43
On one of our trips across Canada we were circling the great lakes. I saw a sign that said “Lake Nipigon” sounded cool... had to go....  we ended up on the most northern paved road across Ontario.
We were in the Arctic water shed, the sun just barely set. then came back up. It was cool!!!!!  Schedules and hard plans are for when you are at work, not so much when you are on a road trip. I guess that's why a lot of our 'last day on the road' before having to be back to work were 1000 plus mile days...LOL

2009 Gary’s Trip Report - Niagara Falls - Black Hills Run - grab a beverage, several pic's
http://forums.okvalks.com/index.php/topic,1421.0.html



Québec Chapter/Club Valkyrie Québec



http://www.valkyrieriders.com/Quebec/
On this website, VRCC Quebec has 229 members http://www.valkyrieriders.com/quebec/fr_qc_memb.htm.

Chapter Rep is Yvon aka "Heureux"  

Bienvenue au Chapitre Québécois du club VRCC
Ce site a été créé pour tous les conducteurs de Valkyrie au Québec.
Ce sera aussi un point de référence lorsque les gens auront besoin de détails au sujet des randonnées
au Québec.
Notre but est de fournir autant d'information, de trucs techniques, etc. que possible afin que vous puissiez pleinement profiter de votre Valkyrie.

Note de l'éditeur
le Chapitre Québécois fonctionne via un forum de discussion Yahoo réservé aux membres
Donc, l'information est difficile à obtenir
Veuillez fournir plus d’informations s'il vous plaît et faisons du Québec un groupe merveilleux
Merci beaucoup



2011 – Quicksilver
Recent trip 5000 km rain some, clouds some and sunshine when we needed it.

                      Rene Lacouture – N of Old Orchyard

                                   Pics by Alain Giguère


                                Daniel Labbé Quai du Lac Pohénégamouk


British Columbia Chapter

Valhalla rally
An annual event the weekend after Father's Day in June, typically alternating between a location in BC and WA. Zero vendors, but we do a cool gift exchange and have an awesome party around the campfire on the Saturday evening.
We have held this rally for the past 6 or 7 years...starting in New Denver BC (Kootenays) then to Post Falls ID for a couple of years, last year in Soap Lake WA, then to new location this year in Port Angeles hosted by the Vermin club in WA. Usually about 30 -40 bikes from AB,  BC, WA, OR have attended....a real good group of folks and a great time.

olddog1946
Valhalla was originally set up to honor the Canadian group of Valkers and I believe, is still mostly Canuks. I made the Last Valhalla and a great time. There weren't more than 50 there, so it's nowhere near the turn out you get with Inzane, nor did it have the events/vendors but still a good time with some fun people.

Whooray
I have never been to Valhalla but I have been to several Inzanes, so I don’t know of any differences. I can tell you that Inzane is a fantastic event that been going on for some time. For the most part it is held at a different place every year giving all an opportunity to see places they may not have seen before and to meet other Valkyrie enthusiast just to share the love of the mighty Valkyrie.
I have met so many folks that I now call friends and I add many more each time I go. For me it just keeps getting better with each Inzane and I have always left Inzane looking forward to the next one.
I love the VRCC and for me it’s just being part of a close-knit family unit.
I have talked to Nogrey about the Valhalla in 2015 and even though it’s the weekend after Inzane as of right now we are planning on coming up and joining in.  Soooo...if we don’t see you at the NW meet n greet in CDA or Inzane in Spearfish SD we will see you at Valhalla in Soap Lake WA.  

2017 msb – Valhalla Report
Well, it's in the books...a GREAT time was had and everyone made it home safe (in one respect or another...more about that later).
Our annual June Valhalla rally has become a must attend event over the past 8 years or so for folks in the PNW, BC, and AB, and such great friends have been made that it just made sense to plan another meetup later in the year so we could get together more than only once a year, or twice if we travelled to Inzane together as was the case this Summer. So... Valhalla-2 (Valhalla Light?) was born...taking place this past weekend at Johnny's Motel in Grand Forks BC. At total of 10 bikes (oh...and 1 BMW convertible from our BC VRCC rep of all people...who apparently was worried about the remote possibility of a few drops of rain), and 16 folks in all made the trip. Maybe not a big event by Southern or Eastern US standards, but for us up here where Valks are a rarer breed...not too bad for a 2 Province and 1 State meetup...
Friday AM, Buffalo Bob from Everette WA along with my bride Lisa & I meeting up in Hope BC with Dusty from Vancouver Island for the ride out to Grand Forks.
Following a very long and very hot summer in BC, temperatures have cooled considerably just this past week, although the forecast was for mostly sunny skies for the weekend.  Great morning for a ride through the #3 Crowsnet Highway going East. Nothing quite like riding on new pavement through the mountains...



Great morning for a ride through the #3 Crowsnet Highway going East. Nothing quite like riding on new pavement through the mountains...  
After a bit of a chilly few hours through the mountains, a welcomed stop at Deadwood Junction in Greenwood for a hot coffee. Greenwood is the smallest incorporated "City" in Canada with a population of about 600 permanent residents but was once a hub of the copper mining industry that was instrumental along with the silver mining and lumber industries that built the province of BC. A neat little "city" with lots of history and places to explore the relics of mines, smelters, etc.



After letting the beard grow earlier this year, I've become hesitant to trim it...it's the only real hair I have left now as I'm well passed the magnificent "Serk" level of flowing mane that I sported in my younger years, and it feels good blowing in the breeze. Although not quite the same, it does bring back a bit of nostalgia to the times of feeling the "freedom" of riding helmet-less with a full beard and head of hair (one of my several "thank Heavens I survived" periods...now thankfully decades in the past). Our youngest daughter is a bit nervous however, as she gets married this December and I've informed her that I'll be renting a Red suit for the occasion...her Mother ensures her that I'm joking  
Arriving at Johnny's Motel in Grand Forks on Friday afternoon...bikes coming in from the North, West, East and South.... a perfect location for such gatherings. Very accommodating for groups of bikes, car clubs etc., with nice clean rooms, carports, BBQs, and a nice backyard along the Granby River to relax and hang out. Will also be the site of Valhalla 2018



Good friends Steve & Margaret from Kelowna BC, and newcomer Murray from Salmon Arm BC
"Cousin" Dave from Spokane Valley WA and wife Linda making their grand entrance, fresh off a ride to Alaska. Linda's first public showing of her new F6B, moving on up from her VTX
Gordon and wife Tess arrive from Richmond BC in the aforementioned BMW convertible...really Gird, it's only a 5-hour ride to Grand Forks...
Those Albertans are sure camera-shy ... Mike & Christina also joined us it all the way from Lethbridge AB



Saturday AM we head out early for the day...up through the Crow’s nest Pass East to the Kootenays. Somehow, I find myself in the lead...WTH!!! I guess because our route takes us through my hometown of Nelson and I know my way around, everyone suggests I should lead. I never lead groups...I hate leading groups...I find myself looking in the rearview constantly instead of keeping my eyes on the road.



A bit of residual smoke from fires in Galcier MT and surrounding areas in BC. It's been a terrible year for fires...sadly most have been human-caused by either careless smokers or campers. All back-country ATV-ing and motor cross, and a lot of camping has been banned in BC this past month.





A stop at the vintage DQ in Nelson...this was built in 1957 and has remained open in its original form since. I grew up several miles across the lake from town and have great memories as a kid of our once a month (treats were not so easy to come by back then) family outings to the DQ
The "official" beverage of Valhalla gatherings...it's so bad it's good. As with most things like this, there's a story behind the Legend of Fireball...but one has to attend a Valhalla Rally to hear it
A perfect ending to a great day of riding through the Kootenays. Food, drink, great friends new & old, more stories to tell (and embellish), and more memories to add







Redline, the Vermin club of Western WA President making it back just in time for Happy Hour after taking the long way around on the day's ride. Steve, apparently dazed and confused after listening to that new bionic deer whistle of his all day, having a hard time deciding which beverage to down first


                                    Brothers in Arms

Sunday AM finds the group splitting up to go their separate ways home. Buffalo Bob heads West on #3 with the Mrs. and I at a brisk pace, hoping to beat out the forecasted oncoming rain (a VERY welcome forecast for most BC'ers btw). After splitting up with Bob as he heads to the border crossing and with the raindrops starting to hit the windshield, I crank her up to 165 km/h (100 MPH) on the long straightaways on the last leg of my trip home. About 10 minutes from home I ease up to 115 as we approach the hills, when one of Canada's finest gets me squarely in his sights and pulls me over. Luckily AFTER I slowed down, so only 41 over instead of 85 over. Nice guy, said he was a rider himself and commented that my Valkyrie was a beauty, but he just couldn't let me go for going that fast.
After checking me out on his computer and acknowledging that I had a good record (last ticket over 12 years ago) he gave me a bit of a break.... reduced the fine to 75.00 if paid within 30 days for only 20 over (from what otherwise could have been a whopping 240.00 fine and a much larger blemish on my record) and said to "take it easy on that fine machine".



Told him he was being extremely fair, and that I was going to do a Ride Report of our trip and asked a favor. He was happy to pose for this pic...said he'd try his best not to smile.  Almost worth the 75.00
Glad that the Mrs. and I along with everyone else made it home safe, dodging the weather, critters, and... except for me...speed traps. I'll chalk this one up to a unique punctuation mark on a great weekend, with a lesson learned that just because you can go fast, you shouldn't necessarily do so.... especially only 10 minutes from home!!!


gordonv pics





2009 Dogg’s Pics



2015 gordonv
Well it is now official. I have been handed the reins from Dennis to the BC Chapter of the VRCC. After about 13 years, Dennis wished for someone else to take over. He will still be around, ridding his Thumper, attending the Rallies when he finds the time from his busy retirement life.
Thank you Dennis, for your time spent in promoting the enjoyment of the Valkyrie MC. In arranging all the rides, rallies, and all the other things that I'll most likely learn about first hand. I hope I can do half as well as you had.
Also to Willa for putting up with you and your recreation/hobby. I hope my wife comes around and gets a little more social at these events.

2017 msb - Some Autumn pics by near Agassiz BC







2018 msb - Picture Perfect Day - ride report
http://www.valkyrieforum.com/bbs/index.php/topic,103733.0.html


2018 msb - Little bit of This...Little bit of That - Ride Report (long, lots of pics)
http://www.valkyrieforum.com/bbs/index.php/topic,102994.0.html

Alberta Chapter

Chapter Rep is Kevin aka "Gryphon Rider"

2012 Gryphon Rider
About 5-10 years ago I organized the Alberta chapter, then it was led by Mike Warren from Edson for a few years, but I don't think anything formal has been organized recently.  There are a couple of us that show up semi-regularly at the CMA Saturday breakfast at Drifters Restaurant at the Esso truck stop on Barlow Trail and 50th Street SE in Calgary.  If the weather holds, I'll be joining the weekly Tuesday CMA pie run this evening, meeting at 6:30 at Denny's at 19th Street & 16th Avenue NE.  You (and any others) are quite welcome to show up at either of these locations, or PM me to get in touch.

2016 t-man403 Spring Time in the Rockies!!
http://www.valkyrieforum.com/bbs/index.php/topic,86045.0.html


Lendirk
I started looking for an alternative to the GW. I found it in my current bike, a 2000 1500 Valkyrie Tourer. To be honest, I think I'm enjoying it even more than the 'Wing. It has a certain "personality" and character that you just don't see in the Goldwing. ..............and it gets noticed a lot more too. I'm looking forward to many more years with this bike.

Randy thought this was a great place to stop and get a couple of photos before crossing the border into Montana..... he was right!



 






  

[Beer van Huet]

VRCC Wordwide Events
Besides local, state and cross country meetings, the VRCC Staff came up with a brilliant idea to pass on a token throughout the entire VRCC world community.

Thor’s Hammer
http://valkyrieriders.com/valkyrie_relay_home.htm
or Gazette http://valkyrieriders.com/VBanner.htm


                                        
Thor’s Hammer was an effort to carry a token, being a hammer and banner across the World. There would be one Hammer and Banner, first carried through North America ending on July 21, 2004 in Paducah, Kentucky at InZane 4.
From there, the plan was to hand it off to a representative from Europe.  After Europe, the Hammer would move on to any other country that wants to participate.  Australians have already expressed an interest in taking it on a trip around Down Under.  Many other countries have expressed their desire to escort the Hammer, as well.
The relay kicked off from Southern California on January 24 2004.  The goal was to have the relay/banner hit all the countries possible and have it back in time for InZane 5.

A little history to bring you all up to speed.  
The original idea was to carry some token from SoCal to Maine.  As our members read the idea, they came up with a new concept... to have it touch each state... which leads to making each of the extreme 4 corners of the U.S.  Then the Canadian's came in, so now we’re going through each Province that borders the U.S. (except Manitoba, where we didn’t have anyone request to ride).  
We were also contacted by our members in Europe, Australia, and many other countries... so the plan was revised again to include them.
The Token became a banner per members' suggestions.  A banner that could be signed by each rider and his companions who move the relay along. Then a suggestion was made to have each state "pin" the cover of the banner... so, now we're doing that too.
This idea took off like wild fire; it was growing so quickly, that we knew we had to get it going ASAP.  So, things got put together as quickly as humanly possible and the banner hit the road on Sat, January 24th.


Workerbee and oZ make the first leg of the relay, sign it and hand it over to NautiBrit from SoCal

Thor’s Hammer Relay http://valkyrieriders.com/valkyrie_relay_home.htm
Website                    http://valkyrieriders.com/VBanner.htm
First leg                    http://valkyrieriders.com/VBanner.htm#first_leg


                                Map of planned US & CAN route


                               Signed 8ft long Banners

Thor’s Hammer in Europe
http://www.thor.f6-valkyrie.de/
 
Thor’s Hammer in the UK with The Valkyrie Riders Cruiser Club
https://youtu.be/MG392R_FCGQ


                              Map of planned EU route




                             …and of course, the signed EU Banners

Valhalla voyage
A Tribute to the Legendary Valkyrie by Willow



Background
Vinland was the name given to an area of North America by the Norseman Leif Eriksson, about the year 1000 AD.
In 1960 archaeological evidence of Norse settlement in North America was found at L'Anse aux Meadows on the northern part of the island of Newfoundland, in what is now the Canadian Province of Newfoundland and Labrador. Although this proved conclusively the Vikings' pre-Columbian discovery of North America, whether this exact site is the Vinland of the Norse accounts is still a subject of debate.
There is a consensus among scholars that the Vikings did reach North America, approximately five centuries prior to the voyages of Christopher Columbus and John Cabot.
Now it's time to take our Voyage through lands that the Vikings traveled... That would include North America and Canada and Western Europe.



Valhalla Voyage was a relay across the world of a mug and banner with names and places.
Dag Verpeide of Norway had provided a pair of Viking Tankards. They quite appropriately had dragons as their handles. We were planning to relay those around North America starting with the VRCC head office in San Dimas, California and ending at Inzane VIII in Johnson City, Tennessee. The relay would also carry a VRCC banner and a log book of sorts that participants could sign and enter comments. A fabric bag was used in which to transport the banner to each state’s delegation. They could, if they desired so, attach a state pin.
The objectives of the relay were twofold. The first was obviously to ferry the artifacts around the country, passing them through the hands of as many VRCC members as possibly. In keeping with that goal, we had been posting updates on where the banner was along the way.
The second, and possibly more important goal, was to provide a reason for interaction, socializing, and the sharing of a common task between VRCC members throughout North America and the world.
Valhalla Main Page http://valkyrieriders.com/Valhalla/default.htm
A schedule had been forged, that kept the VRCC on track for Inzane VIII.  Members were asked to keep an eye on it so they would know when the Voyage would pass through their area.

Planned handoff schedule US http://valkyrieriders.com/voyage/schedule.htm



This is the dragon mugs being passed from New England to Oss in Cold Spring NY

                                                         
Oss and Alana taking the banner from NE crew in Danbury CT at the old Marcus Dairy    from left G-man, Bonzo, Boz, Dynodave, Oss, RonBou, Danbury, Dalai-Lama

Texas Summary http://www.texasredbird.com/Mark/Motorcycling/08-02Valhalla/

The Valhalla tokens were handed over from oZ to Hannes and Spreemaikl during InZane 2008 in the U.S.  They carried the voyage to Europe to continue their mission. http://valkyrieriders.com/Valhalla/default.htm
In Europe, these volunteers waited impatiently for their turn http://valhalla.valkyrieriders.eu/lop.htm and http://valhalla.valkyrieriders.eu/

[Beer van Huet]

2001 - First Inzane
https://web.archive.org/web/20010628134345/http://www.valkyrieriders.com:80/inzane/



Website https://web.archive.org/web/20010203194900/http://www.f6rider.com:80/inzane/index.html
With over 8000 members to date, you know this is going to be a BIG one!

This page is being put together so that those who made it to the Inzanity can have a place to remember the good times that were had.
http://www.valkyrieriders.com/inzane/inzane2001.htm

Schedule of events

Thursday                                        Friday                        Saturday                         Sunday

Opening Ceremonies ……           Games………………          …..       Games                            Bike Blessing
At Noon   Games                      How-to Seminars……………         How-to Seminars             Non-Denominational
How-to Seminars……… …           Tug o War Berths at 1300…      Poker Walk                       Service
Local Twisties Run…                  AMA Museum Run……….           Observation Run               Closing Ceremonies  
Observation Run……                  Observation Run………    ..       AMA Museum Run at 0900  at Noon
Poker Walk…………    …….            Poker Walk                            BOH Challenge…..              DirectLine Lunch
Ride to Honda………… ….            Giveaways at 1900…………        Giveaways at 1900
Custom Valk Show…… …            State Rep Dinner at 2030       BBQ & Concert at 2000…..
Surprise Guest at 1700                                                         Valk Raffle at 2200
Giveaways at 1900

Inzane Registration Form ~ Still very much alive
https://web.archive.org/web/20010602182201/http://www.stanardgroup.com:80/Registration/index.htm

Chili Pepper.
The first gathering in Inzane was absolutely the best... magical even. Everyone was so excited about meeting each other in person and the aftermarket for Valkyrie accessories was very hot at the time. Spent a lot of time oohing and aahing at all the new things available, lots of bolting on of new CHROME! Going on in the parking lot and discussions about how to tweak the engine. They had a dyno-drag in the back field so you could race in place, so to speak. Dragbars had the first or second blown Valk there and blew a cylinder on the dyno-drag...two weeks before heading to Bonneville to try to set a record. The place was abuzz with excitement from day one. Plus, there were great roads everywhere.



This 59-page comprehensive guide by Barbarian the Mad Serb, with diagrams and links, showed how to fix common problems and do routine maintenance.  Also includes answers to some questions asked by owners of the Valkyrie.  https://drive.google.com/file/d/0ByyPaxZD7mK-d0RpQXFpZ1FsUmM/view
The major sections in the manual are from Rattlebars and Carl Kulow
During the 2001 meeting, Barry Bosworth, Dragbars, Larry Heath, Mike Myrick, Crazy Al, Valkrocket, Big Al from MD, Mel van Ruyskensvelde, Dave Ritsema, Dave Wehner and Nape gave hands-on demonstrations of technical maintenance.







Left to right: Fuzzy (the original Fuzzy from Michigan), MaryMatic, Bagger John, Chili Pepper, Rdkll, Sir Lancelot

                                                   RDKLL

                                           It was a great event


Worker Bee and Rdkll came in 2nd in the hotdog contest                                 On the right Dragbars ex-girlfriend, Vicki, LaMont,                              
...to Mosa and Dragbars on a Reflex scooter.                                                   RonBou, Barbarian the Mad Serb
Note F6gal’s bike on the right, LOL

Barbarian the Mad Serb remembers, he thinks, the second (or was it the first?) Inzane meet in Ohio. It was great and was good to match up real people to those I met on the VRCC site. Postings on this site were a riot back then.  Lots of funny stuff happened. Heck, we even had a Band of Hooligans who made lots of trouble for the rest of us on the VRCC web which ultimately led to a showdown of Lamonster vs. Baad Dude on the dyno. It was claimed that Baad Dude cheated and therefore was disqualified and Lamonster won the match! Hahahh. The bottle of Geritol is still being carried after all of these years. Then there was something about sheep-don't remember that though. Hahahah.



Chili Pepper
Sir Lancelot came all the way from Birmingham, England. Ronbou (who has since passed on from brain cancer) couldn't come to Inzane because of work or something...met Sir Lancelot at the airport, took him home, and loaned him his Valk to ride from Connecticut to the rally. How many folks do you know who would do that for someone they had only talked to in a chat room? That was what this club was like back then. No politics, no nastiness...it was a very special place. Don't get me wrong, I'm sure it's still a special place for some but it will never be like that again....

Dave Ritsema
My first VRCC memory was pulling up to the Hotel at InZane 1 all by myself after a 9-hour ride. I had never even been on more than a 4-hour trip before and didn't know a soul there except for some names from the message boards. Sure wish I could remember the name of the first guy I met, really friendly older gentleman with a tie dye shirt and a maroon and cream standard like mine. Shortly thereafter I met Don B, who was the event coordinator and kinda followed him around trying to make myself useful. As the Valks kept pouring in I kept meeting more and more folks, and I left that place feeling like I made 800 new friends.  Met Lamont, Hal, Dragbars, Mosa, Vicki, RJ, the list goes on and on. Everyone I met was really nice and made me feel like part of the family. Promised myself I would come back each year and have been lucky enough to do it so far.

PSUbag
The meet up at Walmart during InZane 1 was pretty dang impressive! It was just amazing to see so many Valks at 1 place. Famous ones even! And if it weren't for the VRCC, I'd of probably never met some REALLY great people who live fairly close to me, Shftr, Rocket, Yogi, Holmes, Mosa, Steve etc.

Lamont
The first InZane we got a new Valkyrie through Hal and Honda and we were able to raffle it off. I'll never forget the look on ValkRocket’s face when he won that bike.  It made Hal so happy that his eyes started to leak a little bit.  That was a very cool thing to be a part of.

Editor's Note
To my knowledge, there were two VRCC occasions where a Valkyrie motorcycle was given away during a raffle. First one was during Inzane 2001 by HAL and Honda. The second one was during EU Inzane X in 2016 in Belgium, celebrating the 20th Valkyrie anniversary by Consolidated Motor Spares and Honda.




Valkyrie Riders Cruise over to the Motorcycle Hall of Fame Museum at AMA Headquarters
InZane Rally in Zanesville is in conjunction with the Honda Homecoming in Marysville by Bill Andrews



They call themselves "Valkoholics." And with good reason. Comprising a 5-mile long parade on the way to the Motorcycle Hall of Fame Museum, 200-plus members of the Valkyrie Riders Cruiser Club are as dedicated a bunch as you'll find anywhere.
The target of their obsession, of course, is the unique flat-six Honda Valkyrie motorcycle, the bike that arguably launched the power cruiser class.
The Honda Valkyrie-loving riders had converged in Zanesville, Ohio, for the InZane Ride-In. The rally features bike shows, raffles, games, and day rides - like the one to the Museum.
The riders had traveled from all points in the U.S., some from as far away as California, Florida, and Massachusetts.
Rick Dondero, from Costa Mesa, Calif., rode his Valkyrie Standard four days to get here. "The VRCC is a different kind of club," he said. "There's no pretentiousness with these riders."
Ron Conperchio rode his Valkyrie, dubbed the 2 Maidens, from Plymouth, Mass. The name is derived from the two horse back riding, most decidedly females, found on either side of the Valkyrie's gas tank.
Did he go "In Zane?" "Yeah, absolutely," he said, "and this museum is really neat."
The VRCC gathering was in conjunction with the Honda Homecoming in Marysville, Ohio, occurring over the same weekend.


                                                                                                                                    Riding the Rail


                             Dragbars from TN is the bike to the right of LaMont, not sure on the others even though I was there

Lamont first showed up with his blown Valkyrie at Inzane I
He had the kit for sale and at IZ II several others added blowers like Dragbars, Lamont, Mosa, TJ, and PIBIT  


                           Dennis from Blythe, not sure, Sue, not-quite-Murdoc...lol


Right pic - ValkRocket originally from New England, he won the raffle for the Valkyrie Standard at IZ-1 even though he already had one. He borrowed a trailer from oZ to get it home


TinMan - Early days memories
If it wasn't for the VRCC I wouldn't know any of you now. The day after I joined, Steve Myers from Greeneville Tn. e-mailed me saying he was another Valkyrie rider and had seen my post on the VRCC. He invited me for a ride with a group that met each weekend. That's where I met my best friend to this day....RayO. Since that day, my list of friends kept growing because of the Valkyrie and the VRCC.
I first met WIA, Dragbars, and a few others on a very cold wintery ride in Knoxville. Remember the day Socrates went down? That ride has been etched in my brain all these years. How everybody stopped the ride and blasted to UT hospital to check on him. That’s when I knew I was part of a special family. Vicki, TnIceman and Lamont came the next year in Daytona, then again when I hosted a dinner during the Hoot as the East Tn. Rep. A lot has changed since then, but two things remain the same.... our friendship and the love to ride.

RJ - Early days memories
I bought the Valk in late 1996, rode it 7,000 miles in 2 1/2 months and put it away for the winter.
Got it out in March and went to Daytona. Met up with Dragbars, Smilin Jack, Lamont, Earthdog, Warren in Atlanta, and a whole bunch of others......
Went back home, rode a bunch of miles that summer, like 48 to 50,000, which included Sturgis. Now this is where it is sticky. I don't remember if it was this year or the next one I met up with LaMont again in South Dakota, he was a doing Trigger Wheels in Custer. I tried to assist him on one but I was more in the way than helpful. He had it down to a short procedure.

It had to of been the 2nd year as I had 113,000 miles on the Valk and he was amazed. Told him I was retired and on the road about 3 1/2 weeks out of every month. Only came home to get more $$$ and stay for a couple of days before leaving again. That was the year I made 4 round trips from my house to the West Coast and 2 round trips to the East Coast on MGM. One of those trips was my 2nd time around on the 4 corners. Did the 1st 4 corners on a Wing when I retired in June 96. Wore out 2 sets of Bushtec Trailer tires during this summer bunch of runs.

Somewhere in there, Vicki (TNT) met me in Mississippi at the Casino when we stopped there on Hot Rod Power Tour. I had the Trike. She rode down from Memphis to meet me and JDubya showed up later. We all had a good feed, conversation and etc. Don't remember if I made any $$$ on the slots or not, I think I did.
I attended one of Vicki and Jim's BBQ's, met TJ, Danny, Little Jon and LeAnn, TN Iceman, Mosa, Mamasue, Inky and a bunch more I have forgotten. Old age and the forgetter isn't retaining stuff in memory any more like it used to.

Went to Hotglue's BBQ after I met him and Flamingo Babe up in Wisconsin at the VOAI Rally. I met JeffK, JoK and some others at Hotglue's.
Went to Bakersfield Bash and met Master Blaster, Physco, and renewed my acquaintance with f6gal. Met 2ftAGL and Katy when we hauled Psycho’s bike to Phoenix after he wrecked it. Met Sonny in Lemoore, Rudd, Mark & Lynn, Dennis, Tammy and their girls, also. Saw Sue & George again, Met Sue on Hot Rod Power tour in Bakersfield the year before.

At InZane I met a bunch of hoodlums, LOL, and struck up some good friendships. Sarge out of Indianapolis, I met him after he gave me assistance on locating some trailer tires and a wheel...... Met Doc Moofsa, Hoosier Daddy, Shooter and some others at InZane.
I sure hope I got all the first-time meeting places right. Nape came up to me an introduced himself at InZane at Denny's one morning. Met Hal and Chris that same year.... Also met that other Canuck with the Black/Silver flamed Tourer, Steve & Jen.

Well to you I have failed to list, again my forgetter has forgotten more than most people have remembered. So, I'll apologize for it now. I know I have left out a bunch of people.

Inzane Thank You’s

Rob and Daryl

Well, I am the first one back...although I am think I am still InZane. As Dennis said in an earlier post, it was a tremendous first meet and we will be doing it same place, same time next year. So mark your calendars! Pictures will be slow in coming but will be posted when Rob and Dennis get back. The biker of the New Millenium now carries a cell phone and a laptop instead of a buckknife. However, the days were so jampacked no one has had the time to get online.
We had a huge turnout, with 2 people coming all the way from Britain and a lot of Canadian members. The longest ride in was from British Columbia. We gave away a beautiful black standard to ValkRocket from Massachusetts in the raffle. You wouldn't believe the fantastic paint jobs and all the goodies on people's bikes. Hopefully, we got a lot in photos and they should be available next week.
Sounds like you guys had a great ride last weekend. Too bad we can't be in two places at once. Brice's photos look great.
Start planning for Zanesville next year. It is great fun and we would love to have more of the SoCal team there. We missed you all. Dennis from Blythe was a great hit and Michelle and Carolyn from Blythe had a good time giving hugs to all, helping to sell raffle tickets, and riding with Bobaloo to Marysville. Wait till you see the photos of all the Valks then. One of the Honda people said it made her "well up" and they called all the people in the offices to come and see us arrive.
 
.......We got home at 2:30 this morning and had to be at the office at 8AM. These are just some random thoughts as my brain starts to unclog.
This was the most unbelievable event we have ever been part of. Everything exceeded any expectations I had for a first-time event put on by a bunch of "novices".

........Saturday was the day of days. Drag Dyno running wild all day. Weather was perfect. The awards ceremony which started to bring some tears to my eyes. The story of how Sir Lancelot from England was able to ride a Valk to Inzane. TJ getting a surprise award for the coolest Valk (and I spoke to him later and he was still pumped about the award).
Ron Comperchio winning the new Valk- - -that brought some real tears as he is a great guy who has been a great supporter of the VRCC from the early days.

The crowd that showed up at the West Virginia Penitentiary (the rain hurt the attendance) saw some neat stuff and everyone seemed glad that they came.
Gosh, it’s gonna be hard to top this one but I have a feeling that the committee can do it next year.
And if you want to find out if your buddy really went to Inzane- - see if he can tell you how we got the Dyno trailer into the field at Inzane. You had to be there to see it- - words will never describe it. Better yet, can 40 guys push a 40-foot trailer or can a Dodge pickup pull a 40-foot trailer?? Only those that were there know the answer.

............Finally, the biggest thing that made it a success was the people . . .. members who attended, volunteers who helped and people who just pitched in when something needed to be done. I won't name names because I don't want to forget anybody but we had many volunteers who worked the event the whole time and didn't get a chance to do any riding or any of the outside events. That's dedication and to everyone I say thanks for the best event ever.



Take a look at this nice picture gallery of Inzane 01 by Steve LeBlanc
https://www.pbase.com/stevel1949/inzane_01&page=all

[Beer van Huet]

Inzane II
http://www.valkyrieriders.com/inzane/home2002.htm



As part of Honda Homecoming 2002, more than 700 Honda Valkyrie riders roared through the gates of Honda of America Mfg.'s Marysville Motorcycle Plant Friday morning with one goal in mind - a world record. Other Honda motorcycle models joined the procession to push the total number to more than 800. Organized by Lamont Bryden, president of the Valkyrie Riders Cruiser Club, the parade of Valkyries left Marysville at 11 a.m. en route to a place in the Guinness Book of World Records. It is believed that the previous world record of 180 motorcycles for an organized model ride will be shattered by nearly four times that amount. Bryden said the guidelines were received and everything was done to make it official. The Honda Home Coming event that started in 1989 as an open house to thank Honda motorcycle buyers has grown into a national rally that attracts 6,00 to 8,000 motorcyclists annually from across the country.

F6gal
The official bike count for the Valkyrie March was 328.  Honda said they clicked thru over 800, but I honestly don't know how we could have missed counting 500 bikes.  Event registrations totaled 476 (riders and co-riders), which more closely correlates with our bike count.

Comment from Dave Ritsema
The 2 first years are a bit vague (we've learned some lessons along the way).  At InZane 1 & 2, the Honda folks said they counted over 800 as we passed through the plant entrance.  However, that is far more than we counted for our official Guinness record breaking paperwork, which was just under 350 (I don't have the exact number at hand, I think 346 at IZ1).  Despite redoubling our efforts to get every bike counted at IZ2, we had less than the year before (330ish).  The 800 count (meaning about 1200 attendees), simply doesn't make sense from the hotel room and Sat. dinner count.  Based on our bike count, hotel bookings, and the number of people served at Sat. dinner, we’ve estimated the attendance IZ1 at about 475 and IZ2 at 445.  







Jacks Trip Report with more pics https://web.archive.org/web/20030404041407/http://www.valkyrieriders.com:80/jacks6/Inzane.htm

Highlander
Like their namesake, true Valkyrie riders have it in their blood to ride.  They ride because they can, they ride because the Valkyrie is pure riding pleasure, it is a form of therapy – if you will.  I had to miss InZane I because of an accident aboard “The Quickening.”  It was one of the worst feelings in the world – not being at InZane I.  This year I was determined to attend at any cost.
It was not just the “1,000 Valkyrie March to Marysville” that inspired this devotion, although I must admit, I broke into tears as the procession started to leave the Wal-Mart parking lot and I saw the people waving and clapping.  One particular image is uppermost in my mind – one small boy, not more than five, who possessed that smile as he waved – you know the one – the one that says: “One of these days, I will be in that group.”  I smiled and waved back, as did every other rider.  The returned wave was greeted with a cry of delight as he realized that we knew what it meant to be accepted.  It made me very proud to be what I am, a Valkyrie rider.

As we rolled out onto the highway from the on ramp I could see the row after row of Valkyries still getting ready to join the procession from the parking lot.  The pride and excitement was very powerful, although it seemed as if we were barely moving.  I was about to settle down when I watched people waving and cameras flashing as we approached an overpass.  The policemen guarding the on ramps, closing them to traffic as we passed, waved and smiled.  Cars going the opposite direction were honking as they passed all admiring the sheer beauty of the event.
The only melancholy moment occurred when a group of Harleys’ passed the procession, and we could not give chase. Not that I had any animosity toward the bikes or their riders but because both parties seem to enjoy the same spirit, and that chase is a valuable part of that spirit.

My friends that accompanied me to InZane said I was looking everywhere, squirming in my seat like a small child on their first ride.  I finally settled down, but as we turned into the plant entrance, the tears returned.  Along the road were workers in their white uniforms, pointing, clapping, smiling, and crying . . .did you ever see people so proud of the product they make on a daily basis that they cannot contain their joy.  I mean, they see thousands of Valkyries as they proceed down that assembly line, but parade them past the workers with each rider’s individual alterations, and it creates an overwhelming experience.  It happened at the plant, and I found myself tearing up again.  You see, they, of all people, appreciate the spirit of the Valkyrie.   One heck of a lot of people were involved in this one event at InZane, and the planning must have seemed unattainable to this group one year ago, but they did it to perfection.
In all, every event at InZane was fun; the rides were awesome; the vendors went out of their way to please; the tech sessions were well done and well attended in the 90+ degree heat. Columbus bike night was made special that night because of the presence of so many flat six wonders. The Zanesville appreciation ride with the sheer beauty of the flashing lights adorning the many custom rides; the family atmosphere, where everyone is welcomed equally; but that is all as expected when the VRCC is involved – primarily because it is a family gathering.



My favorite part of InZane was watching two new Valkyholics encounter the Valkyrie family.  Tony and Susan Beard of Herrin, Illinois are very devoted to each other.  They are never apart – even at work.  They have ridden many bikes and have experienced the joy of riding for some time.  Tony rides a Black 2000 Valkyrie Interstate, while Susan rides a Gold Wing trike conversion (she wants a black Valkyrie trike, but Valks don’t have reverse).  They joined the Southern Illinois VRCC in May 2002.  
They are among the growing number of members who do not have Internet so it was the first they had heard of InZanity.  
They have made every ride of the Valks of Little Egypt, and they became caught up in the spirit, and decided to go InZane with me.

I don’t think they ever stopped grinning.  Even that night they were exhausted and lay back on the grass at Ground Zero waiting for Mountain Man to finish the lettering on “The Quickening.”  Susan, whose bike suffered some damage during our last ride, bought lots of chrome for Tony’s Valkyrie, while saving some money for accessories to dress up the “Purpl 1" when she gets it back.  I must admit that their spirit touched me too.  I spent more time cleaning my bike at InZane than any time prior – Susan is well known for having every inch of “Purpl 1" spotless, and Tony is no slouch when it comes to the shiny bike either.

However, at InZane, this couple noticed something special right away.  They noticed that the mood was very different from “The Honda Hoot,” and other rallies they have attended where they met new riders and made friends.  They discovered that here, in Zanesville, Ohio, they would meet Valkyrie riders from all walks of life, but nobody tried to be anything other than helpful and considerate.  The people they met were not just friends, they discovered that they were accepted into the family without question.  They were allowed to do as they pleased: ride if they wanted; or watch the Mountain Man work his magic; or vendors installing chrome, new exhaust pipes, swarming over the bikes so as not to delay the riders; the games, the fun, the atmosphere created by the founders and organizers.  
They were with me when we witnessed some F6 gal pile asphalt and rubber on her beautiful, newly painted Valkyrie while learning to do a burnout.  Her friends watched her, silently, and then pointed out that she really should park her bike somewhere else when doing burnouts.  After a shared chuckle by all, everyone showed genuine concern for the bike trying to decide how to clean the particles from the paint without causing harm.  This was all a part of good-natured ribbing among friends – never intended to offend anyone or belittle someone for a slight error in judgment.

 

This is the difference between the VRCC and other groups.  Family and fun go hand in hand.  Helping your fellow rider, making people feel a part of things, going out of their way to assist . . . those kinds of things.  I think this is why some of those who dwell mostly on the boards believe that the Valkyrie riders have developed cliques, because they respond more quickly to those who have been to InZane than to others.  The reason is not that we do not acknowledge your posts, it is that we have a special bond to those we have met on the road.  We know them more personally than those we have only met on the boards.  We have shared rides, tall tales, humor, tragedy – you name it.  Once you meet people up close, there is a bond that cannot be broken, and you also know what each individual can accept as good-natured ribbing.
For example, while sitting the tent watching Dragbars, Lamont, Crash and others replace the clutch in that black and chrome, milk bottle enhanced world record holder, a man walked up to Lamont and said a wing rider’s front brakes were locked up and the bike could not move.  The bike was on the road, not in the parking lot.  Immediately, and without hesitation, the group discussed possible causes and solutions, and some on them headed out to help.  That is what I am talking about – that Valkyrie spirit.
I have been flamed repeatedly for my beliefs about this spirit.  I have oftentimes said that one either has it, or you never will.  Those who lack this spirit do not last long, or they flame and ridicule those that do. That which you do not understand, you must try to destroy.  Those who possess the spirit are long lasting.  They do not look for other bikes; they are content to own what I consider to be the best cruiser on the road.
I am not flaming those who move on to other bikes, I am just saying that they lack the spirit because if they had the spirit, and/or understood the spirit, they could never forsake the Valkyrie.  They would also show up at InZane to support the 1,000 Valkyrie ride rather than make snide comments about those that choose to be there.  

I see this spirit in Tony and Susan.  I saw and felt that spirit at InZane.  It was the spirit that caused the tears to roll down my cheeks as the procession started towards Marysville, Ohio.  It is that spirit that makes me proud every time I climb aboard “The Quickening” and bring those six cylinders to life.  It is that spirit that makes me proud when I see children and adults admiring the phat lady when I ride by, people on the streets who stop and turn to see the ultimate cruiser.  You see it is all about the bike.  Maybe that is why those who embody this spirit are so different – they realize that the Valkyrie is what this is all about – they leave their own egos at the door.  And so it is at all VRCC events, local and national.

Hawk
My Greatest memory would have to be InZane II that was where I met the most of ya'll.  First, I met Ragnar at the restaurant there on the corner of the intersection. I finally met Lamont and saw the Lamonster for the first time. Right then and there I had hoped to own a bike like that someday (I also remember saying if I had a bike like that I wouldn't touch it, HAHA, guess it is just in my blood) There was Mosa, Dragbars, RayO, RJ, TJ, TNT, I think I met Sarge there also, and the list goes on, every person I met that weekend was like running into long lost friends, it sold me on this group!!!!


I also I remember getting talked into the Burnout Contest, WOW that was a mistake HAHA. Talk about an addiction, that was GREAT!!!!

The second greatest memory which I will never forget was the summer I got to work for DirectLine on the rally circuit. I remember talking to Lamont on the phone telling him I was being "restructured" out of a job I had done for 18 yrs. He told me call Hal and shortly thereafter Hal offered me the summer job driving for DirectLine. Granted me and that Ford truck and 40' trailer didn't always get along as a matter of fact I never in all my life had so much trouble with a vehicle and trailer.

Talk about a string of bad luck and misfortune but getting to meet more of the group and seeing old friends at all of the rallies was GREAT, I never had enough time to visit with ya'll but it was still good to see everyone. I will also never forget the trip home from Wing Ding on the 4th of July.  I will also never forget Ragnar bringing over the 1300 VTX for me to ride while we were at the Homecoming, talk about a real friend. I agree with Lamont if I never make another friend, I already have more GREAT friends than a man deserves!






Mosa - Early days memories
I met many GREAT people along the route, and interestingly felt like each one of you guys was family from the moment we met (either on internet or first time meeting in person)...
The VOA ride-in to Montrose in ‘98 was the first time I met a lot of you guys - LaMont, Gale, Paint it Black in Toronto ( yes...that’s PIBIT to you newbie’s), Tim/Redvalk, Hotglue... a lot of great memories... rode from Virginia out there, flew in my ( then girlfriend, now wife) Sandy, we toured around, then she went back and I decided it was only another 900 miles to LA to see my folks so I scooted out to LA for a 2 day visit, then raced back to Virginia solo... That BTW was the beginning of the VRCC and by the time I got back to VA, the membership #s had grown so I only got #279....

The trip meeting up with LaMont that he mentions was almost surreal in how we clicked with all we met.... Hey Lamont, remember how those guys liked MY bike better'n yers at that Kentucky Hotel?  LOL... ya ya, blower bike, wow LOOK at that BLACK one... hahahaahah... Hookin’ up with Dragbars and then TNT on that trip (remember us picking up yer Valk for ya Vicki???)...I got pics of that trip somewhere...
The Yosemite cross country last minute trip... Rode from VA to Nashville to pick up Dragbars, that nite got a call from PIBIT, ,met him in St Louis next day... then the 3 of us ROCKETING cross country into Denver where I got that bald rear tire changed... left at 6pm next nite and rode... and rode and rode... 28 hours strait if I remember right.. from Denver to Yosemite NONSTOP (well PIBIT got some sleep waiting for us to catch up, and woke up in the sprinklers at that gas station...LOL)... riding thru the fires outside of Yosemite in that escort, no sleep, was real, real strange... fire burning at side of road as we went by... arrived in Yosemite at 10pm or something like that and I got VALKCABBIE's old room as he got MARRIED that day and got the honeymoon suite...LOL... REMEMBER THE 4-WAY burnout contest there in the parking lot? 4 blower bikes all nose to nose.... Aaron did the wheelie in the parking lot and almost went into the lobby... hahahaha...

I remember the Daytona trip with Ethan and George... MAN we TORE that stretch of I95 UP... from DC to Daytona in about 11 or so hours... I remember Ethan got the nickname BARBIE since at each stop he either put clothes on or took ‘m off...LOL... and George... always taking up the rear, he got the nickname “Whar’s George" ... we seemed to find just the right openings between the pylons (I mean cars) and could get 2 bikes thru but not the 3rd... always George left behind...LOL.

VRCC in Rolling Thunder ... Had several gatherings over the years at my townhouse south of DC ... Saw Crazy Rick and WIA on their Hoss’s.... had a rained out picnic in MD, but didn’t phase most of us, went anyway... the Northeast riders were there (a little late but still there...LOL)... the Mid Atlantic guys were there... with that newly done up TRAILER QUEEN bike that yellow Dragon (what an AWESUM bike!)...
Rocket, Yogi and Big Earn visiting... again seeing them at TNT and JDubya's BBQ and helping pick up that downed Interstate.... racing back home on the Tennessee and Virginia interstates.... what a trip!

First INZANE! What a trip! Second INZANE! Just as fun!
EACH one of ‘m a unique and full memory... I thank you LaMont for making me remember those trips and more... 

All I can say is that on my motorcycle, and because of my motorcycle, I have met and feel I have my BEST friends anyone could have... I know I have been scarce round these boards recently, but in my mind, and my soul, I am still here! We gotta do this more often! Create some NEW memories!
I am planning a trip up into Canada late spring/early summer next year... will DEFINITELY look you northerners up on the way... no destination yet, just pointing north and going....
See ya on the road, Mosa!



Smilin’ Jack - Early days memories
After many exceptional rides with Earthdog he mentioned that he road to Daytona with some crazy folks. He told me they actually left him in the dust.... Jeff had his Valkyrie at that time and thanks to Gary Williams showing off on Hwy 60 near Suschess I decided it was time to plunge and get a Valkyrie.
Nov 16, 2000. I purchased my Valkyrie in Southern Ill, drove all night to get it and returned to GA the following day. Joined the VRCC and soon was involved in many of the activities such as the fund to help fellow members who were hurt. It was Lamont and Sonny in California who really got me involved with the VRCC. Although I had not ever met either of them.
Then....I had a ride to Daytona with a lot of folks TNT. JW, Christian Earthdog and a host of others... What a blast.... I knew I found a great bunch of folks and met Lamont in Daytona also with Highlander whom I had posted with many times on the board. The rest is history.... Some of my dearest friends are right here. My daughter also joined us in Daytona and made a special friend with Christian....after a comment she'll never forget at dinner.
There are so many folks that ride Valkyries in GA because of Jeff and me letting them on our bikes. We have a great group here in GA and really feel great to belong to this group on the BBR. I have had the opportunity to see a lot of folks on the road while traveling such as RJ and others in Arizona. Folks like Ray Hall, Ray Oubre, Big Don and a host of others have made a life time of memories.



Yogi
Like many others. I wanted the Valk from the time Honda had the commercial of the guy riding across the salt flats in a power slide. I wheeled and dealed for 6 months before I got the Black Tourer. I had been a member of the V65 Owners group so I figured there had to be a Valk group. Happened upon the VRCC and joined immediately. Everyone then was great and it just seemed like a big extended family.

My first real rally was IZ2 where I met pretty much everybody. Since then I have solidified some real true friendships. There aren't many people I'll ride 600 miles for just to eat a hamburger with, but Lamont you have created a wonderful thing. The best part is that many have moved on to other bikes but we all still have the same bond. Like Warren, I had few close friends. But now because of the VRCC and the BBR, my circle has gotten MUCH larger.

My favorite get together has got to be Maggie Valley last year. The closeness and the conversation were great, Wheels through time and the ride through Deals Gap following Lamont dragging everything through the corners on the Boss and breaking the tire loose on every straight. I was laughing so hard for 11 miles my face hurt.

Another memory is at the Honda Homecoming when Lamont had the remote starter on his bike at Hal's tent. Seems there was a little guy checking the bike out and when Lamont hit that starter from about twenty feet away I thought the kid would jump over the bike.



Warren
For me the coolest thing was the fact that the Valk group changed my life. I have a bunch of great high-speed riding memories that I'll never forget but it's been the people that are my favorite story. I have never been a people person. I have had a few close friends in my life but not just a whole bunch of friends. I had wrenched on a few bikes before the Valk thing but never met so many folks that loved to tear their bikes apart and make them "better." I rode out to Montrose for the VOA rally all by myself. That was right after I got my first new Valk and wanted to see what this whole thing was about. The rest is history. On the way home, I was deep in thought about how a lot of my life had been wasted by not reaching out more to people and making new friends. Long story short...since that time I have made a bigger effort to meet new people and make new friends. Whoever woulda thunk that having a love for bikes would lead to having such a big love for other people that also love bikes (there's a lot of LOVE in that sentence ) I still have a long way to go in the area of people skills but this fine group of Valkyrie folks and BBR folks has made me a better person.

[Beer van Huet]

Inzane III
http://www.valkyrieriders.com/inzane/IZ3home.htm













More IZ3 pictures at http://www.valkyrieriders.com/Just_Pics/IZ3Pics/home.htm

Press Release



The Valkyrie Riders Cruisers Club (VRCC) is proud to announce the 3rd Annual International InZane Valkyrie Rally.  The event is to be held July 23 – 27, 2003 in Zanesville, Ohio.  All motorcyclists are welcome.

One of the primary goals of this VRCC event is to raise funds for the Make-A-Wish Foundation.  Together, we will make the heart-felt wish of a child, with a life-threatening illness, come true.
Also, the Red Cross will be at the event, accepting blood donations.

Scheduled activities include: Back to the 60's Rock and Roll Night, Poker Run with guaranteed $1000 first prize, People’s Choice Bike Show, 1000 Valk March to the Honda Homecoming, Valkyrie Drag Races at National Trail Raceway, Dyno Runs, Bike Games, Raffles, 50/50's, Rides, Pizza Party, Tech Clinics, Burn-Out Contest, and of course, LOTS of vendors!
The “1000 Valk March” is intended to promote the presence and needs of motorcyclists everywhere.  The VRCC will attempt to break their previous record in the “Guinness Book of Records” for THE GREATEST NUMBER OF MOTORCYCLES, OF A SINGLE MODEL, ON THE ROAD AT ONE TIME.
1,000 Valkyries on the road this time?  We hope so!









During each Inzane, participants hold the People’s Choice Bike show.  Ever since the first Inzane
there were four categories for the show: Wash’n Wax - Wild Custom - Mild Custom – Non Valkyrie.

                               


Grand Prize: Wells Cargo, TC Trecker Enclosed Trailer             Second Prize: A Cool Scooter from PJ's Noveties
                       

Third Prize: An Autographed 8X10 of Heidi Klum



 
Vendors, Vendors, Vendors!
60's Rock 'n Roll Night
Poker Run - $1000 First Prize
1000 Valk March, Drag Races
Dyno Runs, Tech Sessions
Bike Games, Raffles, 50/50s
Vendors, Vendors, Vendors!
Rides, Pizza Party,
$1000.00 Bike Show
And Plenty of Other Stuff!!
Did We Mention Vendors?

Valkyrie Motorcycle National Rally Custom Bikes by oZ
Custom Valkyries, Custom Valkyrie Motorcycle, Valkyrie Rally
 
Dave Ritsema - All that road footage was shot out of the back of my F150
F6Gal - Still can't believe they cut my burn-out short though (3:55)!   
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=pMz_02r6Nxk&feature=youtu.be or https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=pMz_02r6Nxk



VRCC's InZane 1000 Valkyrie March to the Honda Homecoming
http://www.valkyrieriders.com/1000Valk/home.htm

[Beer van Huet]

Inzane IV – Paducah, Kentucky
http://valkyrieriders.com/inzane/iz4home.htm
Since Honda stopped manufacturing Valkyries in 2003, it was decided to hold the nationwide VRCC meetings each time in different areas of the country. By doing so, the ‘burden’ of having to take leave and spend money for riding all the way across the nation to a meeting would be shared. For an experienced long-distance rider, 800 miles or more per day was considered an attainable target.  For one who has not become accustomed to long distance riding, 500 miles per day is a very aggressive target. In either case, it was recommended to plan for more time than you think you'll need so you could enjoy the ride.



YouTube by oZ
1000 Valkyrie March from Paducah KY to Metropolis IL. Watch as 100's of Valkyries roll pass on the ride of 2004. With background music and commentary by the videographer this is a video that is going to give any Valkyrie fan goose-bumples!

Ride of the Valkyries 2004 by ozprez
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=nBO-2Y06VYw
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=zPt0HRXbs6Q


Pops
On the way to InZane IV this last year when I found myself in Sleepy town AR. On a Saturday Evening I was lucky enough to make it to the Hotel. I made it to the hotel with Steel wear bands popping out of my rear tire. So here we are, Saturday Night in Mountain View AR. (Small Town) with a tire that is about to pop. On our way to Inzane. What to do? Well called a few towing companies, $300-500+ to get me and the bike to the next Large city. Motorcycle shops weren’t going to be open till Tuesday. I was a sitting duck. I called my friend in KY who I had met through the VRCC board, and he said let’s post a help message. I thought what the heck it couldn't hurt. I was about to have the bike towed to Memphis TN to wait till Tuesday for the Honda shop to open. Well sure enough I got a phone call Saturday night from a fella in FL but no help there. So, we went out for supper and I tried to find a local who wanted to make a couple Hundred to trailer me and the Valk to either Memphis or Little Rock. No Luck. Sunday Morning comes and the phone rings again. It is a VRCC member named John. He says he is about 1.5 hours north of us. He then says I have an old spare Avon, A lift and all the tools to change the tire. And that he could be there in the next 2 hours. WOW now here it is Sunday morning and this fella who I have never talked to or met before is willing to but his Sunday plans on hold and come out of his way to help a complete stranger. I am blown away by this and accept his offer. So, I and my 2 ridding buddies waited for him to show up. We started taking apart what we could to get to the rear tire before he showed up. Sure enough John, my new best friend in AR pulls up in his truck. Oh by the way thank God John also knew how to change the tire. I have changed dirt bike tires on the trail but nothing like this. So here we are in the parking lot of the Best Western tearing it down. Well it took all 4 of us to monky that tire off the rim but lo and behold 2 hours later the tire was replaced and the bike was put back together. Now this fella John has just saved my bacon. And I donated a nice cash reward to him for his troubles and the old Avon. So we were back on the road again only 4 hours behind schedule. Now I had never really been much of a group person before. But let me say this really opened my eyes to the power of the group. We met up with John and his lovely wife @ Inzane a few days later. Awesome people associated with this group. I also met a bunch of other really nice people at the rally. This by far is one story I will never forget. Out in the middle of no-where and SOL when the cavalry comes a callin’. Amazing   I owe a favor back to someone in need at some point so if you ever find yourself SOL in Colorado, Pops will come a callin’.

Bob
A number of years ago, when we had our Valkyrie Interstate, we attended the annual Valkyrie Riders Cruiser Club (VRCC) Rally in Paducah, KY. The rally was called “INZANE IV”. The first rally was held in Zanesville, OH and this was the fourth iteration.  We participated on a group ride and when I say group ride, I mean GROUP RIDE. Over 400 Valkyries rode from Paducah, KY to Metropolis, IL and stopped in the town square near the larger than life statue of Superman – Metropolis, you know. Before you say, wait the group shouldn’t be larger than 5-7 motorcycles, we had police escort all the way. It was impressive! We got there and took pictures near the Superman statue and then rode back to Paducah.

RTaz
Well a number of years ago Devl and I were at Inzane IV in Kentucky and my alternator on my Interstate went out on me, well we were in the middle of nowhere along the Ohio river and a couple of bikes came zooming by next thing you know they turn around and come back and asked if we were okay.
Well we had a wrecker coming but it was about an hour away. These two guys offered all kinds of help and sat with us for quite a while, the wrecker came and took us back ground zero we never even got their names but we were real grateful for their kindness. They were from the Great State of Texas and I really appreciated and enjoyed their company.










                    Thor’s Hammer at Inzane IV Paducah





YouTube by Mongo1957
Photos of VRCC Valkyrie Riders – Music by Wagner - Ride of the Valkyries
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=cSg1qXQJFDU







Grand Prize Raffle
http://www.valkyrieriders.com/inzane/IZ4GrandPrize.htm










 

[Beer van Huet]

Inzane V - Paducah, Kentucky
https://web.archive.org/web/20050824153017/http://www.valkyrieriders.com:80/InZane/



It’s that time again, time to get signed up for the Largest Valkyrie Ride-in on the planet! July 20-24, 2005, Valkyrie riders from all over the globe will be converging in Paducah, Kentucky for our 5th Annual VRCC 'InZane' Ride-In. Many exciting events are planned, including a celebration of the arrival of the World-Famous Thor’s Hammer. Thor’s Hammer has spent the last 7 months traveling through Europe and will conclude its journey at InZane. 
The program consists of a blow-out party, 1000 Valk March, tech sessions, demo runs, bike rodeo, raffles, bike show and guided rides.  And, most important- best possible companion with good Valkyrie friends from all over the nation. 
 


Introduction of the "Dragon's Lair!
Last year there were several comments that we lacked a converging point... somewhere to hang out, kick tires, swap lies, etc.  So, in an effort to keep the InZane atmosphere alive and well, we proudly introduce the Dragon's Lair.  The Dragon's Lair will be a tent set up outside the convention center.  We'll be hangin' there every evening, so park your bike nearby, wear your tire-kicking boots and bring your tall tales, 'cause this is going to be the place to be!

 
                                                                                                                            community          

 
                                                                                                                     Rodeo/Biker Games


                                                                                                           ……and of course, each time the bar is raised


                                                Nice bikes, paintjobs, custom bikes, radical bikes, it’s all there at the People’s Choice Bike Show


                                                                Group Ride Out – 1000 Valk March

Take a look at the 425 participants list
https://web.archive.org/web/20050625074559/http://www.stanardgroup.com:80/inzane_reg/whos_going.php


                           BBQ and Awards Dinner – List of pleasantly disturbed Riders


                  The Valkyrie Neon light has always been a popular item

Some pics from our German visitors - http://www.f6-valkyrie.de/inzane_v.htm - by Andy

















                                                                                    Dance & Tattoo Contest




                                                                                      Bike Show


                                                                                     Thursday




                                                                                      Bike Rodeo




                                                                                    BBQ & Awards Dinner




Nice Slideshow by Mongo1957
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=cSg1qXQJFDU



http://www.valkyrieriders.com/Inzane/Maps/Memorial.htm


http://www.valkyrieriders.com/Inzane/PokerRun.htm

 

[Beer van Huet]

Inzane VI - Frisco, Colorado
https://web.archive.org/web/20060618145014/http://www.valkyrieriders.com:80/Inzane/

This Inzane has been the largest by far, with 526 participants.  A huge turn-out that was held at what would become ground zero twice. 



F6gal
The first 5 Inzanes were held in the East. In 2006 the VRCC went to Colorado for the 6th and broke all previous records for attendance.  Despite heading East again, Colorado held the attendance record until 2010.  That year, (first) Michigan beat out Colorado by 3 attendees.  Since then, the club has not broken 400... Although WV came very close.  The worst year (attendance-wise) was 2005 in Kentucky that was the only time we did not break 300.  Attendance drops drastically if we repeat a location. 
I have no clue as to the location of ‘the center of the Valkyrie universe’.  But it would probably be hot and humid and would get really boring after a couple of times there.  People want to see new places (evidenced by attendance drop at repeat locations).  It doesn't matter where it is; some people aren't going to like it. The VRCC can't help that.

John Schmidt aka Stuffy
I recall in 2006 (believe that's the year), the first InZane in Frisco, CO took place. Then a short time later that summer we had DOTS (Dragons Over The Smokies) in Johnson City, TN. That year I attended both and had a great time but left Colorado early due to family issues. I have no idea what the attendance was at either event, just know I had a good time. The DOTS event had to have been a younger crowd that year, reason being.... I got the "Old Farts" (Oldest Rider) award at age 68.  Good memories of both but doubt I'd be able to do it again. I guess if I were to make the trip to SD (Inzane XV- Spearfish), I'd trailer the bike to a friend or relative's place in the Midwest, and then ride the rest of the way. I figure from Florida I would need to consider at least one week for travel to/from, and then add a week on location. Not sure I can make that happen, but we'll have to see. 

                                                                                                           Thursday








                                      Bill & BigMac                                                                 Justin from Viking                                                          Jim from Sophie’s

                                      Karen from F6 Store                                                                 F6Gal                                                                     Oz

                                      Crash                                                                                       RJ                                                                           Dave Ritsema

                                     Scott                                                                                        Des                                                                          Connie, Mike & Dave

                                                                               People’s Choice Bike Show




                                                                                                                             Poker Run






                           (What happened with this injured individual ?)                                                                 Bike Rodeo & Balloon Toss


                                                                                                                          Tattoo Contest






                                                                                                                         ValkMarch & Banquet

Willow - Glimpses of the Ride Thru Inzane 2006
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=D-l3-LZJpBY 

Gryphon Rider
At Inzane VI in Frisco, Colorado, I did a clinic on collision avoidance (swerving) and emergency braking.  About eight riders participated, IIRC.  I was an active instructor at the time.  One difficulty with doing this is the availability of clear pavement and the prevention of passers-through.

oZ
Reading the thread on our message board got me thinking about InZane 6 in Colorado: What I get from reading all those posts on our message boards is this is going to be an adventure!
Distance Traveling: In my adult years I did very little long-distance traveling, it really started when I got my first Valkyrie, went to the VOA National Rally in Montrose Colorado. One of the best parts of that event for me was the ride, it truly was an adventure. From heavy monsoon rains, to crossing vast wide-open spaces, to experiencing the Navaho Nation. Gas Stations without corporate signs.
Having the opportunity to meet a seasoned Navaho gentleman and discuss my destination with him. He shared his land with me and gave suggestions as to what was ahead, what it meant to him and how he loved the land.

Then my five trips east for the InZane Events, I discovered it is America the Beautiful, from Arizona through New Mexico, truly awesome and enchanted lands. From peering up at unbelievable skies at night. Crossing Texas, Oklahoma, Kansas, farming, small towns…
Watching the lay of the land change as I traveled east, from dry arid to lush woods, the further I went east the more wooded this great country became.
And how spectacularly different our America is. Man! Rivers, big astonishing rivers like I never saw before, and thunder storms, and weather, we don’t have that in SoCal, now I know what they mean when they say, if you don’t like the weather wait a minute or so.
New Experiences: Just as I never really appreciated or even knew how wooded the country side is east of the Mississippi, those coming west if for the first time or re-visiting will discover or rediscover some interesting differences.

Like weather! Where we’re going they have weather too. The terrain is so massive, the mountains so great they effect the weather patterns. And if you never breathed the rarified air above 8,000 feet, the clearness, cleanliness, the inability of pollutants to reach those altitudes is a wonder.
And speaking of cool, just like me discovering that the east can actually be a very warm place in the summer, kind of a shock again for someone who comes from a place that’s known as a warm destination, (Southern California) well fact is I didn’t know warm and discovered the wonders of humidity. I panicked the first time my classes fogged up when I walked out of the air-conditioned hotel, an adventure right there.
Well just like the warm I discovered in the east during the summer, I believe some will be amazed at how cool the Rockies can be. And I believe the lack of humidity will be an adventure for some as when the sun sets and there being little humidity to hold whatever heat is accumulated at that altitude and how quickly the warmth dissipates.

But it is not always cool in the Rockies, being at those altitudes the sun can warm you as there is a lot less atmosphere between you and the sun. Taking a break and putting your head down to soak up some of that warmth is wonderful and surprising how fast the radiant warmth from a sun unfiltered can warm your body. You’ve all seen the pictures of folks skiing in short sleeves.
And yet you’ll get up from your warm respite swing your leg over your Valkyrie and be surprised at how you can go from being comfortably warm to surprisingly chilly, remember it was the solar radiant that was warming you the thin air doesn’t like to maintain a whole lot of heat.
 
Altitude, especially high altitudes is an adventure you may find interesting. You will discover your trusty Valkyrie behaving differently at altitude, especially high altitudes. We have roads waiting for you that reach up and touch the face of God, where you peer down at cloud tops. You’ll experience vistas and beauty reserved for folks you fly in open cockpit airplanes and you have arrive via you Valkyrie, who needs an airplane when mother nature has delivered up the means to get there on you motorcycle.
You will experience surprising changes in not only temperatures but at each elevation are different foliage, from broad leaf trees at the 4,000 to 5,000 feet elevations, to evergreen pines at higher elevations, even long living, almost bizarre trees the survive at the tree line, to crossing the tree line and again joining the few creatures and plants that seek out a living at such extreme elevations.
To stand at towering elevations and survey physical drops of thousands of feet, to look down on worlds just miles away that have completely different vegetation. To experience waterfalls and streams fed from almost glacier like formations, to see snow in late July. These my friends are truly remarkable and memorable experiences and maybe even adventures only available infrequently.

And to do it on the finest motorcycle, to share it with old and new friends and brothers and sisters that share your love of the freedom provided by the two-wheel experience.
Don’t be surprised by this remarkable place, try to take it in, take it home with you. And when you’re in your cubicle, office, in the field doing what it is you do to pay the mortgage you will have a new view on life, Gods handy work, and your ability to look around you and appreciate the beauty of your surroundings.
Its food for the soul these adventures. And to be able to experience them not from a tour bus with some tourist guide leading you, but to have folks among you that live in these incredible mountains, who grew up here and are excited about sharing their corner of the earth with you is invaluable.

As my good friend Daniel Meyer would maybe say, Life is a Road; Get on it and Find the Adventure.
Spirit: These mountains, these altitudes will affect you, let’s be upfront about that; they will not coddle you this is not this is a formidable environment that man worked hard to make accessible. This is not a pleasure cruise with warm breezes and hotel or ship board waiters waiting on your hand and foot. This is rugged, wild, terrain, with altitudes and places were men and women worked very hard to make available to us.
We have picked a place that Six Flags and Disney don’t have to build some amusement facility to improve on the experience is awesome, inspiriting, sometimes harsh, always astounding. But these mountains just may speak to you.

From the time you get up and open your door and glance out at magnificence, to exploring incredible altitudes and vistas that act as an introduction to God’s handy work and Mother Nature’s finest efforts. You, your companions in the VRCC and your Valkyrie just may transport you to a place you never been before, not specifically a location, but maybe a state of mind. Maybe an adventure you couldn’t image, maybe an emotion you’ve never felt before.
Welcome to High Country Cruising!
Your acquisition of the Valkyrie Motorcycle and your participation as a member of the VRCC has delivered a rare opportunity for you, carpe diem.
 
Maybe and truly a once in a lifetime adventure. From the discoveries on the route to the Rockies, to actually experiencing the magnificence of God’s handiwork, the opportunity awaits you, and hundreds of other likeminded, two wheeled adventurers who will experience the exploration, the awe, the companionship of renewed friendships, opportunities to meet new brothers and sisters you didn’t know you had, playing in the brilliance that are the Rocky Mountains: that may, just may hold a revelation for you.

InZane 6 winner of Belly Tank
The winner of the raffle was Rick but he graciously gave the ticket to Mike.  Mike had been at our booth trying to get on the list for purchasing a tank & installation but we had run out of tanks until the drawing for the raffle.  Rick went to purchase a few raffle tickets since he knew Mike really wanted a tank.  He walked back with some in his hand and told Mike “this looks like the only way you will get it so you better go buy tickets" which Mike did.   Rick won the drawing and Mike got the tank.  Thank you all for participating in the raffle.


              Winner Rick Wery (aka Valkstr) from Alaska                                 Recipient Mike Glover from Michigan                            The winner & the owner with the installed tank 

During the Tech Session, Roger from R&M left no less than 14 happy customers leaving with newly installed belly tanks. Quite an achievement, considering a new bung had to be installed, even using inert gas.



Some more pics by Roger




                                                              Great pic by Swartzy

[Beer van Huet]

Inzane VII - Johnson City, Tennessee
https://web.archive.org/web/20070704212456/http://www.valkyrieriders.com:80/inzane/



                                                                           Wednesday






                                                                            Thursday


                                                                             Bristol Motor Speedway


                                                                                Bike Rodeo










                                                                            Saturday




                                                                             Pics from Dave Ritsema


Comments afterwards http://www.valkyrieforum.com/bbs/index.php/topic,93703.0.html

bonniesherbals - riding with LD and Misfit &LilBit (ridin' to the ranch)
Oss
I was behind Misfit and Lil'Bit on this stretch of road and LD was on the beast taking pics and dancin like usual  She passes at about 90 or so laughing all the way  Yep I got passed by a girl
On the way back it poured !  Misfit was running a ToyoProxes T1 and I was so impressed with his bike in the rain I got one the next year. 
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=1YaNHTyb0gg

Mick Manchester
Memories of 07 and Johnson City, leaving for the ride into town, great weekend, great company, great adventure, great year.
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=OH-dGHGkb3s

[Beer van Huet]

Inzane VIII - Johnson City, Tennessee



Schedule of events
http://www.valkyrieriders.com/inzane/iz8scheduleofevents.htm

YouTube by Odinvonzero
Inzane VIII National Rally - Block Party in Downtown Johnson City, July 30, 2008.

Valkyrie Motorcycle Rally
https://youtu.be/W_c_d5yByfs


YouTube by JoAnn Gibb
VRCC InZane 8 - Honda Valkyrie riding the second part of the Snake near Mountain City, Tennessee
Valkyrie On The Snake - Inzane 8 - 8/08
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=0_v8UpF5Oqw

Tech Session Schedule Inzane 8

Wednesday
10:00am—Tank Removal, petcock service, air-filter change.
Scratching your head and saying, “My Valkyrie has an air filter?” We’ll pull a tank and remove/replace the air filter. We’ll also show you how to quickly test the petcock function (something you should do every time you pull the tank).
3:00pm— Inbound Valkyrie Clinic
Did you pick up a new rattle in Barceló? Did that whine that never bothered you at home seem to get louder the further away you got from your dealer? Bring your machine and your questions and we’ll be happy to recommend a fix, earplugs, or perhaps a bus ticket. We’ll have duct-tape!

Thursday
9:30am—Brake Pad replacement. (Tent)
Learn how to change your brake pads. Arrive on time or you’ll miss this one, it really is that easy!  
2:30pm— Older ladies just do it better!
High mileage Valkyries and how to get them there. The “weak points” and less common maintenance items on a Valkyrie. U-joint/driveline, fuel system, shifter seal, power shaft seal, steering head bearings, alternators. I’ll have a bike for pointing out things and some aged parts and examples. Discussion session

Friday
4:00pm— Petcocks
No, we don’t have any chickens, and please don’t bring any. We’re talking fuel valves here; how they work, why it’s important that they do, what the insides look like, how to rebuild, and when to replace.

Saturday
2:00pm—Anatomy of a fat lady’s rear end. (Tent)
IF there’s a weak spot on the Valkyrie, this is it. Serviced improperly, this piece of tail will eventually cost you a lot of money or worse, leave you standing beside the road wondering at the fickle nature of these creatures.
Join us as we explore deep in the cracks and crevasses of the Valkyrie’s nether regions. Want to know how to remove the rear wheel? Curious what all the “spine” fuss is about? Do you know about the * three * o-rings you need to replace? (Your average dealer doesn’t and won’t). What “4 bolts” and why the heck should you loosen them? (Your average dealer doesn’t and won’t). What about the drive shaft? You’ll hear people talk about the u-joint but what’s the other big “gotcha” hiding back there? Expect this one to run a bit long.

3:30pm— Open Forum Tech Talk
Got a question? Got a problem? Bring your Valkyrie maintenance questions. Moderated by experienced Valk wrenches, we’ll do our best to answer your questions or help you out. No questions? Come anyway. These sessions are popular, Interesting things come up and everybody learns something

Pics from 3fan4life
http://s194.photobucket.com/user/3fan4life/library/Inzane%20VIII?sort=3&page=1








Pics from ChromeDome http://s242.photobucket.com/user/chromedome1951/library/InZane%20VIII?sort=3&page=1












                                                           TJ on left with Trick Rick on right

RJ -  Pictures compliments of Rob & Terry
http://www.valkyrieforum.com/bbs/index.php/topic,57832.0.html

Solo1
I no longer can ride to these events but whenever I think of Inzanes I think of this video.  Chris, my son (Psychotic Bovine) did this tape.  Mark, my son (Mad6Gun) is in the lead with a mutual friend of ours in the middle.
I can relate to this video as I drove the Snake in my Miata at the second Johnson City Inzane and watched Mark do a low speed slide out (sick feeling on my part) in front of me.  He was ok.
Although I'm not making Inzanes anymore, I can still relate to them through this video. In fact it's my favorite but don't tell Chris.  His helmet barely fits his head now!  
Looking back at all the Inzanes that I've been to, they all have been great.

PsychoticBovine - The Snake" near Johnson City (not Inzane related)
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=rrI28tyNaqI  

Valkyrie Motorcycle Newscast
Michael, Willow and Scott give some insight as to the Valkyrie Riders Cruiser Club's National rally and the charities we support. The news transmission shows Michael on his bike and Willow and F6Gal interviewed.
https://vimeo.com/9398770

[Beer van Huet]

InZane IX - Frisco, Colorado
https://web.archive.org/web/20090428125823/http://www.valkyrieriders.com:80/InZane/



VRCCSharkey - Photos from my trip to Inzane 9 July 2009 in Frisco Colorado
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=lfU4heGmmTY






                                                                                                              Bike Show

oZ - Bike games
https://vimeo.com/8590522




                                                                                                             Memorial Ride


                                                                                                             Mt Evans - 14.130 ft.

F6Gal
There were 4 awards that either weren't printed or disappeared into a cosmic black hole. So far this is what we have:

Highest Mileage Bike:   Willow with 141,849
Most Miles Ridden to IZ9 - Meandering Route - Clint with 6250 (Waiting to hear from Lyn-Del or Wizard)
Newest Valkyrie Rider:  SMS (Cal) with a mere 10 weeks
Oldest Rider:  I know MasterBlaster is 70... anyone older than that?
If you can beat any of these stats, speak now or... well, you know.
Rhonda and Cowbell won the F6 Neon light.

Motomama
Nickster did receive the award for the furthest distance ridden to Inzane.  He and his father did have one heck of a ride to get there and home (Alaska).  I do have to admire them for that.  They are definitely great people!

Scott
The winner of the sign donated it back to be auctioned off for the Charity, which was the Starlight Childrens Foundation.  Rhonda and Noah purchased the sign, for the staggering amount of $1000.  The money went directly to Starlight in memory of Steve (OldSkool). There was not a dry eye in the building.


Willow’s Inzane pics
http://www.far-riders.com/albums/thumbnails.php?album=133



Marismetz - InZane 2009
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=eiZfg86Xm1U

RP
The poker run stop I was manning near the top of one of the mountains near Frisco



oZ
Workerbee and I our finally out.
It was our intention to discover more of Colorado - but never left the hotel, just to pooped to go exploring especial in an Exclusion vs. a Valkyrie.
Had dinner last night with the last remaining Valk people Darryl and Little D. Great time they are working very hard to get their bikes back to New York.
We plan to drive all the way through to SoCal, hence a 3:15am departure time.
The rally was fantastic, we had a blast. Great people, good times.
Sorry to be leaving would have stayed more but work rained on our parade and want me back or else we may have had a chance to see more.
This is the first time we stayed to actually see some of the terrain, again work put an end to that. If I could get medical insurance I would so be done with my job which sucks.
In these hard economic time I figure I'm blessed to have a job. I'd like to give kudos to all the members who were there to just help the staff but I'm afraid I might leave someone out.
Special thanks to F6Gal, Willow, Motomama and Scott from Oka.
Thank you all for a fantastic meeting. Looking forward to seeing you next year. If I do lose my job I will be attending other local rallies just for the fun of it.
Ride safe again thank all of you for supporting the VRCC

Motomama
Through all of the generous donations, the auctions, ticket sales, etc., the members of the VRCC at Inzane IX contributed a total of $5,874.00 to the Starlight Childrens Foundation!  WooHoo!  The generosity of our group sure does make me proud to be a member of the VRCC!  You guys ROCK!

[Beer van Huet]

Inzane X - Bellaire, Michigan
https://web.archive.org/web/20100429054910/http://www.valkyrieriders.com:80/inzane/
 


2010 was the 10th Inzane anniversary.  According to Connie, Zanesville was under discussion for a reunion of sorts, but the hotel had changed ownership and was not that cooperative... also, not really big enough for the attendance we anticipated.

Willow
Something will be handled a bit differently this year.  The VRCC will be taking room reservations.  We haven't done that before, but the resort offered us a block of rooms at a great price if we would do the filling and room assignments.  Check-in will still take place at the resort desk, and payment will be made through the resort, but the VRCC will be giving the resort personnel a list of room assignments and will be responsible for being certain they're all filled.  Can you feel the pressure?  One of our staff had to provide a substantial deposit out of her own pocket to guarantee this block of rooms.
The block we've been provided consists of some forty-five King suites and some ninety double queen rooms. The King suites each include a kitchenette (seems almost wrong to add the "ette"), a fireplace and a single king-sized bed
Did I mention bike games and tech sessions?



Some thoughts by oZ
One thing I'm especially looking forward to is the possibility of more Canadians at the Michigan rally, heck isn't it a lot closer?
No wait closer doesn't really work. If there are Long Riders it's got to be Canadians. My first encounter with a Canadian was about 11 years ago when I met PIBIT (Paint It Black in Toronto). Where'd I meet him? Mariposa California right outside of Yosemite for reference. That was the first "Unofficial Valkyrie Riders Rally". I had run the idea past some who thought it wouldn't work. Wouldn't work? We raised over 6 thousand bucks for charity and had a bunch of people there; it was the spring board for InZane!
But for me the best and most surprising thing was people like Pibit. Now that I think about it I think there were two Canadians there, neither knowing each other before meeting there. We also had a slew of folks from the other side of the Mississippi. It was an eye opener for me and proved two things to me and one discovery.
1. Valkyrie riders are motorcyclists be it cross country or hitting the twisties. Their enthusiasts.
2. Also, I've found they’re not about the fad, or trying to be cool or having the bike du jour. They based their ride on performance, like maybe I can ride this thing to anywhere!
And my discovery, the thing that attracted me to the Valkyrie, the speed, handling, sophistication and elegance of the big ol' machine also attracted others. Maybe having preference for excellence goes beyond motorcycles, maybe, just maybe that's why I've met so many excellent people on Valkyries.
If I don't see you sooner then I'll see you in Michigan.
The Village of Bellaire was awesome to us and except for under estimating how many people we would have there (the VRCC staff told them, think they didn't believe us) Shanty Creek was great.
So many people have told me what a great time they had this year it's almost overwhelming!
I would also like to thank everyone that worked to make InZane X great but it is a big list and fear I would leave someone out, a bad thing.

I threw a video https://vimeo.com/13963656  if you are interested.
One more thing and I have to say it again: Michigan Rocks!

Brief Outline of Inzane
The registration page will tell you what's included.
There will be a couple (or three) group rides and a selection of self-guided rides in the registration packets.
Tourist things to do will abound in the area as it's a vacation destination, albeit a small town in the woods.
The Saturday night banquet, a Joe Boyd memorial shirt, and an InZane X pin are included with early full registration.
Additionally, you'll want to purchase raffle tickets to take part in the excitement as we give away TONS of stuff each night and then MEGATONS of stuff on Saturday.
You'll want to do the Poker Run for our selected charity at $15.
Tech sessions and rides are on a show up basis.
She'll want to come.  She'll make friends and have a great time.



10 years of VRCC – Open letter by oZ
I love my VRCC mates! I was blessed to be in the right place at the right time for the opportunity to start the VRCC and the blessing is folks like you, friends from the get go! I've been thinking about it and the VRCC seems to me to be more than just an interest group about Valkyrie Motorcycles. To me it seems to be a brotherhood, sisterhood since it is the ladies, girls (: that add so much to the caring aspect of our organization.
I can't even cover all the kindnesses I've seen, the outpouring of not only care but support our members have given, and not just to our own brothers and sisters but to anyone needing support be them riders or not.
We're a blessed group and I hope, no I almost know this organization of brothers and sisters is not a passing phenomenon. Thank goodness for the VRCC.
Again, three things. I'm blessed to have been in the right place at the right time to watch the VRCC come into existence, I'm blessed to have hundreds of friends who have my and each other’s backs and I'm blessed to have a cornucopia of wise people, diverse in wisdom and with our numbers of individuals able to provide guidance not only in the love and feeding of the Valkyrie Motorcycle but in advise in all matters.
I guess were like a family.
oZ, your humble and inspired fearless and neurotic semi-leader

Timbrwolf
Wow....what a trip! . ....we were on the road for..oh..wait....we were only 45 minutes away...   
. .....was a GREAT time.....lots n lots of Valks....and a TON of great people....folks just kept coming up and introducing themselves....and saying this was the best Inzane in years....and how much they were diggin on Northern Michigan........and even though we didn’t get rooms at Shanty Creek ...we were jealous cuz Staff picked an excellent place to hold the Event and if I had to describe it in a single word I’d have to say...lush.....very fine resort.....lots of Valks and other bikes...and the folks attending were outstanding...good friends of ours, Dave and Fran came up to stay at our place for the weekend and we made day trips up to the ride in...saw good friends like Solo1...Blackdog...W3....met Big D...Robin from New Jersey...saw our good friends TP from Minnesota....Laser Pat and his wife from the Great State of Texas....got to take a great ride with Oss and his lovely wife Bonnie and show them the beautiful Rt 119.....saw Kaz from Wisconsin....our good friend Dave Pettit....and we can’t forget our good friend...Daniel Myers from Texas...that Invitation stands Daniel....one day I need to fulfill...My Mission of creating a ...BAB...and watching you enjoy it ! ..   ...and spent our evenings hanging out at our good friends ...George and Pams camp site with a TON of great friends...Pam is a camp fire Gourmet and whipped up some fine vittles for everyone....and we got to dig on some sweeeeeeeet Northern Michigan wind....like our good friends Hot Glue and Strider are fond of saying....we had us a Verrrryyyyyy LARGE TIME !!! 
A HUGE Thank You to ALL of the Staff....and everyone else who worked tirelessly to make this happen for the Masses of the VRCC...they did an EXCELLENT Job!!!!           

laserpat
We had a blast!!! You Michiganders rock!! Great people made us feel so at home. A total stranger offered to take us out on their boat for a cruise, amazing roads, can’t wait to come back. Will post pictures when we can.

F6Gal
Ok, we took a week to ride after InZane, I'm getting caught up with things at home, and I realize that I haven't made an appropriate post InZane post.   
First, thanks to everyone that attended, it was an amazing success. 
We had a final attendance count of 515 (falling short of the previous record by just 11). We donated $7001 (+ $20 Canadian) to Camp Quality.
As usual, the InZane staff went above and beyond.  Year after year, there is a handful of people that donate an unbelievable amount of time to making InZane happen and making it an enjoyable experience for all of us.  Please join me in thanking these fine folks: 
oZ; Willow; Motomama; Scott & Joni; Psycho; Tim (RedValk) & Sherry; Misfit & Lil' Bit; Lyn-Del & Wizard; and Daniel Meyer... please take a bow.
In addition this year, we had the help of the phenomenal Michigan chapter: RTaz (State rep) & Devl; Pat & Carolyn; Stitch; John & Alane; Big Bill; Romeo; Scar; Big Bob; Skinhead; Bill Bunker; Ed Smalling; Greg Graves; Joe Errante; Jules; Mike & Kari; Norm Bacon; (sorry don't know all of your handles); and all the other MI members that chipped in... please take your bow, as well.
Youse guys are all the bomb.  Thank you so much! Oh, and thanks Michael Terry for finding our awesome ground zero. thanks

RTAZ
I have been to many InZanes in the past but this was our first time to be involved with the National Staff from the planning stages on InZane X to the actual event....I must say the Staff have done this many times and they know what ground work needs to be done for such an event...I have seen them at the event work 24/7 to make sure all our brothers and sisters where taken care of...I saw Lori trying to eat a dinner but not being able too because she wouldn't turn off her phone...I've seen Connie limp around all day long on a sore foot because she needed to take care of business....I saw Scott standing out in the hot sun day after day making sure everything was going okay....I saw RedValk setting up his DJ equipment and spinning tunes along with Sherry...I saw Willow answering a questions all day long being pulled from one end of the resort to the other...I saw Pat and Carolyn working day in and day out to see that everything was running smoothly...I saw Misfit and Lil-bit working out under that canopy day in and day out...and helping us MiVRCC folks out setting up stuff and carrying boxes and stuff...I saw Lyn-Del and Wizard sitting out ALL day long in the hot sun being our security at the vendors gate....I saw Oz and Karen working at the F6 store talking making the members feel welcome and I saw the Michigan Chapter leaders step up and do a great job welcoming people Jewels and Big Bill ,John and Alane at the blood drive, Scar and Suzy Q for helping us when we needed you for your day in and day out work on our website and forums here in Michigan, Joe with the banners, Big Bob and Big Bill at the Bike show, Slyk Willy at the bike games, Romeo & Juliet, Mike B & Kari helping out where ever they could, Stitch for the great job he did with the poker run....Greg Graves for helping set up and running around helping members in need, Ed and Judy for all the hours in the Michigan welcome table area....all of the countless MIVRCC members for the behind the scenes help the contributed...Patrica and Paula at the Bellaire Chamber of Commerce was a major help for this event they truly made our event a great success in Bellaire ...the Village of Bellaire should be proud of their efforts...the Traverse City CMA members for their services and prayers.... all the great folks from Michigan welcoming all of our brothers and sister from around the world...I can't say enough about how proud I am of our State.... I am truly sorry if I forgot anyone I am still in the rush of InZane excitement ...I hope we have the opportunity to do this again I know we can make it even better.

Solo1
I was over to Mark's house last night and he brought me up to speed on this year's Inzane. As usual, it was a good event for him and all. The get offs that he and Chris had, brought out the fact that there are still good people out there. The Ski patrol, the couple in the Mercedes SUV, and others, all helped in making a bad experience not so bad. I can't say enough about Loth and his wife who was with them and rendered a steadying hand. Twila has a sore knee but it's getting better.
During Mark's talk, I was thinking back to the five Inzanes that I attended. I keep thinking of RJ who I had good conversations with at both Paducahs and Johnson City. I remember sitting on my balcony at Bellaire with John Schmidt, contemplating the foibles of life as we indulged in a scotch and soda.
I most certainly remember accepting the special award, at Bellaire, for the oldest member even though I didn't ride to Inzane That was totally unexpected and was worth just as much to me as my Sagamore of The Wabash Award given to me by the mayor of New Haven. 
I also remember the Covered Bridge Rides undertaken by 'Doc" Morse of Crawfordville, Again, RJ stood out for me there as his birthday was celebrated during the CBR.  RJ is still on my mind as we were both Korean War veterans, me in an Army medical support group, and he as a combat Marine.
I remember the CBR and Hollywood doing his wheelie on Doc's residential street.
Last year I drove the Miata to Corydon and met still more Valk members.  I was welcomed, even though I came on four wheels instead of two or three.  I would hope that Steve continue the DRU as it's similar to the CBR.
Overall, it is indeed memorable to me that all this good stuff was brought about by a common love of a motorcycle that was no longer made after 2003, a long 14 years ago!
It is amazing to me that one motorcycle has done so much to bring together such a great group of people.







 

 

[Beer van Huet]

Inzane XI - Bellaire, Michigan
https://web.archive.org/web/20110705114954/http://valkyrieriders.com/InZane/  and
https://web.archive.org/web/20110103213051/http://www.valkyrieriders.com:80/inzane/





Joe (ridingdragon) Errante
The Michigan VRCC will be represented with 80 members at Inzane XI this year.  That's awesome!!  The schedule of events has now been published and will prove to be a great time for everyone.  We are still looking for vendors.... motorcycle related or not.  If you know someone who may be interested get me their name and number A.S.A.P.  Also, we are looking for more volunteers to help out during the week’s event.  Pam and I are looking forward to seeing everyone there.

YouTube by TravelersWords
From Valkyrie Rider's Cruiser Club's national rally InZane XI held in Bellaire, MI.
This is the poker run, 30 July 2011

VRCC's InZane XI Poker Run
https://www.youtube.com/watch?time_continue=11&v=8CQhKHHrgaI


Charles Schell
I had never seen so many Valkyries in one place or so many friendly people.  Since I'd only owned my Valk a couple months when I went, it was a very special treat to be around so many like-minded riders.  Being a newbie got me an award.



If You Are Going InZane, Joining In Is Half The Fun
After getting parked, I wandered over to the registration table to get signed in.  Everybody there was real friendly and curious about me -- they wanted to know where I was from and what my name was and things like that.  I thought it was because they were interested in me as a person but I came to find out that they were just looking for my registration form. 
Once I got my packet of stuff and name tag (which I never wore) I was sent down to the raffle ticket part of the registration table.

     K-Dog's Rune

At the raffle ticket table I met Sparky51.  We had actually conversed online earlier in the week when I volunteered to help sell raffle tickets.  When in doubt or if you are ever going to an event you've never been to before and they're looking for volunteers – – do.
Usually the best thing you can volunteer to do is to tend bar.  However, failing that -- offer to help with anything to do with gambling.  The reason is easy, if you don't know these people a quick way for them to come to you is to either give them a drink or sell them a chance to win something.  Since the bars weren't open, gambling was my only choice.


I ended up staying longer than I was supposed to but I was promised time and half.  Actually, I guess I was paid in blueberries.  After making pies, there was a bowl of left over blueberry pie filling in the kitchen.  Near the end of my shift, this bowl made its way to the table with a stack of spoons to be shared by all present.  After some discussion, it was determined that whipped cream or ice cream would make this tasty snack even better.  The bowl disappeared then reappeared a short while later with ice cream on top of the blueberries.  The volunteers rejoiced and ate of the bowl.  Thinking back, this was probably a bit riskier germ-wise than a double dipped chip, but volunteerism strengthens the immune system.


After I put in my volunteer time --- I spent a little while wandering through the parking lot and looking at the various bikes.  I was really stealing ideas for improvements on my own bike but I was also enjoying looking at what other people had done creatively to theirs.  I'd never seen so many variations on a theme.
The next group participation thing that I took part in was the Poker Run.  The only Poker Run I had ever been on before was done en mass with several hundred riders going from location to location to pick up cards.  This one was a bit different in that everyone was riding the route in small groups.  Right after I got mounted up there were four bikes getting ready to head out, so I just tagged along with them.


Membership of our group changed several times as the ride progressed; some people joined while others left.  In the end we were a group of 7 and had a trike riding with us.
The ride was 102 miles through small towns and country roads around the area.  Some places I had been to before, like Charlevoix, other places were brand-new.  It was all pretty and a good site seeing ride.


I rode last in the group so that I could shoot video and get pictures of everybody else.  Riding in this position also prevented me from being responsible for any of the navigation, that falling to the bike in the lead.  So, now I can safely razz that person about the number of times we got lost.  Actually, we only got lost twice and not that badly.  But we did get lost.


The problem with joining a ride the way I did was that I never had a chance to find out who I was riding with.  I do know that midway through we were joined by Valky Claus, who was from somewhere in Texas.  Aside from that, I'm not sure of anyone's names or where they were from except for the bike directly in front of me that was from Canada -- I know enough Canadian that I was able to read his plates.  (Note: if it was you I was riding with, please let me know and I will add your name to this rather than leaving you anonymous – – unless you are leading and got us lost then you might want to remain unknown

My Valk among the other Dragons

My poker hands actually started out very well, I was going for a straight in one hand and a straight flush in the other.  That ended when I picked up my fourth card, which shafted one hand completely and left me with a pair of 8s in the other.  Not exactly the way I had planned on the whole thing ending up.  However, I did have a great time on the ride and managed to come up with a nice video from it.


When I went to the awards dinner, I really didn't expect to win anything.  My poker hands were lousy (but not lousy enough to win the worst hand contest), even though I bought raffle tickets, I usually don't win the good stuff, and even though I had planned to, I did not enter my bike in the beauty contest.   So, I was really there for dinner and some socializing.  For those keeping score, Jody was right, there was barbecue – – even though I was, also right because I said we were getting chicken.
 


There were many certificates given out.  Person who rode the longest distance, oldest rider, youngest rider, some prices for the bike rodeo and a special award for the rider who was newest Valkyrie rider.  Guess who won?
Well, I'd only been on the bike for 2 1/2 months even though I’ve put almost 4000 miles on it.
As a whole, our table was doing very well with raffle prizes.  I won some bike wax, a sticker, some Seafoam   and a doo rag.  As the evening wore on, each of us at the table had won a couple of different things except for Jody, who went the entire evening without winning anything until the very last drawing – – which was for a prize valued at over $600.  Any guesses as to who won that one?
In the end, the real winner was Camp Quality, a very worthy cause.  Aside from individual donations that were made, a bucket was passed around that netted over thousand dollars… VRCC handed them a $7,500 check at the end.  Valkyrie riders are very generous
I do wish to thank the people who shared the table with me: Momz (and his wife whose name I did not catch), Banker, Jody, JJ, Turtle Dove & Green Dragon.  Thank you all for the good dinner conversation and for sharing a bottle of wine.
Then came the time to say goodbye.  I packed up my doo rag, Seafoam, sticker, bike wax, event T-shirt, InZane pin and my framed Certificate of Achievement then got ready to head out.  Prior to leaving, I was hoping to get my bike blessed since I had heard that was part of rally as well.  Since I did not own the Valkyrie when the annual blessing happened in Baldwin earlier in the riding season, I wanted to be sure to get my bike blessed while I was here.



I noticed a fellow biker wandering through the parking lot and I knew he had been sitting at the biker ministry table.  Therefore, I walked up, introduced myself, and met Loren who was a Chaplain.  I asked him if he would please take a moment and bless my bike.  He smiled and explained that it was more important to bless the rider than the bike but he would be more than willing to do both.
We went over to my bike and he said a brief prayer for the bike and or the rider.  I have to admit, I've never heard a prayer that included good mileage and mechanics, but I was grateful for it.  Which brings me to one failure that I made that day: I meant to hand Loren a donation for his group and forgot all about it because I was in such a hurry to be headed home.  So, Loren, drop me an e-mail or someone drop me the ministries' address and I will be glad to send it on.
Overall, I had a great time.  I wish I had been able to stay for the entire event and maybe next year I will be able to go to Arkansas and do just that.  It may have been an advertising slogan back in the 70s, but good things do happen on a Honda -- and even better things on a Valkyrie.

Shanty Creek Video - Very nice Wide Angle
http://curvetube.com/%D0%A1%D0%BB%D0%B5%D1%82_%D0%B2%D0%B0%D0%BB%D1%8C%D0%BA%D0%B8%D1%80%D0%B8%D1%81%D1%82%D0%BE%D0%B2%20%D0%B2%20%D0%9C%D0%BE%D1%81%D0%BA%D0%B2%D0%B5%202012%20%20%20%20%20%20%20%20/eqwKqjMIXQ8.video

Hoser
2 Brothers Power Sports were very good to me on the way to Bellaire.  Blew up a rear wheel bearing.  They sent a trailer to me, hauled it 24 miles to the shop, installed a new one, sent me down the road within three hours after correctly replacing the left side bearing for a measly $275.

Spurs
A big thanks to Willow, Motomomma, OZ, Scot, unmentioned spouses and Del Lynn, Wizard, Sister Bling and all others not mentioned for putting on a great show. Just another great event!!!!

F6gal
Another successful InZane is in the history books.
I hope everyone had a great time!!
We thought we raised $7500 for our charity, Camp Quality; but then realized that didn't include the money from the chair lift rides... so the final number will be a bit higher.
Thank you all for continuing to make InZane a successful event year after year.
Thanks to all that attended and to all that volunteered some of their time.
Please join me in thanking the IZXI crew, they did an awesome job!
VRCC staff (besides me):  oZ, Scott from OK, Motomama & Willow
The rest of the crew:  Pat & Carolyn, Psycho, Skeeter (Joni), Misfit, Lil' Bit, Doogie (Chase), Joe & Pam Errante, RTaz & Devl, Sister Bling, Lyn-Del & Wizard, Stitch,  John & Alane Schaefer, and Daniel Meyer. 
Hotglue and Timbrwolf did a great job cookin' up burgers & dogs for early bird dinner on Tuesday... and FlamingoBabe was helping with everything! And Dave Ritsema was back.

[Beer van Huet]

Inzane XII – Eureka Springs, Arkansas
http://skylarkutilities.com/video/watch/vid01garLNSP83xU      (Great vid by PropwashFilms)



Scott
We're trying something different this year.  Having the weekends to travel, and the event during the week.  It will also help avoid the busy weekend traffic in Eureka Springs

Schedule of events http://valkyrieriders.com/inzane/inzane12/Schedule_of_Events.html

Very nice video by PropwashFilms covering several Inzane XII events
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=garLNSP83xU

motomama
We have a block party scheduled for Tuesday night at Pine Mountain Village (which will be blocked off for us).  The shops in that area are staying open late for us so that those who want to shop can do so.  Dinner will be set up there for us.  (I would highly recommend checking out the ice cream parlor in the village after you get your fill of BBQ).  Following the BBQ and shopping, we will be attending the Pine Mountain Jamboree (tickets for this show ALONE are regularly $24).  The show is awesome!  Several of us went to the show back in September and we loved it!  A combination of BBQ dinner and the Pine Mountain Jamboree show will cost us $17.50 per person and the tickets will be available for purchase at the Registration Desk.  This is an awesome deal they are providing us we, so let´s try to have a BIG turnout for this.  Following the show, we will have the Parade of Lights, led by the mayor on his motorcycle, back to the hotel.  You really don't want to miss out on this evening activity!

hubcapsc's Trip Report

InZane started on Friday the 21st for me... My buddy Jim from work followed me up to the little gas station where 28 merges with 19/74 near Bryson City, NC..


... Then Wimp showed up...We headed out to see The Road To Nowhere...
 

Wimp had been before, but not me or Jim...
We ate at a sandwich shop in Bryson City, and then Jim headed back, he wasn't going to InZane... me and Wimp headed over the Dragon (what a traffic jam that place can be) and then to Joe's house on a non-direct route.
Wimp headed home and me and Joe and Charlie the Land Elephant went to eat at a steakhouse in Joe's Minivan.
You can see this bit of Fontana Lake along the way to the end of The Road To Nowhere...


As we started out on our Ride from Knoxville to Nashville, we only had a few riders...


Santa was there when we got to the meeting place in Nashville...
Mac was one of the next riders to show up, he saved us from riding I40 from Nashville to Memphis by showing us hiway 100... we had a bunch of riders by the time we burned up 100, I'm impressed with
West Tennessee, the drought burden seems minimal there, stuff is green, there a lot of nice farms, woods and rolling open land.


My forks seemed like there was a leak starting when I looked last week. I figured (hoped) it would slowly leak. It fastly leaked, all over stuff, the air wings, the motor (and then I could smell oil fumes as I rode)...
On the way to InZane the little camera mostly took pictures of fork oil


When we rode I40 from Knoxville to Nashville, it was overcast and even rained a little... it was a really nice ride... all the rest of the ride, there and back, and while we were there, was really hot. The drought became
obvious in Tennessee near Memphis, and Arkansas seems like a disaster area. We stopped to rest in the shade many places...


We rolled in on Sunday. On Monday I rested and visited tech talks and started asking around for fork seals and other stuff I might need in order to change my leaking left fork seal. The rest of the folks I rode up
with went out for an all-day ride and continued sautéing their bodies in the sweltering heat and sun.

By Tuesday noon, I had two bags of tools, a motorcycle lift, two sets of fork seals, fork oil, and a pan to drain the old oil in. If I tried to list everyone one who helped me, it would end up being most of the attendee
list    thanks again everyone. I began to remove parts... I got the forks drained and wiped down enough to work on...


As I was on the road, I didn't have the special chairs and plumbing parts I use at home to rebuild forks:
So Joe (Stude31) jumped in with his Honda fork tools and zip-zap-zoop,  as quick as that, he pulled the old seals out and expertly inserted the new seals, gathering lots of interest along the way.


The next day we rode off to the Joe Boyd picnic at the dam... there's a nice swimming area, some guys even went in with their jeans on, I wished I'd had shorts or something. It was hot    .
Arkansas has lots to offer. But they need rain bad. A really good strong rain came
right as the bike show started 


After all the Inzanity, a bunch of us took off for Memphis. Near the end, on 64, a crop dusting plane gave us a wonderful show. He was dusting crops right beside the road, swooping down over and over, perpendicular to the road, and only just a little over our heads when he crossed the road. He looked like he
was swinging from a pendulum and did all these gymnastic twists and rolls at the top of each swing. After we thought it couldn't get any better, he started hitting a field parallel with the road. Several of us saw him coming in our rear-view mirrors (that would have been a money shot!) and then ZOOM, right past us. In case he was spewing out too many harsh neuro-toxins or anything, I held my breath... Terry has some pictures while he was doing the perpendicular passes...
We were roasted as we approached Memphis, here's the final gas stop of the day...


We stayed at a small motel near where we stayed on the way there. They fetched us to a Memphis BBQ joint in a van. The next day some of us headed down 40 to Nashville, and me and Allen burned up hiway 78 to Tupelo Mississippi. It is a divided hiway, not too much traffic, signs say that soon it will be I22. When we got near there, we rode down the Natchez Trace a mile or two and drank water in the shade...
This stuff was growing where we stopped, leaves kind of like dog wood, what is it?


We left there and wondered into the heart of Tupelo and ate good eggs and grits at a busy diner. Allen took off maybe down 45 and I headed out of town on 78. Switched over to 74 right after I passed into Alabama... a real good road...Drought evidence lessened, and everything was growing and green again
in North Alabama... Stopped at the Natural Bridge... it cooled down nicely after I passed through the gates and went down into the woods...


I continued on through here and there and passed into Georgia near Fort Payne...


I stopped for one more night in a motel as it started raining a little near Calhoun Georgia... it was glorious as I rolled home through the cool green North Georgia mountains this morning... after all that broiling heat. It was hot by noon or so, but I left early. A fellow on a Harley at a gas stop told me he'd recently sold his Valkyrie, and he missed it...
Thanks to everyone who put up with me on the ride, everyone who helped
me rebuild my forks, and everyone who made InZane possible    Mike

Paul Weber Shoots a Ride at InZane Arkansas 2012

This design was also available on T-shirts
https://vimeo.com/48177869

Motomama
This morning, we were able to present our Inzane XII charity, NW Arkansas Special Olympics, with a check for $6,800.00.  They are thrilled and could not say enough about our group's generosity!  In addition, we spoke with the mayor and the police chief this morning at breakfast, and they said we were the best group they have ever had host a rally in Eureka Springs!  They had nothing but good things to say about our members!  Kudos to all who attended!  I, for one, am very, very proud to be a member of such a fine group of folks!  VRCC members ROCK!  Once again, you all exceeded our expectations!  Way to go!










Ride report by Gary (pics not accessible)

Took out at sunrise on Saturday. Was set on making it to Arkansas, taking into consideration the high temps.
Was somewhat geared up, had my new vest and bandana to help with the Hades-like ride ahead.
And of course...Great view heading down the hill
I'd whipped up some green chili, beef, egg, potato burros for down the road to minimize breakfast stop delays. They hit the spot.
I cracked out the vest and bandana near noon or so. It seemed to do quite well, covered by a new JR mesh jacket for about 90 minutes. It then began to feel a bit like weighted armor, which might do well in a fall, not so much though when nearing peak heat.   
I did manage to get it recharged when I grabbed a late lunch at the Cherokee Restaurant. Temp there = 107. Again, the recharged vest was good for 60-90 minutes. Eventually removed entirely along with the mesh jacket.
Took the turnpike from OKC and on into Arkansas. The stopping for toll booths and tossing out coins got old and costly.  How does that saying go, "May the sun be always at your back" (or is it the wind)?
As I was passing through the Tulsa general area, the temp read 102 at 7:30 p.m...I did manage to catch the sunset behind me as I was heading toward Siloam Springs AR.
Alas, I hit AR, it's 9:00 pm, I fuel up and find a room at probably the nicest Super 8 I'd ever stayed at. Took a dip in the pool and called it a night. 
I hit a few nice spots on a not-so-direct route to Eureka Springs. I thought this place was pretty neat. I immediately thought of Gordo for this place. Hwy 303N heading toward War Eagle Bridge/Mill.
I moved on to The War Eagle Bridge and Mill (they had fans going inside), another neat place.
I cruised past Beaver Lake and took in the sights. Stopped briefly, spewed out some more fluids from most pores, and decided to get back moving, into some wind at least. Note the dog (center screen) doing it right to beat the heat, as well as retrieving a stick.
I later met a couple of Valk riders from Kansas City at the Pea Ridge National Monument. We toured the facility, gathered some history and then rode on into Eureka Springs. I apologize for my poor memory, one of the riders was HB but I can't recall the other (Tim, Terry?). We all 3 happened to be sporting Mark T pipes, and in a different put up. A nice tour into Eureka.
I hit my first couple night stay location, The Brackenridge Lodge, unpack and stroll over to the Rowdy Beaver to grab a bite to eat. Everybody should have a Rowdy Beaver... Angus Burger, good stuff.     
I stop off at a scenic overlook located in town, cruise a few of the in town roads and then make my way back to the lodge.
Ground Zero is a mere .68 miles so I decide to stroll over, meet several old and new-to-me group members, chat for a spell, still full from my RB Burger, watch as others enjoy the BBQ and then head back to my room.
Monday, it's the Castle Rogues Manor lunch ride and tour.
Did I mention it was HOT 
I picked up a hitcher, or two. There were plenty of these at the event. I decided to check out The Christ of the Ozarks site. I couldn't help but feel like I was being watched the whole time there...
That next day I took out on a very nice all day self-guided tour of some of the back roads to include sections of Scenic Hwy 7, Hwy 21 and The Pig Trail - Hwy 23 back into Eureka. Very nice cruising and only one deer sighting.
 
We had a spot of rain on Thursday, the day of the bike show and a nice dinner to follow.
I met up with on old riding partner from Oklahoma, Rumblebee and we got to catch up a bit before calling it a night.
My plan was to be on the road by 6 a.m. A nice morning ride back, catching glimpses of a colorful sunrise. It was comfortable t-shirt riding weather with a somewhat cool but foggy mist in the air. I elected to make my way over to and down I-540S to I-40 to avoid the toll road. I-540 definitely is not your normal interstate travel.
I stop off in Salisaw, OK for fuel and an Oklahoma style ham and egg breakfast at the 18 Wheeler Restaurant.
I caught up with Ron in Elk City and he and his wife Carla put me up for the night. I had dinner with friends, meeting up with several I hadn't seen in about eight years. A nice visit indeed! Ron, an old riding partner, and I got together with some of the old Breakfast Club crew and grabbed a bite at the Cherokee Restaurant.
We parted ways and I made my way back through the Texas Panhandle just in time to catch the hue emitting from the stockyards just west of Amarillo. It almost brings tears to your eyes.
I'd stopped off at a rest area and enjoyed some water, a peach and an apple. A nice view heading up Hwy 285 north of Clines Corner, the temps were tolerable.
A healthy ride, 2,115 miles round trip, out for 8 days, and met up with many old friends and several new.
Thanks again to all those that worked to make this event possible, you did a great job!


 
TxDeb
Well it's been a busy week but I've finally sorted through my 400 photos I took at InZane and hopefully I've captured the link properly here.  I had the best time ... seeing old friends and meeting new ones.  I can't remember when I've laughed so much, it was just what my heart needed.  Thank you VRCC family! I hope you enjoy these fond memories we shared!  Let's do it again REAL soon!
https://picasaweb.google.com/117242246423567105560/Inzane2012?authkey=Gv1sRgCPL-3o6HwtyH9wE&feat=email







Al in Arkansas took 400 very nice pics of everyone on Wednesday rodeo and ride to lunch
http://s520.photobucket.com/user/alfowler7/library/Inzane%202012?sort=3&page=1

Editor's Note
Al's album contains pictures of almost everyone who has been there. See yourself taking that curve














 


 

 




 

[Beer van Huet]

Inzane XIII - La Crosse, Wisconsin
https://web.archive.org/web/20130306051214/http://www.valkyrieriders.com/inzane/InZane13/index.html


Weekdays change
In years past, the rally used to be Thursday through Saturday. This created a problem for many riders. It took them a complete week, the beginning of the week just to get there, and when it was over Saturday it left many riders using part of the next week to get home. This really messed up travel and vacation times. So, by moving it to mid-week, most participants only need to use one week with a weekend on both ends to travel.

Daniel Meyer
Tech Sessions at La Crosse were demonstrated by International Motorcycle Book Author and Valkyrie Repair Guru, Daniel Meyer.  ‘Be there or you’re not going to know what you need to know’.

 Monday, July 15
 10:00 am: Tech:  Inbound Valkyrie Clinic
  3:00 pm: Tech:  Tank Removal, Air Filter change

Tuesday, July 16
 10:30 am; Tech:  Anatomy of a petcock
   2:30 pm  Tech:  Older Ladies do it Better (High Mileage Valkyries)

Wednesday, July 17
 2:00 pm:  Tech:  Brake pad Replacement
 4:00 pm:  Tech:  Clutch/Master Cylinder Fluids

Thursday, July 18
 2:00 pm:  Tech: Anatomy of a fat ladies rear end
 3:30 pm:  Tech: Round Table Discussion

BobB
IMHO you cannot get a better education on your Valk than Daniel provides at these sessions.     

gregk
I don't think you can find a finer guy than Dan who comes to these events every year and is willing to pull his bike apart and give us these demonstrations. His effort and time that he shares with us doing this on his own and without any charge deserves a standing ovation. Hats off to you Dan!

bfn
had a great time in La Crosse...ground zero hotel staff were superb (excluding the food shortage on banquet night of course)....room was great....Valk staff was superb as usual (however, the Thursday banquet draws/awards took more time than it should have)...hot 'n humid weather was a bit of a surprise-but hey.....locals were all very friendly....glad to attend - looking forward to next year!.

Inzane locations 2001-2013


Bungholio
Did the 1,000-mile Iron Butt from Michigan to Rapid City, SD (19 hours) and then spent two days enjoying the Black Hills area. You guys have hit a home run with this location choice. I won the longest "ride in" for the LaCrosse InZane XIIV coming from Palm Springs, CA.



Editor’s Note
Some WI Riders went thru great lengths to promote this Inzane, LOL
Besides Cheese Curds and beer, graphs were presented to stimulate Riders to attend.



WamegoRob


Wiggydotcom explaining Inzane to Newbie

Schedule of Events doesn't appear ready yet, but it'll come.
In the meantime...in no particular order.
There is usually a ride to honor Joe Boyd, the father of the Valkyrie. It was he who had to
pull a lot of strings to get the powers that be at Honda to give him the ok to produce the Valk.
There is a poker run.
There are usually daily rides...both sanctioned and individual.
There are daily Tech sessions, led by Daniel Meyer with opportunities to ask questions.
There are daily 50/50s, raffles. etc.
There is a bike rodeo that members can sign up for.
There are bike contests...customized, cleanest, etc.
Vendors will be present.
BigBF will be there to perform work on your bike if needed.
There is a "little" bit of BS thrown around.
There is a Parade of Lights night ride where LEDs are allowed to be turned on.
There is a Dinner on the last evening in which the local charity is given their check from us.
Lots of raffles, prizes and laughs at the dinner.
There might be a party or three at the swimming pool.
And that's about it...

Daniel Meyer
So, y'all may recall my father-in-law (Henry) visiting Inzane 12 in Eureka Springs. He rode a Shadow at the time but came in his cage just to drop by and visit my better half.
He had a ball meeting folks and checking out Valks. He apparently liked what he saw.
By fall he had a 2001 low-mileage standard.
He rode his new-to-him Valk to Inzane 13 this year (LaCrosse) from his North Carolina home. That was something over 1200 miles each way for him. He's had motorcycles on and off over the years, but this was really his first long trip.
He won the oldest Valk rider present award (he's 77) and again, had an absolute blast meeting a bunch of fine folks and learning a lot about his motorcycle. (his words, and high praise from him).
I chatted with him on the phone last night...
So what's a 77 year old first-time-long-tripper say about his over 2400-mile excursion?
"I like this machine more every time I ride it. That is one fine motorcycle."
and "Headed out tomorrow for a couple-hundred mile ride to the coast."
Hooked him.

Hubcap's InZane ride report and pictures...
I left from SC on Friday morning... I wonder what she cut up after I left?


Met up with Joe and Gordon and Wimp near Fontana Dam... We rode over the Cherohala skyway, and a bunch of other good roads I'd never been on, spent Friday night in Cleveland TN where we met up with Allan and Terry, and hit the road for real on Saturday morning


We got to Gary and Rosie's house, in Shipman Illinois, Saturday. They rolled out the red carpet at their awesome home.


Valkyrie riders continued to arrive, and we had a feast...


Off we went the next two days up The River Road... not really a particular road, really, just roads that follow the river system. While we were at this place, Joe surprised me with his infinite knowledge of the Fugawi Indians local to the area...


We went over the Illinois River on this cool ferry... it was made of two boats connected with a big hinge. One boat held the ferry traffic and the other boat had the motor. The motor boat swung back and forth
on the hinge to go back and forth in the river...


We stopped at River overlooks, it is really cool to see the effects of the river having been dug out over time...






Here's a full sized image, if you click on it you can see the train going through the valley...
https://sites.google.com/site/hubcapsite2/d-inzane13/train.jpg

Mike
We got to Ground Zero in the afternoon on Monday and kinda split up. I went straight to a pub on the marina and got a steak, salad and lots of iced tea...

Tuesday I led a ride down highway 33, I picked it out of the Red Book, it had a good curvy section... and lots of farms and places with giant windmills... I flubbed the gopro, and only got one picture - me
stopping the "take a picture every 5 seconds" sequence...

The next day Me and Allan went on the Joe Boyd ride... in Motomama and Willow's air conditioned car...

On Thursday, we followed Pete on a ride up 108 (a road I independently picked out of the Red Book for its curves) that started with breakfast at a local place Pete and his wife (JoJo?) knew about. Later in the
ride, after the curvy part was over, I did something I'm ashamed of...another rider's hat flew off, and two bikes (including me) stopped to get it. We took off from there on the short route to the motel,
and the others didn't know it and it messed up their ride.

Four of us rolled towards home on Friday morning, Allan split off first, Joe split off at Effingham, and me and Terry kept on South... Joe made it all the way home in one day, me and Terry took two days. We stayed at this joint in Paducah Kentucky... we didn't get there till about dark, but they left the light on for us...



Joe rode in one day and went through at least three big cities we missed.
We went through Nashville and it was pure hell. I've been through there before but not from the North... it’s like the gnarly part where all the Interstates come together lasts 20 miles... traffic was intense, and it was hot. Right at the end of the hecticness, sunblock got in Terry's eyes and blinded him, he was able to pull over five lanes to the side and clear his eyes... it would not have done at all for this to have happened earlier...

While we were all still together, we came upon a big truck carrying a large John Deere tractor... running in the fast lane.

Allan and Joe whipped around him, and then traffic prevented me and Terry from getting around him... he stayed in the fast lane for miles... traffic started backing up behind us and me and Terry had trouble with one car that passed each of us on the right to snipe a place in front of us with inches to spare... I asserted my place but didn't give my life for it. Right before the log jamb cleared, a giant dump truck spewing gravel became part of the mix... yehaw!

Me and Terry jumped off the Interstate not long after Nashville and rode over the blessed green mountains toward Chattanooga on hiway 41, what a relief! My rear brakes started making a noise right around then...
if we have a wear indicator squeak tab on our pads, I think that is what it is... I always use the front brakes, but you have to be extra aware when you're using just the front brakes...

After I split off from Terry, I took 64 to 76 and home. In the last couple of hours, I was in Tennessee and North Carolina and Georgia and South Carolina.

Last year, my left fork seal blew and I rebuilt the fork in the parking lot. This year my right fork seal blew and Troute Dude and Mitch took my fender off and ran the Seal Mate fork tool on my seal... it’s not like a new seal with fresh fluid, but it sure did stop leaking! 
Thanks everyone for everything... what an adventure...

[Beer van Huet]

Inzane XIV - Asheville, North Carolina



Whooray
I can tell you that Inzane is a fantastic event that been going on for some time. For the most part it is held at a different place every year giving all an opportunity to see places they may not have seen before and to meet other Valkyrie enthusiast just to share the love of the mighty Valkyrie.
I have met so many folks that I now call friends and I add many more each time I go. For me it just keeps getting better with each Inzane and I have always left Inzane looking forward to the next one.
I love the VRCC and for me it’s just being part of a close-knit family unit.

Pics by Tekman88











Dave Ritsema
VRCC is alive and well, just attended InZane last month in Asheville NC with my new F6B and had a great time. They even have a new tech page for GL1800 that I am helping add content too as several members have new Valkyrie's and the F6B and Goldwing are close relatives from a tech standpoint.

Inzane 14 Memorial Ride by Stanley Beasley
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Q-8A868kEI0
Britman - When you see a group of Valkyries like that it gives me goose bumps. Very cool.

Zappo
Had a great time in Asheville, never laughed so much in my life   
The rides in the mountains were great, I think my riding skills bumped up one notice on this trip.
Thanks to all you guys for accepting Fran and I into the club and making us feel welcome.

Woton and Biker Girl
Many folks have already posted in their own way about their Inzane memories, but the wife and I wanted to take the time and personally thank our officers (especially the local arrangement folks) and the volunteers who made Inzane XIV such a great experience.
Back in our working day we both were involved in local arrangements to pull together events like this.  It is an incredible amount of work, and while we were on salary we must remember these folks are not compensated for their time!  We did not stay at Ground Zero - opting instead to let one of our out of state visitors have our room, but it appears the Clarion was a good choice for the event and cooperated nicely with our motley crew throughout.
Other than getting lost on the first day's lunch ride, the memorial ride to Fletcher Park, AND on the poker run (and we're from NC!!) the food, friends, and fellowship made it a great week.  There were some darned nice bikes in that parking lot as well.  Thanks to all who came up to us, kicked the tires on our bikes, and became our friends. Thanks again to our leaders for a great Inzane XIV.  Your efforts were truly appreciated.   






 

[Beer van Huet]

Inzane XV - Spearfish, South Dakota
https://web.archive.org/web/20150324014045/http://valkyrieriders.com:80/InZane/



YouTube by Visit Spearfish
In the summer of 2015 Spearfish was proud to host the Valkyrie Riders Cruisers Club Inzane XV! Here are a few highlights.  
Inzane 2015, Spearfish, SD - Valkyrie Riders Cruisers Club

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Z2348KNGILo

F6gal
As it turned out, Spearfish attendance was about the same as Asheville.  In terms of sightseeing, Spearfish to Deadwood is 17 miles, Sturgis 21 miles, Devils Tower 69 miles, Rapid City 49 miles, Mount Rushmore 65 miles, Crazy Horse memorial 70 miles, Custer State Park 73 miles just to name a few.  
http://skylarkutilities.com/video/watch/vid01Z2348KNGILo



Video by Cicik – Wide angle
http://curvetube.com/_Inzane%202015,%20Spearfish,%20SD%20-%20Valkyrie%20Riders%20Cruisers%20Club/Z2348KNGILo.video

During Inzane XV, a VRCC challenge coin was introduced by Damon ‘Misfit’ Kinter
The coins were made of 98% brass and plated in silver.
The VRCC ordered the coins and sold them at Inzane to raise money to support the VRCC web site.
The people that bought them are using them as challenge coins.


Fragments of Striders excellent report http://www.valkyrieforum.com/bbs/index.php/topic,78888.0.html

.......Finally got up to I-90 that would take me into Spearfish.  Met a group of Valks at the gas station and got an invite to roll in with them, but I had to check in with the house and get gas, so I told them I would catch up.  Got rain for a few miles and sat out for a minute to let a HUGE storm cross the interstate before I got to it....great thing about that area of SD is you can see for MILES.  Finally got into Spearfish and Donna and Hard6 was waiting with a cup of coffee for me.  Got registered and the bike cleaned at the Valkwash Station.  The hugging got started and eventually it was time to go to the park for the BBQ.  


The free BBQ was AWESOME.  I had not had a real meal except for the pizza since I had left the house, so this sure was a welcome sight!
Then it was back to the Hotel for some MAJOR tire kicking and lie telling and let's just say that a lie or two was told.  Sure was good to see old brothers and sisters again!  It was parking lot party just like old times.........


The next morning, a group of us met up at Ground Zero and rode the north loop over to Devils Tower in Wyoming.


Hard6 and I had seen Devil's Tower before, so we split off from the group and he and Donna and I rode the south loop (dodging deer) back to 90 and back to South Dakota and rode over to Deadwood.   Rode around town and went back to the museum to check it out. Downstairs they had over 50 wagons of different kinds.


When we got out, we were hungry, so we rode through Deadwood looking for a place to eat and didnt see anything.  Rode through the construction downtown and didnt want to go back through the mud, so we went on to Lead and found a hippy coffee house there that turned us on to a burger joint going out of town and man, it was worth the wait.........Lewie's - about a mile out of town going towards Spearfish Canyon - in a corner.


After lunch, it was time to ride out towards Spearfish Canyon. What a GREAT RIDE.  We had the road to ourselves - no traffic at all except 2 bikes.  We were able to really RIDE the road and it was a HOOT!  Lots of sweet curves and nothing tightened up - very sweet ride and we were able to ride it at speed.  Most sweet ride.  Great scenery....


Then that night, my brother from another mother, Dana the VALKHOUND came rolling in from Kansas. Since he does Sturgis all the time and knew the roads, Hard6 and I asked him if he would lead us the next day - "sure" says he - smile says we!!!!  So, there was another night of lie telling and the air was filled with LOVE!


So, the next morning we met up and rode over to Belle Fourche for breakfast at a place that Valkhound knew. It may not have looked like much from the outside, but let me tell you, this was NOT a hole in the wall kind of place - this was pure HIGH CLASS, let me tell ya..


Since I had two pieces of pie the night before (with ice cream to wash it down), I passed on desert for breakfast - time for that later.  So, we rode out with Valkhound leading and Donna, Hard6 and I smiling behind and went and saw the house he use to rent for Sturgis and then blasted down Spearfish Canyon again.....stopped at the waterfall and worked on Hard6's addiction - we have him down to 2 cigarettes at a time now.
Great ride...then Dana led us over to Lead and the mine there.


...wound up over at Crazyhorse Monument - as you can imagine, looks the same as it did 5 years ago or so.....Took a shot and lo and behold, there was Hotglue and Flamingobabe coming down.......A wave and a honk and the took off another direction than we were going.


Then we went over and took the Iron Mountain road.  Saw some buffalo on it as well.......
At an overlook, got to see Mount Rushmore.........


Got a call from Misfit to see if I could run over to do the auction for Motomama's pies.  You betcha.  So there was a raffle and karaoke singing (Man, whoever that was that did Bad Company did a GREAT JOB).  There was also beautiful woman doing some strange dancing........


That night stood/sat out in the parking lot with old friends and told lies until like 2:00 am.  GREAT DAY!  Thanks Dana for the day brother.

Next morning was cool with a good chance of rain.  Went over and caught up with old friends again. Bike games were going on.  Asked Little Bit if she wanted to ride on the back and do the water balloon game.  Well, let's just say I needed a bath anyway.  Motomama was looking for some people to road block for the ride over to lunch, so Early Bird and I took off and blocked when the folks got off the interstate.  Good number of folks!


So the folks fed us at the university there in town.  Very cool.


After Pastor Dean said a prayer for safety, TP, Nancy and I went out to the parking lot.  I had wanted to go back to Deadwood and see Wild Bill's grave and they were going as well, so off we shot.
Wild Bill's final resting place..........And (Calamity) Jane's......


TP and Nancy were going to hang around, so I shot back to ground zero and told some lies with old friends.......Here are three legends (DDT, Early Bird and Hotglue).  Proud to be able to call them friends and brothers.


Then we rode down to the block party.


Very, very cool.  Well, I had to roll out the next morning.  I HAD to be back for Saturday and in case the weather just closed in on me, I decided to roll a day early.  When I got up Thursday morning, things were not looking good for a dry blastoff.


Oh well, not going to get much better any time soon, so chaps and jacket liner on and blastoff back towards the south.  Wet, cold and foggy ride.  Thanks Dana for telling me about the slick roads around Rapid City.


Party Time
http://vid563.photobucket.com/albums/ss77/strider1520/Inzane%20Spearfish%202015/DSCN0445_zpsfj6lcwfp.mp4

Article by the Black Hills Pioneer
http://www.bhpioneer.com/local_news/inzane-bike-rally-brings-riders-to-hills/image_406e901a-114f-11e5-a545-77e1522b96c0.html

Every once in a while a discussion pops up which State is most eligible for an Inzane Meeting.
Having the Staff going through all kinds of demographic and geographic data, LOL.
BTW, the geographic center of the country is Lebanon, KS and the population center of the country is Laclede County, MO

Guest
Damn, I guess the west end of the country just gets to pound sand while everything is held back east, huh ?
Oh well, we will just keep all our beautiful scenery here where it belongs. but I cannot help to notice that not too many folks take a trip back east on a bike, but everyone on this board seems to have ridden through Colorado, or across hwy 50 or up the west coast.
Don't know what you have missed till you have ridden the million-dollar hwy. or through northern Colo. /southern Wyoming. Remember that true grit was filmed in the wilds of Idaho and Oregon. And a plus, we actually have motels and places to eat in this country. We even have paved roads and modern plumbing.
 
Participant POV
It was great to see everybody, see old friends and meet new people.  
I left Blythe Saturday morning around 7 AM headed for Provo, UT.  I ran into heavy rain about 30 miles before Provo, I located a hotel for the night. It was about an 8-hour day.
Back on the road about 7 AM and arrived in Spearfish about 5 PM, about 10-hour day.  Total miles to Spearfish from Blythe, CA.  Was around 1225 miles.  I did not go to the Early Bird Night BBQ Sunday. Monday, I stayed at ground zero and helped set stuff up, and help getting registration packets out to the new arrivals.
Tuesday, it was raining most of the morning, but after it stopped, Dave (BigMac), John and I rode to Sturgis and Deadwood to have a look around. We took a tour bus around Deadwood; the tour guide told us about the town history and took us up to the MT. Moriah Cemetery, and to the grave site of Wild Bill.
Wednesday, there was the Bike rodeo, and the Joe Boyd Memorial Ride.  Joe Boyd was one of the top guys in the American Honda, and he got the Valkyrie project approved.  It was about 2 years later that Joe was killed in a track incident for those who don't know who Joe Boyd was, I didn't.
Thursday, there was a scheduled poker run but it was cancelled due to the rain.    John, Dave and I, again rode thought the Spearfish Canyon Scenic Byway, and took some photos. We returned back to ground zero just in time to see the People’s Choice Bike Show. Then was the Dinner and Awards.  
Connie (F6Gal), Michael (Psycho), Willow, Motomama, Scott in OK and the rest of InZane staff sure did a great job putting all this together.      

Friday morning, 6 AM, Wayne (One Way) Dave (BigMac) and I headed out of Spearfish, SD and had an overnight stay in Coalville, UT. at the Best Western. Coalville is a really small town, maybe smaller than Blythe, hahahahah.
The hotel person was very nice. Wayne asked the lady that checked us in, if she had any rags we could use to wash off our bikes, they were trashed with bugs.  Which she was kind enough to give us.
Saturday morning, Wayne, Dave and I were back on the rode around 7 AM, just after the complimentary breakfast.  We stopped every 100 miles or so for a rest, water and munchies.  We also topped off our tanks.
My new F6B took less fuel to top off, then Dave's Interstate and Wayne's Tourer, by a little better than 1 gallon of gas. Our last stop together at just over 100 miles, my tank took 2 gallons of gas, truly amazing gas mileage. We said good bye at that stop.
There was still a 100 plus miles to Wayne's house where Dave stopped for the evening.  I continued my way back to Blythe.
When I got to Needles, CA. right at the Interstate 40 and the Hwy 95, where I needed to go.  I run right up to a rainy lightning storm, it was moving over the mountains toward me from the Lake Havasu area. I was on the 95 and was headed eastward right into this storm, before the road headed back south. Big rain drops started hitting my windscreen, I could hear the rain moving right at me, the lightning was very close, so I twisted the throttle hit triple digits to escape this electrical storm. What a rush, hahahaha.   2funny
I was home by 5:30 PM.  

DirtyDan had fun

 
LTD
Just got to sitting here thinking of the next Inzane at Spearfish and realized the VRCC Committee has outdone themselves this time I believe this will be the best Inzane in history.  I know I will probably get slammed for that statement but so be it.  Listen to these distances from Spearfish, Deadwood 17 miles, Sturgis 21 miles, Devils Tower 69 miles, Rapid City 49 miles, Mount Rushmore 65 miles, Crazy Horse memorial 70 miles, Custer State Park 73 miles just to name a few all of this an hour or less!  Deadwood really looks awesome they still have the saloon where Old Hickok got his head blown off table chair spot everything, gambling blackjack, slots, poker, $1000-dollar limit get hot at blackjack and pay cash for a new Valkyrie.  Alright be careful on that one.  Museums, old mining caves so many attractions even if you didn't ride you couldn't do it all in four days.  The helicopter tour over the badlands looked like a lot of fun too.  Plus, riding either up there or back I’ll be hitting Amarillo Palo Duro Canyon native Texan never been! The state is so damn big excited about that too.  If you never have been to an Inzane don't miss this one come see what it’s all about you won’t regret it.  Hey I admit I’m excited as hell can’t wait till June see you there!!

Greg Cremer -INZANE XV (The Movie)
This video is about INZANE XV held in Spearfish, SD. June 2015. A gathering of nearly 300 Valkyrie motorcycle enthusiasts. This video highlights the trip of 5 riders trekking from Washington, through Idaho, Montana, Wyoming and South Dakota. Featuring such places as Yellowstone Nat'l Park, Beartooth Highway 212, Devils Tower, WY, Mount Rushmore, Deadwood, Custer, and of course, famous eating
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ypI4kgSLEYM    or
http://skylarkutilities.com/video/watch/vid01ypI4kgSLEYM   or
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=qfJTqHvA9Nk


Rik
Just got back from Spearfish SD for Inzane 15. Thought I’d jot down a few notes and share some photos with anyone who couldn’t make the trip. Attendance was good with 340 plus people!
http://motowing.com/motorcycle-trips/spearfish-trip

Misfit
I want to thank the supporters of Inzane XV.
Big BF - www.bigbf.com
BonS - thedigisync.com - 800-725-6903
Clint Peters Leather Art - clintsdivco@aol.com
Daniel Meyer - www.Lifeisaroad.com - Daniel.meyer@lifeisaroad.com
F6rider Store - www.f6rider.com
Guard Dog Moly Lubricants - www.guarddogmoly.com - 877-278-1650
Madco rider (motorcycle accessory design) - www.madcorider.com
MarkT - Horseapple.com - 720-851-8455
Motorcyclegear.com
Moto Wings - motowing.com - 480-969-7032
Ultimate Seats - www.ultimateseats.ca
 If ever you need parts or services that these fine folks provide, please look them up and show your support to those that support us.
Also, a very heart felt thank you to individual club members who stepped up to help to support our club and the charity.
Da Prez
Denver Dave and Robin
Ed and Christy Hatter
Carl (Willow) Holmes
Jack Gunther
Jimmy (Hayhauler) Turner
JP (Hard6) Sonier
Kevin and Jody Smith
Michael (Psycho) Bradford
(Big) Mike Terry
Randy (Buzzkill) and Elizabeth (Hollyday) Anderson
Ron Polkinghorn
Scott Oaks
TP and Nancy
 I truly hope that I have not forgotten anyone.

With so few Valkyrie vendors these days it has become increasingly harder to obtain prizes for our raffle drawings. Since we don't charge dues to belong to this club Inzane is our only real source for revenue to keep this site and club afloat. It amazes me every year as the event gets closer and I am scrambling to come up with decent prizes. I get nervous that there won't be anything to raffle off and that we will have to cancel the drawings all together and then folks like these step up at the last minute to save the day. Amazing. I really do care about this club, it's future and it's members. Without this support it would all go away.
If you appreciate what these vendors do for our club, please show your support by buying from them or if you don't need anything at this time maybe just post your appreciation in this thread. As far as our member donations maybe shake their hand the next time you see them or thank them here on the board.
To all that donated prizes and or time at the event as volunteers I can't thank you enough. I am proud to call you friends.

[Beer van Huet]

Inzane XVI – Morgantown, West Virginia
https://web.archive.org/web/20160323225247/http://valkyrieriders.com/inzane/



INZANE XVI short 2last time by James Thompson
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=sfG7sPVkWjk


Misfit
Is there anyone that is not going to InZane that would like to have one or more of these? We sold challenge coins at InZane last year although we did not promote them very well.
They seem to have taken off, at least around the circle that I run in and also in Europe. I will be sending a couple hundred of them to our European friends for their InZane.
The plan is to get as many of these into the hands of the VRCC members as possible without causing a huge headache. These will be available for sale at Inzane XVI for $10.00 each. My buddy Deadpan drilled a hole in one to put on his key ring.
Those that are planning to attend shouldn't have any issue obtaining one. The problem is for those that would like to have one and are not planing on attending. It would be great to have one of your friends that is going to pick one up for you.
At some point I may be willing to ship these, but I doubt that will happen before InZane. I am not sure what the shipping cost would be at this point in time. I only have a few of last years design left. I can certainly have more of them made if there is enough interest in them.
I would personally think that most would like to collect both styles. I carry one always. According to the official challenge coins rules, that you can read here, [url=http://www.coinforce.com/challenge-coin-rules.htm]http://www.coinforce.com/challenge-coin-rules.htm [/url]you don't want to be caught without one!
Either last years silver coin, or this years anniversary coin are acceptable in any challenge. These challenge coins are not only meant for the drinkers, the non drinkers could challenge for ice cream, pie, soda, etc. They are heavy weight, heirloom quality coins and not a cheap trinket.
For any of you that are not going to be attending InZane but are going to be attending Gatherin' of the Fools, reply to this thread and I will bring you one for the same $10.00. 


Nice Trip Reports

Pappy - Central Florida to Inzane (Morgantown, WV) and back
http://v4musclebike.com/forums/showthread.php?p=290048

Alien
https://www.travelblog.org/North-America/United-States/West-Virginia/Morgantown/blog-937511.html

........It's beautiful here, up in the WV hill country. The weather is awesome, warm but with a constant cool breeze coming off the lake. Upon arriving this morning, I tried to check in but was told that it was too early, so I went out and talked to some of the other folks who have ridden in for this event. About four hours later, I checked with the front desk again. Still no rooms available. By this time I was exhausted, hungry and badly in need of a shower as I didn't take one at the crack hotel, due to my fear of scabies. Instead of going back outside, I plopped myself down on a leather couch directly across the lobby from the front desk and went to sleep. It worked. About 30 minutes into my nap, the manager was so disturbed by my snoring that she went outside and got another biker, mistakenly assuming that we all know each other, to wake me up. Good news, my room was ready. Funny how that works!
Upon arriving in my room, I wanted a shower immediately. I turned the water on and watched sadly as it dribbled out in a drought friendly trickle. Sigh. This simply will not do. I am a man after all, am I not? I want a shower that can peel the hide off of a coconut. I rummaged around in the Mothership's tool kit until I found what I needed. I disassembled the showerhead, removed the weenie restrictor and reassembled it. The de-neutered shower head now puts out a pressure worthy of my time.
After a much needed shower and some clean clothes, I went downstairs and volunteered to assist with registration. It was nice to be able to put faces to the names I've been communicating with on the internet for all of these years. These are truly nice people, who have ridden in from all over the country for this event. Even more surprising was a large contingent of German bikers who flew themselves and their bikes to the U.S.A. just to be here. Another guy rode all the way from northwestern Canada.
....Today was the official kickoff with lots of folks still arriving. Everyone that I've met has been extremely welcoming and most are very different from the way that I pictured them on the VRCC board. I'm sure they feel the same way about me. The main difference that I see here versus other motorcycle events that I have attended is a complete lack of posturing and strutting. No one has anything to prove and everyone is happy to talk about themselves, their bikes and the ride here. These people are not afraid to laugh at themselves.
I also met riders from Germany and Poland today. Great folks!
No riding for me today as my backside needed a break after the mad dash from L.A. It actually felt weird to wake up this morning and not load up the bike and hit the road before first light.
 
Hello again from Morgantown! Wow, three days in the same place. Pretty soon, I'll have to pay taxes here. I'm really enjoying myself but today, I felt the first stirrings of itchy feet. Soon it will be time to ride again. I'm not even half way through this trip as I still have 3000 miles to go.
Today I attended two Tech Sessions given by one of the VRCC members who has written several books about his journeys aboard his Valkyrie. Many of you who know me personally may find it strange that I would willingly listen to someone tell me how best to work on/care for a machine, as I tend to have a pretty good grasp of those types of things. In this particular case, I am more than happy to learn from someone who has successfully ridden the same bike I have for well over 200,000 miles with mostly original parts. That seems like the kind of guy worth listening to.
Later was the group ride (video and pictures below) to the Block Party. This was a ride to a shopping center here in Morgantown in which many of the establishments had agreed to give club members a discount as well as donating a portion of the proceeds to a charity.
At the Block Party


This year's charity is the Make-A-Wish Foundation. They are helping a young man with Cystic Fibrosis achieve his dream of taking a Disney Cruise with his family. A worthy cause to be sure.
Two things stand out from the ride and block party:
First is how much I absolutely detest riding in a group. Hate it.
Always have, always will. It eliminates any of the sense of freedom that comes with motorcycling. Today, (as frequently happens in group rides), the group broke up into several smaller groups, following no clear leader and going every which way. In the video you can clearly see us pull up to an intersection where bikes are turning every possible direction.
Cluster. I ride alone and I like it that way. I'm not being anti-social, I just feel that in a group, I give up all control and a good bit of safety as I am not familiar with the other riders' riding styles or skill levels. For me, ride your ride, let me ride mine and I'll see you when we get there


Second was a totally unexpected encounter with a woman front Kuwait. Yeah. In a West Virginia strip mall, who would have guessed? Another member and I were wandering around the parking lot looking for a BBQ place when she approached us. She asked us very politely what the occasion was that brought a couple of hundred motorcycles to the mall.
We explained that we were all owners of a very special type of motorcycle that was only made from 1997-2003 and that most of us communicate fairly regularly through the club's message board but that many of us had never met face to face. This event serves as a yearly gathering for us. She asked several other questions and then filmed us for a snap chat. After learning that some of the proceeds from tonight’s block party would be going to charity, she offered to make us all a special kind of sweet from her country. When we told her that she shouldn't do that due to the cost of making them for 350 of us, she seemed sad. She said that she wanted to do something for us, as a way of giving back. Wow. I told her that what she could do is tell people that she met a large group of bikers tonight and that they were really nice folks who care about their community. She brightened at this and said that she would do that .


Perhaps one person's perception of motorcyclists was changed tonight and perhaps she will, in turn, help to change other people's perceptions of us. Maybe somewhere down the line this will result is someone paying a little more attention to us on the road or having a little less unease when we walk into a store or restaurant.
Anything that gets rid of the stupid Sons of Anarchy image is always good. She was a very nice woman, genuinely interested and it was a pleasure to talk to her.
Following this exchange, I found the BBQ joint and has some truly succulent smoked brisket. Good stuff!

Big Mac – 18 States in 22 days
Here is my ride report for my InZane 2016 trip. Joining me on this great adventure is John Gera, Dennis Laitinen (Dennis from Blythe), George Ostan (Nautibrit).
http://www.valkyrieriders.com/socal/Ride%20report%20for%20InZane%202016/InZane%202016%20ride%20report.htm

Kep - Lost My Virginity in Morgantown, WV
I suppose that headline raised some eyebrows. It was my (and Mrs. Keps) first Inzane and it was great. Met a lot of great people, saw some nice bikes, got a little riding in and a free bike wash (4 minutes from the resort when we got hit by hail, sleet, wind and rain), Won a handlebar clock in one of the raffles, but since I already have one I gave it to Jim and Carole (from PA) who were sitting at our table, and found out afterwards he is an avid clock collector. Only drawback at the event was the A/C fan in our room was so loud Mrs. Kep couldn't sleep 2 of the 3 nights. Told them about it the first day and they said they would send someone but never did. The manager did end up giving us back one night’s stay. Had a neat experience on the way home...we spent the night at H.I. Express in Marysville, OH and after we ate dinner we stopped at Walmart for a few things and (as usual) some guy in the parking lot commented about the paint job on my Valk. He knew it was a Valkyrie because he said he worked at the Honda bike plant from 1997 to 2003 installing the fork/font wheel assemblies on them...WOW...he may have even helped build mine, I thought that was pretty cool. Looking forward the Indiana Dragon Round-up and the next Inzane... A great Big thanx to all those that help put this together, I know it's a lot of work but it makes for a great time for all.

Willow
We have held InZane thrice west of the Mississippi, twice in Colorado and once in Spearfish, South Dakota.  People from the west travel many miles to attend InZane in the east.  This year we had a handful that rode about 2400 miles to InZane and our friends from Texas were some 1300 miles away. Next year's location will likely cause people from Virginia to require a 2,000-mile ride and the folks from Texas up to 1600 miles while only reducing our California friends to a little under a thousand miles. 

Romeo
Had a great turnout in Morgantown. The Rogues enjoyed the festivities, as they always do.
Here's a picture of the crew from the mitten. We missed Gig and Lulu in the picture


Bill from Philly
I wish to thank the staff, volunteers and most of all the great people I met at InZane. I headed down from Philadelphia solo, not sure what to expect. I have been to Americade twice, a great event to see the latest in motorcycle equipment and spend money. After a few days at InZane I realized this event was about an amazing bike and the people who own them. I liked the wheeling and dealing at the swap meet, I picked up some new items for my 2003.  I met the Attic rat himself, after discussing his performance work on Valkyries I looked him up, on line. What a great Reputation he has, could not find any negative comments about his work and his fees were more than fair. I believe I’ll be calling him soon. I was impressed by the group’s spirit of giving, the blood drive and the $7500 donation to the Brain Trauma Rehab Center.  I have been a member of this group for 8 years, this was my first InZane, hopefully not my last.

motomama - Inzane XVI Charity thank you letter

When I checked the VRCC post office box today, there was a letter from Make a Wish and I wanted to share it with all of you.  I am still overwhelmed by the outpouring of support and generous giving from our members for this charity.  Thank you all!!!!!

"Dear Lori and Members of the Valkyrie Riders Cruiser Club:

On behalf of Make-a-Wish Greater Pennsylvania and West Virginia, I want to thank you for your generous donation of $8,050.00 from the proceeds of your many fundraising events.  We're thrilled to recognize Valkyrie Riders Cruiser Club as a Wishmaker in our annual report, newsletter and on our website donor list.  We are delighted to let you know that your donation will be used for the wish-granting expenses of two local children!
Drew is a 10 year old boy from Fairmont, WV, who is living with Cystic Fibrosis.  Drew, like many young boys, loves playing basketball, anything pertaining to Star Wars and Adam Sandler films.  He truly is the outdoorsy type and he loves to go camping with his family.  When wish-granting volunteers met with Drew, he knew the perfect wish would combine his two favorite things -- adventure and time with his family.  Drew told his volunteers of his dream trip, which involves cruising on the open ocean with his mother, father and sister.  This summer, Drew will embark on a dream cruise to the Caribbean.  He is eagerly counting down the days until he can soak up the sun on the vast decks of the ship!
Aidan  is a 6 year old boy from Morgantown, WV, who has received multiple organ transplants.  Aidan is a friendly little boy who enjoys playing with his brother and sister at the playground.  Being Mickey Mouse's biggest fan, it was no surprise when he expressed his dream of visiting Walt Disney World Resort in Orlando.  Aidan was thrilled to see this wish come true, as well as visiting the beautiful Sea World, Universal Studios and Islands of Adventure theme parks.  While at Disney, he was able to meet some of his very favorite Toy Story characters, Buzz Lightyear and Woody.  This vacation was an experience Aidan and his family will never forget!
Our goal is to make this time in our wish kids' lives just a little bit better, a little less scary.  We offer them a chance to dream and a time to forget all about doctors and hospitals - even if just for a little while.  Thanks to our very generous donors, these children will experience their wishes come true and are on their way to a brighter, more positive future.

Thank you for making wishes like these possible.

Sincerely
Leandra Clovis
Northern WV Regional Manager
Make-a-Wish Greater Pennsylvania and West Virginia"

hubcab - Inzane 2016 Pictures
http://www.valkyrieforum.com/bbs/index.php/topic,87901.0.html

....We made Ground Zero and ate hamburgers and hot dogs at the pool. 
I rode with Roger (RDAbull) on Monday, we figured out a route from Ground Zero back to 219. We found this place while we were on route 50... Ron has led a group of us by here before... route 50 is twisty, uphill and bumpy...


On Monday I had the closest encounter with a deer ever... it beat Sunday, hands down...
I was in a twisty uphill section, I think 50, maybe not... forest, I think it was downhill to the right and uphill to the left... guardrails... you can imagine the guardrails are four or five feet beside you as you are going along. All I saw of the deer was as she leapt over the guardrail to my right... she must have done this right beside me, if she had done it in front of me, I would have hit her, if behind, I wouldn't have seen her.
Roger had the luxury of braking when he saw her, but he was still moving when he got to her and she was dancing around in the road then. We got on by...

Monday morning me and Stanley Steamer went over to a near-by Mom and Pop restaurant for breakfast. Good food and quick service. Roger and I went there
Monday night when we got back (we only got lost for a little while), there were a few other Valkyrie riders there. There were numerous Valkyries already there when we showed up for breakfast the next morning. We had them slammed the rest of the week. They were happy because it was good
business, but I bet they were worn out by the time we left. The food was always good. I got a slice (about 1/4 of a pie) of blueberry pie with ice cream one night.

It's a good thing I got that pie, Lori's pies went out of sight! Judy and Robin's table got a banana cream pie, and they brought a slice of it to our table, and all of us who had not yet "jumped ship" got some of it, delish 
A lot of money was raised for a good cause. And there was plenty of food that was all good at the VRCC dinner this year  ...
Wednesday a group of us headed to the breakfast joint and then on to this giant insane asylum nearby...


We split up after the tour, the early eaters going our own way -  after we figured out how to get our bikes to run again... to a nearby restaurant that Stanley had seen. And then to Stonewall Jackson's boyhood home...


After Jackson's Mill I had the bright idea of us going back on 119, which we had seen nearby. I forget how Sinkhead got stuck leading when it was my idea, but he led confidently. Not really the way I was thinking, but hey - he has a GPS.
After a while he decided 219 just wasn't cutting it, since we wanted to be on 119. We decided to back track a few miles and pick up one end of 90, and that led us most of the way back to Morgantown. 90 turned out to be way better than the bumpy roads I'd picked out to travel between Morgantown and 215, and so I used it again on the way home.


Pics from Jaroslaw Jarek AKA 'Cicik' who came over from the Czech Republic with Krak Les and Celia Dealmeida















James Taylor



......and a nice video https://www.facebook.com/james.taylor.75457/videos/1165655096790007/

Susan Smith Catoe




 

 

[Beer van Huet]

Inzane XVII – Billings, Montana



Hayhauler
We don't care how you get there....  just that you get there safely. Hope to meet you.  I will be the short fat guy selling raffle tickets in the evenings.  

Misfit
We started doing Monday through Thursday with the Early Bird Supper on Sunday evening a few years ago. This allows for travel on the weekends before and after. You use less vacation time this way and hotel rates are generally cheaper on the weekdays.

F6gal
Last year, based on complaints from the previous year, I decided to post dates as soon as we knew them and locations that we were considering (rather than waiting until everything was set).  Last year, you said you appreciated that; this year it appears that's not good enough.  This is by far the earliest we have ever announced the dates and general area.  I kind feel like we're cursed if we do, cursed if we don't.
If you make plans based on Yellowstone for now, you will be in the ballpark; with only minor refinements needed once we know the exact location.  



Misfit
Thank you Mr. McCain. Its comments like yours that make things worthwhile. There are some folks that need to go back and review their general board post history and compare positive post's to negative ones. I think some would have to dig pretty deep to find a positive post, about anything. Thank you to all that have made it a point to put InZane, the volunteers of this great club, and the VRCC staff in a positive light. Sometimes it really is a thankless job no matter how hard we try. I look forward to sharing Inzane 17 with you. No doubt some of us Easterners are going to be disappointed at next year’s Inzane location.  BikerGirl and I typically ride between 450-500 miles per day on our road trips.  It would be a four to five-day trip each way for us to ride the 2200 odd miles to reach a Ground Zero somewhere in Southern Idaho or Northern Utah, and that is if we stopped to see nothing along the way.  Add the five days for the actual event and we're over a two-week commitment of time and expenses to attend Inzane XVII.

Brian Ecton - Inzane 2017 Joe Boyd Memorial Ride
The bikes departing for the 2017 Joe Boyd Memorial charity ride at Inzane 2017, Billings Montana

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=d8NBLitr7OI

BINOVC - VRCC Inzane 2017, Joe Boyd Memorial Ride to charity luncheon, June 28.

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=0Ia7FwKgBD8

BINOVC - VRCC Inzane 2017 Ride to Downtown Billings
June 27, 2017.  VRCC Inzane Valkyrie Rally. Police escorted ride into downtown Billings from ground zero (Red Lion Motel) for an evening block party.

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=awTEj4_6VIQ

SerkDFW - Inzane 2017 Billings Montana
Some of the footage I shot with my drone (Mavic Pro) at the VRCC Inzane Valkyrie Motorcycle rally 2017 in Billings Montana.

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=R428nUPGdrI

Alien - Riding in the Rain
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=SiLSeOdyQEU

Inzane 17 Texas Deb Photos
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=IcJNygkTUF0

BigMac  - Ride Report for our trip to InZane 2017
http://www.valkyrieriders.com/socal/Ride%20report%20InZane%202017/InZane%202017%20ride%20report.htm

                                          Tetons as usual are just beautiful.

Some very nice pics by John G.
http://s350.photobucket.com/user/ke6aza/library/?sort=2&page=0


Travel blog by the Alien
….Valkyrie folks are some of the greatest, most down to earth people you'd ever want to meet. These are family folks who want to get together to celebrate the finest motorcycle ever made, share some wind and stories, all while raising money to give to charity. Great Great People!!! So much so, that solitary nature or not, I've ridden across country twice to hang out with them.
https://www.travelblog.org/Bloggers/The-Alien/

Valkyrie Slalom contest at InZane 2017 by Scott Sapers


https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=vnRZKEdkKFw

Serks Pics


                                                                    Beartooth Pass Summit


                                                                    Pretty Valk Contest


                                         Willow shining up ATADude's Valk                           Daniel in his natural environment

Daniel: I don't recognize myself in this picture...     (also, stolen!    )


                                        Devil’s Tower                                                               Mt Rushmore


Crazy horse Monument... The Memorial was started almost 70 years ago…. It is impressive, but  they've still got a LONG way to go.



JimC - Beartooth Pass adventure
I will leave the actual message and firsthand experience to 98T, Mad6gun, and Psychotic Bovine, as they are the ones that actually went through this adventure. The pictures were taken from one of their spouses as a good Samaritan picked them up and gave them a ride down the mountain in a car after seeing their dilemma.


                                                                                 Going up to the Top of the World


                                                                                 30 mins later, heading down


                                                                                That ride had to be the ULTIMATE PUCKER FACTOR!                                    

Jim & Linda
These pictures  are of Lothair from Wisconsin,  and Mark and Chris Dunges of Indiana. They went up the beartooth pass and on the way down 20 minutes later hit a snow storm. All three had their wives on back, and a passer by picked up the woman, pictures from the passenger seat while following behind them. (Talk about the ultimate pucker factor)


Solo1
Chris told me that it WAS the ultimate pucker factor! No brakes, no sudden changes in throttle, just get offs with no warning.

Serk
It was snowy, cold and miserable when I did it I think 2 days before this in the cage with the family.
I've suddenly got NO regrets about doing that road in the cage, the weather can change on ya' so quickly there! Glad the get off wasn't any worse, with the drop offs on that road.... *Shudder*

98T
So... we had a VERY enjoyable ride to the top... a little drizzle but nothing serious. Great views on the way up. We stopped at the scenic overlook - took pics... and headed up.  We crossed over the summit and there were people skiing up there and some people stopped to watch.  The plan was to go just over the top and see a little of the other side.  We went to the Top Of the World store there and spent a little while there.  Then we headed back up and over.  
About 2 miles up we hit a little sleet but the road seemed fine.  In just a couple turns later it was slushy but seemed ok.  Then in just under 1/4 of a mile, it turned really ugly!!!  Plowing a couple inches of snow with our tires.  Couldn't turn back... couldn't go forward.

I'll let Mad6Gun (Mark) and Psychotic Bovine (Chris) fill you in on their take as they were behind me.
We had a "delay" at the top for a while and I was seriously worried about getting snowed in up there. No cell signal... no tow trucks... nothing!!  Then the pavement looked like it was melting a little better so we started out. My wife and Mark (Mad6Gun)'s wife got a ride in an SUV behind us 3 and we started out.  The first 2 miles were ok... riding in wet car tracks... but then it got WAY worse a little farther down and the last 2 miles back to the scenic look out point were very scary... the "pucker factor" was at 100+%.  
We stopped there for a while and talked to people who said just a "few turns back" the weather was better.  So, after a long wait there,  we found another nice couple in a small  RV who were going to turn back and head down to Red Lodge and they offered to take our wives in their camper back down.
Here's a pic while we were holding up at the scenic view parking lot.



We headed out and sure enough - about 1000 feet lower in altitude, we were blessed with only wet pavement.  Another 1000 feet lower and it wasn't even wet!!!  What a difference!!
So glad to be back on dry pavement and not in snow/sleet/ice!!!
At the scenic lookout, I advised a group of adventure riders NOT to press on... but they had knobby tires and were sure they could make it through.  I wonder how they made out?? A couple other Harleys rode by while we were there... I wonder how they did?
For all I know, it was warm and sunny at the top 45 minutes later!!! Man did the weather change fast up there!!
I live in Wisconsin and am very used to driving in snow.... but I've NEVER done this on a bike and don't ever plan to again.
Our guardian angels (and sheer adrenaline) kept us warm and kept us pressing on hoping to find better road conditions farther down the slope.  
Mark or Chris...you have anything to add???
The whole ordeal seems like a bad dream now and I probably left some stuff out...
Cross   "riding in snow on a Valk"   off my bucket list.

Psychotic Bovine
Ok, here is my story, well, the parts that Loth didn't mention.
I ended up dropping pretty far behind Mark and Loth.  The conditions were getting worse by then, and I could barely see between my glasses fogging up and my face shield icing over.
I was taking it slow to say the least.  I felt the Valk trying to slide, it also felt like my steering inputs were doing nothing.  It was like the front wheel wasn't even connected to anything.
I was keeping a very delicate touch on the throttle.  Then, just like someone kicked the rear end, I was down and watching the Valk slide away and do a 180 ending up in the opposite lane facing the way we came.
Someone in an SUV stopped and helped me pick it up, there was no chance I could lift it on my own without any traction.  He also picked up my broken left highway peg.  
I got on the bike again and got it turned around (barely). I rode at less than a walking pace around the next curve and saw the turnout of the ski lift about 200 yards ahead.  I was barely moving and keeping my feet down but ended up dropping it again (no damage).  Two blokes from Britain stopped and helped me get it upright again, but the road crown was so bad I couldn't get off of it to set up the side stand.  One of them walked the 200 yards to the turnout and brought back a few people including two women from the ski patrol.  With 5 people pushing and me in the saddle steering it, we got it up to the turnout where I finally got off of it and put the stand down.  One of the guys while pushing it mentioned what a nice bike it was!
I guess Mark's wife, Twila was talking to someone that said I was down a ways back (this was before I got the bike picked up the second time).  She couldn't see where I was (visibility was about 100 feet most of the time), but the woman she was talking to told her I was down and "It didn't look good." People are so dramatic.  I was fine, just wounded pride.  As Loth said, the roads got a bit warmer and we were able to make it down to the next turnout that had restrooms and such.  After that, enough cars had gone by, and the temp was above 35, that we made it down the mountain.  I never thought I would be happy to see rain and 40 degrees

MAD6Gun
OK here is my story.  We had lite rain when we left Billings. Not enough for rain gear. Continued off and on all the way to Red Lodge. We put our rain suites on in Red Lodge. We left Red Lodge and headed up the pass. Was beautiful scenery all the way up. A little light rain and sleet but nothing was sticking. Went over the top to the Top of the World store. Bought a couple of things. We were there maybe 45 minutes.
We left and headed back up. Like Loth stated it started out with a little sleet then slush they a full-blown snow storm. Too late to turn back we trudged on. Neither Loth or myself knew Chris went down until someone told us after I went down. We were slowing down when the bike came out from under us. My wife hit her knee on the bike and I got a bruise on my left leg from the handle bar.  After I got up and checked on Twila Loth helped me get the bike back up but when I tried to move it off the crown the tire spun and put me in the gutter next to the road.  I just laid it back down gently. By then ski patrol made it to us and they were tending to Twila. Four guys help me pull my bike back on to the road. Loth had moved his bike down the hill to another overlook. I rode mine down to  Loths. We both left our bikes there and went back up to check on our wives and Chris. By then Chris had his bike upright and at the overlook.  We decided to ride our bikes off of the mountain. So off we went with the wives in a car behind us. I will tell you riding down that mountain in the snow sucked bigtime. After a short stay in another overlook waiting for cars to get rid of some of the snow we took off again this time our wives were in a nice couples RV. After another 1000 feet down the snow turned into rain and the roads cleared. I was never so glad to see rain and 40 degrees in my life. We were reunited with Dawn and Twila in Red Lodge.
We got back on the bikes and headed for Billings. I Never want to do that again. Minor damage to both bikes, broken highway pegs. Nothing I can't fix. Except for Twila's hurt knee we all came out of unscathed

chtwhite - 2017 INZANE Billings, Montana Tour
https://imgur.com/gallery/Bg9HW


My 2001 Honda Valkyrie GL1500C Touring Bike                               Other Guys with Valkyrie's I met on the Pass leaving Wyoming heading into Montana




                                                Leaving Chief Joseph's Pass headed up to Bear Tooth Pass.


In Chief Joseph's Highway Pass                                                                 A Mountain Lake at about 2 miles or higher at the top of Bear Teeth Pass.  This was June 2017.  I couldn't believe the ice on the Lake.


Just a beautiful high mountain lake.  Black and White.                                A picture of the INZANE Bikers.  We drove into Billings for Supper.  Nice town.  Nice people.

Alien Travelblog - Billings, MT InZane
https://www.travelblog.org/North-America/United-States/Montana/Billings/blog-983844.html

ke6aza's Bucket / Inzane 2017
I wanted to do the tour at Little Big Horn but there wasn't enough time.  Donna and I have been there before and I stopped there on the way home from Spearfish 2 years ago.  The whole area has a lot of great ridding.  I still need to do the Badlands.  We were going to try to go over Going To The Sun Road but it still wasn't clear of snow.  Two Valkyries were rumored to have gone down on the Beartooth Hwy and couple of days after we did it, due to fresh snow.  I heard both riders were ok and were at the awards dinner.

http://s350.photobucket.com/user/ke6aza/library/Inzane%202017?sort=2&page=1

 










 




 

 

[Beer van Huet]

Inzane XVIII – Roanoke, Virginia



Roanoke was held in June 11-15-2018 and listed 319 pleasantly disturbed participants



Carter Johnston
InZane 2018 map showing where everyone is coming from (as of 2 June).



2fan4life
Published over 30 self-guided rides. Now that’s really exceptional, well done
http://www.valkyrieforum.com/bbs/index.php/topic,101104.0.html



Dan Page’s video of mass gaggle departure
https://www.facebook.com/dan.page.92/videos/1966267366719387/

Big Bopper
Been home for 1 week and ready to go again. 8,000 miles since leaving May 16th with Run For The Wall. Roanoke was great seeing, and making so many friends. Thanks to Dr K and Miss Cindy, I had a great ride on Saturday heading down from MI. Believe it or not I ran into Hot Glue and her husband "What's his name" LOL at a gas stop in Mississippi. Not unusual except is was on Sunday, 3 days after the event. Had lunch in Dallas with Disco Dave (great place) and finished the last two days in 110 plus temps. I love my Valk and would live on the road if it weren't for one pesky thing! No it's not her, it's the $$$$$. Maybe one day,

Meathead
Started out at 3:30 am. I was too hyped up and couldn’t sleep. Brenda was already gone the day before taking her Mom to Phoenix for radiation therapy. Everything went good and I was making good time. Listening to the audiobook really made the Interstate not quite so boring. About 5:30 pulling in for gas near Amarillo I hear something. Turn down the sound on my headset. At first as I was coasting in I thought it was a front wheel bearing. But when I get stopped and helmet off it’s obviously coming from the engine. Sounded terrible and I wasn’t sure what I should do. Checked for hotels and found one about 5 miles away. Get to the hotel and unloaded. By this time I’m pretty sure the noise is coming from the alternator. Once the nut came loose on the drive hub and it made a funny noise. Thought maybe I’d get lucky and that would be it. But it wasn’t. But I detected a little side play in the drive side. Had much help here on the forum offering to send one and other help, which I am eternally grateful for. Ended up getting an alternator shop to rebuild it the next day in record time.
Day 2 I only got in 350 miles because I didn’t leave till 5:30. The next 2 days are pretty uneventful. I was trying to catch up to my SoCal and AZ buddies. But I had only minimal sleep for a couple days and I was running out of steam.
Got to Roanoke Sunday, my wife had flown in Saturday. Brenda was hungry so we went to eat and pick up some essentials (beer).
Monday hooked up with my Massachusetts buddies and some locals for a spirited ride around the hills there. I still don’t know exactly where we went. One place was called Blueberry Ridge. It was a good ride.
Tuesday we rode with Rainmaker, Speedo, and Dennis from Blythe to Mt. Airy (Mayberry). Another good ride.




Wednesday we hooked up with 3fan and a bunch of others for a ride to pay homage to Stonewall Jackson and Robert E. Lee. I very enjoyable and informative ride. Then the fun began with a little backwoods riding. It was the  most fun of all.
Thursday I took Brenda on a ride on the BRP. We only did 60 miles of it and then some other back roads. But it was thoroughly enjoyable.


Each night there might have been a little beer drinking and a little BS’ing.


Friday Brenda and I were off to DC for a few days. We went to the Arlington cemetery that afternoon and then rode across the Memorial bridge and rode around the city a little. We spent the next two days looking and acting like tourists.
I dropped Brenda off at the Roanoke airport and headed to the tail of the Dragon. It was ok and I’m glad I did it. But I really didn’t enjoy it. I have heard so many stories over the years of people over riding into your lane. I was hyper vigilant of that and really couldn’t enjoy it that much. But....Pete had recommended the Cherohala Skyway. I took Joyce Kilmer Road over as a short cut. The Skyway was the bomb ! I thoroughly enjoyed that road. Nice big sweepers at a good speed, perfect pavement, beautiful views.


Made it to Chattanooga for the night. I was really tired and got a hotel right as I got into town. Big mistake ! I battled traffic across town in the morning and had a few close calls.
The rest of the ride was pretty uneventful along interstate 40 the whole way. Met lots of interesting, friendly people all across the country.  
Had a great time visiting with old friends and meeting many that I have wanted to for years. It was a great event !

(part of) Serk and Spawn's Long Overdue Inzane XVIII Report with Pics

Okay, now that I've had time to at least partially recuperate, process pics, let the trip digest and settle down, I'm gonna sit down and try to write it out.
Going from Dallas to Roanoke, on the excellent advice of many here, we detoured to Cherokee, NC and rode the first (Or last, depending on your orientation) 85 miles of the Blue Ridge Parkway


Loved it, have to go back and do the whole thing sometime. Glad we did it (And the road through Great Smoky Mountain National Park!) in lieu of US129, no regrets there at all.
I could take a month and just ride around that area and still not get all the good roads I suspect.
From Asheville we superslabbed it to Roanoke where we found Valkyries!



Many lies were told, friendships were rekindled or made, faces were put to names, etc...

And then there were the nightly raffles with Vanna White Jr proudly running prizes out:


I was ever so gently admonished for being a little TOO generous with my arm stretches while distributing 50/50 tickets...


Some pies were auctioned off for a great cause (Seeing Carl go from one end of the room to the other enticing the high bidder with a free sniff was just a bonus!)


With the generous financial assistance of my table mates we were able to get this plate of painfully delicious sopapilla cheesecake (That Kali is STILL ranting about how awesome it was!)


After the pies were bought and consumer, there were some Karaoke shenanigans (But I wasn't NEARLY inebriated enough to get up there myself! You're welcome...)


For one of our day trips around the area Kali and I headed out to the National D-Day Memorial. That was one you didn't want to miss.


From there we wandered around a bit, rode a little of the VA part of the BRP. It was beautiful as well, and fun, but the NC side definitely gets top marks.
There were long stretches of thick pea soup fog. Luckily I love that kinda stuff, kept me on my toes, and luckily also there was almost no other traffic, but it definitely made  or an interesting ride!


Back at the hotel, the spot out front became one of the main social gathering spots (Until the hotel decided to threaten to call the cops on us for imbibing in a non-imbibing approved spot, but oh well)


Have to wonder if this sign had always been there, or if they put it there just for our “benefit”?


The fruit infused waters they (almost) always had in the front lobby I initially thought were gimmicky, but will admit I quickly became a fan of. (Especially the watermelon!)


I usually don’t do group rides, but Kali was requesting we do at least one since she’d never been in one before, and I’ll admit there is a certain thrill to having the roar of bikes all around you, so we did the group ride downtown to the Transportation Museum for the block party.




Lots of cool old cars, airplanes, bicycles, and trains. And more trains. And model trains. And big trains. And BIIIIIIIIG trains:


…and cake!


Loved this pic of a lone Valk on the deserted streets downtown headed back from the museum:


We made the trek up to see the Roanoke Star, and the lookout over the city.


I think you can just make out the host hotel in this pic from the overlook:


We did the poker run in there somewhere (First one of those I'd ever done) but evidently left the camera in the saddle bags the whole time. The route was amazing, loved it!
Back at the hotel.... Man, they'll let anyone in here!  
And suddenly, it was Thursday night, the week was almost over, time for the final evening's festivities:




Awards were awarded:


Speeches were made


Goodies were raffled off:


Surprisingly good food (I thought at least) was eaten:


But alas, we had miles to go the next day, so we called it an early night and packed up and prepared, said our first 15 or 20 rounds of goodbyes, got up good and early Friday morning, had a quick breakfast, and said our final goodbyes to Inzane VXIII



We did a 2 day 1200 mile plus run back to Dallas/Arlington after the best week ever in Roanoke.
Thanks to staff for what I think was the best Inzane ever.  I can't recall having more fun with my motorcycling buddies or meeting more Valkaholics.

hubcapsc trip report
Me and Stanley Steamer traveled back and forth to InZane.  
........Anywho... it was great to arrive at InZane and find the motel ate up with stinkin' Valkyries!


Many bikes stayed parked in parking places near where the above picture was taken. Many folks hung out near the bikes and among the bikes each night and drank beer and laughed and talked loud, since, besides the riding, visiting is what they came here for. After a few days the motel started sending people out to tell us to stop having fun. They had little success.
I ate breakfast every morning at the motel restaurant. It was set up, I guess through the VRCC?, that breakfast was free for us.

Joe wanted to go on a Red Book ride, so I looked for a few roads that would be good for Monday.  
The ride was basically this area:


After we circled back to 311, several folks headed back to the motel, and the more adventurous of us headed to Paint Bank on 311. We had to go over a hill top that kind of protruded into a cloud. If I could have figured out a safe way to chicken out, I would have, but just keeping on going seemed best:


After we got over the top, we could see again, and we made it to Paint Bank.
There's a little country store there, with a nice restaurant inside. The cloud was lessened when we headed back over 311 back to the motel.
On Wednesday a bunch of us followed Mark (3fan4life) from 10:00am until about 8:00pm on a long winding route with lots of historical stop-overs. We stopped at Washington & Lee at the Lee Chapel. We stopped at Stonewall Jackson's grave site. We came to a giant waterfall that had previously been moved to its current location to facilitate a mining operation. We stopped at a
covered bridge.
The covered bridge was our downfall... you had to travel down a snakey little road to get there, and we traveled the wrong way down the snakey little road when we left. Pretty soon we were on dirt, and pretty soon there were some pseudo-gnarly hills to climb. Everyone handled the dirt
with no trouble.
I don't really know Mark's route, I just followed... we were on the 501 for a while:


Here's us at Stonewall Jackson's cemetery:


Here's Joe and Rodney at Stonewall's grave site. There's a fresh lemon's been thrown at the foot of the statue


http://www.vmi.edu/archives/stonewall-jackson-resources/stonewall-jackson-faq/

Too bad I put the smaller SD card in the camera on Wednesday, I don't have any pictures of the dirt road. We made a gas stop and I used the last twenty minutes or so of space on the SD card for this:


Another great InZane!

Some more pics






 


Inzane XIX, Taos, New Mexico



TBD

[Beer van Huet]

Europe

When the Valkyrie or Flat Six Custom, I should say, was launched in Europe, people from different countries started organizing meetings soon afterwards.  Not only were the new biker owners attracted to each other’s taste but if you think a lone Valkyrie is a head twister, wait ‘till you see a whole bunch of Valkyries. Your eyes would pop out!
First on a local scale, these meetings were soon attended by Riders from abroad who also wanted to participate in the fun and excitement. So, they grew bigger by the year.  Since the summer holiday season was generally avoided, many countries were organizing meetings at more or less the same time in spring and fall. This caused a scattering and overlapping of events. Pity, since each event was prepared with a lot of effort.  As a result, it became hard to choose which event to go to. To ensure deconfliction, in 2006 the EU Chapter Leaders decided that in the future one major international European Meeting would take precedence over all local meetings. And they called it the EU Inzane.
Unlike the US, where Inzane is organized by the same staff using a similar setup routine, the meetings in Europe are always held in a different country by different people.  So, each time the EU Inzane will be quite different, pending on the culture, possibilities and initiatives of the organizers.
Also, there are usually no individual events to pay for but everybody is welcome to all the events, using an all-in entrance fee, including accommodation and food. So when you arrive, everything is arranged- and paid for except bar consumptions.  

Editor's Note
The Valkyrie Riders in Europe are far outnumbered by those in the US, obviously. In some countries, only a dozen or so VRCC members constitute a Chapter.
As is usually the case, only a handful of the same active Riders is organizing most of the events, group rides and meetings. The majority of members is either too busy or doesn't want to go to all the trouble at their own expenses. They are happy to ride along if the occasion arises.
The same applies in Europe. So, sheer numbers only will not dictate the amount of activities, on the contrary. You will notice that the European VRCC scene is equally active as in the US.

The idea of a European Inzane meeting started as early as 2001 by EU biker Peter # 3307 from Austria. He proposed the idea of founding an EU website and also an EU-wide meeting, along the USA lines:

Peter
In Mariazell, there was a discussion between the representatives of the participating nations (we were with 5 people) about the possibilities of a European Chapter, and still be part of the US VRCC.
The objective was to bring all the Chapters closer together.
All were enthusiastic about this idea and we defined as goals:
A common, independent European VRCC website in English, overarching regional Chapters like in the US.  Meetings, initiatives and activities could then be coordinated, avoiding overlapping of events.  
In addition, smaller Chapters would have the opportunity to present themselves in a website (at that time Poland, Switzerland, Norway, etc.).
The website will be maintained by the German webmaster and Silvano (Italian Country Rep) will liaise this to the US Chapter.  
In the future, we want to organize a European meeting as a season highlight (possibly in the town of Walhalla, close to Regensburg) - with the help of all the European Chapters - to become something like Daytona.

It would take another 6 years for the first EU Inzane to materialize in 2007, however.
 

[Beer van Huet]

Italy Chapter

                       
                                                                                                                     Alfredo ‘Fray’ Martelengo

The address of the Italian Chapter is vrcc.italy@gmail.com and website http://www.valkyrieridersitalia.it

As mentioned earlier, in the early days every VRCC Chapter organized its own meetings, often frequented by members of other nations.  Italy and Austria were among the first to organize larger, international meetings.
Lamont Bryden, during that time the VRCC USA frontrunner, visited one of the first Italian VRCC meetings.  Here is his story:

Lamont
Driving in Italy or anywhere in Europe for that matter can be challenging for an American to say the least. The roads are very narrow, the street signs are unfamiliar and traffic can be a nightmare. Parking is very limited and everyone seems to be in a hurry to get where they are going. Stop signs and speed limits are only suggestions. Pedestrians and bicycles don’t stand a chance with the motor vehicles. One of the first things you learn driving in Europe is to never make eye contact, to the European that means you have seen them and you understand that they are coming through. I was involved in a wreck in Germany from this very thing. The drivers there don't give an inch.
Cruising on the motorways can be a very stimulating experience. Speeds can reach well over 200 kilometers and at that speed there is very little room for error. This brings me to the "Death Ride" part of my story.
I went to Italy to test drive a Valkyrie and a Gold Wing that has a new transmission developed by Mario Moto. It is an overdrive transmission with a new 4th and 5th gear. I must say that both bikes were simply amazing to ride with this modification, but that's another story.
Now understand that I left San Diego on Friday to go to Milan, Italy, and came back from Milan on Monday so jetlag was a factor on the rest of this story. Still, without the jetlag I think it still would have freaked me out.
Mario Moto is a well-respected rider and mechanic in Italy. He was a professional racer for many years and has many trophies for his accomplishments. When I first met Mario on this trip, I watched him side saddle a Valkyrie and turn it around in a very narrow alley. Most people have trouble with the Valk at slow speeds so this was truly impressive. Little did I know I was soon to be much more impressed by his riding skills. Now this guy doesn't look like a psycho, does he?



Mario is a great guy but doesn't speak a lick of English that can be a problem because I don't speak a lick of Italian. If it wasn't for Silvano we would have never been able to cut a deal on these transmissions. Sil did a great job putting this whole thing together for us. It was a little bit awkward to drive back to my hotel with Mario in the car because we could not communicate for the whole time we spent alone together. This is when I decided to break my own rules and go ahead and ride on the back of Mario's GW to the airport. I was told we could save a least an hour by taking the bike because of the heavy traffic.
That sounded like a plan, and then I didn't have to feel all weird about driving all the way to the airport and not saying anything. This may have been the worst decision I have ever made in my entire life.
This is how the death ride started on Monday. I was told that Mario would pick me up at 7am to take me to the airport. I packed all my junk and the 6 transmission gear sets into one bag. The bag weighed about 80lbs. I checked out a little early just in case Mario showed up sooner than 7am. I sat and watched at least 40 to 50 cars run the stop sign where I was waiting for Mario to pick me up. When I say that stop signs and speed limits are only suggestions, that is what I mean; I only saw one big truck actually stop at the stop sign the whole time I was there.
Mario wasn't early, in fact he was just a little bit late so I'm thinking maybe it's a good thing we took the bike. Mario strapped my bag on the back of his rack and I mounted the bike and was ready to roll. There were at least three things, maybe four that should have given me a clue that this was a bad idea.
 1.) Mario is an X racer that took much pride showing me all the parts on the bottom side
      of his GW that were scraped off.
 2.) When talking with Sil's son about riding on the back with Mario to the airport, his
      comment was "oh, I guess you won't be getting any sleep on the way there". Now I
      thought he meant because I was going to be on a bike and not in the van. Little did I
      know.
 3.) Mario has a seatbelt for the passenger, that should have been a good indicator of
      how he drives.
 4.) Guys are NOT good passengers.
This alone should have made me opt for the van ride but I have never been very good about making the right choice the first time. So, I jump on the bike and we're off. The first thing that went through my mind as we went through the back roads was man I hope we don't fall over in the turns. I had my bag on top of a rack that weighed 80lbs., I weighed 200lbs and Mario was maybe 170lbs. We took the turns like Fast Freddie in Daytona. As we went into the turns I had to fight every natural instinct to upright the bike with my body English. I started to really concentrate on being a good passenger and not complicate the situation by wanting to take control from the back seat.
 
When you go into a turn you already have in your mind how fast you should be taking that turn from your experience, it is very hard to reprogram your thought process on the fly when you feel like you’re going twice as fast as you should be. Okay, so the guy is a much faster rider than I am on my Super Charged Valkyrie and I'm just going to have to suck it up and deal with it. I was amazed at how well the GW did in the turns. So here I am trying to keep cool and just enjoy the ride. Well, the enjoy the ride thing was soon to be a fleeing thought.

As we ran the twisting roads at well over the posted speed limit I got a taste of what was to be the next 60 minutes of my life. We started to pass cars and trucks at a very high rate of speed on a road with very little room to pass, not to mention that there was a solid white line indicating that it was illegal to pass in these areas.
I soon began to realize that I was going to be on the ride of my life. This would turn out to be the safest part of the trip. Those of you that know me know that I am a pretty much a macho kinda guy and would be considered an extreme thrill seeker. I have bungee jumped out of cranes, and I help build, and jumped out of Mega Bungee which was the tallest bungee tower at the time it was built (210'). I was an ironworker for many years and have walked the edge of many a high-rise building. I have worked in many dangerous situations that some would call crazy.
I have been in situations where I have been threatened by knives and guns and have on more than one occasion been in fights with weapons that have landed me and others in the hospital. I have had to testify in a murder trial against prospects for a well-known outlaw biker club. All that being said, I must say that those experiences put together did not add up to the fear that I was about to experience. I am humbled and a little ashamed that I did not take this ride better than I did, maybe it was the lack of sleep for three days, maybe I'm getting old, or maybe I just looked the grim reaper in the face and this time I didn't like what I saw.
Once we got out of the back roads and on to the motorway Mario really cranked it on. I like to go fast just as much as the next guy, maybe even a little more, but once again, guys don't make good passengers. This was not the scary part. At first the traffic was not that bad so we were zipping along at around 180 to 200 kilometers. Then we came to a section of the motorway where traffic was at a crawl. Traffic may have been at a crawl, but that didn't mean we had to slow down very much. Now I'm from California and I logged in many a mile splitting traffic so I didn't think much of this at first. The GW is a very wide bike and very top heavy and takes a little longer to stop then most bikes, or so I thought.
At first Mario would ride in between the cars and big trucks at a speed that felt okay to me, but as the traffic increased, so did Mario's speed. We would squeeze into spots that if there were any surprises at all we would be toast. As the trip went on, so did the level of fear. At first I would try and keep my cool but I soon began screaming out loud things like "Oh my God, were going to die!" or "this is going to hurt, this is going to hurt", I found myself praying that God would forgive me of all my sins and just let me live another day to tell about this experience. And yes, I may have screamed like a girl once or twice.
Here's how the rest of the ride went. We would run up on a car or truck at let's say 180 kilometers and get right on their bumper, so close that all I could see is the back of their windshield, and then Mario would honk his horn a couple of times and if they didn't move out of the way within two seconds he would pass them on the left, the right, or right down the middle if there was no room for the car or truck to pull over. When the traffic was heavy but still moving we were weaving in and out of cars at an average speed of 140 kilometers! If I held my elbows out from my side, I could touch the trucks on both sides at the same time doing 140 kilometers! I started thinking of what kinda of injury I was likely to incur at these speeds.
 
At first, I thought I might lose a limb or maybe just suffer some broken bones but then as the traffic slowed down we moved over to the emergency lane and really picked up the pace. If anyone would have pulled over or been stalled in that lane we would have hit them at a rate of speed that was not survivable. It is common practice for motorcycles to ride in the emergency lane in Italy. The bad thing is when Mario saw another bike ahead of him he would crank it up even faster to pass them in a lane that's just not big enough for two bikes! At this point I was looking death right in the eye and I could smell the stink of his breath.
I was sure that I was to be remembered as the Valkyrie guy from the U.S who died on a GW in Italy. The thought of being fortunate enough to be injured was gone; I knew I was going to die.

Along the way I would see road signs that said "Airporto" and thought to myself that this is great, we're almost there, but nooooo, we're not even close. At times we would take an off ramp that I thought was the off ramp to the airport but it was just another motorway on ramp. Oh, those were fun too, if the off ramp had a speed limit of let say 40 kilometers, we would take it at 80 kilometers, but that's not the fun part, the fun part is that traffic was stopped when we were doing it! That's right; we were passing cars and trucks that were trying to merge onto the new motorway at twice the speed limit! There were times that I just closed my eyes because I couldn't bear to see how it was all going to end. Because I could not talk to him, I would do things like squeeze him with my legs, well that worked about as well as squeezing a horse with your legs that just meant go faster to him. Then I tried patting him on the back to slow down, that just meant go faster to him too. Then I tried to think of all the reasons why I might survive this ride.

First thing that came to mind was that Mario is still alive and his bike is a 1988 that was real clean looking other than all the parts scraped off of the bottom side.  Then I thought, hey this guy is a racer, this is not a big deal to a racer, but then I thought even Freddy Spencer has his bad days. I finally realized that my life was in God's hands and I'm either going to make it, or I'm going to die. This is just part of the death therapy.
I would like to say thank you to Mario for changing my life. There are several things I walked away with from this trip.

 1.) I walked away from this trip.
 2.) I now realize that no matter how crazy you think someone is, there's always Mario to
      put them in their place.
 3.) I can't think of anything in life that could possibly scare me now. If I was approached
 4.) by a car jacker, and he stuck a 45 in my face and told me to get out of the car or
      he will blow my head off I would literally laugh at him and tell him to try and go scare
      someone else, I lived through a ride with Mario to the airport for 70 minutes straight.
 5.) I walked away from this trip.
 6.) My wife's driving will never scare me again.
 7.) I am now prepared to give my 15 year old driving lessons.
 8.) I walked away from this trip.
 9.) I now realize that Fear Factor is for wimps and I don't have to waste my time
      watching it on TV.
 10.) God is not finished with me yet.
 11.) I walked away from this trip.

 
 I do have one real regret and that is that I didn't get this on video. There is no way that you can experience what I went through by me writing this story. If I knew I only had a week to live I would go back and do it again with a video camera so you could get an idea how frightening this was to me.

 I in no way mean to be disrespectful to Mario in this story, he’s a great guy and I still call him my friend but if you gave me the choice to have me strapped to a piece of plywood and have my 15 year old son blindfolded and throw sharp knifes at me or take another ride to the airport with Mario, I would tell my son to do the best he could.
Update to this article!
I just got an email from Silvano regarding something I said at dinner that I forgot all about. Seems I made the comment that the Gold Wing was an old man’s bike here in the U.S. Man was that the WRONG thing to say! It's all coming back to me now. Here is the reply I got from Silvano. "Take in consideration that we live in the earth of Ferrari & Lamborghini and the speed is in our blood. I don't ride like Mario, but I'm very close. Mario is very special with his GW and I think is one of the best riders of the world.
Now you can say that GW is not for retired bikers...."


Left is a picture of Mario explaining what he is going to do to me on the way to the airport. You can fill in the blanks.

These are my Bro’s; they made me feel like a King. Sil and the Sheriff have really put together a great club here in Italy, but there were members there from Austria too.
They are all great people, and like most of us, they love to eat. Some more pics I took of that memorable event







LaMonster - If you liked this story, feel free to link it on your site or share it with a friend.  



VRCC Italy kept playing an important role in organizing all kind of domestic and international events up to this day. Thanks to the relentlesss efforts of Silvano ‘Sil’ Merati, followed in 2011 by Alfredo ‘Fray’ Martelengo.
Sil was always a real gentleman with a great passion for the Valkyrie and its community. Thanks to people like Sil and Fray, who keep organizing meetings and show up at every Valkyrie event, both locally and abroad, VRCC Europe has become one big family.

In terms of visibility and achievement, you can compare Silvano as well as Einstein from Austria and Bobbievalk from the UK with oZ’s and Lamont’s role in the early days.  
Guys with 10W40 in their veins, sense of humor, vision, passion and organizational talents.
Being a small Chapter, at some point VRCC Italy existed only of Goldwing and Trike Riders. VRCC Italy now has 15 members in 2017. Given that the club is a formal association, every year each member must confirm whether to stay member or not.
So, every year the number may vary some.  As in most Chapters, the wagon is being pulled by a handful of dedicated, active members.

Andy - Mario with a Rune
http://curvetube.com/_Super%20Mario/y6rBUaQ5xxk.video or https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=y6rBUaQ5xxk&feature=youtu.be


Eurowing Biker’s Week 2000 & International Valkyrie Ride-in

This meeting was one of the initiatives in the early days to host an international VRCC meeting.
Schedule of events.
The registration point will be open every day from 9am until 5pm at the main entrance of Lido Degli Estensi, south of Venice, on the Adriatic coast. Registration is compulsory. A special area and program will be reserved exclusively to Valkyrie’s riders. Every biker who registers will be given a welcome package which will include the program for the manifest, plus a gift and a special card to allow the bikers special discounts at the authorized points. Also, with the card they can enter certain areas, e.g. the market, concerts, strip-tease and entry to the main street. This also will allow the bikers free parking. The cost of the registration, valid the whole week, it has fixed: Pilot Lit. 45.000(€. 23) and Co-Pilot Lit. 35.000(€. 18).

Accommodation.
Bookings for hotels, apartments and camping will be taken as of 15 March 2000.
Special varied discounts will be given to all bikers during the manifest

Wednesday.
"Hey Guys, think of an example of BIKE WEEK Daytona, in Europe for the first time."
From day one we will have vendors in the authorized area, concerts, show bike, cruising along the main street on your bike. In other words, the general view…. we leave you free to imagine the beach, human fueling; you know what I mean, your stomach pal. Choose from pizzas to specialty fish dishes where you can try a taste at the local pizzerias and restaurants. We would like to emphasize the fact that the manifest is not being held in a limited zone, but in a vast area, where you have to move around on your bike.

Thursday & Friday.
Possibility to participate in various tours.

Friday, Saturday & Sunday.
Drag Racing competition.

Monday.
Possibility to participate in various tours.

Tuesday.
Closing of manifest.
 
Italian albums from 1999 – 2010 by Silvano
https://get.google.com/albumarchive/106047494469575870801?source=pwa  or  https://get.google.com/albumarchive/113375052800483743128
A few pics from the early days


                                Crotto Day 1999                                                                                    Honda Day 1999                                                                                      
                  


                                                           Parma Hills 1999


                                                Dolomiti Tour 2001                                            One of the most rugged areas of the Alps




                                                          Garda Lake 2001 - Note the customized  'Iron' or rather 'Wooden' butt saddle with eagle head

                            
                      

There is a midwinter motorcycle event in Europe, called the Elephanten Treffen in Thurmansbang-Solla/Loh, Bavaria about 40 clicks from Passau.  5000 to 10.000 bikes of every make and model gather every year up the mountains in the snow.
No such thing as comfort here and a real challenge for both the bike and its Rider.  In 2003, Italian Valkyrie Riders participated in this event.





Blessed with such a nice country and climate, our Italian Bros have all kind of options, however.


                                              Sardinia Tour 2002                                                        Bussero 2000

In 2008, 2011 and 2013, our Italian Bros even made trips to the Nordkap in Norway, 3000 miles one way from Rome…A distance from Boston to LA. Impressive.
Dag Verpeide https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=0GsP9YbJpNs

International Meeting Italy 2002







2003 - Lago d’Iseo




     Beer from Holland and Bobbie from the UK with spouses                               Christine AKA  'Steinchen' from Austria





2009 Valkyrie Party





Gigi Curati and Salvatore with Thor’s Hammer



2010 Valkyrie meeting Cesano Maderno



Fray’s Album 2009 –to date (very nice)
https://get.google.com/albumarchive/110996347206383748045?source=pwa

2011 Along the Garda roads

Hello my friends, this is our first ride out as new VRCC.
I'm calling everyone I know, within reasonable distance to come and ride with us along the Garda roads to spend a sweet weekend with us.
The event 'll take place the 7/8 of May. We arranged accommodation at a B&B with double-rooms for 50 euro. Triple-rooms are available as well.  During the 2days Rally, we'll be going up and down the Garda hills, along the local picturesque villages. The first day’s meeting point is at ancient vineyard 'CORTE' in Berettina, just a few km away from the DESENZANO autostrada. We 'll be there to guide you to the meeting.
Before you will depart, we 'll give the farthest biker a gift.
Best regards Claudio dal Ponte

2011 Run Morenic Hills  
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=uPkXhxzZI48


http://www.custommania.com/it/motoraduni-eventi-motociclistici/motoraduno/2010/la-cavalcata-dei-colli-euganei

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=uPkXhxzZI48

New website is inaugurated at the bike expo Verona 2011


Rombo di tuono
https://get.google.com/albumarchive/110996347206383748045/album/AF1QipOs5yPd03YY1_QIEvWGW_2QgJewCzsIqs_ppoZQ





2012   Bike expo Verona



Garda Run
This great 2-day Meeting was attended by 49 Riders



Valhalla’s Voyage – Bassano 3 February 2012



2013 Monselice Meeting



Cologno al Serio Ride

 

Night of the Valkyrie  

 

Verrazzano Castle Trip
https://get.google.com/albumarchive/110996347206383748045/album/AF1QipNT3lj1aNPDsx3Bm6mNKu9ipXgAaiYAeLqMZTce



 

2014 Verona by Luciano Valente
https://youtu.be/ieSrZAppsnM



The Verona Arena is a Roman amphitheatre built in the first century. It is still in use today and is internationally famous for the large-scale opera performances given there. It is one of the best preserved ancient structures of its kind. Capacity was nearly 30,000 people










Dressed up as Roman Warriors….and this ain’t Hollywood folks, but the real thing, LOL








                                 They don’t come any better than this, don’t you agree

2014 Toscana by Luciano Valente
Valkyrie Club - Motogiro in Toscana 2014
https://youtu.be/BguB-WmNZpw

 

Pics by Fray
https://get.google.com/albumarchive/110996347206383748045/album/AF1QipNJZhwKEd0cBYh7IlTu66HD5amR0hLoztqG29OK  

Lynn (UK) collecting her award at the Italian Valkyrie meeting, Longest Lady Traveler
Very nice plaque and a bottle wine, super time was had by all








                                            


 



 

 

[Beer van Huet]

Austria Chapter

               
                                                                                                               Günter ‘Günni’ Bruckner  

The address of the Austrian Chapter website http://homepage.univie.ac.at/guenter.bruckner/

The Austrian Chapter has just over 200 members and was basically laid down in the cradle, so to speak by Peter Hecht in 1999, who also established the first contacts with Italian, American and German members abroad.  
The first Austrian website by Pizzabert members followed soon afterwards in 1999 and was taken over in 2000 by Christine as webmaster.
In 2001, Peter ‘Einstein’ Prajczer was elected by the members to act as Austrian Chapter Leader.  
In due course and after having visited various meetings in Italy, Austria, Germany and Holland, other contacts have been established with Norway, Belgium, Switzerland, France, Poland, Slovakia and the Czech Republic.
Finally, also the Finns, Lithuanians and Russians were welcomed aboard.
In December 2016 after 15 years, Einstein handed over his Chapter Rep duties and closed his website, remaining a regular member.  He and his wife Christine ‘Steinchen’ have, and still do, given their all for the VRCC.  These two great folks have been among the ‘backbone’ of the club in terms of welding the EU Chapters together. They have attended every meeting, both local and abroad, greatly contributing to the spirit and joy.  No matter what the cost, distance or date, you could always count on their presence.  On top of that, they have organized over a dozen international meetings themselves, each far exceeding 200 participants, which were amongst the best around.  The VRCC owes these folks big time. What a couple; great respect!



The Chapter and new website is now run by Günni, equally determined to keep the VRCC alive.

Photo and Video Albums
http://www.dailymotion.com/playlist/x1edjs  

Gerd Frommel’s Austria pictures
https://www.fg-steirer.at/touren-ausfahrten/vrcc-austria-div-treffen-in-%C3%B6sterreich/  

2000 - Engedey

                                                              

Three meetings were held in Austria, of which no statistics are present, however.
During the first meeting 26 bikes from Vienna and surroundings attended.
Soon followed by a second meeting with the presence of Italians and Swiss.
Finally, at the third meeting Germans, Italians and Swiss bikers came along again and this process steadily evolved in larger numbers due to the internet.



2001 Mariazell



86 bikers participated in the Int’l F6C Valkyrie Riders Meeting in Mariazell from 17- 19.8.2001
68 - F6C Valkyrie STD bikes
2   - F6C Valkyrie sidecars
3   - Valkyrie Interstates
1   - Goldwing Trike
12 - Goldwing
25 – Guest bikers on various bikes
9 participating nations - A, B, CH, D, GB, IT, NL, NO, PL

Movie of Mariazell 2001 by Steinchen
https://www.dailymotion.com/video/x87r69 and https://www.dailymotion.com/video/x87r8o
     

Einstein's 60th Birthday


2002 – Hopfgarten



151 registered participants on the announcement     15-18.8.2002
84 - F6C Valkyrie STD bikes
2   - F6C Valkyrie sidecars
2   - Valkyrie Interstates
 7  - Goldwing
16 – Guest bikers on various bikes  
10  participating nations  - A, B, CH, D, GB, IT, NL, NO, S, USA

Silvano’s Photo album https://get.google.com/albumarchive/106047494469575870801/album/AF1QipM9Txp5Y8mu5NSda8gSDZ29dm5y4ohNwLRKKWS3











2004 -Vienna 12-15.8.2004



276 registered participants    
141 - F6C Valkyrie STD bikes
2   - F6 Rune
7   - Valkyrie Interstates
1   - Valkyrie Trike
18 - Goldwing
17 – Guest bikers on various bikes
14 participating nations - A, B, CH, D, GB, F, IT, NL, IRL, NO, S, HV, USA, PL

Beer
During this first weekend of August, a Meeting was held in Vienna, which can only be described in superlatives. There were more than 270 participants with over 180 bikes.  Apart from a large contingent of Austrians and Germans, 12 other nations were represented, including 20 enthusiastic participants from Poland.
We left a week earlier to RV in Koblenz with the Brits, who were doing a European roundtrip.
After a night stop in Regensburg we arrived at the hotel 'Am Sachsengang' in Vienna on Wednesday.  We were warmly welcomed by Einstein and Christine, who had left nothing to chance. The day before the official Meeting started, there were already 100 participants. The accommodation and organization were excellent and people were getting in the mood right away.  In the evening, we were taken by Peter & Christine to a nearby restaurant: "Dass war cheaper" LOL and could enjoy a meal with humungous schnitzels hanging over your plate. Later on, we went to the bar at the hotel to meet and greet other participants and after closing time everyone went to bed. The next day we decided to visit Vienna with a group.  A day-trip ticket for the U-Bahn proved very useful.  Vienna is truly a beautiful city with a lot of culture, terraces and atmosphere. The historical inner city was originally built by the Romans as a military post against the German tribes and became a city in 1221. Very famous are the Stephansdom, Schloss Schönbrunn where the Austrian emperors lived, Prater and many, many more. Everything beautifully restored and not hard to imagine you were walking around in a capital of a once great empire, consisting of most parts of Europe. We opted for a nice beer and a chat with friends at a sunny terrace. That evening we could enjoy a meal on the banks of the Danube (Insel) that, due to the beautiful warm weather, was transformed into a tropical holiday paradise. When we returned to the hotel, the parking lot was already packed with Valks. As a matter of fact, they were parked everywhere.  A beautiful sight. Especially the two brand new Runes drew a lot of attention. Of course, there was also a spectacular bike-light show for the LED Lovers.
After we had met many friends and acquaintances, we went back to Vienna the next day, this time for a tour with the bikes. In the evening there was a huge party with an extensive buffet, excellent music from a Country & Western band, fireworks and lots of drinks.  Folks were dancing everywhere, even in the parking lot outside.


On Saturday all the bikes roared through the Austrian landscape.
We hardly met any other traffic, well done. This day was dedicated to Klaus & Veronika's biker wedding, who exchanged rings on a nice spot in the presence of all participants, city mayor and officials. Speeches were held and presents given to the newlyweds. Congratulations, what a nice couple and great moment.


After lunch, we rode to a lake in the vicinity to take a group picture and enjoyed the sun and wind. That evening there were more wedding presents and a Tiroler music group played typical Austrian ‘slap your thigh’ songs.  The next morning it was time to say goodbye and we continued our way through Mariazell, Jaufenpass and Hwy 111 through the Karnic Alps and Timmelsjoch towards home.
The 2004 Austria Meeting has been one of the largest and best VRCC event I have ever experienced. The organization and accommodation were excellent and the weather remained warm and sunny.
All-in-all, an unforgettable experience.

                              Dianne, Tony (RIP), Beer and Bobbie                                                          Italian and Brit Mob


                                 Italian charm                                                                              Welsh get together

                                                                     Parking………the everlasting inspiration and discussion spot


                                                                             Nice paintjobs and customs everywhere


                                                                            Klaus and Veronika are getting married


                                 Great bikes, parties and good company                                                     Ohne Worte  

2006 - Graz  10-13.8.2006
https://youtu.be/uyi-C6sESk8


      
203 registered participants    
99 - F6C Valkyrie STD bikes
2   - F6 Rune
7   - Valkyrie Interstates
 19 – Goldwing
2    – GW Trikes
16 – Guest bikers on various bikes  
14  participating nations  - A, B, CH, D, GB, P, IT, NL,  IRL, H, T, HV





More pics at https://get.google.com/albumarchive/106047494469575870801/album/AF1QipMAcj3rAf4YNlfpYv2T6XiwDy0iM2qBP8ORqwmS

2008 - Feldkirch  



Videos
https://youtu.be/DzzG9l442bw
https://www.dailymotion.com/video/x6j3qx

In Feldkirch, 250 registered participants from 13 nations attended with 166 bikes from Belgium, Germany, England, France, Holland, Ireland, Italy, Norway, Austria, Sweden, Switzerland, Spain, and USA.
Hanne VRCC#20305 arrived from Kiew, Ukraine (longest distance travelled)
Antonio VRCC#13833 (oldest participant) from Italy
Edi VRCC#21832 (second oldest participant) from Austria
Lukas und Christof (two youngest participants in sidecar) from Germany











2010 - Schlögen  19-22.8.2010



276 registered participants    
115 - F6C Valkyrie STD bikes
1   - F6C sidecar
 9 - Valkyrie Interstates
3 - Valkyrie Trike
23 - Goldwing
24 – Guest bikers on various bikes
14 participating nations - A, B, CH, D, GB, F, IT, NL, DE, IRL, NO, S, HV, P, CZ

Beer
From 19 ‘till 22 August 2010 the 10th anniversary of VRCC Austria was celebrated in Hotel Donauschlingen in Schlögen. There were over 270 participants from Italy, Poland, Wales/UK, Czech Republic, Sweden, Norway, Denmark, France, Germany, the Netherlands and Belgium with over 160 bikes and 115 Valkyries.  It is always great to look at the differences between all the individual Valkyries and what kinds of accessories and custom paints have been used. Ideal for getting ideas.
On Wednesday, 50 Riders showed up early. The hotel was located on a quiet, magnificent spot in the curve of the Danube River and mainly utilized by bicycles and tour operators.  This was all about to end by the arrival of the Valkyries.  
We were welcomed by Peter and Christine, who had arranged the whole meeting to perfection.  After a nice meal we all went to the bar to mingle again. The organization had designed 3 routes in Austria and the Czech Republic, ranging from 150 to 350 km. Everyone could ride one of these routes by him/her self or in groups. The rolling and slightly hilly terrain contained many panoramic views. Both the primary and secondary roads were full of curves and ideal for motorcycle riding.  


On Thursday everyone arrived and after diner there was a party at the bar. Gerard & Jenneke, Stefan, Henny & Janni, Eric, Robert, Yvonne and Cynthia & I were present from the Benelux.
After a great ride out the next day, there was a nice diner-dansant with speeches and live music from a local band Waxdraht (Wax wire).  The band started with some covers and soon switched to wild Tiroler music. Our Austrian hosts were wearing lederhosen and Dirndl dresses for the occasion.  What a great party. Even the hotel personnel joined in after closing time and I remember we were drinking Jägermeisters and someone was playing guitar until I went to bed at 4 AM.


On Saturday there was a big elephant walk with all the bikes for a tour of 120 km. in the Linz area. What a nice view, all those Valkyries behind each other for a few miles long. We had a very nice lunch break with local Austrian (nonalcoholic) summer drinks.


In the hotel, Valkyrieparts sold bling and spare parts and a tailor sewed patches on your jacket.  The diner consisted entirely out of Austrian Nödel.  Nödelsoup, Nödel main course and Nödel desert and the spirit was very nice with a disco and someone attempted to make a burnout on the dance floor.  Luckily, he went outside again and proceeded with his burnouts writing smileys and VRCC on the parking lot. The personnel from the hotel were treated on a small evening ride with some lighted Valkyries around the hotel and were visibly pleased. Needless to say, the party went on for quite some time afterwards.
Sunday, we said goodbye and proceeded back home for 600 miles through some traffic cues and heavy rain showers.
This Austria meeting was characterized by a very nice, relaxed spirit, splendid hotel and really cooperative personnel, beautiful weather (30 ͦC in the sun) excellent ride out possibilities and a great organization.  Thanks to the Austrian crew, you’re simply the best!


                                                                For some Riders, washing is an almost daily ritual, LOL


                                                 Lunch break…. nothing beats lying in the grass after a copious Austrian meal



2012 - Schlögen 15-18.8.2012



190 registered participants    
97 - F6C Valkyrie STD bikes
 6    - Valkyrie Interstates
5 - Valkyrie Trike
18 - Goldwing
15 – Guest bikers on various bikes
13 participating nations - A, B, D, GB, F, IT, NL, DE, NO, S, HV, P, SK

Beer
On 15-19 August, the Austrian VRCC Treffen was held in Schlögen, a small village at the Danube's hairpin, the 'Donauschlingen'.  It was the third time Peter and Christine organized the Treffen here at the hotel / wellness resort. It was fantastic weather all the time and we have been able to ride our hearts out.
Eric had arrived on Wednesday as well as Gerard, Jenneke and Stefan from the Lowlands Chapter.  This time, they had taken the car train for a change.  By the looks of it, I think they already had a party on the train during the trip from Munich to Austria.
Hanne had flown in from the Ukraine to ride his Valk that is kept in the Netherlands. Finally, Beer and Cynthia were also present. We were all warmly welcomed and the organization was excellent. As usual, we first went to the bar to have some drinks and then to the room to freshen up. There were 190 bikers present with 141 bikes, mainly consisting of members of the German and Austrian Chapters. But there were also Norwegians, a Swede, a small group from the Czech Republic, a few Brits and 12 Italians with Silvano. Many friends were present, which made it very enjoyable that first evening.
On Friday we left after a nice breakfast for a trip in the surrounding area. Stefan, our road captain, had a route prepared to the Czech Republic and we made a wonderful trip through rolling, wooded terrain with little traffic on the winding roads. Colin and Ingrid had joined us and also Sandra, member of the hotel staff with whom Hanne had been talking to, the night before.  After a 230 km ride, with regular stops on a terrace, we arrived at the hotel again. Colin decided to jump in the Danube, being towed in a tire tube behind a speedboat. Bummer…his body did not fit into the tube so he had to hold it with his hands. This cost a lot of power and was very funny to look at but if you’d known Colin, as strong as they come in Ulster, he could easily handle that.

The Ulsterman in his natural habitat                                                 Lots of interesting Valks                                                  Easy going in the sunshine, life is great

That night we all went aboard a cruise ship for dinner. The Danube cruise lasted about 3 hours. Very nice scenery and we really enjoyed this trip on the river. Back at the hotel, there was a disco where we had lotsa fun with a special dance on the floor and pole dancing by the ladies.
At the parking lot, where all the bikes were parked, the entertainment continued. The Germans had stripped a Valkyrie and modified it with a head of wild boar as a headlight. They made burnouts, writing smileys and the letters VRCC on the asphalt.  The hotel owner, a biker himself, enjoyed it as much as we did. Everything was being thought of because a spare tire had to be fitted after 15 minutes. No business like show business, LOL.


The next morning there was the usual joint ride with all 140 bikes together and this time 3 other ladies from the hotel staff accompanied us. In the rolling terrain with many curved roads, you could often see a large part of the bike posse. A beautiful sight of course and a lot of pics and films were made.
Along the side of the road, the 'locals' were waving at us and after 65 km we stopped for lunch.  Very nice with a salad bar, a stew and BBQ ribs after a nice ride and once again another great meal, a professional fireworks show was given at the hotel.
Outside, the burnouts continued, this time for an attempt to make Olympic rings. Unfortunately, the radiator cap popped off and the Valk lost its coolant. The steel wires of the rear tire were strangled around the axis of the rear wheel.  Although I'm not a burnout fan myself, I found it very reassuring to see how much damage the Valkyrie can actually take and just keep on riding.


Anyway, later the hotel staff could have a backseat ride on LED-lighted bikes that made a lot of noise around the hotel with their horns and sirens.   At midnight the disco resumed its music and the party went on inside.   The next morning we had breakfast and rode home on this very hot Sunday.
During this Schlögen 2012 Meeting we had a lot of fun and made nice trips. The organization was excellent and the weather great. What more can you wish for. As a matter of fact, the spirit was so great that the complete hotel staff joined our party after their shift. Sure thing, I will definitely come back to this place.

                                                                                                       Lunchtime on Saturday


                                        Having a cool one after a great ride                                     Very nice custom and paint job, well done!

Video
http://curvetube.com/Walkirie_Honda_f6_2012_web_wmv/Ay2fPshzuzY.video

2013 Jois Burgenland 6-8.9.2013



63 registered participants    
27 - F6C Valkyrie STD bikes
1     - F6C sidecar
 5    - Valkyrie Interstates
1  -  Valkyrie Trike
2 - Goldwing
3 – Guest bikers on various bikes  
14  participating nations  - A, D, S, P, CZ

Local newspaper story
JOIS (gsch). Die österreichische Motorradfahrgemeinschaft des weltweit vertretenen Motorradclubs VRCC (Valkyrie Riders Cycle Club) traf sich zum Season’s End heuer erstmals in Jois. Am Freitag reisten die stolzen Besitzer der schweren 6-Zylinder-Maschinen aus dem In- und Ausland (Slowakei, Tschechei, Schweden, Polen, Deutschland) an, um gemeinsam den Ausklang der Biker-Saison 2013 zu befeiern. Gar nicht „hart“ stand eine Bootsfahrt am Neusiedler See am Samstag von Illmitz nach Mörbisch zur Besichtigung der Seebühne am Programm, sowie eine Kutschenfahrt durch die Pannonische Steppenlandschaft. Die Zeiten vom Rowdy haben sich wohl zum unverbesserlichen Romantiker hin geändert. Trotzdem viel auf Hochglanz aufpoliertes Chrom, Leder und laute Motoren, wie es sich für ein richtiges Motorradtreffen gehört. Rauhe Schale und offensichtlich doch weicherer Kern...                    
                                            

2014 - Schlögen  


Video https://youtu.be/wwjJ9ACYalM                                                                          …………it’s lonely at the top

168 registered participants    
76 - F6C Valkyrie STD bikes
1  – Valkyrie sidecar
7    - Valkyrie Interstates
1   -  GW Trike
14 - Goldwing
15 – Guest bikers on various bikes  
12  participating nations  - A, B, D, GB, F, IT, NL,  DE,  NO, S, HV, HV, P, USA





 

2016 - Schlögen



95 registered participants with 71 bikes      
51    - F6C Valkyrie STD bikes
1    – Valkyrie sidecar
3     - Valkyrie Interstates
 16 – Guest bikers on various bikes
6 participating nations - A, D, GB, F, P, HV




More great pics at https://www.meinbezirk.at/eferding/lokales/valkyrie-treffen-2016-d1823564.html


                                    What a great looking bike.....and all in Austrian colors











                  

[Beer van Huet]

Lowlands Chapter

                 
                                                                                    Beer van Huet # 7609   ‘Roadmaster’ Stef Martens

The joint Belgium and Netherlands Chapter has 175 members and the address is  http://www.vrcc.nl
The name Lowlands has been chosen because a big part of the Netherlands is up to 20 feet below mean sea level.  There are just over 400 F6C/Valkyries estimated in the Netherlands.

Although the Benelux is of small importance in VRCC Europe, it’s convenient, central location played a significant role in welding the EU Chapters together.

Beer
When I first saw the Valkyrie on a business trip in New Jersey, I instantly fell in love with the bike.  You could tell straight away that this was something really special. The power and looks just drooled of this monster.  
I had been to the Laughlin River Run before and this was not another look-a-like or wannabee but a machine that made its own, unique statement. Back in the Netherlands I traded in my Yamaha Virago 1100 and bought my new Flat Six.
I went looking for as much online information as I could and soon joined the VRCC.
I also discovered other Valkyries in my area and early 2000 I joined Karel and Tinneke, Eddie van Laethem and 6 other Valkyrie Riders at the shore of the River Schelde in Antwerpen for a first group ride.  I was really excited seeing all those Valks together and very much liked the kind of Riders as well.  Different and very friendly. Not bragging about their bikes and simply out for some fun together. We stayed friends until this day.
I guess a similar story applies to more people in the Benelux.  Later in 2000, Walter Melchers organized a meeting and there, with great enthusiasm and pzazz, the Benelux Chapter was founded and really started to kick in soon afterwards.
Walter had visited the Austrian and Italian Meetings before and launched the Benelux meeting in Heerlen soon afterwards in 2002, being the first official International Meeting north of the Alps.  The organization consisted of Walter, Roadmaster Stef, Ed van Laethem, Ronnie and myself.
After a second, similar meeting in 2003 the Benelux Chapter Rep and other staff members ended up in a difference of opinion on the way to proceed, which could not be resolved.
In the following years, various local VRCC rides were organized by Gert and Anthony ‘Crazy Mosquito’ in the Ardennes, Gé and Mara on the river dykes, Patrick and Yolanda near the coast, Melis Jan en Maarten between the rivers and a great weekend with Karel and Tinneke at the Bison Ranch ‘Don Diego’.  
After these successful highlights, the club members gradually became more individual and folks started riding their own trips without the VRCC fuzz. The Benelux Chapter kinda faded away with only its dormant website http://users.cuci.nl/miwa/ left as a remnant.
In 2008, the Chapter was revitalized by Beer van Huet and Stefan Martens and is still up and running as ‘Lowlands’ with 175 members until this very day.


        2002 & 2003 – Heerlen Int'l Meeting, Netherlands

Beer - 2002 Final Report
The international VRCC Benelux Meeting from 24-26 May 2002 exceeded all our expectations. The sight and sound of 105 Valkyries and 21 other bikes was an experience we will not soon forget in the Benelux. Thanks to the widespread participation of all EU VRCC Chapters and riders from 10 nations. To our pleasant surprise, riders from Germany, Sweden and even the Federation of Russia all showed up on Thursday as planned. Marvin from Eurowing had also just arrived after driving his truck 1600 nonstop clicks from Italy to support the meeting. Talking about long distance, there were 7 attendants who covered over 2000 kilometres and 42 members with over 1000 kilometres one-way travel distance to join the event. The welcome ceremony of our newly arrived guests lasted until the bar closed in the early hours of the morning. The next day, delegations from the UK, Italy, Austria, Greece and Norway, together with most of the other Benelux riders checked in and spent their time walking around the bikes and getting to know each other. A ride with approximately 45 bikes was undertaken on Friday to the three-country landmark, where a snack and beverage was presented by one of our main sponsors, the KEPU Company. Again, experiences and interests were shared that day on the lot and at the bar, accompanied by the sound of a 4-member Dixie band. Also, a video of last year’s meeting in Austria was shown for the attendants who were interested. On Saturday, everyone was aboard. Although rain was forecasted, the weather fortunately stayed dry for the duration of the event. At one o’clock, a roaring column of over 120 bikes steadily moved across the Benelux landscape to the ‘Molen’, where a meal was served. During this stop, all riders could witness the astonishing accuracy of the whiplash, presented with skill and cunning by ‘More danger’ Pete. The ride continued as planned, without any malfunctioning bike, thanks to the reliability and durability of the cruiser of the decade. Plaques and certificates were presented to each nation and Silvano in particular was mentioned for his activities on the EU internet site. Larissa Klijn (11 years old) was proclaimed ‘Valkyrie’ of the meeting and Paolo Fraccascia rewarded for his best looking ‘Sherrif’ bike. The accommodation at the hotel ‘Valk’ was such, that most of the rooms overlooked the magnificent sight of over 100 bikes at the parking lot. In the evening a party was organized, accompanied by the swinging sound of two local female singers, followed by the music of yet another local, but nevertheless outstanding blues band. As a surprise, a Flat 6 was driven on the dance floor during the evening and Rocky, our Italian not-for-long bachelor, was entertained by a lady with remarkable reflexes and shapes. Needless to say, that the party went on until the sun was rising again. Finally our beneficiary, the Make-A-Wish foundation, who makes wishes come true from terminally ill children between the ages of 3-18 years, received a cheque, thanks to all our sponsors and participants.
We would like to thank all the people involved in this meeting, including Eddy for accompanying our guests and friends from the UK, all the safety riders who made a steady ride possible, the photographer for her nice shots, the security people who guarded our bikes at night, the VRCC members of the registration desk and the lottery, the hotel manager for his nice food, service and acco and the people of the stands. A special thanks to the people who voluntarily made videos and photos and all the other members who put countless hours in the organization. Finally, I would like to thank all the VRCC members and participants who made this meeting a success by attending with such a good spirit. We are working hard to edit and multiply the video’s and make them available to your Chapter soon. We are looking forward to share more good rides and feelings at the other VRCC meetings.

                     
Spectacular if you've never seen more than 15 Valkyries at one place   Melvin and Sean, your accessory mounted while you wait                                     Peter 'More danger' with his whip


                           The UK/Welsh Gang                                                                                                    At the 3 country border point


Melvin sold out in no time, LOL                                                                       A 3-man brass band during the first night

2003
In 2003, another international meeting was hosted by the Benelux, this time with 197 participants from 11 nations. Horst Niels from Germany won a prize for his outstanding Valkyrie specimen together with Adriano Bavia who managed to attend with a Valkyrie with genuine horse saddle. During the party, a Flat 6 appeared on the dance floor and Steve B from the UK, who turned 50, was put in the spotlight. All profits and revenues went to the Cliniclowns.



Two ladies from Cliniclowns                                                    Gary (RIP) and friends collecting cliniclowns noses                            Knight Beer


                        Nice trailer, wrong bike                                                Fuchs performance stand                                              ...great view


                      Pitstop at a memorial site                                                   Modified genuine horse saddle                               Lucky winner of ladies underwear  

During that time, it was popular by some in the UK to address each other on the bulletin board with Medieval ‘Knight’ names and tales. Hence, this proclamation during the Benelux meeting to call forward Steve B. and celebrate his 50th birthday.



         

During the early days Stefan ‘Roadmaster’ Martens became close friends with the UK Chapter members and organized several, what they called ‘Chat Weekends’. Small scale international meetings and if you look at the pics, it was great fun.

Chat weekend Genk 2006





Chat weekend Houffalize 2009



                                    line up in front of the Bastogne war memorial

Raalte Meeting -2013

We were blessed with exceptional nice Wx. Besides great rides in Overijsel and Drenthe, we went to Giethoorn. This town has a streetplan made of waterways/canals. Ulsterman, our DJ did not like the choice of music so he took his bike, rode a total of 250 km back to his home and came back with decent stuff. These small scale Int'l meetings are a perfect setting to get to know each other better and, although there was a well organized plan, flexible enough to play it by ear.

Videos
Boysbiker 17 - VRCC bikers club at Raalte Saturday Tour https://youtu.be/KKSJs922mdg
or https://youtu.be/boW3UgaiO7Y
or https://youtu.be/r1oNUHRb3zQ


                          Dave & Norah                                                                          Giethoorn                           Hans his new creation

In Memoriam Henny Lammertink  

Henny has been around VRCC Benelux/Lowlands from the first hour and was one of the driving factors behind the Club.  
A true friend who could always be counted on.
He died of a brain hemorrhage at the age of 57. His death is a great loss to all of us but most of all to his wife Janni.
    

RIP 7 November 2013



In 2016, the Lowlands Chapter had the privilege of hosting the 20th Valkyrie anniversary during the 10th European Inzane Meeting in 2016 in Belgium. The Meeting was attended by an unprecedented 382 participants.  Among the highlights were the mass Valkyrie line up in front of the Bastogne war memorial and a completely restored GL1500C Valkyrie for a $ 5, - raffle ticket, won by French Christine Berthet.




Rest in Peace Joop Angelier

Joop was an active and social Valkyrie Rider and Club member.
He combined his skills and hobby and developped many useful Valkyrie precision instruments.
But most of all, he was a friend you could always rely on.
He passed away at the age of 58 after a battle with cancer on 26 January 2018.
Our thoughts and condolences to his family and friends.  



Take a look at this large Lowlands photo album from 2001-2018 https://www.flickr.com/photos/beer1952/albums/page1






 

[Beer van Huet]

Germany Chapter

       
                                                                                               Umbra

Area reps

Köln/Düsseldorf                 Mid Germany                     Westfalen         North Germany            East Germany              South Germany


Hartmut  (RIP)                          Ali                         Pascal                          Blacky                  Broesel                         Ruth

The address of the German Chapter website http://www.valkyrieriders.de/site/

VRCC Germany, represented by Ronny AKA Umbra and with its 502 Riders is the largest Valkyrie community in Europe.
As in every large country, the VRCC is faced with great distances between members.  In the US, this has been overcome by the introduction of State Chapters and Area Reps. In Europe; a whole country would become a Chapter. While not as large as the US, some countries still face the same difficulty in managing the club and not knowing what’s going on thousands of kilometers further down the road.
In Germany, the VRCC solved this issue with the introduction of the so called ‘Stammtisch’, literally translated as tribe table: ‘Nortlichtern’, ‘Niedersachsen’, ‘Kelten’, Osten’, ‘Westfalen’, ‘Hessen’, ‘Fähre’, ‘Bayern’ and ‘Schwaben’.  There, the local area members can meet and sit down at their club table in the pub.
In 2008, when VRCC Germany was faced with legal issues about the VRCC patch patent, it became a necessity for the club to create a legal entity, called the ‘Rathaus’ (Town Hall).  Ideas, initiatives and concerns from the various ‘Stammtisch’ are passed on to the Rathaus and taken back by elected ‘trusted’ members

Andreas ‘Andy’ Schöler


Preceded by Micha Bergmann and later, Sven Siemonsen, Andy became the lasting Germany Country Rep for almost 2 decades. He started in 2000 and resigned in 2018. As VRCC Germany grew larger, Andy needed additional support. Each Stammtisch now has a representative, nominated by democratic election. These Reps, called trusted people (comparable with Area Reps) meet each other on a regular basis and together with the Country Rep and webmaster form the Rathaus eV. Decisions made by the Rathaus then apply countrywide.
Since Germany has the largest group of VRCC Riders in Europe, the Chapter also represents the whole continent as far as communication with the VRCC US principles is concerned. Andy Schöler and his wife Bine from Berlin regularly reside in the US to visit their family.
As a matter of fact, he has his own Valkyrie in the US since Inzane V, Paducah. So he was nominated to take this upon him and act as EU Rep. Andy therefore, also presides the annual Chapter (read: country) Rep meeting during the EU Inzanes.
Thanks to Günni, the first webmaster of VRCC Germany, the following history information is still available:

On 3 July 2000 8:17 Micha Bergmann VRCC #1645 wrote to Lamont Bryden VRCC #1 the following email

Subject: German Chapter
Hi Bros,
I’m searching for my German Chapter in your Chapter-list. But I can only find the Italian and the Netherlands Chapter.  Please, be so kind and post the German Chapter also. I just begin to organize all the Germans a little, and it’s important that a newcomer sees the whole member list.
I'm in close contact with the Chapters in Italy, France, Russia!! and Greece. Thank you so far ...
Feel the power of six
Michael #1645
 
Lamont responded at 23:13 the same day:
We have members in Germany but no Chapter contact at this time. You can see the members by doing a search on the world page.  If you like I can set you up as the contact for Germany. I will be in München on 13 of September I think. We will be at Trade Fair for Motorcycles and Scooters. It would be great if we could meet up with you and some of the other VRCC members there. Let me know.
LaMonster
 
On 4 July 2000 10:46 Micha Bergmann forwarded the following email to a group of people, which were members of the forum.
The addressees were:
Günni (Icke) VRCC#4733i; Harry VRCC#4642;
Hans VRCC#4588; Guido VRCC#4438;
Bernd VRCC#4294; Gerhard VRCC4276;
Steve VRCC#4250; Fraenkie VRCC#3218;
Kim VRCC#3163; Obelix VRCC#1548;
Sabine VRCC#1305; Martin VRCC#1605;
Manfred VRCC#1077; Ludger VRCC#426;
Harald VRCC#31; Paz VRCC#1114;

Hello members,
Since our German Chapter does not appear in the Chapter list of the VRCC, I made a request to LaMonster. You can read his answer below. When you all don’t disagree, I will act as German Secretary.  Please mail me if you approve of this. In August, an English Valkyrie Chapter meets in Switzerland.  If you like, you can ride as well and join them.  Next year’s Meeting of the Italian Chapter will probably be held at Lake Garda. It would be great if a larger group of German Riders would attend.  Okay... tell me what you think about it.
I appreciate alternative proposals as well. O, yes.... on 13 September LaMonster comes to München. We should be there with at least with a small representation.  If you want to join………send me a short mail.

With these emails, the German VRCC Chapter was born.  Of the 15 F6 Rider addressees, 7 responded and Micha Bergmann became the first German Country Rep.
On 7 July 2000, the first website was launched by Günther Langnickel, aka Günni or Icke.  

On 8 July 2000, according to a Honda statement, 800 Valks were sold in Germany, 200 in Italy and 25 in Russia.

On 11 July 2000 Lamont aka Lamonster wrote, that the website homepage should be more recognizable as VRCC Germany Chapter and the website was altered accordingly.

On 13 July 2000, the first Forum of VRCC Germany was established where everyone could post his ride-outs, meetings, questions and wishes.

After some time, it was a feeling that an own homepage would be the optimum for VRCC Germany and its members.  So Günter bought the domain and the Chapter became independent of hosting sites.  It turned out to be a right decision. People started noticing the website and the number of members rocketed sky-high.  

On 2 May 2001, Günter "Icke" VRCC#4733 received a Certificate of Merit from LaMonster and Micha Bergmann for his VRCC Germany webmaster achievements.

The VRCC chain of events at the Fähre Langel (Cologne) Chapter started more or less like this.

Klaus
When Christa and I were in March 2000 at the Fähre (ferry crossing, later to become the Chapters meeting place) for the first time, there was no other F6 in sight anywhere. The more or less regular meetings came later.
The idea to organize a German "ride in meeting" was mainly discussed over the internet. Micha Bergmann our secretary, our webmaster Günter, our current webmaster Martin, Gerald Samer and I followed up. Thomas and Frimo were also present in one of these conspirative ‘Schuld’ meetings.

Frimo
In April 2001 I got my Valkyrie. By chance I discovered the website ‘Valkrider’.  It had a map of Germany, which was divided into regions.  I just registered and from then on, an avalanche broke loose.  Thomas had discovered the newcomer first (HUHUHU THOMAS) and Thomas informed Klaus (HALLO KLAUS) ... at this time we resided at the Biker-Pitter.  From there on, there was a monthly Stammtisch at the ferry-Langel....have not thought it possible, what it has resulted in to this day, and all this without Press and so!!! Personally, I wish it could go on so well for a long time ... a come and go of a hard-core group... you and Tina were almost always there!
It was the 2nd Sunday, 14.10.2001 when we met for the first time in Schuld ... Ochsy and Carmen and Günter were there as well.  Christa and Klaus started talking about the first F6 meeting in Schuld.
The Austrians had their first F6 meeting in Mariazell. There was a great spirit.  Pity I was not there.
On that very Sunday, Thomas called me. I've caught another Rider by the name of Frimo on the map!
Klaus replied," He's sitting next to us here in Schuld”. 
Next, I attended the first meeting at the Fähre Langel. Since the season was about to end, many came by car.  In January 2002, I had just 13000km on the clock and lay in the hospital. A VW Passat suddenly crossed a junction and I was sitting on my Valk and not in my Mercedes.  Klaus and Thomas came to visit me.  You guys are great.

Klaus
In 2001 the Austrians already had their 4th meeting in Mariazell and their 5th meeting lined up in Hopfgarten in 2002. ... Oh yeah, I just remembered the first time we met Ochsy. That was during breakfast in the "Black Eagle". Gerald and Elvira had organized something over there.  I think this was after the first German meeting, but before the first Benelux meeting.... Ochsy as always, came too late!!

Thomas
2000 Well, if I look back, I was also part of it since 2000. For me, the internet was the most important thing.
I found the F6C homepage of Günter Langnickel and logged in. The first personal contact with other VRCC members was during the very first meeting in Schuld. Whether or not any other form of contact previously existed, I don’t recall.  Only that there was the homepage of Günter Langnickel and everything ran via his website. In Schuld, the first discussions about a German meeting were held and I still had no motorcycle at that time. Klaus must have been thinking "What kind of fella is that anyway, comes over here, doesn’t even have a bike and is interested in a VRCC meeting "(BTW my trailer for the meeting was already sitting in my garage), LOL.
2001 On February 18, 2001, I got my Fat Lady.  It was my first motorcycle ever.  My start model, so to say.
The first time at the Fähre Langel was in spring 2001, before we went to the Garda lake Meeting.  At some point, Klaus suggested that a "Stammtisch" on Thursday at the Fähre would be a nice idea.  When exactly, I do not know anymore.  Hence, the regular Fähre-Langel Stammtisch was born.
In April 2001, Angelika and I participated in the Italian meeting, which took place at the Garda Lake.  It was cold. No heating in the chalets and freezing.  While usually during this time of the year the temperatures range should be between 20 and 24 degrees Centigrade.  In Garda, we met Sven (former secretary of VRCC Germany), Martin and Bine (webmaster), Andy and Bine (VRCC secretary), Günter and Jutta Langnickel (former webmaster), Micha and Astrid Bergmann (former secretary of VRCC Germany), Ecke and Petra (Triggerwheel), Silvano (webmaster Italy and Europe), Sheriff, Mario (mechanic of VRCC Italy), Einstein and Christine (they know everyone from Austria), Obelix (with his Goldwing ) and Steve B and Glynis (UK folks, he builds the big tanks). The first European contacts were established.
After some hard organizational labor, Klaus held the first VRCC Germany meeting in May 2001. He was supported by Christa, Rita, and Peter (from Schuld). But he certainly can tell that much better by himself.  During Schuld 2001, further contacts were made. The VRCC community was growing in the USA, Europe, Germany and also at Fähre Langel.  Klaus and I were chasing every F6C to "capture" the Rider. Klaus even caught a F6 Rider at a warehouse, because his Flat Six stood in the parking lot.
In late summer / autumn 2001 I made the first "Fähre Langel” Homepage and put it on the web. The address was http://faehre-langel.bei.t-online.de/  I then organized the first Goose Dinner in November 2001 in Düsseldorf.


2002
Highlight in 2002 was, of course, the second VRCC Germany meeting, which Klaus and I had organized. In the preparatory phase, there was hardly a day when Klaus and I did not talk to each other at least once. Klaus could pick up the phone and say "Hello Thomas" unseen…. and was always right.  We were greatly supported by Christa and Angelika and on location by Bikerpitter and Rita who assisted us in work and deed. In November I assembled everybody for another Goose Dinner.  

2003
Because I was rather pissed about various website issues, I bought the Forum myself in September 2003 and integrated it into the homepage, which was well received.
In October 2003, I bought another 300 Mb of web space at Evanzo, the homepage consequently moved to another address http://www.faehre-langel.de
November 2003. O well…………. the traditional Goose dinner was again held in Düsseldorf-Urdenbach.

2004
The Fähre Langel forum was taken over by Hartmut in September as well as the job of webmaster.
So, that's it. There are certainly many more anecdotes, which we will save for the Stammtisch.
Andy (from Berlin)
There was a page of Volker Momberg that is now no longer active.  With the first friends of the F6C. I still have the first response by Guido, our "Photo of the Day" winner on 26.05.99.



Günni
Well, I might as well join in and write how I became involved in the Fähre Langel and the VRCC.  
I got my Valk in April 2001 and my dealer told me that F6’s were always meeting at the Fähre Langel.  Since I am a bit slow, it was not until I was cleaning spilled fuel over my tank at a gas station that some other F6 Rider came over and told me what a nice bike I had. It was Dieter Röder. He invited me in at the Fähre and I was very glad that I went there.  Very nice people.
Then came the first meeting in Schuld. Unfortunately, I was only there on Saturday and could not enjoy the entire meeting. So there I was.


Germany photo album http://valkyrieriders.de/wbb2/article.php?action=pix  

2001 & 2002 – Schuld  



Initiated by one of the founders of Fähre Langel, Klaus Kötting, the first German VRCC-Germany meeting was held in the Eifel. The venue was the famous Bikertreff Haus Waldfrieden. The meeting was a great success, thanks to the commitment of the owners of the Waldfrieden house, Rita and Peter.   Even today the participants are still talking about this first meeting.












During the ceremonies, we were welcomed by the Knights of the nearby castle, LOL


All revenues of the Schuld meeting went to the cancer fund.  Here we see Klaus handing over the cheque.



The first meeting in Schuld was a great success and so much fun for all the participants and organizers, that it was repeated the next year. This time, Klaus Kötting received active support from Thomas Münzer.  Like the first one, this Fähre Langel meeting was a true winner

If you look at the VRCC Germany membership numbers and the entry times, you’ll notice a big entrance wave in 2003. Previously, folks like Werner, Ede, Brösel, Valkvetter, Ernst, Coolair, Georg, Szymi, and Franky populated the board. The VRCC was founded by experienced Valkyrie Riders eager to assist new Riders.
Since 2003, the forum has changed from a technical forum into a more general communication platform.  Jokes were introduced as well as cake recipes and of course we still got tips from our gifted mechanics such as Berni, Coolair, Pekardo, Klaus, Knud, Dirk, Sven and more.  One can say the board became more fun to read and the seriousness was put somewhat aside.
Everyone was looking forward to the annual meetings in Germany before 2003. The ‘Schuld’ meetings were ‘big’, countrywide meetings.  Now, numerous ‘smaller meetings’ were arranged, like the Nordlichter meeting, season-end in Bavaria, fall meeting in Spessart and the legendary ‘Maibaum’ meetings of course.  
At these events, we all had great fun and our community was almost growing by the day. Just super.
The ‘die hard’ veteran members of the Fähre, who had committed themselves totally to the VRCC spirit, and the ‘club status’ were gradually making place for more fun orientated bikers and non-biker partners.  Which were recognized at a very early stage BTW. Bikerpitter # 10905 and Jacques Mäder # 16153 were declared honorary members.  Bikerpitter was the innkeeper in Schuld and Jacques a very dedicated Honda dealer, for their great commitment at the first meetings. With everybody’s consent.
A few years later, Mike (Chromi), also one of the first hours at the Fähre, and his wife Erika became grandparents.  The grandchild was issued a VRCC membership number, and the buggy transformed with VRCC memorabilia.  This was, besides a funny gag, a true tribute to the VRCC.
The Fähre Langel Chapter also gave a VRCC patch to Didi with his VTX to express the gratitude for his hard Chapter work.  With us, it does not matter what you ride, as long as you ride and comply with the Chapters’ basic rules.  The possession of a Valk is not a prerequisite for membership, with us everyone is welcome.

2003 – Wüstenrot  
http://www.f6-valkyrie.de/seite11.htm









Bison
When I bought a F6C in 2003 and learned about Fähre Langel on the Internet, I was skeptical at first.
This skepticism was immediately gone when I visited the Stammtisch. I found a community that was fun, which was helpful, honest and open. There were no ranks and classes; no "I have more to say than you".
I saw familiarity, reliability, security and "a word was a word".  And all had the same sign on their backs.
The patch from the VRCC.  I also wanted to be part of this community. So I looked at the website of the VRCC in the US and completely agreed with the views and rules and regs of this club.  Also the Mission Statements mirrored what I experienced at the ferry. Fairness, openness, etc.
Then came the 2003 meeting in Wüstenrot. This was the first meeting I attended, and I met folks from the North-East, the Bavarians, the old and the new federal states and this continued in Lüben, Gifhorn, Haẞfurt and so on.  I only felt friendliness, exuberance, familiarity, willingness to help and reliability. Just great!

2003 – Berlin











2004 - Lüben



                  Organized by Heiko, Knud & Helpers










                           Mike and Erika got married during the 2004 Lüben Meeting. Congratulations!



2005 - Haẞfurt  



Video https://www.dailymotion.com/video/x43qa1
 














2006 – Gifhorn



Videos
https://www.dailymotion.com/video/x10bi0

 







As mentioned earlier in the Europe introduction, in Gifhorn the VRCC Country Reps came together and decided that in the future each country in turn would organize a Europe-wide Meeting, starting in Karpacz, Poland in 2007. This, by no means would exclude Chapters from organizing their own meetings.  Due to the organizing complexity-, effort and sometimes large amounts of advance payments for such a meeting, the individual countries were asked to deconflict this EU Inzane with their local meetings.




Larry, a US military serving his country in Germany soon became a regular visitor
of various meetings and VRCC EU family member all around Europe with his Valkyrie



2007 – Nordlichter Treffen



 









2007 – Hessen Stammtisch
https://www.dailymotion.com/video/x2v7iv


2008 – Braunschweig




 
2008 Landshut
Valkyrie Riders from all over Germany celebrate the city’s 800 years existence
http://www.f6-valkyrie.de/images/mirskofen2004/zeitung.JPG


                 37 Valkyries were required to write the word Landshut

2011 – Möhnesee

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=QV3mKUcQOJY
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=1AJpeVPm-qg




                                      Isn’t it nice, to see the bond of Valkyrie Riders from so many Nations.

Beer
On 23-26 June 2011 a Meeting was organized at the Möhnesee by the Westfalen Chapter. When I arrived in the shining sun together with Sjaak, I found Henny, Janni and Jules already there.  I was warmly welcomed by the reception committee and it was good to see so many friends again.  Colin, Ingrid, Angelika and friends ran a great deal of the organization and made sure we did not get anything short.  Even a tailor was there for sewing your patch on your vest.  WOW. There were about 240 bikers and more than 150 Valks at this meeting. The accommodation was from origin a Union Hotel and was beautifully situated at the lake, only a few hundred meters from the dam.
After I had admired some other Valkyries (the Germans are always very active with modifications, customizing and accessories) and had a chat here and there, we went to dinner with nice schnitzels.  
And needless to say, some nice German beers to top it off. In the evening we were welcomed by Pascal and a disco continued in a cozy atmosphere.


On Friday there were 4 rides set out in the beautiful Sauerland, which varied from advanced to relaxed.
After the previous night, I decided to take the last one.  It was indeed a beautiful trip and we rode with about 40 Valkyries. Unfortunately, the weather became increasingly threatening and it started to rain with intervals. There were of course some breaks and we had lunch on a terrace in front of a pastry shop.  After we consumed a German (pastry) calorie bomb with our coffee, we drove 170 km further and arrived at the hotel, where we discovered that Jobo had had an accident.  He slided over an oil track on the road and the Valkyrie had toppled and hit the asphalt on both sides.  Fortunately, there was no personal injury but the machine was seriously damaged. The Valkyrie was brought to the hotel with the ADAC road assistance.
I heard Jobo was well insured so the main personal damage was shaking emotions and a great deal of fear and anger.
Both Peter and Mischi had their parts and accessories shops installed on the site. Furthermore, there were three more stands with LED lights, heated handlebars and a tailor.
Needless to say that many happy customers left the shops with chrome and parts. Even a completely pimped Valkyrie changed ownership.  After another nice dinner we were taken to a cruise ship on the Möhnesee. On board a magnificent rock'n roll show was given by the 'Crazy Chicks'. Two slick dudes, complete with greasy hair and three ladies, who seemed to come straight out of the 50’s, performed a swirling musical show. Of course, no one could sit still and people were dancing everywhere. All bikers were transported to and from this event by coach.


Videos
https://www.flickr.com/photos/beer1952/30989235997/in/album-72157702295769455/ and https://www.flickr.com/photos/beer1952/45878570222/in/album-72157702295769455/

On Saturday we did the 'Elephant Walk ' for about 120 km. The row of bikes seemed endless and we spent lunch in a covered terrace on a lake nearby.  Again, this day was not blessed with sunny weather either, but that did not jeopardize the good spirit one bit.  
The ride ended in Soest, where everyone could do some shopping.  After a delicious BBQ back in the hotel there was a raffle with prizes that varied from chrome polish to a set of tires and an expensive helmet.  
A little later, we were treated to a Blues Brothers act, very well done with the necessary humor. After that, we had a great time with Jobo's singing.


This Germany Treffen was characterized by a cozy, relaxed atmosphere where everything was organized to perfection by a great team who, I believe, slept 4 hours all week long.  And this paid off. All participants felt at ease and enjoyed themselves, thanks to the translation of Colin who interpreted all the speeches and instructions (Colin is Irish born and emigrated to Germany). On Sunday, I arrived home, tired but satisfied, a few pounds heavier and with a very dirty bike. This meeting had really been a top hit as a matter of fact a new standard has been set.  Very well done and may thanks again, Orga Team!

Valkyrie Song by Jobo
Ein Lied auf das schönste Bike der Welt. Aufgenommen und gesungen von Jobo auf dem Honda-F6C-Treffen 2011 am Möhnesee, Deutschland......
Translated: A song about the best bike in the world. Sung and recorded by Jobo at the meeting.
https://youtu.be/r2xCedR5238


We owe Heike, Ingrid and Marita big time for great riding, an excellent program, super party and entertainment


                   On board sunset over the Dam                                                  Humor over future meetings in 2025

In memoriam: Werner Schäfer

Werner died of cerebral hemorrhage while swimming on 10th of May 2011
He was well known and respected throughout the entire VRCC. He was one of the driving forces behind most Meetings including Lüben, Giffin and Brunswick and participated in Inzane and Cheaha.







2013

Ten Years Spessart Treffen
https://www.dailymotion.com/video/x13ngz4

Ten Years Hessen Stammtisch
https://youtu.be/_2mGaqHJ6zQ



Ten Years Westfalen Stammtisch
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=66G0KvIzzLY

2017 Numbers
According to harrycologne, there were 1209 Valkyrie motorcycles registered in Germany on 1 January 2017.  

2017 – Suhl



Note: EU Inzanes are covered in a separate part

JimC  -  VRCC German connection visits Wisconsin



Jorg stopped over in Wisconsin in between work assignments. It seems that one of his appointments was cancelled due to the fact that it was smack dab in the State of Texas. I guess he felt that it would be a little drier UP NORT.

Here we are during I believe Jorg's first Wisconsin FISH FRY, in an old original Wisconsin Supper Club. The meal is served family style, and all you can eat! It consisted of fried fish, baked fish, fried chicken, french fries, American potato salad, baked beans, cole slaw, and German potato salad (Jorg said it wasn't genuine, but we didn't care) A good time was had by all, and no one left hungry.  
Saturday consisted of about a 4 to 5-hour ride on the scenic drive through the Kettle Moraine Forrest to and from a nice biker bar that served a great lunch. Jorg borrowed Don and Barb's standard, and they doubled up on their trike. It was fun seeing Jorg, hope he does it again soon.

2018
In an attempt to resolve all the different feelings and opinions within the Chapter once and for all, VRCC Germany organized a round table conference in March in the town of Suhl.  All Valkyrie Riders from Germany as well as representatives from abroad were invited to participate in this meeting.  After the very well organized and constructive conference moderated by Hartmut and Andy everyone left the meeting in good spirit

2018 Carmen
In January, Carmen started to organize a new area Chapter in the East.
‘I would like to organize regular meetings in our region. I hope I’ll get a lot of support from the Eastern region. To start off, I sent an e-mail to all known bikers in the Eastern region with support from Andy.
Everyone interested, I ask for a short info. I will then, hopefully with a lot of feedback, create a website and set a favorable location for all of us. As I've already said, this is a serious attempt to make something happen’.
Greeting Carmen from Ahrensfelde # 38630

Hartmut - A small but special meeting.
Perhaps you know that we are doing a tour with Colin in Ireland, his birthplace.
He showed us around and we were very impressed by the countryside and , most of all, the friendly people.
I happened to be calling Pascal and he told me that Ronny was crossing the Scottish waters as captain of a navy corvette. Well, I said to myself: "Why not give him a call."
Ronny's answer was: "We can meet in Belfast in two days.  I'll tell you where I will dock in the harbor ".
He did not have to say this twice and Colin changed the planning accordingly and we rode to Belfast.



Sad that we already had to say goodbye in the late afternoon. But when I left, I challenged Ronny with the VRCC Coin……bad luck for him, LOL. But he had already offered coffee onboard.
The next day around 6:00 pm, a car pulled up in front of our hotel in Portrush. And guess who was there -  Ronny. He stood in the doorway, showing the flag of the VRCC Westfalen. "I still have to pay my debt."

       

We spent a very nice evening together that  started with a meal and lasted until dawn.
Truly amazing to see how being a VRCC member carrying his Challenge Coin can lead to surprises and team spirit abroad.  
Again, a big thank you and well done, Westfalen Chapter. On one hand for Ronny who spontaneously arranged the meeting and of course to Colin, who instantly adapted his plan.



1 May 2018 - Andy’s resignation as Country Rep and Rathaus Treasurer.



My dear friends,
I have struggled with my decision, but I see no future for me as State Representative of the VRCC Germany.
It was a great and sometimes hard time, but I look back onto it with good memories.
I will be happy to continue being the link between you and our friends in the USA and maintain the EU Website http://valkyrieriders.eu and his Sub Domains in the future
Andy, VRCC #7759


                 Wood Art by unknown Germany Rider

2018 – Kelten Treffen by Mister
One of the 2018 highlights was definitely the ‘Kelten Treffen’ from 18-21 May in Altenburg.

Bison
Hello Mister, dear Celts,
We got home again in good weather and relaxed traffic conditions. Thank you for the great organization of this nice meeting with great excursions into the past. The location, the staff, the program, the rides, everything was excellent. We will certainly talk about this meeting for a long time. And we have learned a lot of new things. Now we know that these tough guys have women who are surprisingly good with guns and rifles, and that ironing with wine is much more fun. Many thanks to all participants for the great spirit and atmosphere.
Lissy and Hartmut













   

Dressed up for dinner…..it must have been a great party










                                                           Rudi’s companion

On 1 October 2019, a settlement in court was reached about the German patch patent issue.  Parties agreed that they would draw a line under the legal dispute and the VRCC Germany retains the right  to the VRCC sign without restrictions.  Furthermore, it was decided to let the past rest.  

 





























 







 

[Beer van Huet]

United Kingdom Chapter

                                           
                                                                                                                                                 Robert ‘Bobbievalk’ Gibbons

The address of the UK Chapter website http://www.valkyrieridersuk.com/  or Facebook https://www.facebook.com/groups/VRCCUK/
The UK has 283 VRCC members.

Bobbievalk’s Story

2001
Bob Gibbons, from South Wales UK, purchased a Honda Valkyrie F6C in 1998, Bob had visited Daytona Bike Week in the USA a couple of times and spotted a Valkyrie and thought that that was the Bike for him.
At that time neither Bob nor any of his friends had Home Computers so did not have access to the Internet.
A friend, Ian Jones at that time riding a Kawasaki Vulcan, purchased a Computer for his Business and started searching the Internet, Ian found a Website known as Valkyries Lair and enrolled Bob and himself to the Forum.  
On this website there was a Valkyrie Owner from Bristol England, Steve Morrish. Then another Valkyrie Rider, Steve Jones, joined the Forum and he was from Cardiff South Wales, not far from Bob and Ian.
Although we had not met either of them a contact was made.
Ian searched the Internet and found a Website, “Valkyrie Riders Cruiser Club” (V.R.C.C ), and enrolled Bob into the Club, the enrollment form for Membership to the Club required a User Name or “Handle”
Ian entered” BobbieValk”, Bob Gibbons from then on was known as Bobbievalk.
Ian purchased a Valkyrie Interstate, and soon after The Valkyries Lair Website closed.              

Ian began searching the Internet for Chrome Accessories and found a dealer, called Chris, who was setting up a business selling Parts & Accessories. This Business soon became Honda Direct Line.
Bob and Ian were attending Daytona Bike Week in March that year, 2001, and arranged to meet Chris to get accessories.
Bob had his own computer by now and started communicating with American V.R.C.C members, Ian and Bob made contact with Lamont Bryden, one of the Founder Members of the V.R.C.C and they all arranged to meet at Daytona


                           Lamont, Ian and Bob – Daytona 2001

At Daytona we were encouraged by Lamont starting the Valkyrie Riders Cruiser Club United Kingdom Chapter.
We had his blessing and support for our venture the VRCC UK , so that's when it all began .
On our return to the UK Ian set about opening our first VRCC UK Website and his “Handle” became “La Prez”.
We had not met any other Valkyrie riders at this time but we had email addresses from the two Steve’s, Morrish and Jones , and others we had found. It was then decided we advertise our first ride out, this was to the Forest Of Dean in Gloucestershire England. We arranged to meet at The Forest of Dean Steam Railway.

We had around nine Valkyries turn up and here we all met for the first time, the rest as they say is history.
Soon we had more members joining us, some at that time did not have Valkyries but soon they realized how good a motorcycle the Valkyrie was and it wasn't long before they purchased their own.
In those early days of VRCC UK it was nothing to have around 18 Valkyries out on a Sunday ride and we rode most Sundays. We started going abroad for weekend trips and holidays as a group, here we met other Valkyrie Riders and VRCC Clubs throughout Europe, we met good friends and I am proud to say they all remained good friends to this day.

2003
September 2003 was to be our turn to organize VRCC UK's first event, VRCC UK Euromeet, it was held at the Holiday Inn in Newport South Wales, this was a super event,  the weather was kind in as much we had a mini heat wave, our Italian Friends brought with them heavy sweaters to keep out the UK cold, but it was warmer in Wales than it was in Milan for that weekend.

2005
It was our second Euromeet this time in Carmarthen and another great event held in South Wales, by now our Club Membership had grown. In 2007 it was The Lakes, held in The Lake District Cumbria, a taste of Northern England for our intrepid travelers from across Europe, and I'm sure they were not disappointed.

2008
We had The Meeting of Friends Aberporth West Wales , this time a smaller event than held before but we enjoyed it so much we went back again to Aberporth for The Meeting of Friends The Return in 2009.
Members from VRCC UK attended most European Events, and got to know a host of other Valkyrie Owners across Europe, many of which remain friends to this day.
2011 saw the 10 Year Anniversary of VRCC UK , the first celebration was The Midlands Bash at East Carlton Park Northamptonshire in August , then in September it was the big 10 Year Party Event The Meeting of Friends in Llangollen,  North Wales .

VRCC UK members over the years have attended many Motorcycle Shows and have won a host of Awards at these Events and continue promoting our Club at as many Events as we can attend .

2014
In June 2014 it was the VRCCUK's turn to Host the 8th European Inzane. This Event was held at The Hinckley Island Hotel Leicestershire England. We had participants from all over Europe and 3 from the USA.
There were two Ride outs; the 1st was on the Friday to Bruntingthorpe Airfield for a BBQ and our guests had the chance to have their Bikes photographed alongside Cold War Jets. The 2nd Ride out on the Saturday was to The Heritage Motor Museum at Gaydon.

Northern meet https://youtu.be/oTh93LJiw5c

Although we have lost some Members through the years, VRCC UK still flourishes and continues friendship with other VRCC Clubs and Members throughout Europe and USA
Memorial Ride 2014 https://youtu.be/mXVQ3g8VunM

2003 Euromeet



Beer
We arrived the day before, on Wednesday. There was already a lot of activity going on at the Holiday Inn.  Ian was there with his RV and trailer and giving his last instructions. The next day some 80 Valkyries arrived.
I was struck by the number of customized bikes. I’d never seen so many before; it was a beautiful sight. Marvin from Eurowing attended, this time without Sean, his mechanic was sick.


You know how it is with these bloody tourists from the continent, after a great day and party, they start to get inventive and open up the hotel indoor swimming pool at 2 o’ clock in the morning

After a warm welcome dinner and night, we rode a local tour of 160 km. with 70 Valkyries. The Wx was very nice and after leaving Newport, everyone could enjoy the narrow, curvy roads with hedges on both sides. (…or stone walls, you can never tell), so typical of the Welsh countryside. Sparsely populated in rolling terrain with lots of monuments, sheep and scenery.  It did not take much imagination to visualize the myths and sagas of King Arthur. On a hillside, which showed a lot of similarities with the surroundings of a 'Braveheart' set, a break was entered. After that, the journey continued to the Brecon Railway Station that was serviced by a steam train during the season. Because the electricity went out, lunch had to be picked up in the dark station, LOL.  That evening we were welcomed by a typical English variety program, inspired by humor and action. We were welcomed by the mayor of Newport. After a performance of an elderly, yet highly frivolous men's choir, accompanied by the well-known school tart behind the piano, a series of acts were performed. Silvano had to endure Pete's (more danger) whip and ended up with vibrating legs and dripping wet. Then followed another swirling show with a dancer on the lazy string and a very original act with ladies who had to inflate a balloon without hands and feet, followed by a balloon artist.  The evening went on with a DJ and lasted until the late hours. As mentioned earlier, at 2:00 AM, the indoor swimming pool was rediscovered where the party went on.


                 This man crawled into a balloon                                                   Lady with chainsaw                                   Pete making Silvano sweat with his whip

The next day, another ride out was done, now with the Italians aboard as well because they arrived on Friday afternoon. We stopped at the Chepstow Castle, where a complete Welsh and English army from the thirteenth century was engaged in battle.  
An authentic spectacle, consisting of hundreds of people who were completely transformed and wearing heavy costumes, coats of mail, armor and shields.
Due to the sunny and warm weather, most warriors (all athletes) in the surrounding tents were completely exhausted and taken care of by appropriately dressed ladies.  I noticed something that I did not realize before. All these men, wearing some 100 lbs. of clothes and armor simply fell down on the ground from exhaustion after 15 minutes of heavy fighting.  Completely drained of energy and easy meat for the opponent.  Of course, all kinds of souvenirs were for sale and some steel helmets soon changed ownership to Valkyrie Riders.  


1131 AD Abbey of Tintern                                                                                                                     Chepstow Medieval Battleground  

On Saturday evening, the organization presented itself and a raffle was held with very nice prizes.  The evening continued with a super blues band, the sound and lead singer’s voice reminded me of Alvin Lee of Ten Years After.  Needless to say, we had a great time at the party.  The Euromeet has been perfect. A good location, beautiful surroundings, nice weather and many ride outs all contributed to this great experience.
I have had a splendid time. The UK organizers have put their stamp firmly on the VRCC map with this Euromeet


Riding through the Welsh countryside…very impressive and spectacular for a flatlander like me


See how hot it was, our hosts took their bike for a spin with just their boots on      Great Party                                             Constructing a bike from balloons

VRCC UK undressed Riding Team - Fun in the Sun https://youtu.be/dLAsy9zfSgs

2004 Padova Expo
Some pleasantly disturbed UK Riders headed for Padova, Italy to watch the cruiser expo and have fun with their Italian Bros, LOL
https://get.google.com/albumarchive/106047494469575870801/album/AF1QipP_PPhAbC9hZ9c3N4XzH7RN5sGJxYeEmJYm-mxH



2005 - Carmarthen
The second Euromeet at Carmarthen and another great event held in Wales.







Movies
https://youtu.be/lW7miRB1EAI  and  https://youtu.be/P-CRdR_V5cI  and  https://youtu.be/p765Gz5uyk0

X-mas Party at Milano
Since the Padova Expo last year was such a great success, a prolongation was in order. Now, a considerable delegation of UK Riders visited Milano, Italy to celebrate Christmas with Italian Riders.
https://get.google.com/albumarchive/106047494469575870801/album/AF1QipPyWPOjzbpYJzvvYXlaH8kr8uYX7FryVBpo6geL





2007 – The Lakes
Meeting at the Lakes, held in The Lake District Cumbria, a taste of Northern England.

Video https://youtu.be/4hmh2WxpSlg







2008 & 2009 - Aberporth
Meeting of Friends Aberporth West Wales.

 

Videos

Part 1 https://youtu.be/HtSxC7V82tI
Part 2 https://youtu.be/Kv_JIZkrTXk


Stef (Belgium) handing Valhalla over to Bob (UK)

 




The Preseli Hills in West Wales where the Blue Stones to build Stonehenge came from. Some believe that Stonehenge was built there first then after some disaster moved to where it is now.







Rest in Peace Gary Greaves


                            Gary during a Cliniclowns dinner at Heerlen, NL in 2003

2010 Newspaper article
A farmer who pursued a group of off-road motorcyclists after they rode on his land killed one of them when his Land Rover Discovery toppled on to him after a collision. Timothy Wolfe, 63, went after the group of five bikers when he saw them cross his field in October 2010. Wolfe had had problems with off-road bikers before and was ‘upset and angry’ about them being on his land and he pursued them so he could ‘remonstrate’ with them. He collided with one of the bikes, leading to the death of father-of-one Gary Greaves formerly from Portsmouth who later moved to Arundel, West Sussex. Wolfe, from Sunwood Farm, Ditcham, near Petersfield, denies the manslaughter of Mr. Greaves and causing actual bodily harm to another rider, Andrew Kirkpatrick, by wanton and furious driving. The group had been taking part in an activity called green laning but had become lost. They had gone across the field of stubble owned by Wolfe to try to find another route, but found it blocked and so the men went back. They then turned on to a muddy track with Wolfe behind. The farmer collided with Mr. Kirkpatrick who in turn collided with his friend Mr. Greaves, 48, on another trial bike. The Land Rover toppled over on to Mr. Greaves, pinning him under the vehicle.  
Read more at: http://www.bbc.com/news/uk-england-hampshire-17198054 and http://www.portsmouth.co.uk/news/crime/farmer-denies-manslaughter-of-motorbike-rider-1-3546341
Sadly to say the Court found him not guilty of the charges against him.  We in the VRCC UK are disgusted by this verdict.




2011
Beer - Gary Greaves Memorial Run
Gary lost his life in a tragic accident. He was a kind person, true friend, had sense of humor and charisma. Being an active Rider, he had friends all over Europe. On Saturday, August 20th 2011, a memorial ceremony and ride-out was organized in Arundel, West Sussex in honor of his memory.  On behalf of VRCC Lowlands, Stefan, Sophie, Gerard, Jenneke, Lisanne, José and Beer paid their respect. In Arundel, Stefan showed us the chapel where Gary was laid down and people could pay their last respect.  


When we arrived at the Hilton hotel, we were warmly welcomed by our UK friends.  Pete and Ian with their spouses were present as well.  José had taken a flight and stayed overnight at Carol’s place. There were 45 Valkyries at the hotel.  
The next morning, Bobbie had arranged a photographer and everyone’s picture was taken before we went to Portsmouth.  


As a former member of the Royal Navy, Gary once had dinner with his guests on board HMS Victory, the flagship of Lord Nelson.  
So, a small ceremony was held and pictures of the Valkyries were taken in front of the tall ship.  


After this impressive stop, we continued to Portchester Castle where the remembrance service of Gary took place. In the cemetery of the church under a tree, a clergywoman took the floor and flowers were laid down under the tree in Gary’s memory.
A very emotional moment, even more so by the clergywoman dressed in a white robe standing in the shade of this centuries-old tree between the tombstones. At certain places you get the feeling that you stand at a somehow mystical, sacred place that has been there forever. This was one of those moments.
 

After the ceremony we headed for a nearby hillside where you could oversee the Solent and the city. We proceeded on a ride out through the hills of Hampshire and Sussex as Gary would have wanted it. In the evening, 150 relatives and friends of Gary had assembled for dinner where Gary’s Valkyrie was also parked at the entrance. I admired Carol for her courage to give a speech and taking care of presenting raffles for the cancer fund.
Pete (more danger) with his whip gave a whirling show, breaking in halves something that Stefan had between his legs.  At 22:00, we enjoyed the show of a true Elvis imitator with an amazingly identical voice. He made us feel like we were in Vegas in 70’s. Soon, people were dancing on the tunes of Elvis’ many famous songs.  Bad luck for the ladies however; this Elvis did not wiggle his hips LOL. After dinner, we sat down on the terrace for a chat.  The following morning, we said goodbye to Carol, Bob and our other English friends and rode back across the winding roads to the ferry at Dover.  
I am glad we had the opportunity to pay our respect and be witness of this emotional memorial run.  Gary, you will always be in our heart.

2011/2012- Llangollen
Celebration of a Great Club with Great Friends



Beer - Llangollen Meeting of Friends 2011
No less than 13 Benelux members left for this meeting from 8 to 10 September to celebrate the 10th anniversary of VRCC Wales. On Wednesday we met Stefan, Gerard and Jenneke and other Gerard at a gas station on the HWY A2 and later on HWY A15 Henny and Janni joined us.  Martien and Clemy followed by car. They took Johan and Annemiek along. Finally, Robert joined us in Rotterdam. We booked the ferry to Hull and it turned out to be a great evening, especially since Colin, Ingrid and Jobo from Germany were also on board. The next day we rode to Llangollen, a very nice trip of about 320 km inland. We were warmly welcomed at the hotel Bryn Howel by Bobbie and other English friends.
In the evening an informative 'Road Safety' presentation was given by the North Wales police.
On Friday we rode to Llanberis in the Snowdonia National Park, one of the larger attractions in Wales with a 'Mountain Railway' including steam locomotive http://www.snowdonrailway.co.uk  and the 'Lake Railway' http://www.lake-railway.co.uk   as well as the  'Electric Mountain' http://www.electricmountain.co.uk  and a slate museum http://www.museumwales.ac.uk/en/slate . You could also take a walk to the Llanberis pass and the town of Nant Peris with an old church and well. There was a tale, dating from the 19th century, stating that if disabled people saw the two holy fish in the pit, healing would instantly follow.
Some 25 of the 50 Valkyries stayed in Llanberis and the rest rode with Bob for an additional trip. On the way back we passed through the 'Horseshoe Pass' with a beautiful view of the landscape and the Ponderosa Ranch.
That evening wearing 'Funny Shoes' was mandatory. After an excellent dinner, prizes were awarded and we danced to the music of 'The Whole Hogg', a live cover band. During the break the Benelux members performed a sketch and song and our hosts also provided a sketch in the form of a clairvoyant, who had to stop prematurely because he only mentioned seeing dirty minds and erotic activities, LOL.
On Saturday we rode together to the hills, lakes, peat bogs and sheep.  Crossing the horseshoe pass and the Nant-Y-Garth pass we visited Ruthin and Llyn Brenig, where an artificial lake was constructed in 1976 as a drinking water reservoir. We continued along scenic Mynydd Hireathog and the Denbigh Lakes to Ffestiniog, the slate capital of Wales. During WW2, all paintings, works of art and crown jewels of among others, Buckingham Palace were safely stored here in a mine.
Unfortunately, Gerard slided on a paved country road and his Interstate ended up against one of the stone walls along the road. Except for a bruised ankle Gerard was fine; his Interstate on the other hand, had a broken screen and a dent in the tank. This caused some delay because the bike had to be checked and his screen taped in. By the time Gerard and his Interstate could ride again, we took a shortcut to the hotel.
That evening the 10th anniversary was celebrated with another live band 'Morty & the Frantics'.
After a copious dinner, speeches were given and some people ended up in the spotlight. Benelux received a beautiful souvenir plaque and Celtic ornament and Beer was given a handy bag to store his passport (since he constantly couldn’t find the document during the crossing).
Stefan was offered a sheep from Wales (he preferred the Belgian specimen) and Gerard was given a present for his bad luck and given the nickname 'Stonewall' Gerard. Bobbie in return received a nice souvenir for his great hospitality. The evening ended with the usual drinks and fun till the bar closed at about 2 o'clock.
The next morning, we thanked Bobbie and his crew for this excellent meeting and hospitality.
On the way back we paid an overnight visit to Tony and Dianne in Newport. U2 are simply the best.
Back on the ferry we had a nice & calm return trip and after saying good-bye, everyone went home on Thursday.
The Meeting of Friends 2011 was characterized by a nice spirit and cozy atmosphere, great rides through a beautiful landscape and for Wales, reasonably good weather (here and there a light shower but nothing of any significance).  
The hotel manager was so impressed by the meeting that he gladly offered to make his hotel available again in July 2012. Bobbie accepted this offer so the next Meeting in Wales was pinned down straight away





 
In 2012 the first Event was The Donyatt Ding Dong together with the Big Six Club in Donyatt Sommerset, then back to Llangollen once more for The Olympic Event, this time it was held in July, another great weekend spent with friends. August Dragons in The Park Transport Gala at East Carlton Park Northampton where rain almost stopped play but all enjoyed themselves none the less and VRCCUK hosted a Club Stand again at The West Wales Motorcycle Show in Carmarthen we won best Club Stand and numerous Prizes for our bikes on show. Later in the year VRCCUK hosted a Club Stand at the BMF Tail End Show Peterborough again Best Club Stand, you can't beat these Valkyries




                       VRCC hippie chicks at the 2012 Llangollen Meeting











Rest in Peace Tony ‘Antonio’ Simmonds



Tony was a part of the VRCCUK from its infancy and had a big role to play within the Club
He had a knack of welcoming New Members in an entertaining although sometimes peculiar way
He made everyone feel at home within the Valkyrie Club
So many of our members have said it was Tony and Dianne who were the first to make them welcome into our midst and they will always be thankful to both of them for the warmth and friendship they received
Always willing to lend a hand at VRCC Events, Tony enjoyed Testing new Routes and Riding the many Back Roads with The Gang although not all of Bob's Back Roads
On Rideout's He was always there helping to herd us all together  and ensuring no one was left behind
He was humorous and enjoyed teasing people and making fun of the situations we found ourselves in
and there were many funny situations we found ourselves in
Tony will never be forgotten
He was , and will always be , a part of VRCC UK
And as we Ride Today , and in the Future , we will not Ride alone
Tony will always be in your Rear View Mirror Riding beside you

2013 Torquay
2013 Started with The 3rd Great Northern Meet in April, we returned to The Lake District and as luck would have it the weather was kind to us, it snowed the weeks before but cleared just in time. Return of The Mac's London Tour as the name suggests we toured London in the capable hands of our Tour Guide Dave Mac, a spectacle to behold as the Valks descended on London on a sunny April Saturday. The Donyatt Ding Dong was again in May and another great weekend. June saw the Summer Solstice Run and some of us went to Raalte in The Netherlands for the Benelux Weekend. August was Dragons in The Park in Corby, a good Ride out and as usual another great Event. The Welsh Lads had a Club Stand at The West Wales Motorcycle Show at Carmarthen, again taking Best Club Stand and other Awards. This year’s Hi Lite was held at Torquay, we had Dragons on The Moor Ride through Dartmoor and a Custom Show was held for us on the Sea Front, another successful weekend with Friends. Mick Manchester Hosted a Ride to France in October and before we knew it the year had ended.



Torquay Teasers
Animated, well done Bob!
https://youtu.be/g9j4F-s7oyc  or  https://youtu.be/Xlt-Ci43IBo  or https://youtu.be/sQDVwahg3zM  

Beer - Torquay
A meeting in Torquay was organized by VRCC UK from 12-14 September 2013. This beautiful coastal location in Devon is also known as the English Riviera.
The Imperial Hotel with its bay view was completely styled in the days when Agatha Christie had lived here.
...well, almost  

Thursday afternoon we arrived at the Imperial Hotel.  Bobbie was already standing by to open the barrier of the large parking garage and it was nice to see him again. He immediately dragged us along, we had to see the latest water-cooled Harley Davidson Electra he has gotten a hold on the very last minute. The bike was supposed to be officially released in the UK a day later. So we had an early scoop.
Theo and Trees from Noord Holland were already at the bar and gradually some 200 plus Riders were checking in. I enjoyed meeting friends again and it was nice to see so many Riders show up at the bar.  
After a couple of drinks, we went to the reception where Leita, Sue and Dianne gave us a warm welcome and the usual info and tickets.  In the same room, people were displaying parts and chrome accessories that were offered for sale. In the evening there was a buffet and disco. Bobbie had, as usual, spent a lot of work in next day’s route and gave a presentation of a number of historical points on the route that we would pass by.  The atmosphere was great and became even better after seeing more friends and a few more drinks, LOL.  
In the meantime, Anthony & Lonny, Collin & Ingrid, Robert & Antoinette, Jos & Yvonne and Stefan had also arrived.
The following morning, some hundred Valkyries left for Dartmoor together and the route took us to a remote area where a maximum-security prison was located. We visited the nearby museum and were briefed that this prison was founded in Napoleonic times to accommodate French prisoners of war. http://www.dartmoor-prison.co.uk/index.html  


We used lunch at the 'Two Bridges' hotel in an environment that reminded me of the 'Hound of the Baskerville'.  At about 16:00 PM we were back in the hotel and many bikes were cleaned and polished by a number of participants because they would participate in a 'custom show' on the promenade the next day to collect money for a charity fund, the Devon Air Ambulance Trust.
During the cleaning, TV interviews were recorded by two journalists under training and that gave me a chance to brag about our wonderful machines, the Club and its Riders. But that was nothing compared to what Colin ‘Ulsterman’ Kirkpatrick had to say later on. I really got the impression that he loves his bike equally, if not more than his wife, LOL.
That evening, dinner was in Agatha Christie style and everyone was dressed up accordingly.  We had a jolly time pretending to be someone different. Very funny.  Later that evening, there was a spectacular cabaret show from Francis, a juggler and of course Pete 'more danger' with his whip. Sam also sang some nice and sensitive songs to the audience. You’re simply the best, Sam.









Because it was great weather, Stefan and I decided not to join the static show on Saturday but take a ride through the area.  The ride was very exciting with countless, practically extinct paved curved roads with the well-known stone walls.  We ordered something for lunch, called a 'Scottish egg' with 'ale chutney'. It turned out to be a meatball with a boiled egg in it and it tasted very good.
That evening it was ladies’ night and all the ladies had put themselves in evening dresses.  WOW, I was astonished how well these ladies were dressed up, considering it all had to come out of a hardbag.
There was a very nice raffle and a lot of prizes were given away.  I was so fortunate to win free accommodation at the hotel, where Inzane 8 would be held the following year.
After a very nice dinner we went to the dance floor, accompanied by music from a live band, 'Thick as Thieves' who played covers from the '70s and '80s. Needless to say, the evening went on until the early hours. The next morning, we said goodbye and made a nice return trip together with Jack and JJ and we were invited to stay for the night at John’s place in Southampton.  Torquay 2013 was a fabulous Meeting, extremely well organized and incorporated everything a Rider can wish for.  Very well done!





Teasers

 



THE VALK O STEP (must see)
A Fun Video for Valkyrie Motorcycle Owners
https://youtu.be/r4AyixzbsS4

Bike cam
https://youtu.be/IMC4Xe13NtM  and https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Ag6n_cs0zNE&feature=share

VRCC Torquay 2013 - ride out on the 13th of September
Start of the Valkyrie Riders Cruiser Club (VRCC UK) Friday ride out from the Imperial hotel, Torquay. The destination was a tour around Dartmoor, with stops for lunch at Two-Bridges and a visit to the museum of the notorious Dartmoor prison in Princetown.

VRCCUK Torquay2013 add 2
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Xlt-Ci43IBo and https://youtu.be/NS-PK6bEeJo



The Winner of The Room Raffle for Inzane 8 - Beer & Cynthia from the Netherlands


I drink to that…. Thanks Bob. We had a wonderful time in Torquay and enjoyed every moment of it. Great organization, company, show, tour and much more. Please, pass my gratitude to all the other folks of your team who helped out. First time I won a prize at a lottery since 1971, LOL


Hi, I will be supporting France at the Millennium Stadium, Cardiff on Saturday, Do you think my dress is OK? I am not wishing to offend my Friends, but this is how many in the UK think Frenchmen look, it’s just for a bit of fun and may upset a few Welshmen... Apologies for the Basque Beret but it’s all I had.

3rd  Northern Meet – Lake District by Come into my World
……organized by Mick Manchester and BobbieValk. Mick had spent time and carefully planned the route he even rode up here a few days ago as the snow was still loitering and he wanted to make sure it was OK.
I know he and Bobbie have put a huge amount of time and effort organizing the weekend.

https://allmyownstuff.wordpress.com/motorbike-adventures/touring-the-lake-district-with-the-dragons/  


Red and black always goes together well as does lipstick and stockings.     At the top of Honister Pass..
                                                                                                                           looking towards Buttermere

                               
       Black Bart of Fyve                                                                                           The Team

2014
VRCC UK 2014 Rides
https://youtu.be/U4D97VTELeU


Sunday Dinner Club
https://youtu.be/ScFmMik7QRs


Teaser by Anthony Partridge
https://youtu.be/k0UetAF81GU

   Very funny WW2 parody

Diane Hippychick
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=o51hk7cqobY

2014 Hinckley



                                      The EU Inzanes are described in the following part.

4th   Northern Meet
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=U4D97VTELeU&feature=youtu.be

2015
VRCC UK Events Part 1 & 2
https://youtu.be/Utm2rYr_p9I
https://youtu.be/593c3uCKFgg

Dragons in the Park
https://youtu.be/xFyG7WpAesk
2015 again the first Event was The 5th Great Northern Meet, hosted again by our Northern Crew this year it was held at The Ibis Chesterfield North and the Ride out took us through the Derbyshire Dales.  Our guys did us proud with the organization and stunning scenery of the Dales. It was May and The Donyatt Ding Dong in Somerset, hosted by Mick Ions a popular Event this with a chance to get your tents out. June some of our Members travelled to France for the 9th European Inzane, another great Event and a chance to ride in the French Alps.
August and it was Jim Stewart's turn to Host the Annual Dragons in The Park Event at Corby, again well attended and another successful event and a favorite with our members.
September it was VRCCUK on The Cliff's Edge, held at The Cliff Hotel in Cardigan West Wales participants enjoyed the spectacular Welsh Coast and Pembrokeshire. Entertainment was endured by Guests as Members performed on a Country Music and Fancy-Dress Night.

Great Northern Meet
https://youtu.be/6C1fZQklkT0  or  https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=SrfOfa_D7xk



Pembrokeshire
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=MWxVUfoAvvU&feature=youtu.be

The Cliff’s Edge
Teaser https://www.facebook.com/robert.gibbons.94/videos/10205599989617934/

Cliff’s Egde Entertainment  Advert
https://youtu.be/uHViu_ZIL2M



https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=41FcMtvFMsU
https://youtu.be/4hmh2WxpSlg
https://www.facebook.com/robert.gibbons.94/videos/10205871035073901/



The Valco Inflato Seat (Great humor)
https://youtu.be/97VXoXneHoI


Copdock Bike Show.
October, Dave ‘Zorba’ Martin organized a Club Stand at The Copdock Motorcycle Show. The spectacular VRCC UK Club Stand was a real attraction at this great Event and plans are in motion to attend next year’s Show

‘OK Brother's & Sisters, here is an update on the Copdock Bike Show.
Date; Sunday 4th October Venue; Trinity Park Ipswich
I have formally applied to the committee for a club stand this year, it will be the first time for us to appear, other members have been to the show and thought we should start to have a presence here to show the world the beauty that is the "Valkyrie"








2016 - Gloucester



Videos
https://youtu.be/b73hg1uZo3g https://www.facebook.com/robert.gibbons.94/videos/10207698047068059/















Ingrid
After 3 super days in Wales based in Carnaerfon and led by our outstanding Roadmaster Stef, who showed us some beautiful places and also made our way into Gloucester a great ride out and very nice adventure. Our VRCC UK friends gave us a warm welcome on our arrival in the Hallmark Hotel. They always let us feel at home straight away. The hotel rooms were super, the food was good and the staff very friendly. The Thursday evening was a nice catching up with old and new friends. On Friday Ken showed us the nice area around Gloucester and of course the funny dress evening with a lot of laughing and Bob was actually playing his base guitar with the band. Great night lots of fun.
The Saturday ride out was a bit rainy and as usual Bob did his best to find the dirtiest roads and river crossings LOL. We had the lunch break at the historical train station in Toddington. In the evening after the good meal the lottery was picked, prices were given out and the very special one (exhausted cup) is sitting now underneath my TV. It was all over far too quick and we are looking forward to meet again next year.

Bristol Bike Show 2016



Thank you Jobo to come all the way from Germany and the Illustrious Diamond Geezer from Spain, good to see you Geoff.

2017 – Cathedral City & Llandrindod Wells





Videos
https://www.facebook.com/steve.skarratt.1/videos/10214732736657517/

Lest We Forget
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=SAOVpy-8uV8&feature=youtu.be

 

[Beer van Huet]

2018  



Beer - Llandrindod Wells Trip Report
On Tuesday I had an RV with Stefan, Colin and Ingrid at the Kruibeke gas station. We continued to Ypres for the Last Post http://www.greatwar.co.uk/events/menin-gate-last-post-ceremony.htm
For those who have never been to Ypres, this is the place where in 14-18 the German military advance against France stagnated. Here, hundreds of thousands of soldiers have been killed in and around the trenches in 4 major battles. Out of respect for the fallen and as a reminder to what war can lead, this daily ceremony has been held here ever since, for hundred years now. We also spent the night there in a B & B.
It was very nice and sunny weather and it would remain like that during the whole weekend, even in Wales!
On Wednesday we took the 11:45 Ferry from Calais to Dover and arrived in England an hour earlier. Stefan had a very nice route this time and we used secondary roads into the English landscape. Because we were with 4 bikes only, were able to keep a nice pace on the winding country roads. It was pure enjoyment.
We stopped at the 18 locks of Caen Hill https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Caen_Hill_Locks and continued to Marlborough where we stayed for the night in a restored Manor House. As it turned out, we ended up in the middle of a cavalry tank range (at that time not active).  After having an English breakfast, we rode  to Bristol and stopped at the Newport Transporter Bridge. https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Newport_Transporter_Bridge This river crossing dated 1906, consisted of a platform where a dozen cars could park and be hoisted over the river by means of a cable construction. There are only a handful of these built worldwide. For a few pounds we were allowed to go up and down with the Valks. Really amazing, as with the locks, to see what sophisticated engeneering could produce after the industrial revolution. From there on we went into the hills of Wales to Llandrindod Wells. A small village 'In the middle of nowhere'.
We were warmly welcomed by Bobbie, Leita and Diana and it did not take long before we had a nice 'pint' of lager and diggin'up memories with our 50 other friends. It felt like being part of a large family. Very cozy and casual. Our hotel was dressed up in Victorian style and the rooms fully modernized. After dinner we danced with Colin 'Ulsterman' as DJ.
On Friday everyone could take a route by themselves and we followed Stef, our roadmaster into the hills of Wales. He showed us a lonely rock from the glacial period on one of the hilltops. The story goes that this rock was erected there 3000 years ago by the prehistorical locals and it is said that people have seen the giant rock move to the nearby river on midsummernight. That's nice about Wales. We would have said that it was a remain of the glacier period. Since it stands up erect and by it's own, in Wales a myth or tale must be attached to it. Absolutely great. And it makes sense too in this desolated area with tombstones and stonehenges of days long forgotten. We proceeded for a beautiful ride through the sunny Elan valley. Absolutely astonishing.
That evening we enjoyed another typical English dinner and Bobbie and a guitarist from his band went onstage . It was the first time that they performed together like that and they played a mix of Country & Western and Blues. Very nice indeed and you could tell that they have done this many times in the past. They sounded like professionals and we loved the repertoire.
On Saturday, a nice ride was made with over 25 bikes to the 'Lion' Pub for lunch. This location is beautifully situated by a river with an historic bridge.
In the evening a DJ played music and lottery prizes were handed out. Also the 'Exhausted Cup' trophy was shown that has been in use since 2008. This trophy is awarded every year to a participant of the MOF who has had some sort of misfortune.




EXHAUSTED CUP WINNER 2008    
Tony & Dianne  “STELVIO PASS”
For falling off on The Stelvio Pass Italy      


EXHAUSTED CUP WINNER  2009            
Steve B & Glynis   “SOOTY”
While cleaning chimney wondered why the wood sheet was blocking the chimney on removing said sheet got covered in soot , ongoing to another room finding another sheet , removed that and got covered in soot yet again !

EXHAUSTED CUP WINNER  2010                
Leita Juster “HOT PERSUIT”
Whilst riding her Valk on A40, she was passed by a Black Car full of Men  who immediately re passed her ,  She wasn't having that  , She overtook yet again passing the Car at speed , presumed to be 80mph  the Black Car  then put on its Blue Flashing Lights
It was a Police High Speed Driving Training Car full of Policemen

EXHAUSTED CUP WINNER  2011          
Gerard  “STONEWALL GERARD”
Whist Marshalling at a VRCCUK Event in Llangollen North Wales , skidded on grass and  ran into a Stone Wall

EXHAUSTED CUP WINNER 2012          
Cormac & Penny O'Keefe “FRANKFURT FINALE”
Whist on their very first European Trip on their Interstate , had a puncture on the Autoroute in Frankfurt Germany , had to spend extra days in Germany sorting the repair

EXHAUSTED CUP WINNER  2013          
Stuart & Julie Marsden  “DRAGONS IN THE PARK”
Whilst parking his Valkyrie at Dragons In The Park , Stuart skidded on grass and dropped the bike , deciding it wasn't safe for Julie to ride her bike on the grass moved it for her and duly fell off that one too

EXHAUSTED CUP WINNER  2014          
Jim Stewart “FIRE FLY TANK”
Nearly caught his bike on fire in garage , draining fuel tank & after Painting Tank decided to he did not like colour so Re Painted , whilst polishing after the Re Paint He dropped the Tank on the floor leaving it with a big dent, Also for painting the Fly to it

EXHAUSTED CUP WINNER 2015
Shaun John “HORNY STARTER”
Trying to start his Valk with the Horn Switch on the Rideout for The Cliff's Edge

EXHAUSTED CUP Winner 2016
Colin Kirkpatrick INGRID'S RADIATOR
Colin washed Ingrid’s Bike at Inzane X, found a leak in the radiator,  dismantled radiator
then drove from Houffalize to Maastricht to have it fixed at a Dealers. Dealer couldn't find a fault.
Said it was probably too much Rain and the Bike Wash which made it appear to be faulty

EXHAUSTED CUP Winner 2017
Tiger Bob - Bobbievalk   tyred out & lost
On the way to Meeting of Friends had a rear puncture and an electrical fault Rac.  Recovered Bike to Baz Bikes for repair , Baz ,shop owner, lent Bob his Triumph Tiger. Bob duly fell off it ! ALSO For getting lost on The Welsh Hills whilst Leading The Rideout

EXHAUSTED CUP Winner 2018
Dirk 'Snowwhite' Vosters
Left the gas station before Llandrindod Wells without his wife, Josette. Did not notice any difference.

On Sunday we said goodbye to our English/Welsh friends and took secondary country roads through Wales and the Midlands to Harwich. On the way we stopped at a Pub for lunch. As is turned out, we stopped in the middle of a roadster and classic sports car event.  Just great and what a beautiful sight. After a quiet ferry crossing we said goodbye in Hoek van Holland and returned home, tired but very satisfied. It had been a great week. We have had the opportunity to put some really nice miles on the bike in the hills of Wales every day.
I want to thank our Roadmaster Stef for the way he showed us around. Just super, Stef!
And Bobbie and his crew for the great event and nice company by everyone. You're simply the Best!





VOC (Valkyrie Owners Club)
http://www.valkyrieownersclub.com/





A small group of UK members proceeded on a different path with the Valkyrie Owners Club, launched in January 2016 by Mick Manchester and Dave ‘Zorba’ Martin.  During the spring, Dave and Mick toured the majority of Chapters on the continent to explain their POV and promote their Club. They were full of plans for the future. Just after having finished his 2500-mile tour through Europe, Dave was told he had incurable cancer and only a few months to live. His funeral was held October 13th at 15:00 PM.

Editor's Note:
Strictly spoken, the VOC does not belong in this VRCC History. As is the case with the VOAI,  Colorado's High Country Cruisers, Crossroads and other Valkyrie groups.
I decided to make an exception for two reasons:

1. The frontrunners of this group have always been very active and loyal VRCC members in the past.
2. The tragic loss of Dave (Zorba) Martin.

Mickmanchester’s Blog 2011-2017 Very nice and informative blog
I first started blogging as a way to keep in touch while I toured the USA in 2007 on my motorbike, enjoyed the story telling so much I continued posting when I returned to the UK.
http://mickmanchester.blogspot.nl/2011/


Rest in Peace Dave (Zorba) Martin

Mick
It is with a heavy heart that I have to announce David (Zorba) Martin, true Brother and Vice Chairman and founding member of the Valkyrie Owners Club has passed away after a short battle with Cancer.
There are so many clichés I could spout, I won’t because none of them would be sufficient to let those who didn't know Dave know how great a man he was, a true humanist and a true Gentleman.
Until we meet again Brother, always in our hearts.
Our thought and condolences to his lovely Wife Cyndi and family.

[Beer van Huet]

France Chapter

                             
                                                                                                                                                                                         Jean-Claude Signé Furax

Editor's Note
I would like to thank Alain Latourneur for assisting me with VRCC France.
 
VRCC France was born in November 2001.  Since summer is the best time for meetings, we arranged our first France meeting during that period of the next year in Valence, in the south of France.
We went to "Pic" (One of the most famous restaurants in France)  for the occasion. We will meet again in Paris on September 14th: a stroll and a dinner are on the program. Have fun and ride freely ...

Organization of VRCC France.

From beginning to 2003
President: Jérôme
Webmaster: Jerome.

2004 to 2009
President: Tom
Webmaster: Nico

2010 to 2103
A period with joint Presidents : The Pirate - John - Yann - Jean - Nico - Rene - Fifi Legnat.
Webmaster: Nico

Since 2014
Split responsibilities by capacity.
Ambassador: Fifi Legnat.
Moderator and responsible for the map of France CrazyValk members: Grand Lu - -
Web Master: Nico
Administrator of the site: Clyde

2003
Some early pics from Loups Noirs de Côte Bretonne de pléneuf Val-André
(HOG) Party at Papagayo
What a night. It was raining, our ladies were drinking, but we won the leather jacket.





Evreux Meeting
Always fun at the rally in Evreux, with a little film and more !





Les Dinantais avec les Dinannais
They came in great numbers, these Belgians ... And what a beautiful ride we had, led by the Armorians ! Pure happiness, with a nice visit to the automobile museum





2003 - Paris International Valkyrie Meeting


 




2005
Tom - Gorge du Tarn
Here is a short summary of the weekend for members who could not attend.
On Thursday, 5 bikes took the road direction "Saint Rome de Dolan", a small village of Aveyron located between Millau and Sainte-Enimie above the Gorge du Tarn.
After getting to know each other, parking the bikes and settling in the rooms, the evening did not get too long given the distances covered and the travel time of each one.
Present were Jacques (Cogolin, 83, California), Mac Do (Nancy, 54), John & Isa (Bordeaux, 33), Michou & Sylvie (Lyon, 69) and we; Tom & Mag!
On Friday we woke up overlooking the river and relatively early for all (maybe thanks to the warning of Jacques for the makeup of our ladies!) After breakfast, everyone was ready for the meeting so we left a little earlier towards Séverac le Château (meeting point with Franck, Isa, Bernard and Line).
We took time to drink a coffee and make a group photo before finding future "Corsicans".



After this moment, we entered the A75 to cross the viaduct of Millau and now Mag will be responsible for taking pictures when we ride.



Everything goes well while in the opposite direction a vehicle has crashed perpendicular to the central rail !
To cover the distance, we were not taking much notice of the landscape which we would trespass later in the day. The timing was adhered to and at noon we arrived at the restaurant where Gilles and Cathy (Toulouse, 31) joined us.



The meal was typical for the region, served quickly as requested and it allowed us to talk a bit, share adventures and getting to know other Riders better.  I must say that in Thursday's group, 4 out of 8 people had made it to US Route 66 so they made us drool.
It took Franck, Isa, Bernard and Line 14 hours to travel towards the south where we will visit the region.
We took the direction of Albi to head to Millau (the city) and pass under this impressive work ... not easy to find a place to take the picture with the viaduct in the background and only after having crossed the bridge we find a place from where the (previopus page) photo was taken.
Next, we rode in the direction of Vigan on a nice little road in the Gorges de la Dourbe and then back on the Causses not far from Mount Aigoual (gla gla) on random small winding roads with very few traffic.
After an hour, we replenished ourselves in a small inn in the middle of nowhere. I was unable to find it on a map.
We coninued to the cave of Dargilan to do a little exercise (121 steps down and then back with the leather gear and headphones from Mac Donalds given the height of the ceiling!) We visited the beautiful and memorable cave for an hour. After this hour, we rehydrated ourselves in a small inn lost somewhere and that I will be unable to find (it was not in the program on the road book).



In the morning we filled up to save time. At 10:00 everyone is ready and after aligning the motorcycles for a photo, we descend into the Gorge duTarn at a reduced pace and in beautiful sunshine Wx we follow the River Tarn crossing small picturesque villages.  
We enjoyed these beautiful landscapes (do not forget to look for the road, LOL)  A photo stop on the outskirts of Sainte-Enimie and Gus is putting on his short sleeves for the rest of the trip.
At a quarter to 12, we arrived at the restaurant and parked the motorcycles in this busy little town. The restaurant is a nice surprise! In addition to a warm welcome, we were served as princes with succulent dishes... we wonder if we can make it back on the road again. Everyone had a copious meal and leaves ‘L’Auberge du Moulin’ with a delighted feeling. Certainly worth a recommendation.
We proceeded to Florac with a slightly higher pace and pleasant temperatures.In Florac we started to climb to cross Les Causses on a deserted road, just accessible by motorcycle because of its width! In the meantime overlooking the gorge, we admired all these rock formations and landscapes.   We spent two hours just to cross 55 km and at 16:30 we arrived at the dragons scenery stop. This stop was appreciated by all and the video movies of these raptors were very interesting. During our tour, there was a lot of laughter! Thirsty, we returned to the center to take a shower before the evening. Behind some nice drinks and dishes at the cold buffet with the right music playing,  all conditions were met for a nice evening that started right away with a toast and anecdotes. We continued getting to know each better and all enjoyed ‘finally’ meeting each other in person.  Messages on the Forum will now be different between us. We thought about the people who did not participate and will likely leave the VRCC.
In between two stories of Alain we filled our stomach with food and drinks and had a cozy and meaningful evening. At 2 :00 AM we decided it’s time to go to bed.

In 2005 the website was renewed http://vrcc.fr/vrcc5/

The Chapter consisted of 300 members

2006 - 16 and 17 September 2006 : Nationale – 27000 Evreux / 36 Riders.
Organized by Tom, VRCC president





2006 Patrick Maillé - VRCC France Trombinoscope

https://www.dailymotion.com/video/x295ft

Mont Ventoux
Ride to Mont Ventoux, passing les Gorges de la Nesque with Alain "Glas-Glas-Glas"

https://www.dailymotion.com/video/xndm8

Patrick Maillé  - Gorge du Verdon  – Spectacular Canyon
Altitude 1500 m during ride through les Gorges du Verdon May 2006

https://www.dailymotion.com/video/xlsvu

Gorges de la Nesque

https://www.dailymotion.com/video/xn6hf

2007 : 34 French Riders participate in the first EU Inzane in Poland




2007 Patrick Maillé  - Vercors
VRCC members of VRCC France ride out to the Vercors in May 2007
https://www.dailymotion.com/video/x282ro

2008 TDM – Terres Du Milieu – 63000 Clermont Ferrand / 123 participants.
Organisation by FiFi Legnat



2009 Fifi Legnat - Ballade en Auvergne – Les Terres du Milieu

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=cdM2FTsZ1bw

2009 : TDH - Terres Des Hommes – 46500 Rocamadour / 118 participants.
Organisation Fifi/CoCo/Yann

http://vrcc-france.com/tdh/crbst_0.html



2010 INZANE France - 88540 Bussang/ 285 participants



Inzanes will be described in the next part

2011 TDE – Terres De l’Eau
03200 Vichy / 98 participants.
Organisation Fifi/CoCo/Yann
http://vrcc-france.com/tde/index.html







2012 jpvarth - Souvenirs d’Aurillac
https://youtu.be/kNA71r4gRw0

TDV – Terres Des Vaches - 15000 Aurillac / 120 participants
Organisation Fifi/CoCo/Yann
http://vrcc-france.com/tdv/index.html



jpvart - Souvenirs d’Aurillac
https://youtu.be/kNA71r4gRw0
 






TDP - Terres Des Papes 13670 Saint Andiol : 110 participants.
Organisation Fifi/CoCo/Yann
http://vrcc-france.com/tdp/index.html




                                                                   Roman Aquaduct


                                                                                                                  Fifi and Fray from Italy dressed in French coat with sword



TDC - Terres Des Châtaignes – 07510 Saint Cirgues en Montagne : 65 participants
Organisation - Alain/Fifi/Franck92/Le Outard
http://vrcc-france.com/tdc/index.html





2015 INZANE France - Dragons dans les Alpes – 74120 Praz Sur Arly – 280 participants.
Organisation Alain/Fifi/Franck92/Le Outard
http://vrcc-france.com/inzane2015/index.html



2015 - Armorzane by Frederic DuBeuf
Part 1      https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=YrDxPHuYE8U
Part 2      https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=inDP41HbzTc
Part 3      https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=WPM2S6dFEV4

2017  TDR – Terres Du Rocquefort – 12100 MILLAU : 92 participants
Organisation Fifi/Franck92/Le Outard
http://vrcc-france.com/tdr/index.html#wa-anchor-top

Video (images) by Niavlys Durant
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=32PNBNfuykk




 


2018 Terre du Beaujolais – 69910 Villé Morgon : 62 participants
Organisation Michel/Fifi/Franck92/Le Outard
Beaujolais – 69910 Villé Morgon
http://workshop.com/tdb/index.html

[Beer van Huet]

Spain Chapter
http://vrcc.es/

         
                           Gift from oZ                                                Colin

Like many of his countrymen, Colin traded in the wet English climate for a sunny residence in Denia, Spain.
In 2009 he started a VRCC Chapter which has been slowly but steadily growing to over 26 members by 2010.  As a token of appreciation, he received a Spanish VRCC flag from oZ.

Editor’s Note
Although the Spanish Mediterranean coastal areas are ideal for year-round cruising in terms of climate and landscape, somehow the Valkyrie sales have not reached significant numbers as in adjacent countries like France and to some extent, Italy.  Strange because the Spanish population in general is very outdoor orientated and sporty. Cycling for instance, is very popular.

2009  Calpe Bike Day
A lovely warm sunny day for the annual Calpe Bike Day with about 400 bikes of all makes and models at the beer tent start and about 200 took part in the ride out around the town and along the seafront. I met up with a German Valkyrie owner and a Spanish Rune owner who also owns a Valkyrie. A great day in the sun on a bike.



Pacman
Hello everybody!
New user from Madrid, and proud owner of a '98 STD.
Congratulations with your web, Colin, and I agree: we've got to find more owners to see this chapter growing up. Well, if somebody comes to Madrid, please, contact me and I will put some beers in the frigo

2010 Oliva Matinal
I went to Oliva Matinal today, this is one of the largest matinals held in this area of Spain. I met an owner of a Red and Black Valk who lives in Planes and also another owner of a Black Rune who lives in Gandia. I gave them both details of the VRCC and hope we will see them on here soon.



Albir Matinal






                                                          Police guarding a Valk

Rock y Tapas



2011 - May Ride















https://www.flickr.com/photos/beer1952/31030434627/sizes/l/

Colin’s suggestions for a Spanish Round Robin
Hotels in Spain are many and varied. You can find what are called Casa Rurals which are what we would call B&B's. They are not always the cheapest, usually run by non-Spanish. You then have the more usual pensions and hotels with the usual 1 to 5-star ratings. In my experience the lower rating ones are very good value and more than adequate with little difference between 1 and 4 stars in a lot of cases. You will be travelling at the start of the season and so prices should be reasonable. I would expect to pay between 40€ and 60€ a night, for the room not per person, all reception desks will happily tell you the price. You may well have to pay extra for the secure parking of your Valk.
As to camping hopefully someone else will answer as I have no experience of camping in Spain.
You will have a great time with some fabulous riding roads and scenery. If you get into the twisty stuff you will be in 3rd or 4th so don't forget you will use more petrol than normal and petrol stations may not be that abundant.

2016 - Tumppi (from Finland)
Our 4th winter here in Fuengirola. This time I also brought Lady Rosita here, cause I had an accident with her in Finland in September by a reversing school bus that ran over it. I'll repair her here, I found a good garage by CostaRiders in Boliches.
Done so far some 9000km here in 2 winters, mainly around Costa del Sol and with the jolly crowd on CostaRiders.
I'm still waiting for my USA-spare part order, that ADT Postale kept at Madrid Aero Puerto by mistake 9 weeks ago!!!  Alberto-the Valkyrist helped me and now it seems like solved.
It's a pity I've had my lady parked on the street- first time ever, cause there ain't garages at the urbanization. Have asked neighbors, but nothing so far. And we've seen the latest weather forecast.....



Matinal
Today I went to a matinal in Gandia and met up with a Valkyrie rider from Valencia who tells me that there are two more red and white Valkyries in Valencia.
I then went to the matinal in Castell de Rugat and there met up with two more Valkyries one of which was the rare red and black color.
It is rare to see another Valkyrie and to see 3 new ones to me today was excellent.


                                         Dragon at the Spanish/Gibraltar border

[Beer van Huet]

Ireland Chapter
https://web.archive.org/web/20050308172919/http://vrccirl.com/  (2005 website with still active links)
https://web.archive.org/web/20080820002545/http://vrccirl.com/ (2008 new website)


     Cory O' Connor

Beer
I first met Paul, Ann and Conor during the 2003 Italy Valkyrie Meeting.  Conor did not have his Valkyrie yet. Very nice folks, we got along real fine and had a great time.
Soon afterwards, I met other Riders from Ireland, Cory O’Connor (Chapter Rep) and of course, he’s always there, Gerry (Valkyrie Irl) Mooney.  
Although Ireland only has about 25 VRCC members, their Meetings were amongst the absolute best.


                                     Paul, Conor and Ann                                                                                    Gerry

2006 Meeting
https://youtu.be/4u1sL5o1kmk
https://youtu.be/-ZIV8YZPUi4
https://youtu.be/82MZzazP3vI
https://youtu.be/CizoHUM5Akc

Perhaps the first of many pleasant surprises you notice in Ireland, besides their great sense of humor, is the speed limit of 100 km/hr. Almost everywhere, even if you can hardly keep up with half as much, LOL .
As in the UK, it is a custom that the evenings revolve around a certain 'theme'. Riders, including women are dressed up accordingly with whatever they can take along in their saddlebags.  Sketches are performed by Riders onstage.
This adds up to the fun and makes the occasion much more personal and memorable.
Here a photographic trip report and impression of the 2006 Int'l VRCC Ireland Meeting


                                                                                                                                                                    'Walk like an Egyptian' was a hit at that time, so was this great performance


                                                                                                                          Stefan(B), Cory(IRL) and Steve B(UK)


                                                                                                                 Visit to a museum, here the Irish dissidents were imprisoned by their English rulers


                                                                                                                 Time for lunch at a famous Irish Pub


                                                                                                  Steve B's Blu & Blown Monster, notice the tail fin exhausts                            Henny(RIP), Hanne and Janni (NL)


                                                                                                                                                                                                                         Jobo(G) and Antonio(RIP - Wales)






With Conor Nolan, Susan Watkins, Anthony Simmonds(RIP), Sabine Schöler, Andreas Schöler, Stef Martens, Henny Lammertink (RIP), Jenneke Gommans, Geoff Jones, Gerard Gommans, Paul Nolan, Samantha Sanger and Glynis Morrish.

2010 Beer - Down & Out

After a, initially rainy trip to Calais-Dover, we crossed the Magic Roundabout http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Magic_Roundabout_%28Swindon%29


We proceeded to Swansea-Cork, took another ferry and arrived on September 9 at the Celtic Ross Hotel & Leisure Center.  After being warmly welcomed by our Irish hosts, we went to the bar to taste a genuine Guinness beer.  
The next day we were able to enjoy the area, Ring of Kerry http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Ring_of_Kerry  and the Killarney National Park http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Killarney_National_Park.

There were about 60 Riders with 40 Valkyries at the Meeting and the spirit was excellent with a traditional Bailey's reception and great weather.  On Friday the sun was shining again and we rode 180km on the winding Irish roads to Glengariff, where we had lunch in a real 'cottage bar'.
After lunch, we proceeded to the Healy Pass http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Beara_Peninsula  and via a nice route back to the hotel. We stayed at the Beara peninsula, where the warm sea current causes the seawater temperature never to drop below 18 degrees Centigrade. The area and vegetation were subtropical.  



                                                                                                     Waterville, favourite holiday location of Charly Chaplin

In the evening, everybody had to wear a mustache and Ted won a prize.  The Irish VRCC members had made a sketch, based on the TV series 'That's your Life'.  
In a swirling show, we saw Ted's life passing by as a baby, puberty, ballerina, jockey and exhibitionist, which of course caused a lot of hilarity.


On Saturday it was also dry weather and we went to the Inchydoney beach, where a rope contest was organized.  After the contest, we proceeded to Fort Charles
 http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Charles_Fort_%28Ireland%29  where we received an excellent guided tour and used lunch at a Sea View Cafe in Kinsale.


In the afternoon we continued to the famous Mary cave for a stop and from there on to the Dromberg Stone Circle, http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Drombeg_stone_circle , a Stonehenge.

                         Statue and pilgrimage cave of the Virgin Mary

Back in the hotel everyone dressed up as a bum and prizes and memorabilia were presented. Of course, we could not leave without singing some stag songs with a rather erotic pitch. It was a fabulous party, even the next door’s wedding couple and party guests were joining us for a while.
After a firm  Irish breakfast on Sunday we said goodbye and rode to the Caha Pass http://travel.webshots.com/photo/1167913345027942579LjJcQF , Molls Gap http://www.adopt-a-sheep.ie/Molls_Gap/MollsGap.htm   and Ladies View http://killarney-ireland.info/ladies-view-killarney  to the Connor Pass  . Http://www.dingle-region.com/pass.htm  Just before the Shannon River at Tarbert, near Charlie Chaplin's favorite residence, we stayed in a Bed & Breakfast overnight and headed for the Cliffs the next day Or Moher http://www.cliffsofmoher.ie/  and Galway to Kylemore Abbey http://www.kylemoreabbey.com/  to stay in Clifden.  After that, we were heading for Dublin for the ferry to Holyhead. When we arrived in Wales, we had to stop for Llanfairpwllgwyngyllgogerychwyrndwwllllogerychogyrogogoch station and visit http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Llanfairpwllgwyngyllgogerychwyrndrobwllllantysiliogogogoch  and proceeded to Caernarfon, where we spent the night in the castle walls in the cozy Black Boy Inn. Http://www.black-boy-inn.com/home.htm  Via the Peak District http://www.visitpeakdistrict.com/ , we arrived in Hull, where we took the ferry to Rotterdam.
During the Down @ Out Meeting we had a super bike week.  A very cozy Meeting combined with a few extra days with beautiful rides through a landscape resembling a set of the Lord of the Rings, especially with low-cloud ceilings and fog. Valk and Rider were tested much, but it was worth every penny and mile.
 
Visiting a pub in Ireland is a must. The music and friendly people...…Jenneke just had to sing along                                  Laura had great fun too.......


Theme of this evening was to dress up as tramps, hobo’s and vagrants..................... Bobbie & Beer in their natural habitat, LOL


Reception with Bailey's...Two typical Irish products, milk and whisky mixed together.....tasted great BTW

[Beer van Huet]

Denmark Chapter
http://www.valkyrie-riders-nord.dk/

                     
                                                                                                                     Allan Buhl

VRCC Denmark has 30 members.
An administrative fee is charged for membership. This allows the club to keep track of its members and to keep the website up- and running.

As descendants from the Vikings, I should note that the history of VRCC Denmark began over a millenium ago. After all, these were the people that started riding Valkyries to their heaven, LOL   
The VRCC Denmark website states that It's quite easy to see the resemblance between a  Valkyrie motorcycle and a Valkyrie woman, they both serve as a means of transportation and are elegant, attractive and have style.
Like the Valkyrie women, the "bike" is a token from the gods.

Tip
If you were to you buy a new GL1500C in Denmark, you’d  better bring a war goddess along to the bank for a loan, because the high-chromed Honda costed a fortune in this country (almost 40 grand USD).

2013 Lindholmhøj



Thanks to Lindholmhøje Museum and Aalborg Park Management as well as the valkyrie woman Dorthe and photographer Dennis.   
Clip http://d3rd3i2xz0wkmj.cloudfront.net/2f/d0/vid--34874779-2b355729-dc3a-4ae3-930a-e8429d46b43c-640x360.mp4


VRCC Denmark visit to the Norse mythology sand sculpures in Blokhus
Clip http://www.valkyrie-riders-nord.dk/34874780

International Meeting at Lolland

Editor's Note
My apologies for the poor pics. I took them of the website but they are low resolution.
Any help from Valkyrie Riders Nord is greatly appreciated



Slideshow            http://www.valkyrie-riders-nord.dk/15981233
 
TV Ost broadcast https://www.tveast.dk/artikel/motorcykeltraef-paa-lolland

2012-2015 Fælles Meetings







2016 Fælles Meeting





Slideshow http://www.valkyrie-riders-nord.dk/21651110



VRCC Denmark Division
A difference of opinion caused VRCC Denmark to split up in two Chapters.
VRCC Denmark North – Previous paragraph – and VRCC Denmark (following)



Valkyrie Riders MC Danmark VRCC
http://www.valkyrie-riders-mc-danmark.dk/
Email f6valkyrie@mail.dk


               Preben Nielsen

This group of 11 Riders, led by Preben Nielsen started their own website and Chapter in 2007.
The club is registered in Denmark, member of the VRCC and aims to gather all the Valkyrians
in the country for joint events.

[Beer van Huet]

Sweden Chapter
http://www.valkyrieriders.com/sweden/html/startsida.html

               
                                                                                                                       Arne Rosenkvist

In 2014, VRCC Sweden had 70 members
To keep track of current members,  a decision was made in 2006 to charge an administrative fee  for membership. This also allows VRCC Sweden to keep it's website up- and running.

VRCC Sweden is divided in different areas, each with a separate representative.
North        - Thomas Aro
Middle       - Oleg Wennström
Stockholm - Bjarne Björnerman/ Arne Rosenkvist - National Representative
South        - Lena Aspling Fallgren



2003
The VRCC story in Sweden starts in 2003, with a ride out weekend in Siljan.





2004 Lidköping Meeting





2005 Vaxholm Meeting
VRCC Sweden made a cruise and rode through the Stockholm and Sveavägen area.





2006 Luleå Meeting


                                             In Luleå, the annual general members meeting was held

2006 Nordkap Trip
Note:  The geographical latitude of Nordkap (Norway) equals that of Barrow, Alaska


                                Scales of Alaska and Sweden differ (Sweden is about the distance Houston to LA)








                                                                                                                                                                                                              Notice a crossing herd of reindeer

2007 Göteborg Meeting



2009 Storsund Meeting







2011 EU Inzane V



Inzanes are discussed seperately in the next part