Wheels of Thunder October 2012

OCT/NOV 2012
Vol. 3 Issue 10
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October 2012
OWNER
PRESIDENT Scott Robinson scott@wheelsofthunder.net 612-730-3719
OFFICE STAFF
AR/AP Stacy Robinson 763-421-4400 OFFICE ADMINISTRATOR/AR Vince Griffith vince@wheelsofthunder.net 651-280-8658
EDITORIAL STAFF
EDITOR/CREATIVE DIRECTOR Betty Schurmann editor@wheelsofthunder.net 763-421-4400
Special Features
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Photographers/Writers
BILLY BOYLE CEAJA PHILP JOHN JEPPESON JOSH MOEN STEVE JOHNSON MIKE BENOY ERIK TORMOEN JENNA OSTERLUND MYLIE LAVOLD DAN JACOBSON
1949 Ford Sedan - Sean Lawrence .................4 Brainerd Internation Raceway ......................14 A Legendary Hill.........................................24 IWA Finale .................................................30 Double Header - Ricekiller ...........................32 Tri State Raceway .......................................36 Hering Customs ..........................................44 Indian vs. Harley ........................................52
ADVERTISING STAFF
SALES Scott Robinson scott@wheelsofthunder.net 612-730-3719 Ceaja (CJ) Philp ceaja@wheelsofthunder.net 763-458-5019 WISCONSIN - Brad Coplan bradc@wheelsofthunder.net 715-497-8090 IOWA - John Lentzkow John.lentzkow@mchsi.com 319-239-1375
Reviews
Easy Rider Saloon.......................................54 Scooters Bar & Grill ....................................62
Rallys & Shows

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Cannonball Run ..........................................10 Haydays ....................................................22 Powercruise ................................................28 Volga Truck Cruise ......................................40 Sturgis Rally ...............................................56 Thursday Night Dinner Cruise ......................58 Anoka County Fair ......................................64
Departments
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All content published herein is owned exclusively by Midwest Wheels of Thunder Magazine. Reproduction or further dissemination of the content herein is strictly prohibited without the express written authorization of Midwest Wheels of Thunder Magazine.
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Garage Built.................................................8 Boiling Point................................................12 Next Generation - Bella Schmaltz.................18 Off The Beaten Path The Hog Rally ...........48 Ask Mike ....................................................50 ABATE of MN .............................................51 Game On!..................................................68
October 2012
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Not Once Over, and Not Done
1949 FORD SEDAN Sean Lawrance
any young car enthusiasts have a dream car or idea they would like to actually create and own someday. Sean Lawrance of Maple Grove, Minnesota started with an idea but didn't stop with just the first round of ideas. He had a pretty good grasp of what he was hoping to do and had even started out by building a model car that he chopped and painted black with flames. He was determined to find that car and see it through til the end!
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Written by Ceaja Philp Photography by John Krueger
Sean was only 15 years old when him and his Dad, Steve bought the 1949 Ford Sedan from a guy out of Milaca, MN in 1998. They started working on the car that winter and were able to make it in time for the upcoming Back to the Fifties, which like many cars trying to make the show, was the first time it had been on the road. It was on the road, not chopped and only in its black primer, but it made it to the show which was pretty significant to such a young builder.
headlights and taillights, window modifications, custom made sliding rag top, handmade front sheet metal ,roll pan with exhaust cut outs in back, a Mustang II
front suspension, 4-link rear, and has full air ride. It's powered by a slightly built 327 SBC with a 350 turbo transmission. The seats are from a '62 Thunder Bird in the front, and a Dodge Dart in the back, that my Mom, Pam recovered in red and white tuc-n-roll. Now with a list like that you would think Sean's had enough, but.... future plans are to redo the paint and body work again, and redo the door panels and headliner.
In July of 1999, shortly after that event the hood opened up on Sean down the freeway and caved in the roof. Quite a scare, but Sean took that as a perfect time to do some more modifications, which in turn led to a few more...and then more. Since he first brought the Sedan home Sean, with the help of his Dad and his brother Marc have design, built, and painted it to include; chopping down the top (twice), but extending it , shaved doors, hood has been peeked, Frenched
There is no doubt the Sedan gets attention everywhere it goes, and will continue to bring a wide variety of onlookers and growing number of fans. It has already caught the eye of Minnesota's Holy Rocka Rollaz band! They were extremely pleased when they were able to use the Sedan in their new CD cover and promotional material. Their classic early rock 'n roll style of Elvis, Johnny Cash, Buddy Holly, and many more seemed to fit attitude appearance of the '49 to create a great combination. In short, Sean's 1949 Sedan is a must see in person, and no doubt you will be able to pick it out at this year's Frankensteiners Ball on Sunday, October 14th at the Anoka County Fairgrounds.
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October 2012
1927 Ford Model T

Quenching my Hot Rod thirst!
Owner/Enthusiast:
Troy Swan Zimmerman, MN
Stock Original Stock Original

This is where it all started! This is where it all started!
Sound Familiar?
Do you have a story of your custom ride? E-mail editor@wheelsofthunder.net and you could be featured with your ride in the next issue!
I have been in love with cars my entire life. I grew up on a farm in northern Minnesota near Thief River Falls. When young I remember saving my allowance and birthday money so I could by Hot Wheels. In school I would stare out the window at the High School kids and their Chevelles, Cuda's, Mustangs and other cool cars. Finally, at age 15 I got my first car, a 1971 Buick Skylark. That's when the bug really began, I put on mag wheels, hood scoop and a paint job myself. Since then, there have been many cars and everytime I got a cool muscle car, my brother Chad would get something better! When ever we had mechanical problems our father would just say fix it. He had us wrenching on tractors, trucks and cars at a very young age. I think I was welding by 3rd grade. I now live in Zimmerman. My job
is seasonal so I don't work winters. I recently brought my farmboy attitude to an inner city townhome garage. I bought a 1927 Ford Model T project car. I stripped it down to frame and rebuilt almost everything. (with a little help from friends Eric, Dennis, Keith and my son Korbyn) I had to find another body for parts and spent a lot of time walking through swap meets. It has a crate 350 c.i. motor with a turbo 350 trans. An eight inch ford differential. It was built to have the old school 1970's flavor but most of all I wanted it dependable. I have driven this car to 35 car shows this summer and still going. I drive it around town and use it to run errands. It gets alot of attention everywhere I go. It doesn't win too many trophys at shows but it gets enough attention and driving it quenches my Hotrod thirst.
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Written By John Lentzkow

One thing is for sure, this story and photos will separate the men from the boys, the sane from the insane. No, let me reword that after careful consideration. This story will test man against machine, against the North American continent, beyond most readers comprehension. Now that sounds better and I hope I have your attention to pay tribute to this very special motorcycle breed. The brave riders of the Cannonball prove that antique motorcycles can indeed be put to the ultimate test and is a tradition as old as the motorcycles themselves,. Not only proving the capabilities of the machines, but also confirming the pioneering spirit this great country was built upon. Collectors from around the world are realizing their dream of using their machines for the purposes they were originally intended for, and they are enjoying every minute of it. Restoration takes on a new meaning as skilled motor builders put over 100 years of mechanical knowledge into ancient iron. Motorcycles that lay silent for decades now have a reason to live. To run thru the great wide open as they did nearly a century ago. Like the first run, the Cannonball is from coast to coast. The 2012 run provided a more scenic route to the north from New York to San Francisco. While planning a relatively direct route, consideration was made to take in some of the best scenery our country has to offer. A quick look at the new route includes a dozen national parks, and forests, the great lakes, the Mississippi river, the plains, the Black Hills, Rushmore, Devils Tower, Yellowstone, the Rockies, the high desert, Shasta, the Avenue of the Giants, Pacific Coast Highway, and the Golden Gate Bridge to name a few. Also included on this journey were stops to tour four nationally recognized motorcycle museums including the National Motorcycle Museum located in Anamosa, Iowa. Averaging around 300 miles per day, this is a true endurance run for both man and machine. Remember, we are not talking about a Harley Cruiser or a Gold Wing here; this is pre 1930 motorcycles. Competition between motorcycles and riders has been around since the very beginning, and the Cannonball is no different. This is a run against the clock, where one rider and one machine will claim victory. A victory that will be well earned against riders from all over the world which involves a two week journey across the United States dealing with mechanical failure. Mother Nature, and most important, your mental stability. I am not quite sure I want to include this in my top ten Bucket List, perhaps number eleven. I hope you enjoy the photos as much as I do and appreciate the true grit they share with each competitor.
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These machines are old and most are very rare. A lot of these early bikes would not be on the road today were it not for new parts. In a lot of cases only the motor survived to be resurrected into its former self. As long as the engine in your machine is original then its eligible to run for the prize. Any reproduction chassis or parts should be as they were originally.
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Written by Billy Boyle
AMERICANS FOR AMERICA

So here we are my fellow Americans almost 4 years since the last Donnybrook (thats Irish for close quarters fight). This months Boiling Point is focused on what has happened, where we are going, and are you and your family any better off than you were 4 years ago, 8 years ago, or should I put it bluntly since September 10th, 2001? The whole mess can go right back to the day the bastards took 4 airplanes and showed how vulnerable we can be when not focused on our safety and security. Which eventually led to the fall of our strong economy and of course, the behind the scenes BS by Wall Street and other carpetbaggers. I wanted to focus on the current situation in the business sense and do we have the right machine in place to get America back where it once was? For a minute reflect if you will on how many businesses had to fold up in your community, town, city, or state because of the economic situation. From a personal perspective I was once an owner of a successful Motorcycle Dealership, a successful restaurant and bar, and dabbled well in the real estate business. All have since been shut down or gone away since 2010. Why? Lack of financial resources from the banks to loan money for motorcycles, lack of expendable income to take a family out to a local restaurant, and lack of ability to pay the rising interest rates on the mortgage The local mom and pop restaurant, the family owned grocery store that has been part of a community for decades, the sporting vehicle dealerships, the maintenance support shops, and finally the business location that sits empty and becomes run down and an eye sore with in the community. I get a pain in my gut every time I talk to business owner that mentions the struggles they are having keeping the doors open. I have been there and I can sympathize with their situation. So what do we do America? Its not just the business world, go drop in on an employment workshop in your area. These are people that are actively looking for employment; these are the people that would rather give the employer a good 40 hours of hard work for a decent paycheck. These are the people that are not the takers of free handouts and sit on their asses until it runs out. For example, technically I am unemployed, the status is called self-emPage 12 Find us on Facebook Wheels of Thunder
that leads to foreclosure. Much has to do with the lack of employment in the United States, job cut backs, down sizing of companies, and trimming the wages back to 1970s standards. Its a simple mathematical equation, people lose the jobs or the income is cut back, something has to give. In this case, its the small business owners.
ployed but there is no work available. I went to workshop back in the spring in Minnesota, the workshop was scheduled every hour, each session 35 seats available, each session was sold out. Heres the kicker it runs every week, everyday, every hour to sold out participants. Now you tell me we dont have an unemployment problem in the United States, despite the fabricated numbers that are posted weekly on employment statistics. I AM LIVING THIS EVERYDAY. Heres the example: I am in a session with 34 others, mostly from the high tech, information services or others known as computer geeks. Most of these participants were long-term employees; I am talking 30 plus years, the age 50 and above. As we went around the room with the introductions the one thing that jumped out was this was a class of people that took the bullet because of the age and years of service. I asked the question, So where did your jobs go? The short answer, INDIA. Are you kidding me? These were employees that were the heart and soul of their corporation, but the corporation tends to get greedy and treats these dedicated employees as a number. You know the old human resource terminology that labels the employee, a unit, or gives them a number of 1.2 when they talk about work task. Hey corporate America stick your units up the backside. The sad story was the group that I was in workshop with; they were not looking to get back into the industry where they once thrived. Why? There wasnt any opportunity for a 50 something that may put a strain on the salary or health and insurance benefits. These poor bastards were looking to do a career change on the fly. Literally starting from scratch just to be employable again. Thats what we do in America in 2012; kick our best resources, our most knowledgeable and experienced worker to the ground. Doesnt that just send your blood to the Boiling Point? It sends me over the top!!!!
October 2012
This is not about the democrats verse the republicans verses the independents, this is about what is the plan to get us back on track? Working directly with the American business owner, American industries, and state agencys to get America Back to work. For many of you that are reading this article I am sure you are living this nightmare. Again from a personal perspective on September 10th, 2001, I had a big house, a couple of nice cars, a boat, and a family that was a close family, and a career that I always thought I would retire from. Today, lost the house, got divorced, the cars are not so nice and the boat is long gone, my family although we tried to be close struggles everyday with the financial issues. This is what America has been reduced too. In the world of terrorism this is what the objective was from the start of the first plane crashing into the World Trade Center. Hit America in the pocket and crush the American dream, home ownership, and lavish or comfortable lifestyle. I dont know about you, but as I sit here writing this article I cant tell you how pissed I get when I think back at all the mistakes we made as a society. My point is this do we keep making mistakes, keep playing the waiting game, or do we take a stand and roll the
sleeves up and figure things out? Do we have a say on which direction the economy head? I am asking all of the readers to listen closely to the politicians that are running for office, presidential being one. Whom are they aligned with publicly, corporately, or political support groups. I am not advocating one opponent over another, one party over another, one success story, or one contribution that the candidate stands on. Weigh up the whole picture. Talk to your friends, neighbors, co-workers, and business owners, see how they have been affected or will be affected long term by the machine that will run America. This is about all us having a say in shaping America. Will we ever get back to where we were before the September 11th attacks? Will get to relive that American dream again? Will we once again have that Norman Rockwell feel to the American family? I am confident that each of us will have that thought in mind when we go to the polls in November. Over the month of October I am sure we will all hear the mud slinging, accusations, name calling, and vicious rumors. Thats what the political parties are all about, but
try to see through the BS, whom has our back, our best interest, and will they get us the shot of adrenal that we need to energize America? America, take your time deciding, but not too much time. Dont push a button because someone put the pressure on you. Dont push a button because you like their looks, their family, and their religious affiliation. Push the button that is in YOUR best interest, the button that will somehow give back the life that we all once had. Good luck deciding, its a tough decision, but in America we get to do it freely. Whichever way you lean, God Bless America.
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Written by Geoff Gorvin

Dave Engler wins the final race in the Pro ET Class of the Bracket Drag Racing Series
One last chance to show off the muscle
B
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rainerd International Raceways 2012 season came to an end but racers didnt leave quietly. In fact, they saved some of their best racing for the very end as championships were on the line in two different drag racing series and the Trans-Am Series held a double-header race that was nothing short of thrilling. Heres how the season ended at BIR.
October 2012
When the 24th Annual Muscle Car Shootout kicked off Labor Day weekend at BIR, one thing was certain: The father-son combo of Mike and Dean Bauerly would not be repeating as champions of the Outlaw and Pro Outlaw classes, respectively. The Bauerlys were no-shows for the Shootout, which was the third and final race of the Muscle Car Series. Mike Bauerly was comfortably in first place in the Outlaw Class, while Dean was a slim three points behind Pro Outlaw leader Craig Braun, who had issues of his own. He dinged up his car a week earlier and showed up at BIR with his streetcar to earn as many points as he could. That opened the door for other drivers in the series two fastest classes, and Rick Schmidt answered the call in Pro Outlaw. Driving his 1971 Mach 1 Mustang, Schmidt toyed with dipping below the 6second mark by posting the classs fastest time, 6.079 seconds, and the top speed of 212.26 mph to win the weekends race. He beat Joseph Wilczek in the finals. In the Outlaw Class, Eric Wourms was in second place going into the weekend and couldnt mask his excitement when he heard that Mike Bauerly was a no-show. Driving his 1971 Chevelle, Wourms was the No. 1 qualifier and faced Brian Carpenter in the finals. Carpenter and his 98 Firebird were too much for Wourms, though, running 7.515 seconds and 182.97 mph to Wourms 7.560 seconds and 176.47 mph.
Brian Carpenter wins the final race in the Pro Outlaw Class of the Muscle Car Series Brian Mahnke and his 1972 Camaro have been dominating the King Street Class since the series began and he will repeat as champion again this year, despite losing in the semifinals to Nick Strohbeen. Driving a 94 Mustang, Strohbeen beat Dale Peterson in the finals with a run of 6.972 seconds and 161.79 mph to Petersons 8.887 seconds and 150.97 mph. Jim Ripley and Tom Jones slugged it out at the top of the Real Street Unlimited Class during the previous two races, earning the top two spots in the standings. So it was only fitting that theyd meet in the finals of the Shootout to settle things once and for all. Jones beat Ripley the last two times they raced but Ripley beat Jones in their third meeting, running his 72 Nova to a finals win with a sizzling run of 8.050 seconds and 172.14 mph. The Real Street Natural Class has been a two-man battle royal between Matt Sathre and Todd Malik, who were sitting Nos. 1 and 2 in the point standings, respectively. And thats the way theyll finish as Sathre beat Malik and his 68 Camaro in the finals. The True Street finals will make for an interesting finish in the final point standings. No. 4 Josh Brunz beat No. 3 Nick Hively in the finals. They advanced by beating the Nos. 1 and 2 drivers in the semifinals. Only 20 points separated first and fourth placed. Hively and his 87 Mustang couldnt keep up in the finals as Brunz won with a time of 8.746 seconds and 155.44 mph.
Ave, Ruman battle for Trans Am Series wins at BIR

Tony Ave extended his win streak at BIR to four, only to have Amy Ruman end it for him the very next day during a double-race weekend for the SCCA Pro Racings Trans Am Series, which was on BIRs 2.5-mile
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Photo by Chris Clark Ave-Ruman during the 2nd race of the Trans Am Series Labor Day weekend
October 2012
onship ways this year, driving his 82 Camaro to the top of the point standings again despite losing in the finals of the last race by fouling at the starting line. Brad Harder was the man to beat all year in the Pro Bike/Sled Class. He claimed the points lead during the first race and never gave it up, earning a series championship in the process. Riding a 1998 Kawasaki, Harder lost in the finals of the last race to Richard Tadych, who was racing a 2003 Arctic Cat snowmobile. In Stock/Super Stock, Ben Line continued to dominate the class. He won his fifth series championship in the last six years and now has two in a row. Going into the weekend, Line was comfortably in first place and didnt even compete in the final race. Glen Demenge and his 69 Camaro won the class in the final race. Chris Henry was in fifth place going into the final race in the Comp Trophy Class. Points leader Mike Voss was a no-show, which was good news for Henry and his 94 Camaro. Henry earned a trip to the finals with DJ Spiczka where it was all or nothing for Henry, who needed to win the finals to win the series championship. He beat Spiczka off the starting line and at the finish line to claim the series championship. In Street Trophy, Michelle Emmans and Taylor Arneson were locked in a battle royal all season at the top of the point standings. They entered last weekend with Emmans holding a slim lead in points but she lost in the second round while Arneson drove her 1989 Camaro to the finals where she beat Suzie Helberg with a run of 16.933 seconds and 83.24 mph.
Photo by Chris Clark Ruman during the 2nd race of the Trans Am Series Labor Day weekend Competition Road Course during the Muscle Car Shootout Labor Day weekend. Last year, Ave clinched the series championship at BIR by winning both races. Although hes had car problems most of this season, fans couldnt tell in the first race, when he earned the pole position and kept the lead for the entire 40 laps. Aves teammate, Doug Peterson, took second place after a lengthy battle with Simon Gregg in the later half of the race. Gregg, the points leader, moved between second and third throughout the entire race, mainly battling back and forth with Ruman, who placed fourth after succumbing to tire wear. Ruman came back strong the next day, however, withstanding a rigorous duel with Ave in the first half of the race and a furious challenge from Gregg over the final two laps to win the race. She started in fourth position and passed both Gregg and Peterson in the first lap. She then caught up to and followed Ave for the first 20 laps. On the 21st lap, Ave began to loose air in his front left tire and developed a flat spot on it. Ruman surged by Ave to claim the lead and set the pace for the rest of the race. Ave still set a track record in the second race by breaking his previous record of 1:31.116 with a lap time of 1:30.881. Racing Series to be crowned series champions after the final series race Sept. 8-9. Racing in the Sportsman Class, Mickle and his 1967 Mustang, which had a back-up motor in it, got hot in eliminations, winning four very close matchups including the finals race against Mark Pease and his 1972 Chevelle. Mickle escaped with a narrow victory, running 11.981 seconds and 106.95 mph. Mike Campbell, driving an 82 Camaro, needed only to run the same number of rounds as Rodney Thompson in the final race of the Super Pro Class to win the series championship. And he did just that, as both racers were knocked out of eliminations in the fourth round, leaving Thompson in second place. Steve Roehrs won the Pro ET Class two years in a row before finishing in sixth place last year. He returned to his champi-
Mickle, Line repeat as series champs in Bracket Series

Brad Mickle has now won back-to-back series championships at BIR, both in dramatic come-from-behind fashion. Hes one of 10 racers in BIRs six-race Bracket Drag
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Ray Fuchs and his super cool looking 53 Studebaker

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W
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hile preparing to meet my young athlete I was trying to wrap my head around a 5 year old quad racer, not sure what to expect from someone so young. As I approached the family I could see a black race gear jersey with hot pink accents, long blonde hair pulled back into a ponytail, and once she turned around....the biggest blue eyes, smile and Saturday Hersey treat I had ever seen. Ok, I guess the candy treat wasn't the biggest...but when I asked where she had gotten it, the smile as she said, "From Uncle Devin (or Uncle 'D' as they call him)," made it seem larger than life to her.
October 2012
Bella Rose Schmaltz #7

(Don't Let Those Big Blue Eyes Fool You)
It's no secret how import Bella Schmaltz' uncle is to her and how important the time they spend together on and off the track is to them both. After all, he is part of the reason this little kindergartener is tearing up the track on her very own quad. Her Mom and Devin's sister, Cheyenne has had young Bella around quad racing since she was born. They used to put cotton balls in her ears when they first started going in order to keep out the wind and noise. She always had a natural draw to being at the track and around the quads. At age 4, Bella received her first quad from Devin for her birthday/Christmas present, and started racing that next summer. It was quite the family affair with everyone wearing the same shirts in support of Bella, cheering for their little girl out there for the first time. Even then they could see how much that meant and how proud she was to be following in her uncle's footsteps. For only being a beginner she hasn't wasted any time to show no fear on the track. She now runs on a stock Honda TRX 90, until next year when she will be ready
Written by Ceaja Philp
to handle some modifications. Devin and Cheyenne know she would have the throttle pegged if she could, so for now they have it throttle- stopped and are spending a lot of time on technique, reaction, thinking ahead, staying safe, and having fun! It must be working because in her short time racing she has been injury free, just a few bumps and bruises, and progressed enough to find herself a 2nd place in overall points in the 2011 season, and a 5th place in her very first DMC race in 2012. She was also able to take part in an autograph signing during the infamous Monster Jam held in the area. Bella has been able to attend a couple of Pro races throughout the years and doesn't miss a thing when it comes to who the racers are and what they are doing on the track. As a matter of fact it was during a Pro race after watching the freestyle that she decided her goal is to be able to do a flip off a jump with her quad. She currently does most of her racing at Buffalo River Race Park (BRRP) in Glyndon, MN. As she advances and gets older she will have more options for competi-
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tion, and assured me she will continue to race right alongside her Uncle D;) The family greatly appreciates the sponsors who believe in Bella and back her racing: Kustom Koncepts, who designed the decals for her quad and their race rig, GM Doctor in West Fargo, and Joe Rents & Contractors Supply, along with her family and friends.
Bella considers herself a normal 5 year old girl, coloring, playing outside, shopping, and going to school, but watch out for all of that young innocence...she is still a racer
and gunning to hit the track against Uncle D one day.
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October 2012
Hay Days 2012

Written by Kim KimmyCat Niles
Once again, the swap meet provided an endless supply of items ranging from the rare antique sleds to hard-to-find parts and accessories to just about anything ever invented. Entering the swap area is a daunting task; however those on a mission were likely to find what they were looking for if they searched every corner. For those seeking the latest in snowmobiling equipment, fashion and accessories, the vendor booths were filled with new items for sale, including unveiling the latest in snowmobiles and all the gear to go with them. Other event features included the ATV and UTV demo track, RC track, autograph sessions, manufacturer freebies, food
Snowmobile enthusiasts were once again treated to a stellar event at the 46th annual Sno-Barons Haydays World Championships. This is one event that continues to grow and provide fantastic entertainment and interactive displays year after year. The Wheels of Thunder booth was located at the bottom of the Freestyle Expo course where the Mystik Lubricants TerraCross Championship races made their debut at Haydays this year. Along with the freestyle action of bikes, quads and sleds in this rugged terrain, the new TerraCross Championship race provided an exciting peek at the world of side-by-side racing for those who had never seen TerraCross before. Many sled racers and riders are passionate about this fickle sport, which only offers a short season, at best. However, the ATV/UTV sport offers a similar
experience and is becoming versatile enough to provide year-round access. New York state raised the bar this year by opening up the snowmobile trail systems for summer ATV/UTV riding and thus encouraging a whole new experience for riders.
courts and beer gardens. This is truly an event that offers just about anything and everything you could want, all starting from the original reason the whole shebang got started; grass drag racing. The weather on Saturday was a factor as the changes in temperature, wind speed and barometric pressure made it challenging to get the sleds dialed in for the races. The recent dry weather also played a role as the newly added sprinkler systems worked hard to keep the track moisture up and dust down. A small problem with the new sprinklers on Saturday was quickly located and corrected by Sunday morning. Luckily, the weather stabilized somewhat for the finals on Sunday and provided a beautiful day for racers, swappers and spectators alike. Racing fans were treated to a great series of grass drags this year ranging from the smallest 120cc KittyCat
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to the popular Lake Racers and up to the big Outlaw Power Adder class, producing power in excess of 600-horsepower with their heavily modified snowmobiles. Throughout the weekend, grass drag race fans were treated to exciting heats. As the racers began to reach the finals for the myriad of classes, a few names became more and more familiar as they advanced in their classes and took the wins. Names like Walter Joy, Matt LaMire, Randy Price and Kyle Shilts, to name just a few. Heres how some of their places stacked up: #723 Randy Price - 1st Place Lake Racer #3x Walter Joy - 1st place Outlaw Power Adder - 1st Place Pro Stock 800 #31 Matt LaMire - 2nd Place Improved Stock 440 Pro - 2nd Place Heavy Mod 440 Pro - 2nd Place Stock 500 Pro - 1st Place Pro-Stock 700 Pro - 1st Place Pro-Mod 700 Pro - 2nd Place Improved Stock 700 Pro - 1st Place Stock 800 Pro - 1st Place Stock 1000 Pro #112 Kyle Shilts - 2nd Place Open Mod 700 Pro - 1st Place Heavy Mod 800 Pro - 1st Place Open Mod 1000 Pro - 2nd Place Heavy Mod 1000 Pro - 1st Place Factory Mod 2 Pro - 1st Place Improved Stock Factory Turbo But one name came up more often than the others when it came to taking 1st place. Dean Schroeder from Shawano, Wisconsin has been racing at Haydays for about 35 years. His unique style of modified snowmobiles with the box-style chassis are still built the same way as they all were back in the day. There was no mistake when Dean pulled his #5 sled up to the starting line, hes the only one left at Haydays with the truly modified racing sleds.
These custom built sleds are a major source of pride for the Schroeder family. Deans son Scott was given credit for making them all go so fast. Dean was quick to point out that their family business, Schroeder Performance, builds (and sells) the chassis for all of the sleds that he races. All in all, Dean competed in 10 classes, took 1st in 7 of the classes, 2nd place in one, and was the only competitor in another. #5 Dean Schroeder - 1st Place Heavy Mod 440 Pro - 1st Place Open Mod 500 Pro - 1st Place Heavy Mod 500 Pro - 1st Place Open Mod 600 Pro - 1st Place Heavy Mod 600 Pro - 1st Place Open Mod 700 Pro - 1st Place Heavy Mod 700 Pro - 2nd Place Open Mod 800 Pro In addition, Dean broke world records for speed in two of the classes he competed in. The first world record was in the 500 Open, which Dean completed in 5.051 seconds with a record setting speed of 94.26 mph. The second record was in the 700 Open, completed in 4.651 seconds and with a new world record speed of 108.64 mph. To top it all off, two of his grandchildren entered the 120cc class, both completing their runs, but Not as fast as Grandpa. It was a good day for the Schroeder family. Dean and his family traveled to Haydays from Shawano, Wisconsin, which is near Green Bay. They all joke that it was a cruel trick he played on his mom growing up so close to Green Bay and Packer country. But, they were all quick to reassure everyone at Haydays that they are Vikings fans, through and through! Dean would like to thank his sponsors, including Schroeder Performance Center, Wiseco Pistons, Midwest Crankshaft, VForce, NGK Spark Plugs, Stud Boy, U.S. Chrome, PowerMadd, Auto Haus, Walker Forge Inc. and a special thanks to Mark Hill.
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A LEGENDARY HILL
ts not hard to imagine the long history of hill climbing at Valley Springs Elk Farm, especially while peering up at a 500 foot, rut-filled, vertical climb with memory laden stones jutting out throughout the course. The stones of this hill compare to fishing tales, like the big one that got away. Every rider has faced the inevitable bumps and jolts as one by one the stones have become jarred loose, only to roll down the hill and join countless others at the bottom. It is a legendary hill.
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Written by Kim KimmyCat Niles Photography by Mike Nelson
For the last 20 years the hill has been home to a herd of Elk, quietly waiting for another whiff of high octane, the rev of a motor, and the grip of wheels digging into the dirt and grass that has slowly settled in and around the stones. It was the stones, and the stories that surround them, that lead to the idea of reopening the hill. In 2010, the Valley Springs Motorcycle Club of Bay City, Wisconsin convinced the current landowner to once again hold a Hillclimb event. By the summer of 2011, the club held their first event in two decades. The club members, many of whom had ridden the hill in the past, joined forces with the ever-supportive community and a whole new generation of riders to help make the event happen. Even the specta-
tors who came to watch that first year were returning visitors from days gone by. A bit rugged around the edges themselves, they came in droves to see their old friend, the hill. Shortly after their successful re-opening event, the club was asked to host the next AMA Amateur Hillclimb Championships, which was to be held in August, 2012. The very first hill climbing events at the hill happened much the same way. The idea began in early 1976 and by that fall the hill was ready and hosted its 1st event, followed by Nationals the following year in 1977 and again in 1981 and 1986. The hill hosted events for over a decade, with riders coming from near and far to have their turn at breaking the hill and the records held there. It was in 1982 that Dean Gerdes set the last hill record of 10.261 seconds on a 1982 Suzuki RM465. That record stood for 30 years. Throughout the first day of the 2012 AMA Championships, the crowd watched as hundreds of riders tried and failed at beating the hill record. Even the 10 second mark was tough to break until Mitch Koester topped the hill with a time of 10.993 seconds on his second run in the 750cc class, the winning time for that class for the weekend. Just when everyone thought the hill record might just hold for another year, Logan Cipala topped the hill at an astonishing 10.249 seconds in the Open Class and a new hill record was set. The rest of the day, the riders struggled to get out of the ruts
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and deep dust as stones became unearthed and the hill took its toll on the remaining riders. An unexpected and soaking rain began to fall around 10:45pm that evening. The remaining crowd, enjoying the live music at the bottom of the hill, was forced to run for cover. By morning, the rain had changed over to drizzles as the first riders began to take their final turns at conquering the hill. It was easy to recognize that the hill had transformed overnight, especially when young Kaden Funk actually cleared the hill with 32.166 seconds in the 65cc class. This was the first time one of the little guys had ever made it to the top! Imag-
deep dirt near its crest. The list of competitors was waning and a few of the
hopefuls had trouble even getting to the top. And, just as the crowd began to wonder again if they had seen the last of the record breaking runs, Kirk Mueller flew to the top with his big bore Suzuki and shattered the hill record with a mind-blowing 9.465 seconds, taking both the King of the Hill and the Fast Time records! By the end of the weekend, the American Motorcycle Association crowned 23 different class Grand Champions. And so ends another year for the hill, as it remains unsure what the future holds. Just when it has begun to come alive again, its fate once again lies in the hands of others. The current landowner has placed the property on the market, and uncertainty looms as everyone wonders if the new owners will em-
ine the excitement when Brock Riffe followed with an astonishing 25.381 seconds in the same class. By this time, everyone was confident that records would fall throughout the day. The hill felt good. You could almost feel it pulling the riders up and over and quite a few 10 second runs got logged in the books early in the day. But, as the day progressed, the hill once again became difficult to navigate. Just when it seemed that the new hill record would go unchallenged, Zach Degross took the Open Class lead with a 10.194 second run on his Kawasaki, followed shortly after by Todd Cipala with a crowd pleasing 10.106 seconds on his Harley in the Senior (+40) Class. To top the weekend off, the King of the Hill competition was on deck. The top 10 riders from each lane, regardless of class, competed for the ultimate title of King of the Hill, a six foot trophy, and all of the bragging rights that go with it. The crowd watched anxiously as the first riders got in good times, but the hill was now boasting severe ruts at the foot, massive stones in its mid-section, and
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brace the pride of the community. Future events are dependent on it, and we can only hope that the hill might once again give and take, as it has so many times before. The Valley Springs Motorcycle Club would like to thank the more than 200 volunteers who helped make this years event a success, including the Ellsworth Football Booster Club, the local Boy Scouts, Eidsvold Lutheran Church, Valley Springs Elk Farm, countless others and, of course, the hill.
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Powercruise 2012
Round Two From Down Under

owerskids, Hour of Power, Cruising Car Show, Sound Off, Burnouts, Off-Street Drags, Miss Powercruise, Drifting, Dyno Shootout, Show and Shine......this year BIR (Brainerd International Raceway) hosted round two of the Australian originated Powercruise! This year's show brought just shy of triple the cars from year one...if that isn't proof of how much it has to offer I don't know what is! Once again, all at the same track, on the same weekend!
The event brought hi-tech imports, classic and old school muscle cars, nitrous and blown injected show stoppers, and more. There was a little something for all ages and all kinds of car enthusiasts to enjoy. BIR also provided plenty of room for camping right on sight so you didn't have to miss a minute of action. Between events we had Authority Stunts riders putting on a show with rolling endos, spreaders, high chairs, flips, and much more. Sponsors and vendors were there to display and provide the latest on their products, and music was happening on the outside stage to help with the nights activities. Michael Gilbert ('Gup' as he is better known as), of Brisbane, Australia, the creator of the Powercruise concept was a crowd favorite again showing what his
green Holden HQ '(Elvis' as we were introduced to it) was made to do. He was happy to see he had some people who had put some time and effort into coming after his
famous PowerSkid record (still a ways to go, but they are working on it)! I heard more positive talk about spreading the word and plans to make year three even
larger! Keep up on what will be in store by finding them at www.powercruise.com or on Facebook Powercruise USA
October 2012
IWA Finale Brainerd International Raceway, Sept 15-16, 2012

Written by Mike Benoy Photos provided by Sadie Simonsen The International Watercross Association held the final event of the 2012 IWA World Series of Watercross on Sept. 15-16 at Brainerd International Raceway. In a weekend marked by beautiful weather and great racing, the IWA faithful sent the 2012 racing season out with a bang! The final race of the season is always an exciting event as racers are not only vying for the win of the event, but also battling for World Series points totals as well. This years event was no exception!
Young David Fischer of Eagan, Minnesota completed a rare feat in high-level snowmobile racing by completing a perfect season in the high-speed Mod Drag class. Fischer, aboard the Motorsports Plus powered Yamaha, won every single race he entered during the season en route to 5 wins, a World Championship, and a Season Points title. Fischer also took his second title in the Stock 800 Drag class in the past 3 years, icing the competition with an impressive final event win aboard a different machine than he raced the rest of the season with. The Stock 600 class champion for 2012 was Krystle Kulenkamp of Mora, MN.
onship of the year with a 2nd place finish in the final. Trevor Fjosne of Willow River, MN took the win and ended the season in 2nd place in points behind Fischer. In Semi-Pro Open action, Nick Gustafson capped off a championship season with a solid 3rd place finish in the final. Nick will be moving into the Pro Open class for next season and I look forward to seeing him compete at that level. Joe Schellbach , racing in his first event of the 2012 season, went undefeated for the weekend and took the win aboard his Speedwerx Performance Arctic Cat. Schellbach will be a force next year if he races the entire schedule! Dale Lindbeck captured his second consecutive title in the Pro Stock division this year, finishing 3rd at BIR behind winner
Chad Maki, and 2nd place finisher Howie Steenberg in the final. Lindbecks Team Arctic machine was flawless all year long as was its pilot. Dale continues to amaze me as a racer year after year, he is truly ageless on the racetrack. Chad Maki was very impressive all year in the class as well, but unable to overcome Lindbecks consistency.
Krystle ended the season at BIR with a big win in the final and propelled herself to a series championship in the process. Krystle was eager to thank her father, Mark and her Boyfriend Joey for helping her this season as well as Bikeman Performance, and Boyesen Reeds who sponsor her. The Semi-Pro Stock oval division was dominated in 2012 by David Fischer. He was able to seal his 3rd Season Points Champi-
The Pro Open class in 2012 was dominated by Chad Maki. Going into the final at BIR Maki was in lane one on the inside. Heading down the front straightaway, he was about a sled length behind Lindbeck in lane 2 and Kyle Carpenter in lane 3. Chad cut it over hard in the first turn, but just a bit too tight, putting him on the bottom of the pond. Lindbeck took the lead and never looked back. Maki, however, had an insurmountable lead in the series points and at the young age of 21 years, captured his second Pro Open points title. Lindbeck finished the season in 2nd place, Kyle Carpenter finished in 3rd. For full results of the event and the 2012 IWA World Series of Watercross season points, you can visit the IWA website at www.iwaracing.com.
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Written and photographed by John Krueger for Ricekiller.com

accessories and goodies include a TRD 160 degree t-stat, new timing belt, all new Toyota gaskets and seals, and a custom painted valve-cover. The rest of the car is as spotless as the motor and engine bay. The factory '98 exterior is aggressive and stylish, and most don't believe Andy when he says the paint is factory. However, to spruce up the outside a bit, he added an Origin rear lip, VIS hood, and F1-style mirrors all made in lightweight carbon-fiber. Suspension has been upgraded with Tein Super-Drift coilovers with stiffer Eibach springs and a catalog Cusco and Tanabe braces. Brakes have been upgraded with larger, 300ZX brake calipers and Endless rotors. The wheels (Andy's sixth set mind you) are his favorite yet; 17x9.5 Enkei RPF-1s. Aggressive, and lightweight these wheels are popular with many tuners and Andy's 240 wears them well. The interior of the car features a pair of Kirket racing seats with RCI harnesses to keep driver and passen-
Life is all about compromise. This is especially true when you enter the married life. You see, when you're married you're no longer making decisions for yourself. You have a better-half that needs to put in her (or his) two-cents. Andy Kusske and Mitch Patterson know how to compromise with their better-halves because with a bit of compromising they own these two black beauties. Andy's 1998 Nissan 240sx- The story of Andy's pristine '98 240sx starts back in 2003. Him and his wife, Jessica, had just sold their first home and were shopping for a new place to live. Andy wanted to move out to California, but his wife wanted to stay in Minnesota. The two agreed on a compromise; they would stay in Minnesota if she buys Andy a new project car. So, with the agreement, Andy began searching, but a problem came up; he couldn't find anything he liked for the dol-
lar amount they agreed upon. When this mint, 240sx popped up, Andy started the negotiations again. The car was double our agreed price, but I explained that it was a better deal. It would cost more up front, but very little would money would have to be put into it. Needless to say, Jessica agreed and bought the car. Over the years, the car has sported many different guises; ranging from a built KA to a built SR20DET motor, but it's current setup is probably my personal favorite. At the end of 2011, I wondered how Andy was going to step the car up from it's built SR, and when I saw the car again in 2012 I needn't have worried. The heart of this car is no longer anything built by Nissan, but from competitor Toyota with engine bay now housing a 1JZGTTE twin-turbo motor from a Japanese Toyota Soarer. The swap is done and finished to a factory-fresh spec with all of the wiring done by Andy's good friend Jamie Johnson. The twin-turbo motor is spruced up with custom intake and intercooler piping ensuring the compressed air from the JDM c12b turbos reaches the intake manifold where it meets fuel supplied by the JDM 440cc injectors. A custom down-pipe and 3 exhaust provide the super-sweet tone that is expected from Toyota's straight-six cylinder motor, and everything is kept in check with an AEM V2 engine management system tuned by MAP Performance. To mate the Toyota motor to the Nissan's engine bay, custom motor mounts and transmission mounts needed to be fabbed up along with a custom drive-shaft. The custom drive-shaft connects the 240's rear-end to a Toyota R154 five-speed manual transmission with an ACT stage 4 clutch. Other under-hood
ger buckled down while a 6-point cage provide added safety. A Sparco steering wheel on a NRG quick-release hub provide the steering input while a custom dash and gauge setup provide engine vitals to Andy. All in all, Andy has built a very wellrounded car, and that was his goal from the beginning. From the show-field to the race-track, his 240 excels wherever it is, and Andy thoroughly enjoys the car. I have seen it at many local shows and events, and it's great to see an enthusiast be so supportive of the local community. It's a great car with a great owner, and it doesn't get much better than that.
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Mitch Patterson's 1994 Toyota Supra- The second car featured is a friend of Andy's, and an equally cool enthusiast. Another tale of compromise with the wife which lead to another stunning car. Mitch has always been a fan of the MK4 Toyota Supra, a true icon in the automotive world. After many years of hard work, he was in the position to buy one, but of course his wife needed a bit of coercing to allow him to pull the trigger. The price for allowing Mitch to buy his dream car? Sell one of his current toys. His 510hp, supercharged 300C SRT-8 got the elbow and his search began. Surprising to some, Mitch found his car on eBay. I had a few options; buy a completely stock one and leave it that way because these cars appreciate in value, buy a NA model and build from there, or buy one that is already built. Option one didn't work because Mitch wanted to build one for big power, and option two was deemed too expensive, which left him with option three. Now, buying a built Supra is not at all a bad idea considering the massive cost to build these cars, so buying one with good parts and all the work done is a great way to save time, money, and the headache associated with building a highcaliber car. Much to a lot of peoples' surprise, Mitch found his car on eBay. I ended up contacting the seller directly and negotiated a price over the phone. I then had the car shipped directly from Scottsdale, AZ back to Minnesota. I don't think I slept for the 4 days the car was in transit, explained Mitch. With the car finally in his possession, he had his entrusted shop, Full Blown Motorsports in Apple Valley, MN, give the car the once over. Now, with any used car purchase, there will always be a few gremlins to sort and it applies to already-built
boost turned down, the Supra produces 818whp through the GM TH400 transmission meaning that the motor is producing an easy 1,000hp. Not bad for a 6cyl. The fully-built 3.0L Toyota motor is given some heavy, assisted breathing via a massive Garrett gt47-80 turbo-charger. The basketballsized turbo sits atop a Sound Performance
T6 turbo manifold. Boost is fed through 3 intercooler piping to a Titan Motorsports 5 intercooler, then through 4 piping to a Sound Performance race-style intake manifold. Ethanol fuel is fed to the motor via two 340lph fuel pumps to a Sound Performance fuel rail and six, 1600cc fuel injectors. Everything is kept in check with an AEM engine management system tuned by LJ at Full Blown Motorsports. The aforementioned GM TH400 transmission puts the power to the rear wheels which can be one of two sets; 19x10 and 19x11 CCW SP500s for street duty, or 16x4 and 16x10.5 CCW Classics for when it's time to get down at the drag strip. Now, it would take me many more pages to write about the motor and build of this car. That's the nature with big-power Supra builds; there is literally a laundry list of parts into this car, and this one follows suit with a repertoire of trade-mark Supra styling cues. The factory body lines are well enough left alone save for a carbon-
fiber Wings West lip and carbon-fiber RMM spoiler. A carbon-fiber TS-style hood helps vent excess heat from the massive turbo as well as shed a few pounds from the Supra's rather heavy body. Other Supra styling cues include 98 head lights, tail lights, and turn signals which round off a classic look. Inside, the car remains largely untouched. New leather seats front and rear, new carpet, and a carbon-fiber dash kit spruce things up while a traditional array of various gauges give the driver the desired engine read-outs. Mitch has a few plans to make this Supra his own, starting the with engine management system as he wants to switch from the AEM to Haltech's Platinum series EMS. Other planned changes include a new exhaust, larger injectors and a bigger fuel rail to fully realize the 2JZ's power-potential on e85 fuel. As I packed up my photo gear from the shoot and watched both cars drive off, I couldn't help but think that a little compromising resulted in those two machines. Usually the toys are the first things to go for a married man, so this is proof that there is hope! Seriously though, both owners would like to thank their wives for allowing them to enjoy their hobby. So guys (and gals) don't give up! With a little compromising, there's no telling what you can do.
cars too. Mitch has been sorting issues since the cars purchase but as of now the car is running healthy and he's been getting used to the big-power potential that this car has. In its current trim with the
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rag Racing in Iowa does not get any better than the event I attended located just south of Earlville, Iowa along the east bound lane of Hwy 20. This is grass roots racing at its finest, where racers without the aid of major sponsorships rely on their own innovations to get them to the finish line first. Dont get me wrong, some classes require deep pockets, but I admire the craftsmanship and sacrifices these racers make to enjoy a passion they love.
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track was built by racersfor racers, and the people I visited with had nothing but praise for the facilities. Following are highlights of class events which took place: Gord Gingles stomped the Top Alcohol Dragster field to strengthen his hold on the Central Region points lead, and Kirk Williams won Top Alcohol Funny Car to tie Kris Hool for the top spot in the region. In the Top Alcohol Dragster final, Gingles left within a hundredth of Chase Copeland, .080 to .089, and made his strongest run of the weekend, 5.48, for his second regional victory in his last three outings. He also scored at Cordova. Copeland, who usually does his best at the end of the season, dropped cylinders a few hundred feet off the starting line and slowed to a 7.43 at 126 mph.
Gingles ran back-to-back 5.57s in the early rounds to eliminate past national event champions John Finke and Randy Meyer. Finke, racing far from his upstate New York base on back-to-back weekends in an attempt to win the East Region championship, got off the mark first with a .048 reaction time but lost with a 5.66 in the first round. Meyer, who surprisingly is winless this season, fell to Gingles in the semis with a tire-smoking, backpedaling 5.77. Copeland topped Christine Chambless in the first round with a 5.44 and newcomer Dean Dubbin in the semi's with a 5.48, leaving first both times. Back-to-back runner-ups, including one at the Brainerd national event three weeks ago, have him back to 10th in the national standings, where he's finished in each of the past two seasons.
Written by John Lentzkow
Reid and Jane Kuhlman started ground breaking for this drag strip in the fall of 1996 and opened for business in June 1998. What began as common farm ground, has been transformed into one of the Midwest's premier motorsports facilities. The NHRA Lucas Oil Drag Racing Series held September 7th thru the 9th attracted a total of 482 entries throughout the country and Canada. Ideal weather offered the opportunity for setting many new NHRA class records. Camping sites and pits were filled with Motorhomes with race haulers. Spectators were able to roam the area and get up front and personal with the race teams. This
Nahan's second in three final rounds this year as he won at S.R.C.A. Dragstrip to open the season. Phil Unruh continued his winning ways taking yet another trophy in the division's Fineline/Madcap Top Dragster class. Unruh, who leads the points battle, ran down Matt Driskell for the trophy at 212 mph in 6.437 seconds. The McPherson, Kan., racer won both the Top Dragster and Super Stock classes last Thursday at the conclusion of the Lucas Oil event from Heartland Park Topeka which was completed here at Tri-State Raceway. Mike Lund and Tyler Wudarczyk each scored victories as Lund beat Fred Bartoli Sr. in Super Stock and Wudarczyk won over Michael Brand in Stock. Lund, Bettendorf, Iowa, went 10.086 at 115 mph in his '88 Camaro while Wudarczyk jumped to the No. 3 position in Stock points behind Brand. Other winners this weekend were Chris Brown, Wichita, Kan., in Super Comp; Ricky Hill, Gretna, Neb., in Super Gas; Bob Fuller, Rogers, Ark., in Super Street; Tom Schmidt, Lindstrom, Minn., in the Jerry Haas Race Cars Top Sportsman class; and Derek Dorey, Kingswood, Texas, in Sportsman Motorcycle presented by Harley Davidson. The following are Sunday's final results from the NHRA Lucas Oil Drag Racing Series, West Central Division event at TriState Raceway:
In the Top Alcohol Funny Car final, Williams beat Cordova runner-up Dale Brand on a holeshot, 5.79 to 5.75. Williams had his best reaction time of the race, .041, against Brand's .090 to hold off the faster car by 11-thousandths of a second. "Dale was running a couple hundredths quicker than us, so I figured I'd better get after it on the Tree because there was nothing to lose," said Williams, who's won countless races on holeshots during his career. "I knew I was going to have to shortshift because the right lane here can be really tricky to get down, and I hit the button at 8,500." Brand, who has two-runner-ups and a semifinal showing in his only three starts this season, won the first round with a solid 5.76 after Wayne Butler red-lighted. Williams defeated Mike Bell in that round with a 5.750, which, at the time, was low e.t. Brand reclaimed low e.t. for good in the semifinals with a 5.73 against Lance Van Hauen, who ended the weekend with a pair of semifinals finishes, including one from the rescheduled Topeka event that was completed at Earlville. Williams survived that round with a 5.79 win over No. 1 qualifier Scott McVey. "This whole weekend was chaotic," Williams said. "On the first qualifying run, the car just died and rolled down the track. The next morning, it wouldn't start. We borrowed a mag from Dean Dubbin, who
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didn't even know me, and a main cap from Lance Van Hauen, who had to take his spare motor out from under the bench to get one we could use. If it wasn't for those guys, we never would have made it." Williams' victory ties him with Hool atop the Central standings. Both have 266 points. For Williams, who won five races and the Division 5 championship in 2010, and Hool, who's parking his car at the end of this season, it all comes down to the penultimate regional event of the season this weekend in Noble, Okla. Comp Eliminator saw Pat Nahan take the win and jump to the No. 2 spot in divisional points as he beat Shaun Vincent in 7.323 seconds at 167 mph. The win is
October 2012
TOP ALCOHOL DRAGSTER: ROUND ONE

6) Dean Dubbin, Royalton, Minn., 5.662, 241.24 def. 3) Edwin Schmeeckle, Gothenburg, Neb., 8.311, 127.17; 4) Gord Gingles, Winnipeg, Manit., 5.579, 258.12 def. 5) John Finke, Selkirk, N.Y., 5.662, 263.98; 2) Ryan Copeland, Gainesville, Tex., 5.445, 269.29 def. 7) Christine Chambless, Scott City, Kan., 6.761, 146.42; 1) Randy Meyer, Spring Hill, Kan., 11.063, 105.44 def. 8) Jared Dreher, Clinton, Ind., broke;
SEMI-FINALS
Brand, 5.731, 253.37 def. Van Hauen, 5.855, 245.54; Williams, 5.794, 249.07 def. McVey, 7.104, 171.99;
TOP SPORTSMAN
Tom Schmidt, Lindstrom, Minn., '63 Corvette, 6.897, 201.82 def. Rick Wilson, Independence, Kan., '69 Camaro, 6.983, 191.05.
FINALS
Williams, 5.791, 249.03 def. Brand, 5.753, 251.77.
TOP DRAGSTER
Phil Unruh, McPherson, Kan., dragster, 6.437, 212.93 def. Matt Driskell, Wellsville, Kan., dragster, 6.889, 194.83.
COMPETITION ELIMINATOR
Pat Nahan, Sartell, Minn., dragster, E/D, 7.323, 167.28 def. Shaun Vincent, Omaha, Neb., '02 S-10, C/TA, 8.525, 157.30.
SPORTSMAN MOTORCYCLE
Derek Dorey, Kingswood, Texas, '03 Razor, 8.760, 150.70 def. David Primrose, Cedar Rapids, Iowa, '96 Kawasaki, 8.769, 147.50.
SUPER STOCK
Mike Lund, Bettendorf, Iowa, '88 Camaro, GT/EA, 10.086, 115.46 def. Fred Bartoli Sr., Elk Grove, Ill., '98 Firebird, SS/IA, 11.421, 88.11.
SEMI-FINALS
Gingles, 5.574, 259.66 def. Meyer, 5.777, 250.74; Copeland, 5.483, 269.13 def. Dubbin, 5.567, 253.90;
SUPER COMP SHOOTOUT

Jarod Bowman, Marion, Iowa, dragster, 8.907, 168.66 def. Don Nichols, Lincoln, Neb., dragster, 8.896, 160.02.
FINALS
Gingles, 5.489, 262.44 def. Copeland, 7.437, 126.79.
STOCK ELIMINATOR
Tyler Wudarczyk, Topeka, Kan., '69 Nova, G/SA, 11.412, 99.26 def. Michael Brand, Thornton, Colo., '73 Formula, F/SA, 11.068, 107.67.
TOP ALCOHOL FUNNY CAR: ROUND ONE

2) Dale Brand, Sully, Iowa, '06 Monte Carlo, 5.769, 251.16 def. 7) Wayne Butler, Forest City, Ill., '02 Firebird, foul; 1) Scott McVey, Winnipeg, Manit., '06 Monte Carlo, 33.434, no speed def. 8) Bruce Carlson, Prior Lake, Minn., '97 Firebird, broke; 3) Lance Van Hauen, Reinbeck, Iowa, '12 Camaro, 5.790, 247.61 def. 6) Kris Hool, Casper, Wyo., '06 Monte Carlo, no-show; 4) Kirk Williams, Glenwood, Iowa, '02 Camaro, 5.750, 251.44 def. 5) Mike Bell, Fulton, Mo., '11 Mustang, 7.637, 127.57;
SUPER GAS SHOOTOUT

David Nelson, Randall, Minn., '99 Camaro, 15.693, 89.57 def. Al Gavlovsky, Bemidji, Minn., '63 Corvette, broke.
SUPER COMP
Chris Brown, Wichita, Kan., dragster, 8.889, 168.56 def. Dave Dahlem, Tremont, Ill., dragster, 8.882, 171.21.
SUPER STREET SHOOTOUT

James Wilson, Milan, Ill., '64 Nova, 10.998, 122.37 def. Roger Hayward, Ankeny, Iowa, '67 Fairlane, 10.908, 135.62.
SUPER GAS
Ricky Hill, Gretna, Neb., '93 Olds, 9.930, 145.88 def. Kurt Potach, Austin, Minn., '97 Beretta, 9.936, 143.38.
SUPER STREET
Bob Fuller, Rogers, Ark., '69 Firebird, 10.858, 145.94 def. Steve Domingues, Derby, Kan., '67 Camaro, 10.855, 146.64.
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t's unusual to see more than a single truck at a time in Volga City, Iowa (population 208) until the last weekend in August, that is. This year more than 500 trucks and a couple of thousand people descended on the streets of Volga City for what is billed as Iowa's Largest Truck Event.
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paved area protected by guard rails. Truck after truck showed their stuff with engines screaming and tires smoking. This was the burnout contest, a preview to the next event, tug-a-truck. That's when two competitors would back up to one another, hook onto a steel bar on each end, and then try to pull the other across a line. That's when a truck's real power shows through, and each competitor had three chances to prove his horsepower was greater than the truck at the other end of the bar. This went on until a mid-evenind
Tschiggfrie from Dubuque, Iowa showed up with his unbelievable Supercharged Twin Turbo Chevy Duramax Dieselg rain chased off most people, and ended the evening's festivities. Sunday morning the rain was all gone, and crowds came back, in numbers higher than Tom had even expected, lining the banks of the Volga River. Across the river, Tom had poured a cement pad, and had a firstyear expedition tryout practice on his new figure 8 pad. Screaming and skidding were the order of the day, as drivers sought to
In the early afternoon, Tom Lott, the 34year old organizer, took the stage and explained the rules. Then all of the drivers hopped in their trucks with friends, girlfriends and kids, and started the long roll out of town, most hitting the gas pretty hard just past the sheriff deputy stopping cross traffic, and heading up the hill right past Tom's farm. Just imagine a 500 plus truck cruise through several towns including Wadena, Iowa before the final swing through the rolling hills and dairy farms back into Volga City. That's when the real noise got underway. Crowds filled both sides of the staging and
October 2012 Rod Tschiggfrie from Dubuque, Iowa showed up with his unbelievable Supercharged Twin Turbo Chevy Duramax Diesel. www.WheelsofThunder.net Page 41
The event benefits renovation of the Volga City Opera House for a truck-themed steak house http://www.vctcinc.com/
Todd Larson, a major sponsor of the event, from Oelwein, Iowa, brought his Monster Truck to woo the spectators.
navigate donuts and figure 8s, weaving around cones with precision. Crowds cheered loudly for the best of the drivers. Then, for a cool down, Todd Larson rolled into gear with his monster trucks, Big Guns and Mud Pimp, chasing water up river. In the afternoon, more tests of truck integrity kicked in with locals repeating the tryouts
from earlier in the weekend. The festival wrapped up with the firing off of spectacular rounds of fireworks, courtesy of Todd's Specialized Rigging. Calls came in from towns far and wide that the fireworks could be seen and enjoyed by all those who had gone on home, and then little Volga City went back to sleep for another year.
Browns Sales Leasing and RVs, also a major sponsor of the event, provided new trucks on display
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October 2012
Don Hering The Da Vinci of

Classic and Custom Paint
I
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am finding out that many of our talented Custom Builders and Painters started out their craft as a youngster with interest in models, cars, planes, characters. I remember as a kid building those really cool muscle cars from scratch, piece by piece, painting them up, and adding those killer logos and graphics. If you look at the phase that we went through as kids, is there any difference with the custom builders and painters as they took the craft to several levels up?
October 2012
Written By Billy Boyle
Rider/V Twin Bike of the Year and Rats Hole Show held in Sturgis (bike was built by Jerry Burrow from Road Hawgs). Hering Kustoms also painted the bike that was at the Million Dollar Bike Build-Off at the Rally held in Heritage Charleston, SC. Hering Kustoms has been in business since 1974. Don Hering and Judd Holmberg are prime examples of men that are true Masters of their trade. Hering Kustoms always provides top quality work and amazing paint jobs. They are currently working with, and have worked with Hamel Power, Extreme Custom Cycles, Doc's Chops and Shocks Harley in Pennsylvania, Phill Borriello's Chopper Shop in Delaware, Road Hawgs, MC Iron Works, and Divinchi Performance out of Texas. Don Herings business is located on his personal farm located in the Northfield, Minnesota area. Don transformed a nice shop area to focus on classic cars, hot rods, bikes, and snowmobiles. As Don talks about his accomplishments you cant help to see how he treats every project as the one and only. Winning the prestigious Easy Rider Bike of the Year awards in 2005 and 2006, "The 2005 entry was done by Judd Holmberg of Hering Kustom Paint; Judd was named Painter of the Year for his very talented effort on this bike." This is looked upon in the paint community as the academy award of custom painters. Don estimates he does about 10 classy and unique paint jobs per year and one bike build. The customer has some unique requirements for their machine. Don can guide them in the right direction for class and cost. Dons projects are not exclusive
Meet Don Hering extremely well know in the custom bike and hot rod community for his craftsmanship and quality work. Don like many of the talented builders and painters started out with the model phase, but in 1974 took that experience to real cars, hot rods, and bikes as a hobby, but 1976 saw the opportunity to expand that talent to a full fledged business. Hering Kustoms is a custom paint and body shop in Northfield, MN. They have won many prestigious awards such as Easy
October 2012
to bikes only, the paint canvas has been a variety of machines, and he has also won some high end Hot Rod awards. Don has also won the Reno Hot August Nights, Bloomington Gold for Corvettes in Indiana and countless classic car shows where Dons customers entries have won repeated awards for paint jobs by Don Hering. I personally attended a classic car show where a 1951 Mercury that won best body and paint was a project Don took on 20 years ago and the classic still takes the prize today even after the Mercury was sold several times. Hows that for quality craftsmanship? If you not convinced that Don is the real deal, Kevin Baas a well know builder and teacher at Bloomington Kennedy High School where his students have taken first prize at several Custom Bike shows, says Don is one the best painters in the world. Now you cant get any better feedback from a guy that has also dealt with many fabricators and painters in the industry. With the snowmobile season coming upon us Don is gearing up for putting some of his signature paint jobs on those crazy, but extremely fast snowmobiles used for ice racing and straight runs. The bottom line is if you are in the market for quality craftsmanship, eye popping paint jobs, and walking away with trophy after trophy for your prized machine. You need to contact Don Hering. Hering Kustoms is located at 2822 100 St East in Northfield, MN, Phone number 507-6457065. Shop hours are 9:00 am to 8:00 pm Monday through Saturday or Check out Dons website at www.heringkustoms.com
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Written by Brad Coplan

Opening Cermonies then began between 7 and 7:30 once the parade was finished. Throughout Friday and Saturday there were bike demo rides, vendors, bingo and a lot of food. The headliner for Friday and Saturday nights were the bands Vic Ferrari and Spicy Tie. Saturday morning we arrived in the area of the rally site, found a restaurant and had breakfast and then headed to the rally. We decided to do our shopping now since there wasnt a lot of people there yet. Wausau HD had a trailer set up outside their store with items at a discount price. I managed to pick up two t-shirts for less than the price of one. We also checked out the deals inside the Wausau HD Store. I just returned from the 2012 HOG Rally in Wausau Wi. The rally was held from August 16 through the evening of the 18th, on the property of the Wausau Harley Davidson Dealership. Even though its the Wausau HD the actual location is in Rothschild which is at the south junction of Hwy 29 and Interstate 51. The rally opened on Thursday however, we were not able to take off until Friday at 1pm. We took off from Hammond, WI with the bikes all loaded for a weekend of fun. We headed east on Hwy 12 to Menomonie where we picked up Interstate 94 and took that a few miles to Hwy 29. We then continued east on Hwy 29 all the way to Wausau. Not being in a big hurry our first pit stop was at a truck stop in Cadot and then back on the road. As we were getting close to the City of Abbotsford we observed a small pickup truck with several flat tires in the median and another pick up truck not too far from it. The small truck had been also east bound on Hwy 29 and it looked like he lost control or fell asleep leaving black tire marks in the fast lane. Not sure if he
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hit a west bound vehicle but the small truck ended up facing the wrong direction and had a lot of damage. Lucky for us this occurred only a few short minutes in front of us. Arriving in the Wausau area we took Interstate 51 to the South junction of Hwy 29 then east again on Hwy 29 towards Green Bay. The motel we stayed at was only about 3 miles in this direction and north of Hwy 29 to Schofield Ave. We stayed at the Westin Motel which is located directly next to the Westin Bowling Lanes and only six miles from the Hog Rally. It actually was a great place to stay and allowed us to park the bikes for the evening and have a few drinks. The bike parade started at about 6pm. We didnt attend this year as we were not done unloading the bags and unpacking. The parade left the Cedar Creek Mall which is near the rally site and traveled into Wausau via Grand Avenue and then back to the rally site via County Road X. An estimated 500 bikes were lined up for the parade.
We decided to wait around and watch the Wisconsin State Patrol Demo. This was very exciting! Five bikes came rolling in with the reds and blues on and pulled up center stage. The patrol sergeant took control of things and introduced his team and explained what they do and how they trained for this. They also showed the proper way of putting your bike back up right, if you were to lay the bike down it on its side. They showed how to set it up both the left and right sides. They also showed
October 2012
Off the Beaten Path

2012 HOG RALLY Wausau, WI
how they mount and dismount their bikes while working so their gun hand is always free for their safety. WI State Patrol Demo Team then went into some handling tips while riding and slow speed control of the bike. They did maneuvers in a small circle as well as around cones. They also did some fast speed braking tips using the front brake only, then the rear brake only and then combined braking to show how you can decrease your distance in stopping when using both brakes. This event was very entertaining and knowledgeable for all that were present. They also had JBX Freestyle Stunt Team that was very good. They used two bikes and showed several stunts from wheelies while sitting on the bike and standing on the seat, to standing upright on the seat while the bike was traveling. They also did front brake/tire stands and drove the bike while sitting on the gas tank. They were also fantastic to watch just remember to leave this kind of riding to them. Several other games were going on both days that would involve the crowd. One of the events was the passenger on the bike grabbing the hotdog with their mouth and another was the passenger throwing a water balloon over a goal post and then catching it on the other side while the bike is moving. There were of course several other games that were a little were very much adult in nature that I cant write about in this story. Looked like a lot of fun, however! Food was a plentiful; hamburgers, corn on the cob, fresh walnuts and cashews. The rally also included a free pig roast to members registered at the rally. We decided to not go for the free pig roast as Texas Roadhouse was calling our names. It was sure worth it, like usual the food was fantastic!
The rally did have a couple rides planned but we decided to go off on our own. Since I had lived in Wausau for a little over two years I knew the area well. I took our group on a little ride to Stevens Point using the back roads and then back around toward Wittenberg and back to the rally site. We put on about 100 miles on this little joy ride, it was a very nice country ride. After the rally I did talk to the 2012 HOG Rally Coordinator Tom Osowski, and he advised me that they had over 2000 people register for this event. The oldest was 82 and the youngest was 21 with the youngest HOG member being 8. Total miles driven by HOG members arriving was 450,000 and the furthest rider came from San Diego
CA. The furthest attendee was Joy Strain from Australia. They had over 200 volunteers working this event and served 500 people with the free pig roast. I would like to congratulate Tom and his team as well as the Wausau Harley Davison Dealer for a job well done. We decided to head back to the hotel and park the bikes then head over to the bowling alley for a few drinks. We awoke sunday morning and packed up the bikes and headed home. We ended up with about 475 miles on the bikes, from the weekend of riding. It was a great getting together with my friends, and fun meeting new friends and fellow riders.
I have a strange problem with my snowmobiles engine that I cant figure out??? It starts hard, but it eventually starts. Once it is running, it lacks power and has backfired a few times. I have gone through the carbs several times, even swapped them with a buddy of mine and it didnt help. I have also tried his ignition box and coil as well, but nothing seems to help. Any ideas?
Q.
Bill, Minneapolis, MN Bill, when I hear of a problem like this, there are instantly 3 things that come to mind. First of all, I would check the ignition timing with a meter or test light to see if it hasnt either advanced or retarded greatly. This would indicate a sheared flywheel key or possibly broken trigger coil mount. If you had a serious issue with a drive clutch failure, that would be my first guess. If the flywheel key, stator, and pickup coil are intact, I would begin to question whether or
A.
not the crankshaft is still in time. A quick way to check that is to take the spark plugs out and put a full length, un-sharpened pencil in each cylinder. Rotate the engine until one of them indicates you are at top dead center of the stroke. Once you establish that, if the crank is way out of phase, you will notice that during the next several degrees of motion, both pistons will be travelling in the downward direction. This can be very slight, but it can usually be seen. To know for sure, you need to use a degree wheel and a dial indicator to find out exact phase orientation. A twisted crankshaft can produce those very same symptoms. The 3rd thing that comes to mind is probably the easiest to check and that is some kind of blockage in the exhaust system. I had a family of mice move into one of my race sleds over the summer one time many years ago. The first time I fired the sled in the garage that fall, it wouldnt run very well at all. I spent half a day messing around with the carbs before I finally no-
ticed that one of the pipes wasnt pushing a very strong pulse out of it compared to the other. Ive seen a similar effect in a stock, single pipe exhaust system when a baffle broke inside the muffler box. If your sled has a muffler that is separate from the tuned pipe, try to disconnect it there and see if the symptom is remedied. Be advised, youll want some ear plugs on for this process as it will be quite loud. Im not much of a gambler, but Id be willing to bet youll find an answer if you check those 3 things. I hope that answers your questions! If you have a question you would like answered, please send them in as I am always happy to do the best I can to give you an answer. Please email your questions to editor@wheelsofthunder.net, or mail them in to the following address: Wheels Of Thunder Magazine, 13915 Radium NW, Suite D, Ramsey, MN 55303.
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October 2012
2012 ABATE OF MINNESOTA STATE RALLY

A GREAT TIME!
The 24th annual ABATE of Minnesota State Rally had something for everyone. The Thursday night PAC Bar-B-Q got everyone started on a full belly. Honestly, nobody went hungry! All proceeds from the supper support your right to ride. Friday was a day filled with biker camaraderie, new and renewed used to form policy in past years so it is important to talk to your House and Senate candidates. Tell them politely but firmly that motorcyclists will not support any attempt to modify the current adult helmet law in Minnesota.
make the Rally a success. A tip of my hat to everyone who volunteered, attended, sponsored, or were vendors at the Rally. Dont miss next year Its gonna be good! friendships and live music in the evening. Saturday was an amazing day: A ride in the morning, bike show, chili contest, tattoo contest, a wild motorcycle rodeo and the always popular fashion show. But the best was yet to come. Saturday evening everybody was treated to the straight up American rock and roll of Rhino and then legendary national recording artist Head East took the stage! And in the middle of the show, a brand new Harley was raffled off. The new owner was telling everyone within earshot I won the bike! I won the bike! The awesome food vendors and full service bar kept all the campers happy and fed. I want to give a huge thank you to Ron Ernst, the Rally Chair. Many thanks to all of the folks who helped Three Headlights? I have heard reports of motorcyclists on stock bikes getting stopped for having more than two headlights (MN statute 169.49b). I was able to talk to three people who were stopped under this bogus pretext. The correct description of this lighting configuration is one headlight and two auxiliary lamps (MN statute 169.56). A Minnesota Supreme Court decision settled this for good years ago. After consulting with Stephen OBrien, A.B.A.T.E. of Minnesotas attorney, a letter was written to various law enforcement agencies alerting them that they had officers on patrol misinterpreting the law and requesting corrective action. If you feel you have been pulled over in error, it is vital to gather as much information as you can and contact ABATE of Minnesota. This is very important information that helps us determine if we have a department wide problem or just one officer that is enforcing the law improperly. If you have questions, get in touch with me. Remember, you only have the rights you are willing to defend. Yours in freedom, Mack
State Fair Poll is for Mandatory Helmets While the Rally was going on, people were voting on a legislative survey at the Minnesota House and Senate booth in the Education Building at the State Fair. Question #4 was: "Should Minnesota motorcyclists be required to wear helmets?" 70% of the people voted yes. Honestly, this is the most halfbaked survey I have seen in a long time. In fact, even the poll writers said The poll is an informal, unscientific survey of issues discussed in prior legislative sessions However, the results of these surveys have been
October 2012
Sturgis Some American

The rivalry between Indian and Harley is full of half truths and downright lies, which is why it makes the old contest so passionate! Why after over sixty years are the lines so profoundly drawn between the two brands? The two camps still resonate arguments, disagreements and even bar room fights because the Indian brand will just not 'go away', and at times continues to be the thorn in the Motor Company's side. So, what did Indian do that makes it such a sore spot for so many years? Only the hills of South Dakota can tell the real story. Today, well over a half million people from all corners of the world and all walks of life gather in Sturgis, South Dakota each August. From hardcore bikers to weekend worriers, white collar executives to blue collar slaves, from the young barely off their pedal bike to grandparents, and everyone in between gathered this past August 6th-12th. What is it that can draw so many for so many reasons? When we attempt to research history, we find ourselves again and again coming up with different stories and ideas from those who have lived it, or have had it passed down from generation to generation. The stories are mesmerizing, and as youngsters we stare at the old timers not wanting to blink, afraid we might miss a word or expression. Now it becomes our turn to pass on the stories.but wait...someone steps on our pridethrowing in their two cents on how our story is wrong! After all, that is not the way it was and they should know because they were told from someone they know who was there and lived it. So, that being said.Who Did Start Sturgis? Indian or Harley? If you follow history back far enough, the truth reveals itself. Years ago, in the Black Hills of South Dakota a young teenager found himself driving cattle and enjoying his time on the family ranch atop his Indian motorcycle. Clarence Hoel, better know as Pappy helped with the family ice business, but knew as he watched times change the clock was ticking, and it would not be a job he could count on to support his wife, Pearl and son, Jack. After applying for his Indian Motorcycle franchise license, he opened the 1st Indian dealership in South Dakota in his garage in
Legends Just Wont Die

After these meetings many times Pappy and the boys, who road mostly Indians, out of loyalty to Hoels dealership would have good natured rivalry races with the RPMs, who mainly road Harley-Davidsons. Once the racing was done the Jackpine Gypsies would gather for an AMA (American Motorcycle Association) Gypsy Tour to the Black Hills. These became the biggest road events of the day. Every year since, the numbers of those wanting to be a part of history has grown. The rivalry continues and will always remain, but the truth of who started this event going on to its 72nd year is written in the history books. Whether you want to experience the ride, the people, the atmosphere, or the rivalry.Sturgis 2012 was the place to be!
1936. Pappy is also one of the founding members of the Jackpine Gypsies Motorcycle Club, which is the club who has been the caretaker and guardian of the Sturgis event throughout the years. The first know Sturgis event is credited on August 12-14, 1938. The Jackpine Gypsies would gather each week to talk about many local events, things that were going on within the club and the community and the races and events with the RPMC (Rapid Pioneer Motorcycle Club from Rapid City).
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over 25,000 sq. feet of

When it comes to Sturgis, people have high expectations of entertainment and fun. Seldom can you find great food, drinks, and entertainment all in the same place. When you have over 25,000 square feet of space and three floors to do so, the art of entertaining becomes a little bit easier. Easyriders Saloon has an ultimate location on the corner of Junction and Lazelle to make it easy access, and more fun, than you can handle. From steaks to pizza and everything in between; the grills will keep you fed and the bar staff will keep you hydrated! So whether its indoor dining and music or taking in the giant block party in conjunction with the Hooters Grand outdoor stage and Sickies Garage.Easyriders Saloon is the one stop entertainment palace of Sturgis! Heres what others had to say:
The menu of meals and drinks, a VIP area, and free concerts will have you coming back night after night! Its great to have the option to cool off inside or take in the street action on the outdoor balconies, daily specials, and the best food and drinks in the West! Easyriders Saloon is a year round establishment that draws locals and tourists from around the world.
Cindy of Nebraska: Many of the venues at Sturgis are ground level attractions. At Easyriders Saloon we could choose the style of dining we wanted and then take it outside as well so that the sites kept coming. Bob of Minnesota: The convenient location and guaranteed good times equates to the fact that many veteran riders, world
raucous entertainment space!

class vendors, and manufacturers representatives enjoy the food and fun. Its a great place to find old or new friends of all kinds. This being said you never know who you might meet when you stop by for a cold beverage or a world class meal. Easyriders Saloon is always on my list of favorite places to stop when I am in Sturgis for bike week. Oh, and did I mention the free concerts they had this summer? Yes there were free concerts nightly. The Hooters Grand Stage outside had bands like Dan Lawson, Warrants Cherry Pie Tour with Firehouse and Trixter, Blackberry Smoke, The Kentucky Headhunters, Hairball, and Faster Pussycat; to name a few.
Photo opportunities abound at Easyriders too! From gorgeous girls, to group biker photos you will find it all at Easyriders Saloon. From a personal perspective I stopped by the Jack Daniels Honey club for a cold one this year and I ran into an old biker friend of mine named Ron. I had not seen Ron in the last twenty years, hell I didnt even know if he was still alive! But there he was, sitting on a bar stool having a cold beverage talking to a pretty young bar maid named Lisa. This is just another reason
The bands rocking the Easyriders Saloon Indoor Stage included bands such as Jared Blake, Righteous Rectifiers, Cashd Out (Johnny Cash Tribute), and the Moustache Bandits. The tunes didnt stop there! The elevated boardwalk connecting them to Sickies Garage made it the place to be for food, drinks, and live entertainment of all sorts! Trust meI will go back! Kevin of Idaho: No doubt the best food and drinks I had all week. It was great to be able to watch all the outside life while having a meal and cold one. The staff were a blast! Not often you go into a place that is loaded with people for that many days and are able to crack jokes, have great service, and cant wait for the next visit.
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Independence, Iowa
have known John and Diane Kurtz for many years, and actually met my wife at one of their social parties. I was out testing my Harley one night after working on the fuel system and happen to be in their neighborhood. I decided to stop by for there were several cars and bikes at the house, and I was ready for a cold one. I walked in reaping with gas, and there she was sitting at the table, my future wife. I will never forget her remark as we locked eyes. Hi John Robin said. Excuse me but is that 110 octane you are wearing? My life forever changed from that moment on, and we have enjoyed countless good times with John and Diane on our Harleys and camping. So when I was in need to organize a Bike / Car Show, I knew who to call. This couple for sure qualifies as social butterflies to say the least, and know how to party.
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October 2012
I mentioned to John and Diane an opportunity to plan a trip with their group and make a run on a Sunday to Troy Mills, Iowa. I had previously scheduled an event with owner Joanne Hartnett at The Dam Bar and Grill located about 30 minutes south of Independence, Iowa. Twice she was forced to cancel because of rain, so I offered to bring in a group on another weekend to enjoy the great food served and help her out. The date was set and John and Diane put the wheels in motion for a wonderful turnout with beautiful weather for the Cruisers. The success and fun this group shares drew my attention, and I thought this would be a good story to include in our Wheels of Thunder Magazine. Perhaps other small communities share the same passion and could benefit from how to organize their friends for Dinner
Cruises. I asked John Kurtz to share his story.
John was transferred to the Advance Auto Parts store in Independence, Iowa in 2004. He was excited to be working close to home....only a 1.5 mile commute to the store. John had lots of friends that were car and motorcycle enthusiasts. He found that there were some really awesome classic cars sitting in storage that rarely was taken out. The customers in the store would tell stories of the old car clubs that had come and gone and all the good times that they had. Johns wife Diane grew up in Independence and also knew lots of people. They talked about how much fun it would be to get people together for a cruise now and then. Having a Harley and two classic cars, a decision was made to do both cars and bikes. In 2005 they started with a small group of friends that would meet on Thursday nights, cruise to a couple of local establishments and then have dinner. Everyone had fun but it was pretty unorganized with
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members to purchase if they desire. Jerod Beier has been outstanding taking photos and videos for the Facebook page. He works tirelessly getting photos of every vehicle that arrives and posting them. The group helps out with an annual fundraiser for JDRF (Juvenile Diabetes Research Foundation) and has also done some special nights for Camp Courageous, Honor Flights, Make A Wish and some others.
just 6 to 10 people. John and Diane helped out with a local cruise group that held an annual fundraiser. The turnouts were pretty good and so they thought there would be an opportunity to expand their idea. In 2006 a real schedule was put together and posted at the store so more people would show up. The turnouts were not real great but they stuck with it and we were happy if we had 20 to 30 people show up. After contacting a local cruise club to see if they were interested in participating, they declined so a decision was made to proceed on their own.
as first time visitors that soon become regulars.
The growing numbers do create some challenges as to where they can find restaurants that will handle the numbers. Many are happy to offer a limited or special menu that speeds up the service. That really helps and the group really appreciates that. Some meals are prepared by the group for some events. Interest has really boomed the last two years and this has become a great group. Information is posted on their own Facebook page and this year members had Tshirts designed with their logo for The Cruisers meet every Thursday at 6 PM, leave promptly at 6:30 PM and generally are back home between 9 and 10 PM. Please Visit their Facebook page Thursday Night Dinner Cruisers" to view schedules, photos and videos.
How do find a night that can please everyone? Well you cant, so Thursday nights were chosen starting in May and continuing into October. The plan was every week, and if you can come that is great; if not we will look forward to when you can. There are no dues or formal membership, all enthusiasts are welcome. The interest has really grown with anywhere from 40 to 100 people per week with regulars as well
SledHead 24/7 TV Show airing on FSN-MN & FSN-WI

Sledhead 24-7 can be seen Sunday nights at 10pm on FSN
http://www.sledhead24-7.com/Airtimes/
Sledhead 24-7 ready to roar
From tech to trail, to the racetrack and spending time with folks who embrace the snowmobile lifestyle, thats what ahead on a new season of Sledhead 24-7 The Emmy nominated show is available of 93 million cable networks, including FOX Sports North and Fox Sports Wisconsin, Sunday nights at 10pm starting November 4th. Its North America's best TV show and website dedicated to the snowmobiles.
meet, the latest news from the manufactures and a walk down vintage sled row Paul Mack, and his running mate Jeff Fischer stroll down memory lane.
Amid the vintage sleds, they discover just how old they really are. Were counting down, till the green flag flies on the AMSOIL championship snocross season. Each week Meischa Johnson, former racer Paul Mack, tech expert Jeff Fisher and locals who know the scene, steer you to the worlds greatest places to ride with world class riders. Well test, rate, ride and review new gear and gadgets and the latest models from all the major manufactures. Speedwerx is known as the home of horsepower, and well test the limit of what a sled can do, through a series of ambitious projects and builds at the legendary Minnesota speed shop. For race fans Sledhead 24-7 has exclusive coverage of the greatest snocross racers on the planet, with a backstage pass to the AMSOIL Championship Snocross Series. Simply put, if it happens on a snowmobile, then youll see it first on Sledhead 24-7. In show one we'll discover the first sign of winter; as the sledding season starts at Hay days. Its an end of summer snowmobile celebration with world-class grass drags, legendary swap October 2012 Check out our report from snow shoot. As our expert test riders put this years models though a no holds barred, test session. They put time in the saddle to discover the best sled for your riding style. And the setting? The big country of west Yellowstone. But Sledhead 24-7 is also about people, folks like you, who love to ride,well profile characters who love to grab a handful of throttle. Tune in each week www.Sledhead24-7.com. www.WheelsofThunder.net Page 61 Well flash back to last seasons highlights and fast-forward to the great racing straight ahead on the greatest snocross race series Looking for a new ride or curious about the latest in sled technology?
Scooters Bar and Grill

Anamosa, IA
k youre cruising down Highway 151 on your hog and the wind is whipping through your hair but all of a sudden your bellys grumbling and you need to pull over and refuel. Fortunately Scooters Bar & Grill, one of Eastern Iowas favorite bar is right off the highway and ready to serve.
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October 2012
Scooters has made the most of its location and executed the theme well. The Anamosa area has been a motorcyclist Mecca for years thanks to the worldwide success of J&P Cycles. The interior of Scooters is an open space thats a bit industrial with a fun bar and restaurant offering a great menu. There are plenty of tables, a long bar for service and room to mill about when things fill up on a Saturday night offering live music. The theme and menu play heavily to the motorcycle enthusiasts and the servers are very friendly. Everyone is welcome to hang out and have a good time. The food is traditional bar fare and Wednesday nights is packed with people enjoying their Wing Night. A pile of hot wings, some moz-
zarella sticks and onion rings is a favorite combination. The hot wings are fried to a crisp and drenched in wing sauce. Scooters mozzarella sticks are beer battered and fried golden brown and the onion rings has the perfect ratio of onion to batter.
Char-grilled burgers ranging from a third to a whole pound of fresh ground beef, succulent pork tenderloin and a fantastic array of appetizers are also a favorite. Daily drink specials, entertainment and just the right amount of attitude make this a true biker bar. It offers a destination to plan a ride, and later stop and pop a cold one. Scooters Bar and Grill, Anamosa, IA is just a couple miles away from the Anamosa Hill climb and Swap Meet site and J&P Cycles. In a town that is on every biker's list of places to visit, Scooters Bar and Grill is a great place to relax, grab a burger and talk with other riders or people who appreciate the biker lifestyle. Details: Scooters Bar & Grill, 10537 Shaw Rd (off Hwy 151), Anamosa; kitchen open 11 a.m. to 9 p.m. daily; (319) 462-3663 or www.scootersanamosa.com
October 2012
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MOTORCROSS
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ATV RACING
October 2012
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MONSTER TRUCK
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DEMO DERBY
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ameON! TV is excited to join you again! This issue of Wheels of Thunder continues to excite race fans with it's interesting stories and magnificent pictures. GameON! TV continues to grow & reach so many of you with our sports programming and now we are expanding to the Dakota's and western Minnesota via MidCo Sports Network. As you know, GameON! loves sports, from the variety of professional, college & high school sports to all the outdoor events that dot our regional landscape. GameON's partnership with Wheels of Thunder is strong and just like you, we also enjoy the most comprehensive race magazine and website to be found! Wheels of Thunder magazine gets it and gets you the latest information, amazing pictures and all those terrific stories to the most passionate motorsports fans in the country! Looking ahead, there's special moments ahead for GameON! We just broadcast out 100th show, each and every week GameON! comes to you in crystal clear full High Definition and we have just launched our first APP (it's free to for Apple & Android phones). GameON! TV is now offering a weekly PODCAST available @ our show website <http://www.GameOnTvMN.com> www.GameOnTvMN.com. It's full of bits and pieces of sports from the region and what's ahead on our weekly TV show. GameON! still serves as the lead-in to the award winning FOX NFL pre game show on FOX's MY29 here in the Twin Cities during the NFL Season.
GameON! does what no other TV sports interview show (in the region) does. We offer a diverse and entertaining half hour of TV as we bring you the most visible and popular Minnesota sports figures. From the new look Vikings, to the WNBA Champion Lynx, the MNA Timberwolves, the NHL Wild, the Twins and we visit with the Lacrosse Swarm. There's NASCAR and we're all over your favorite drivers now that snow racing approaches. GameON! just featured championship racer Levi LaVallee and we'll be all over the SnoCross racing season and Xtreme sports that touch all seasons! This show is interactive so we'd love to hear from you!
Please visit our Facebook site (friend us @ GameON on facebook), our website @ < h t t p : / / w w w. g a m e o n t v m n . c o m / > www.gameontvmn.com and 24/7on twitter #gameontvmn. And we're always planning bigger and better shows at the best location in the world, SEVEN Steakhouse/Sushi/UltraLounge/Skybar, in downtown Minneapolis. You are always welcome to visit our live tapings and each week we list guests and updates on the GameON! website as well as our Facebook site. Get upclose and personal with us!! We also partner with the one of the largest Vikings fan sites in the world, <http://www.purplepride.org/> www.PurplePride.org. I've said it before and I'm saying it again! Get off the couch and get your GameON! Be a part of the exciting effort we're putting on! Here's to fall and the coming winter sports season ahead. Hope to see you at an upcoming GameON! taping!!
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BEST OF THE MIDWEST!

Opportunities for business who qualify for The Best of the Midwest are now available!
Call Scott Robinson 612-730-3719
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October 2012
BEST OF THE MIDWEST!

Opportunities for business who qualify for The Best of the Midwest are now available!
Call Scott Robinson 612-730-3719
October 2012
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Wheels of Thunder October 2012

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Easy Rider Saloon.......................................54 Scooters Bar & Grill ....................................62

Rallys & Shows

Not Once Over, and Not Done

1949 FORD SEDAN Sean Lawrance

Written by Ceaja Philp Photography by John Krueger

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1927 Ford Model T

Troy Swan Zimmerman, MN

Stock Original Stock Original

Written By John Lentzkow

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Written by Billy Boyle

AMERICANS FOR AMERICA

Written by Geoff Gorvin

One last chance to show off the muscle

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Ave, Ruman battle for Trans Am Series wins at BIR

Mickle, Line repeat as series champs in Bracket Series

Ray Fuchs and his super cool looking 53 Studebaker

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Bella Rose Schmaltz #7

Written by Ceaja Philp

and gunning to hit the track against Uncle D one day.

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Hay Days 2012

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Written by Kim KimmyCat Niles Photography by Mike Nelson

Round Two From Down Under

Written by Ceaja Philp

IWA Finale Brainerd International Raceway, Sept 15-16, 2012

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Written and photographed by John Krueger for Ricekiller.com

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Written by John Lentzkow

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TOP ALCOHOL DRAGSTER: ROUND ONE

SUPER COMP SHOOTOUT

TOP ALCOHOL FUNNY CAR: ROUND ONE

SUPER GAS SHOOTOUT

SUPER STREET SHOOTOUT

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Written by John Lentzkow

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Don Hering The Da Vinci of

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Written By Billy Boyle

SUN SUN MON TUE 3 4 5 6

Written by Brad Coplan

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Off the Beaten Path

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2012 ABATE OF MINNESOTA STATE RALLY

Written by Ceaja Philp

Sturgis Some American

Legends Just Wont Die

over 25,000 sq. feet of

raucous entertainment space!

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