What a great way to spend the last weekend of summer, joining 800+ motorcyclists in Cape Breton for Gord’s Annual Ride 4 the Cure, around the spectacular Cabot Trail!

Riders come from all across Nova Scotia, New Brunswick and Prince Edward Island for this great fundraiser and always leave with a smile and fond memories.

On Friday night at the pre-ride party and celebrations, Gord kept everyone up-to-date with the latest weather forecasts and first hinted at a postponement of the ride until Sunday morning at 9am.

Despite the disappointment of the cancellation at 7am the next morning, riders were soon grateful as they learned of heavy rains, high winds and waves crashing over the highways at Cheticamp and beyond along the trail.

It was a good and prudent call to postpone the ride in the interest of riders safety and enjoyment; and under dry skies in the Sydney area, riders spent the day taking short rides to Baddeck, Louisbourg and Glace Bay.

Then at 6pm we all met at the Membertou Centre for the post-ride celebrations and entertainment. All registered riders received their poker hands and the giveaways and prize awards began.

With over $25 thousand in donated prizes, the winning numbers called were fast and furious. Bill Steele won the best poker hand and is now the proud owner of a 2009 Kawasaki Vulcan 900 valued at $9500 dollars.

Gord and Mary (his proud, hardworking and supportive wife) also initiated a Top Ten Fundraiser Club this year with the top award going to Dave Hall of Bedford. Raising a whopping $11,765 for the cause, Dave won a PGO Scooter valued at $4,000, donated by Gord’s Sport Racing Centre.

As all the prizes were finally awarded, J.P. Cormier took the stage to complete the evening’s entertainment.
But one special prize remained, a Yamaha custom-made Ride 4 the Cure Guitar, signed by J.P. Cormier and later awarded to Sam Wall of Coxheath.

A ride of this magnitude cannot be achieved without the efforts of volunteers, and a huge thank you to all who donated their time and efforts. From the RCMP’s escort out of Sydney, to the Cape Breton Freewheelin’ members on patrol at intersections; and to all the volunteers along the route, thank you for making our ride safe and enjoyable.

The gracious Inverary Resort's hot beverages and delicious baked goods were appreciated at the first stop of the ride in Baddeck.

Again the special efforts of the sponsors along the route at the Inverary Resort in Baddeck, the village of Cheticamp and the Keltic Lodge Resort in Ingonish who provided hot & cold refreshments, muffins, cookies, hot dogs and scrumptious homemade apple pie to all participants, thank you!

Your efforts were delicious and much appreciated.

The majestic Keltic Lodge was the last stop of the day.

We are proud to be featured in the 2010 Ride 4 the Cure Calendars  and the $15 price tag goes entirely to support breast cancer research.

So if you want to purchase one call Gord at 902-539-4673 or log on Ride4theCure for more information.

Join the Ride 4 the Cure next year and this could be you!

It has been another great, and too-short summer; but remember fall is an awesome time of year for quick jaunts around Nova Scotia. Get out and go for a ride to enjoy the pumpkin people and scarecrows on display amongst the beautiful fall colours.

We ALL can make a difference in today’s world, if only a small one, so make a child smile and join in the last events of the year supporting children at Christmas.

Stay safe and take care.

For more photos from the Ride4theCure, visit the photo section of this website.

With the weatherman promising a 5-day stretch of sun, the wanderlust took over and we started packing, deciding to tour the Gaspésie Peninsula of Quebec.

We have always wanted to ride this remote area, so with pre-tourist season pricing and higher than normal temperatures expected; we donned warm riding gear and began a 5-day coastal adventure to Quebec.

DAY ONE: On the road by 10:30am, we headed to Truro on Hwy #102, and then joined Rte #4 at Masstown, riding through the Wentworth Valley to Oxford; and joined Hwy #104 to Amherst.

From the NS/NB border, we followed Hwy #2 to Moncton, and then took Rte #15 to Shediac along the Northumberland Strait.

Hugging the coastline mainly on Rte’s #140, #530 and #134, we rode on to the Bouchtouche area, well-known for it’s beautiful sand beaches and offshore dunes.

Next we followed Rte #475 and #505, before rejoining #134 at Richibucto. Rte #134 becomes Rte #117 as you ride through the Kouchibouguac National Park. Unfortunately the highway is placed well back from the coastline, so to see the dunes you must enter into the park’s picnic and swimming areas.

However, on exiting the park Rte #117 follows the coastline of Miramichi Bay, and leads to the bridge spanning the Miramichi River and Rte #11 heading to the Acadian Peninsula.

Starting to tire from a full day in the wind and sun, we had a late supper and spent the night at the Motel Beausejour in Neguac.

DAY TWO: Under clear blue skies we continued north on Rte #11 before turning onto Rte #113 to explore The Acadian Isles, and riding to the end of Miscou Island.

Back on the mainland we now cruised along the coast of the Bay of Chaleur on both Rte #11 and #134 towards Bathurst.

Now the terrain gradually begins to change from the flat landscapes at sea level to occasional hills and cliffs near Dalhousie and Campbellton.

Next we crossed the bridge, which joins Campbellton with Point-à-la-Croix on the Gaspésie in Quebec. A quick trip to the tourism centre for maps and we begin our journey up the lower coast on Rte #132.

After about 20kms we find ourselves under the only rain cloud in the sky, and about 100kms later decide to call it a day, finding a charming seaside cabin at Auberge le Chalet in New Richmond.

To our delight the rain ends by the time we are unpacked and we enjoy a fabulous sunset as we eat supper from our cabin deck overlooking the bay.

DAY THREE: After a tasty breakfast of fresh croissants at the local bakery, we continue our journey through the 5 regions of the Gaspésie.

Leaving The Bay and we now enter Land’s End, where we plan to visit Percé for lunch and view the famed Percé Rock. This limestone rock formation was formed on the ocean floor 375 million years ago. It is 438m (1,545’) long and 88m (288’) high.

We arrived at Perce Rock just in time for a hot seafood lunch to warm us up.

After a feast of fresh mussels and hearty clam chowder we ride on to pretty Gaspé, which reminds us of home and the Cabot Trail.

Staying on Rte #132 we next enter the Forillon National Park on the top tip of the peninsula. After riding through the forests, the sight of the lighthouse at Cap-Des-Rosiers was breathtaking.

The lighthouse at Forillon National Park.

As we arrived whales were playing offshore and a small cruise ship was sailing by from the Iles-de-la-Madeleine to Quebec City.

Rounding the point the breezes offshore began to build, but the scenery was wonderful along the upper coast. Entering The Haute-Gaspésie region, the curvy road hugs the mountainside for many miles with warnings of waves crashing onto the highway.

We next stopped for the night at the seaside Motel Beaurivage in Sainte-Anne-des-Monts. As we watched the sunset from the beach, the cruise ship we had seen earlier in the day slowly sailed past with it’s lights reflecting across the St. Lawrence River.

DAY FOUR: Morning brought more blue skies and warmer breezes as we next entered The Coast region, heading to Sainte-Flavie, where we will leave the shoreline. Rte #132 now leads into The Valley, a splendid run southward through the Appalachian Mountains.

The scenery changes again as the highway travels through wide valleys, along large lakes and the noted salmon fishing Matapédia River.

By late afternoon we had come full circle and were leaving the Gaspésie and re-entering New Brunswick at Campbellton. Deciding to stay one more night along the coast, we settled down at the Motel l’Acadien in Petit-Rocher.

DAY FIVE: With the forecast of heavy rains expected, we decided to arrive home early and dry. We rode along Rte #8 from Bathurst to Miramichi, then Rte #11 to Moncton, and the TCH #2 to Amherst. Then retracing our steps we rode the TCH #104, Rte #4 and TCH #102 arriving home in Waverley in time for supper.

What a great experience to travel early in the season! Traffic is light and although there is a fair amount of road construction everywhere, we didn’t encounter any major holdups.

We covered around 2,563 kms, spending $173.94 on gas; and the off-season rates enabled us to stay at up-scale locations for $338.55 (including tax) for 4 nights.

It was a grand adventure, and almost everyone speaks some English, so language wasn’t a problem. But don’t expect a Tim Horton’s or burger joint on every corner. It is advisable to pre-plan your stops on the peninsula, and gas up before running near empty.

Till next time ride safe and have fun putting on the miles!

For more photos from our trip, visit the photo section of this website.

Suzuki describes their all-new stylish and streamlined Boulevard M90 as a power cruiser.
Now many people may find the words ‘power cruiser’ a bit intimidating, when considering moving up from the 450cc or 750cc motorcycle they have ridden for years. But this motorcycle is a far cry from the larger and heavy street bikes of the early 90’s.
The Boulevard M90 is a great example of how Suzuki has made moving up to a performance-oriented motorcycle easy for experienced riders.

The all-new Suzuki M90 Boulevard is a power cruiser with class.

The M90 is powered by a 1500cc high tech V-twin power plant featuring a 32bit, 512kb ROM engine management computer. This streamlined stylish motorcycle uses design concepts found on the award winning M109R.
Harold’s comments on the Boulevard M90 test ride follow:
“As I climbed aboard this motorcycle, the low seat height of 28.2”/716mm was welcomed. The dual exhausts gave a nice deep but mellow tone, hardly noticeable except on acceleration.
The pull back risers with flat bend chrome handlebars, forward foot pegs and controls all combined with the low seating to give a bit of that old school chopper feeling.
But the Boulevard M90 is definitely not old school in its appearance or performance!
The overall streamlined look flows from front to rear from the well-designed and compact fairing, stretched gas tank to the smooth sculptured rear fender, sporting a LED taillight over the massive 200mm rear tire.
While riding the Boulevard M90, the horsepower, torque, and wide ratio 5-speed transmission all combined to create a powerhouse on command.
The torque at low RPMs allows the rider to pull away from various situations without immediate downshifting, and the M90 can perform at highway speeds in 3rd, 4th or 5th gear without breaking a sweat.
The lower centre of gravity gives this motorcycle an overall light feel and it was both nimble and fun to ride.”

Specifications:
Engine: 1462cc, 4-stroke, 2-cylinder, liquid-cooled, OHC
Fuel System: Fuel injection
Compression Ratio: 9.5 : 1
Transmission: 5-speed, constant mesh
Seat Height: 716mm/28.2 in.
Curb Weight: 328kg/723 lbs.
Fuel Tank Capacity: 18L
Front Brakes: 2-piston calipers, 290mm disc, twin
Rear Brakes: 2-piston caliper, 275mm disc
Front Tires: 120/70ZR18M/C (59W), tubeless
Rear Tires: 200/50ZR17M/C (75W), tubeless
MSRP: $13,499

Thank you to Peter Dunsworth of ProCycle, Dartmouth for the opportunity to test ride the exciting new M90 Boulevard from Suzuki. For more information on this nimble power cruiser, contact ProCycle at 902-468-2518 or your nearest Suzuki dealership.

Over the past five years motorcycle registrations in Nova Scotia have increased by 48%, bringing about 13,000 more riders to our highways.

With increasing popularity in the recreational aspects of motorcycling and our ever-increasing gas prices, we can only expect more registrations in the future.

Motorcyclists outside Province House as Motorcycle Awareness Month is proclaimed in Nova Scotia

Hence on May 1st, the Province of Nova Scotia and Safety Services Nova Scotia proclaimed the month of May to be Motorcycle Awareness Month. Through news releases and promotions locally, the hopes are to improve driver awareness of increased motorcycle traffic on Nova Scotian roads.

In 2007 there were 12 motorcycle fatalities in Nova Scotia, 8 of which were caused by car driver error. We must as both riders and drivers become more aware and vigilant on our highways, and stop this unnecessary loss of life and rider injury.

In Nova Scotia, concerned motorcyclists have joined together to assist injured riders and their families through the not-for-profit Bikers Down Society, 100% run by volunteers wishing to help their fellow riders.

This Society is committed to provide temporary financial assistance to motorcyclists and their families during times of financial and emotional stress as a result of a legitimate motorcycle accident.

Requirements for Assistance:

• Must have a valid Nova Scotia Motorcycle license (5A)

• Must show loss of income

• Must not have been provided with assistance by Bikers Down Society within the last twelve months

• Must provide police or accident report if applicable

The Bikers Down Society does not condone drinking and driving nor does it condone operating a motorcycle in a reckless or unsafe manner.  The Society reserves the right to refuse assistance if an accident was the result of intoxication or recklessness.

Pictured left to right are Jimmie Swinamer and Pam Vickery of the Bikers Down Society and Nancy White and Ed Snow of Safety Services Nova Scotia.

Bikers In Need Top 15 Safety Tips:

1. Good training is better than good luck. Take a class and/or practice your skills. Don’t depend on being lucky to survive.
2. Don’t drink and ride. Even one drink can affect your riding ability.
3. Don’t do drugs and ride. Even some prescription drugs can impair your riding ability.
4. Don’t ride when fatigued. Fatigue can be just as dangerous when riding as alcohol and drugs.
5. Wear all of your protective gear. When you fall, you will be glad you had it on.
6. Maintain your motorcycle. Breakdowns can be costly and dangerous.
7. Get a bike that you can handle and fits you. Start small and work your way up in size as your skill and riding ability improve.
8. Practice your skills whenever you can. Find a vacant lot and work on your skills so they are second nature.
9. Learn to ride on all types of roads and conditions. It will rain sometime in your riding career so be prepared for it. Gravel, sand, rain, grooved concrete, and blacktop all are different.
10. Ride at your own skill and comfort level. Don’t take challenges or be pushed by others to ride above your level. That includes your husband and your friends!
11. Bigger always wins. Don’t challenge anything with more wheels than you.
12. Always leave yourself an out. Try to anticipate what could happen and be prepared for your escape.
13. Don’t be afraid to slow down when you are in doubt. It is better to go slow than go down.
14. When approaching an intersection look left, right, left. Remember the vehicle coming from your left will hit you first.
15. Be Visible, See and Be Seen. There is no such thing as a safe intersection, don’t take them for granted.

For more information, to volunteer your time, or to make a donation, please contact:
Bikers Down Society
Toad Memorial Fund
86 Amaranth Crescent
Dartmouth, Nova Scotia, B2W 4B9
Phone (902) 462-7466

Email: bikersdown@gmail.com

In today’s competitive world, it has become increasingly difficult to stand out in a crowd and operate a successful business; but the Harley-Davidson Company has evolved to meet change and the current marketplace demands.

The new Sportster XR1200 is a prime example. Featuring a retro look (like the XR750 of the 70’s), well known for racing dirt track across North America; this motorcycle has many performance features not found on other Harleys.

Harley-Davidson's new Sportster XR1200

The new XR1200 features inverted forks, typical to sportbikes; and is fitted with radial tires, not found on any other production H-D motorcycle.

Closer view of upswept exhaust

The upswept exhaust creates a note similar to that of Buell motorcycles, perhaps a result of Eric Buell’s expertise incorporated in the engine design.

The engine has a 10.0:1 compression ratio, performance cams, downdraft fuel injection and is the first V-twin Harley-Davidson to have oil-cooled heads.

1st V-twin Harley-Davidson to have oil-cooled heads

The cooler engine is more efficient and creates more power over a wider range of riding, and the lightweight aluminum swing arm frame improves handling and compliments the overall performance.

Harold had the chance to test ride the Sportster XR1200 last Friday and his comments follow.

“The seating position is similar to a sport bike, a bit more upright, with the foot pegs placed further back along the frame, almost to the rear wheel.

The 1200 V-twin pumps out immediate torque through the smooth five-speed gearbox, noticeable when merging into higher speed highway traffic.

The tachometer is the most prominent gauge, and while cruising at highway speeds in fifth gear, the engine runs at a moderate 3,500rpm of the 7,000rpm redline.

Braking is excellent with the dual 4-piston discs up front and the Dunlop Sportmax radial tires making firm contact with the road.

The Sportster XR1200 proved to be nimble, fast on command and easy to handle. This motorcycle gives you the ride and performance of a sportbike while carrying the Harley-Davidson name.

Although not designed primarily with economy in mind, this motorcycle delivers great mileage with a near 60 hwy/45 city miles per gallon rating, and a moderate price tag beginning at $13,729.”

XR1200 Specifications:
Dry Weight: 562.0 lbs/254.92 kg
Seat Height: 30.5 in/774.70 mm
Engine: Air-cooled, Evolution®
Displacement: 1200cc
Torque: 73.91 ft.lbs @ 4,000rpm
Horsepower: 90hp
Fuel Capacity: 2.91 gal/13.25L
Brakes: Dual 4-Piston, fixed front, single-piston floating rear
Wheels: Black, 3 Spoke Cast Aluminum
Tires: Front 120/70ZR 18 M/C, Rear 180/55ZR 17 M/C
Exhaust: Brushed, straight-shot exhaust w/dual mufflers

Our thanks to John Larson of Privateers Harley-Davidson, 100 Susie Lake Crescent, Halifax for the opportunity to test ride the new XR1200.

If you would like more information on this new Sportster, call the H-D dealership nearest you. Privateers H-D, Halifax at 902-444-4647, or Ramsay’s H-D, Cape Breton at 902-539-1730.

For three consecutive years Privateers Harley-Davidson has won the prestigious Trev Deeley Award for Retailer of the Year, which exemplifies performance excellence in Canada. In fact this dealership has actually won 4 times out of the last five years, an unprecedented feat for any Canadian dealership.

Congratulations to John and all your staff! Your commitment to customer service and satisfaction has once again earned your dealership the top award in Canada, and a reputation based on trust and respect.

A quick reminder to everyone that May is Motorcycle Awareness Month. With the warming temperatures more and more riders will be on our roadways and major highways.

Please respect the rules of the road and remember motorcycles are like any other motorized vehicle. We travel the posted speed limits and also need the same amount of time to stop to avoid a collision. So please everyone use extra caution at stop signs and intersections.

Warmer temperatures are finally here and the majority of riders have already logged on a couple thousand kilometers, and probably attended an awareness ride or fundraiser.

There are lots of rallies and events to attend this summer; but if you can’t escape for a weekend, plan an exciting day trip or two.

The month of May is traditionally a very busy time for us each year. Our new guide is hot off the press and being distributed to motorcycle dealerships and visitor information centres province-wide; we have travel articles to submit to various magazines, and tourism conferences to attend.

So we do what we try to do best…combine business with pleasure.

Our first conference entailed a leisurely ride to Lunenburg, under clear blue skies, to attend meetings at the Fisheries Museum of the Atlantic. What a perfect setting to invigorate your ambitions and open your eyes to what the tourist sees and experiences.

Fisheries Museum of the Atlantic, Lunenburg

This vast waterfront museum contains 3 floors of exhibits, displays and photo galleries from a bygone era. The indoor aquarium features several species of fish found off our shores; and both a schooner and a side trawler can be boarded at dockside.

The famed ambassador for Nova Scotia, the Bluenose II makes Lunenburg her home.

When in port her decks are open to visitors and 2-hour cruises are available at the reasonable cost of $40/per adult (tax included).

Now this is an experience you are guaranteed to enjoy and fondly remember, sailing aboard the namesake of the racing schooner that graces the back of the Canadian dime.

Reservations are recommended; call toll free 1-866-579-4909, ext. 221.

Overlooking the beautiful and historic port of Lunenburg

Our lodging for the night was a room at the Top Mast Motel, with a million-dollar view of the historical town and quiet harbour. We were even visited by a deer and a really fat pheasant as we enjoyed the sunset from the outside deck.

Our next conference took us to a museum the size of 7 hockey rinks and houses 37,000 artifacts, including the heaviest and largest items found in Nova Scotia. Can you guess?

It’s the Museum of Industry, located in Stellarton, at Exit 24 off the TCH 104.

We’ve all seen it on our travels, the huge roof emblazoned with its name…but have you ever gone inside?

This impressive structure houses 9 locomotives, including their pride and joy “Samson”; North America’s oldest surviving steam locomotive, and the 17^th oldest worldwide.

Just one of the many early automobiles on display.

Car buffs will really enjoy the automotive exhibits. See the first horseless carriage built in Amherst in 1901; marvel at the craftsmanship of the luxury McKay automobiles built first in Kentville, then Amherst from 1910-14; and see the first Volvo off the assembly line in Canada.

You’ll find working exhibits tracing the history of water and steam power, and displays on Nova Scotia’s former and current industries. Many of the exhibits are hands-on and costumed interpreters demonstrate the uses of the many working exhibits.

Built on Nova Scotia’s first coal-mining site the “Albion Mines,” the museum houses 4,000 archaeological artifacts excavated during it’s construction and are on display in their newest exhibit.

This is just a taste of what awaits you inside these fantastic museum sites.

So don’t be shy, museums are not just for kids on school trips; but are an opportunity to reconnect with your past and learn something new.

Nova Scotia has 27 provincial museums across our province, from the “Firefighters Museum of Nova Scotia” in Yarmouth, to the “Highland Village Museum” in Iona, Cape Breton.

So break the boredom of riding the same roads, and take a day trip escape to a museum, you’ll find it really enjoyable and good food for thought.

Green is a symbol of many things in today’s hectic world. It is the long awaited sign of spring, associated with money and success, and of course saving our planet through recycling and safer lifestyle measures.

But have you ever considered it to be the colour of speed and performance? Kawasaki is making history with their green machine, the Kawasaki Ninja ZX10R.

Back at the office, Matt sits astride the Ninja ZX10R

This motorcycle exemplifies the true definition of a sport bike, built for the track and civilized for the street. Named the fastest production motorcycle on the planet in 2008, the Kawasaki ZX10R is extremely compact and lightweight.

Harold has ridden many sport bikes, and always admired their sleek lines and performance, both on and off the track.

Then Richard Murray of Sackville Motorsports gave Harold the opportunity to experience the incredible Kawasaki Ninja ZX10R for a day last fall.

The ZX10R is powered by a 998cc liquid-cooled engine, with two digital fuel injectors per cylinder, creating earth shaking low end torque and stratospheric top end performance. Imagine approximately 160hp on a motorcycle weighing in at only 488 lbs/208 kg.

Harold’s comments on this remarkable motorcycle follow: “My blood pressure began to rise as soon as I hit the start button and an authoritive deep growl filled the air.

After familiarizing myself with the overall motorcycle in the parking lot, checking brake and throttle response, I decided to hit the road. For the next few miles I practiced braking and gear shifting, amazed at how soon I felt very comfortable on this powerful Ninja.

High performance motorcycles can give you the feeling of  ‘being one’ with the machine. The motorcycle becomes an extension of your body, and everything feels just right as it instantly responds to your every move.

On this lively Ninja, twisting the throttle will result in an unbelievable burst of speed and G-forces can be felt even as it speeds away from a cruising speed of fifty miles an hour.

Fast motorcycles require very responsive brakes and I soon found that even at highway speeds, the ZX10R would still ‘nearly stop on a dime.’

The Kawasaki ZX10R features dual semi-floating petal disks with duel four piston radial mount calipers up front and a single 220mm single piston aluminum rear brake.

The front brake is used most of the time and you do not have to pull the brake lever very hard to stop this bike. The brakes are very responsive and are truly characteristic of a racing motorcycle.

Thank you Richard Murray of Sackville Motorsports! The Kawasaki Ninja ZX10R is hands down the most exciting and fastest motorcycle I have ever ridden“.

Speed and racing fame are responsible for the increased popularity in the ZX10R recently. 30 year-old Jordan Szoke, on Kawasaki’s racing team has had an outstanding season riding this model at race tracks all across Canada.

Szoke has captured five Superbike titles, winning the last three (2006-2008) riding the Kawasaki ZX10R; and is closing in on the legendary Steve Crevier who has six Superbike titles in total.

ZX10R Specifications:
Engine: 4 stroke, liquid-cooled DOHC, 4 valves per cylinder, in line four
Displacement: 998cc
HP: approx. 160
Torque: 113@8,700 rpm
Compression Ratio: 12.9:1
Transmission: 6 speed
Final Drive: Chain
Frame Type: aluminum perimeter
Curb weight: 208kg, 458.6lbs
Front Brake: Duel semi-floating 310mm petal discs with dual four piston
radial mount calipers
Rear Brake: Single 220mm petal disc with single piston aluminum caliper
Fuel Capacity: 17 litres/3.7 gallons

For more information on the exciting Ninja ZX10R, contact Sackville Motorsports at 902-252-3800 or your nearest Kawasaki dealer.

It is shaping up to be a very busy season for motorcyclists this summer. We have many new rides all across the province and of course some big rallies to look forward to.

So get your motorcycle out of the garage and start preparing for riding lots of miles this summer. Check your fluids, charge and/or replace your battery and ensure your tires have a good tread, free of wear pattern or other damage. Preventative and regular maintenance will ensure a safe riding season and the headaches of unplanned breakdowns.

Don’t let a beautiful sunny day catch you with a dead battery or a flat tire, or you will be caught mowing the lawn and doing chores while everyone else drives by!

For the 5^th straight year Digby has managed to entertain, amuse and encourage motorcyclists to return and enjoy their annual Wharf Rat Rally over the Labour Day weekend.

The main waterfront area is motorcycles only all weekend

And this year the rally grew again! With approximately 20,000 motorcycles attending the event and huge crowds enjoying the sights and sounds, the visitor count was near 80,000.

The popular stunt shows of Street Punishment always kept the crowds yelling for more and the new attraction “The Wall of Death” on the waterfront amazed the spectators as the two daredevil riders climbed the barrel-shaped wall and grabbed tips from the hands of the brave.

Biker Games

Special events and activities kept everyone busy and the Biker Games were hosted by the 74th Crusaders of nearby Annapolis Royal.

Vendors displayed their wares from one end of downtown to the other, and motorcycles of every shape and size sparkled in the sun from early morning to sunset.

What makes this event so special?

We feel a lot of the credit goes to the residents of Digby, who openly welcome the bikers to their beautiful town for the long weekend event.

Then the dedication of volunteers is the key to any successful event, big or small.

Add a spectacular location on the harbour, the freshest seafood around, and the chance to reconnect with friends in a relaxed atmosphere, and you have a winning combination.

Many riders we spoke with said it felt like ‘Coming Home’; so keep up the good work Digby and thanks for another fabulous time. For more information on the Digby Wharf Rat Rally and the latest updates on next years events, visit the official website at wharfratrally.ca

Harold Nesbitt with signed, limited edition print of his original oil painting of the Digby Wharf Rat Rally

If you missed the 2009 6th Annual rally and wish to view more photos of the event, visit the photo section of our website.

One lucky participant took home one of Harold Nesbitt’s  signed, limited edition prints of the Digby Wharf Rat Rally.

Additional Note: Signed, Limited Edition Prints are available from our website Biker Art section and at Privateers Harley-Davidson in Halifax.

August has turned out to be the riding weather we all dream about; clear blue skies, gentle ocean breezes and warm starry nights. It just doesn’t get any better than this!

With so many new riders entering the scene there is simply a lot more talk about various new models of motorcycles entering the market.

And this is good news for all riders! The manufacturers are listening to what riders want and are designing their new releases to meet their needs.

Yamaha V-Star 650 Classic looks at home in any setting

One great example is Yamaha’s V-Star 650 Classic, a middleweight cruiser that delivers style, comfort and super lightweight handling for the new rider at an affordable entry price.

Deciding to see what all the buzz was about, Harold made a quick call to Wayne and Jayne Isnor at Shore Cycles in Martins Point and was immediately invited to come on down and take their V-Star 650 Classic out for a drive.

Yamaha claims this middleweight cruiser will knock you out with its long, low styling, abundant chrome, 40 cubic-inch V-twin power and painstaking attention to detail.

Harold’s comments follow.

“The first thing that impressed me was the 650’s appearance. You will not feel intimidated by bigger bikes as this machine has all the looks of the larger 1100 V-Star, and is actually only 4” shorter than the 1100 model.

Over the handlebar view while cruising along

As I sat on the comfortable full-size seat, I immediately noticed the low seat height of 27.4 inches making it easy to plant your feet firmly on the ground.

Standing the motorcycle up was a breeze with the lightweight feel of 543 lbs., compared to my motorcycle weighing about 775 lbs.  This also enables the rider to easily navigate the bike at idle into parking areas.

Once on the highway gear shifting was smooth and silent from the 5-speed transmission, and the dual carbs accelerated nicely up to highway speeds, running about 4,000 rpm at 100km in 5^th gear. The light clutch action is also great for novice riders.

The transistorized coil ignition is a no-maintenance design ensuring sure starts and the classic side-mounted air cleaner allows easy air filter access for quick servicing.

This Yamaha 650 V-Star is really a great lightweight, all round cruiser for the person looking for an easy to handle mid-size motorcycle with style.

‘Low stress’ is how Wayne Isnor described the motorcycle to me, and that is exactly what I felt as I rode along the coastal roads of Martins Point, Oak Island and then inland to the Ross Farm Museum.”

Specifications:

Engine: Air-cooled, SOHC, 4-valve, V-twin
Displacement: 649cc
Compression Ratio: 9:1
Transmission: 5-speed
Final Drive: Shaft
Wet weight: 543.4 lb/247 kg
Fuel Consumption: 21 kpl/59 mpg
Fuel Capacity: 16 litres
Front Brakes: Single 298mm disc
Rear Brakes: Drum
Front Tires: 130/90-16
Rear Tires: 170/80-15

The Yamaha 650 V-Star Classic was a head turner and drew lots of attention at the Ross Farm Museum

Thanks Wayne and Jayne for the enjoyable ride. If you would like a closer look or more information on the Yamaha V-star 650 Classic, visit shorecycle.com or call South Shore Cycles at 902-627-2706, or simply log on Yamaha’s site at yamaha-motor.ca.

With a manufacturers suggested retail price of  $8,399 and a summer promotion in effect until September 30^th, this may be your time to ride.

Additional Note: Enjoy all of Nova Scotia’s museums found in various locations province-wide. For more information on Ross Farm Museum call 1-877-689-2210 or visit their website at rossfarm.museum.gov.ns.ca

Registration was only $5 for the BikeFest

What a great event the 1^st Cape Breton Bike Fest proved to be! With mostly sunny skies all weekend, Sydney and surrounding towns and villages welcomed over 2,000 registrants with their traditional open and friendly Cape Breton hospitality.

Aptly named ‘Thunder in the Highlands’, motorcyclists were everywhere you chose to ride over the weekend, and hundreds were always congregated at Centre 200 where vendors displayed their wares.

We arrived midday on Friday amid a steady stream of motorcyclists from across the Maritimes, Upper Canada and the U.S.

OCC Chopper built for and won at BikeFest

After checking in at the Days Inn we headed to the Vendor Village to chat with fellow riders, enjoyed a late supper at Casino Nova Scotia and then listened to the live bands performing downtown at the outdoor street party.

Unfortunately Saturday morning’s rains cancelled the scheduled drag time trials for that afternoon, but the sun soon returned and we joined other riders heading to Louisbourg for their annual Crab Festival.

Returning near dusk we missed the outdoor concert at Centre 200, but luckily found a parking spot near the marina, bumped into my niece Kim & hubby Andy; and sat together on the grass to watch the fireworks over the harbour.

Beautiful Keltic Lodge beach area hosted the Show n'Shine

Sunday was another beautiful day and after a quick visit downtown we headed to the Show ‘n Shine in nearby Ingonish.

It was a picture perfect day and it felt good to ride the curves of Cape Smokey again.

The Keltic Lodge in the National Park provided a large grassy area near the beach for the event with lots of food and cold drinks at biker-friendly prices. A live band performed throughout the afternoon and even parking pads were provided for your kickstands.

By early afternoon we headed back for the planned ‘Storm the Fort’ event at the Fortress of Louisbourg, National Historic Site of Canada.

Riding across the moat into the massive Fortress Louisbourg National Historic Site of Canada

What an incredible experience Park Canada provided! As 500 motorcycles lined the waterfront to the fortress, soldiers met the procession to determine if we were friend or foe.

Upon being declared family, the motorcyclists were then permitted to ride across the bridged moat, through the main gates and into the heart of the fortress. The exhibits were open and the restaurants on site were busy serving their traditional fare and black grog.

The costumed interpreters were exceptionally entertaining and enjoyed immensely. A good natured motorcyclist was arrested, handcuffed and chided in public for the notorious crime of stealing a sheep and laughter echoed off the walls everywhere.

The entertaining interpreters kept the crowd laughing and easily found volunteers to join in the fun.

As the fog rolled in and our visit drew to an end, we were treated to a musket salute over the harbour by costumed soldiers.

Harold and I were then surprised and honoured to have the privilege of raising the first official Cape Breton Bike Fest Thunder in the Highlands flag at the Fortress of Louisbourg to symbolize the storming of the fort.

Raising the BikeFest flag at Fortress Louisbourg

This simple act made history, as no other flag has flown at the Fortress of Louisbourg other than official government issue. Being chosen and receiving the gift of the flag to keep left Harold speechless (and that is no small feat) and me in tears. Thank you everyone for this honour, it’s a day we will treasure and proudly remember!

Sunday evening brought another free outdoor concert and the long awaited OCC Custom Bike Draw. The lucky winner was Jason Wilson of Coxheath, 2^nd prize of $5000 to Ken Brownell of Neil’s Harbour and 3^rd prize of $2500 to Joseph Weeks of Hubbards, NS.

Signed, Limited Edition prints are available for purchase. See Biker Art on our website.

Other prizes awarded included a framed limited edition print ‘Coming Home’, painted by Harold and donated by us to Keith Beaton of New Waterford; and Janet Evans of South Bar and Carol Lynn Raithby of Fall River both won free motorcycle training courses donated by Safety Services Nova Scotia.

Watch our website for next year’s BikeFest dates and plan to party in Cape Breton in 2010, or visit the official site capebretonbikefest.com and pre-register for the event!

Visit our photo section for more photos from the 2009 BikeFest and Storming the Fort event.