Mini Rally Sturgis Michigan

[insertdisk]

Any one attend the Mini rally. What was your experience?

[jdmetzger]

I've been to two of them - missed last year as it was a bit rainy and I had limited vacation time.

It's been a good time. I've met a lot of really nice people, it's a laid back bunch, you have the choice between camping under trees with a campfire or in a grassy field (trees around the edges) under the stars (no campfire). Low key but quite enjoyable and worth the minimal rally cost. Hotels are nearby if that's your thing, easy to get into town for provisions and restaurants.

[BeemoKat]

I haven't seen the listing for this yet. I went to the same two as Josh, and had a nice time.

[jdmetzger]

I haven't seen the listing for this yet. I went to the same two as Josh, and had a nice time.

I didn't realize it wasn't listed in the latest issue of the Owners News. It's still shown on the website under "happenings":

MI May 1 - 3, 2009
36th Original Mini Rally
BMW Motorcycle Club of Battle Creek #14
You are invited to attend our wonderful rally at Green Valley Campground, Sturgis, Michigan. Fee is $20 at gate (no pre-reg) & includes coffee, donuts, tea, hot chocolate all weekend. Plus, mid-day subs & pizza sold on the grounds & can be ordered for dinner. Nice restaurants in the area & motels, if you‘re not camping. Door prizes & awards. Friday night we will have Hot dogs. Great Sunday morning pancake breakfast. Campgrounds have hot showers, inside/outside eating areas, firewood & miniature golf for only $1/game. Located 1.5 mi west of MI-66 aon Fawn River Rd., which is 1.25 mi S of US 12, and 2mi N of I-80/90. Info: Connie Scarbrough 269-731-4826, Connie Cadwell 815-226-7062 or <<email removed>>

I'm going to fire off an email and see what they have to say.

[barryg]

I travel for a livin and happened to be in the area a couple of years ago and went to it. Found it in the anonymous book. Good time and good people. Just the type of mini rally I like. I would go back if I happen to be in the area.

[86755]

I've been to 6 Mini-rallys in the last 9 years. It's a good time. Lots of great people and very laid back. Often, a few venders will show up.
Overall, I try to make it each year because it's a good way to start off the riding season.

[jdmetzger]

Received word back from Connie, the listed contact on the "happenings" page for this rally. here is her reply:

"The Mini Rally is still on, I have sent information to BMWMOA not sure why not in.. I just e-mail the magazine to fine out why not in. Thanks for you interest."

So we are a "GO" for the Mini rally May 1st! :clap

[Holly]

I went last year and had a great time. The rain wasn't serious and the rally is very friendly and a lot of fun. Sadly I have to miss this year as the Icelandic National League Conference is the same weekend. I would definitely be at the mini-rally otherwise.

Hey, did anyone notice in the the Feb ON that Gimli Manitoba got tranposed to Minnesota! (page 64)

Holly

[patcarol]

The Mini-Rally is a great event. The Battle Creek Club throws a great laid back event. I recommend attending. It is a great start to the motorcycle rally season.
Green Valley Campground is a very nice and motorcycle friendly campground. The weather can be hit and miss. Most of the time the weather is fabulous. You just have to remember that this is Michigan. Wait a couple of minutes and the weather will change.

Take Care & Ride Safe
Pat Carol

[Jfixit]

Is there a link to the rally website?

[jdmetzger]

Is there a link to the rally website?

It's a small rally (maybe 200 people last time I was there), and they don't have a rally website or anything. The rally is listed on the website in the "happenings" section, so if you have questions for them you can call or email - they responded to my email pretty quickly.

FYI: There is no pre-registration or anything, just show up with your camping gear (unless you're staying at a hotel of course), pay the small fee, and have some fun. :thumb

[jdmetzger]

This one finally appeared in the Owners News - #6 in the March issue. If you're within a few hours (and you know, weather permitting), I recommend showing up and spending two nights with us. Good camping, lots of space, and great people! If we could get a forum gathering I'd even be willing to organize something just for us... what's it going to take to get you people out? :D

[Squatch]

This one finally appeared in the Owners News - #6 in the March issue. If you're within a few hours (and you know, weather permitting), I recommend showing up and spending two nights with us. Good camping, lots of space, and great people! If we could get a forum gathering I'd even be willing to organize something just for us... what's it going to take to get you people out? :D

I put it on the calendar... :wave

[jdmetzger]

I put it on the calendar... :wave

:clap

[86755]

I put it on the calendar... :wave

Me too. I'm making sure my buddies commit as well.:thumb

[insertdisk]

Well I going to check my camping gear, it is all new this year as I not camped in hell, 40 years.

Then attend for the first time since listening to the Red Clay Ramblers at Remus, camp in a tent. I'll take old Sam (84 RT) down M-40 to the grounds.

A dog rescue makes is kind of hard to get away. Way too many chores to be gone very long, so Sturgis. Might just be the thing to shake the cobwebs off.

So May 1 is on my BB.

[jnjbrink]

For those of us close enough to ride in for the day, which day is preferable, Saturday or Sunday? I will put this on the calendar! My first real MOA sanctioned event in my "new" homeland!

[dancogan]

I've only been a couple of times, but Saturday would be the day to be there. Sometimes BMW of Grand Rapids has demo bikes there, there's always hot coffee, and lots of people, and some fun awards in the evening. Now that I think about it, they have also had some slow speed contests going on Saturday, too. Sunday has just been the time for me to pack up and head home, although not until I enjoy the great pancake breakfast!

[jdmetzger]

The best day is definitely Saturday. Friday is arrival day, and a number of people don't show up until late afternoon. Saturday has the slow races and other field events going on.

I've gotten some bad news from my employer and now it's looking questionable for my attendance, which makes me none too happy with them. It's still a little ways off, so we shall see.

[bunkyone]

Hey all; Sounds like fun, put me down!! In fact, I will be coming down with my youngest son (on his Suzuki). Isn't this the same bunch of hooligans that put on the vintage bike show at Gilmore farms in the summer? Think spring everyone!! Vaya con Dios, Dutch

[rssmale]

This may be the way to get my feet wet in this whole rally thing 'cept it's a long way's away. I'd have to ride for like 1/2 hour straight down US 12 to get there:evil

[jdmetzger]

I'm really going to try to make this one. I have some plans for making it out, even though work is trying to stop me. Even if I just end up there on Saturday. Evil employer! :mad

[jjd49660]

I would like to go too, not sure if I can yet...

If anyone north of me. (or around Manistee, MI) is going- let me know- I would like to maybe join up with you...

I prolly won't be camping, if I do go- but then again, ya never know!

Thanks!
Joe

[116318]

If the weather is good, and if I can get permission from the wife, and if my house doesn't sell, and if my non-retired riding buddiesy can get the time off, and if my 401 k:banghead isn't wiped out than :dance lets party.

[RedSledRider]

I'll be there rain or shine.
Getting folks to commit to go is getting harder and harder. Dad is in and so am I. This will be our first rally.

[bunkyone]

Joe; I'm just south of you in Pentwater. If you don't mind stopping in Kalamazoo to pick up my son (This will be his first rally on his own bike) I'd welcome the company. Let me know. Vaya con Dios, Dutch

[jjd49660]

Hey Dutch, thanks for responding!

Sure would like to meet up with you in Pentwater for the ride! No problem stopping in Kazoo either!
Hope we get some more "riders from the north" to show a presence at the Rally

Joe

[PatrickDonovan]

I've got it scheduled for just saturday night at this point. If I can make it, it would be my first rally. I'm 43 and scared...be gentle. Actually, I make freinds pretty easy and I'm looking forward to it. Is there a beer tent?:drink

Pat

[jjd49660]

Yeah, sure would be nice to have a nice warm weekend for the rallly too... hopefully, by then.
A couple cold beers on a warm night, outside, yeah I remember those days!

[therealbatman]

Yeah, sure would be nice to have a nice warm weekend for the rallly too... hopefully, by then.
A couple cold beers on a warm night, outside, yeah I remember those days!


Well Joe, you must have a great memory! It's been soooo long since we've seen a warm night, I have only a slight recollection of it...I think it was July 08' or something like that.
:dunno

[86755]

I've got it scheduled for just saturday night at this point. If I can make it, it would be my first rally. I'm 43 and scared...be gentle. Actually, I make freinds pretty easy and I'm looking forward to it. Is there a beer tent?:drink

Pat

No beer tent. However, there is a pavillion/garage under which you can enjoy any drinks you bring. It's typically BYOB.

[jdmetzger]

No beer tent. However, there is a pavillion/garage under which you can enjoy any drinks you bring. It's typically BYOB.

Or just gather around a campfire or any other gathering of people (two years ago I camped in the field instead of under the trees, so no campfire).

I hope the weather finally breaks around here - we're running 20 degrees below normal for this time of year and the beginning of May is coming pretty fast!

[jdmetzger]

My flights for my work trip are booked, and it looks like I'll be able to attend this one after all. I just have to get on the road by 7:30am on Sunday so I have enough time to ride home, unpack the tent, take a shower, and drive (ride?) up to Detroit Metro for my 1:37pm flight. Should be an interesting day. :)

Looking forward to seeing all the forum people there - we should arrange a gathering - maybe a secret handshake or code phrase. :p

[BeemoKat]

the password is "Swordfish"!

[jnjbrink]

My wife and I will be there...looking forward to meeting everyone!

We'll be the ones on the BMW motorcycle...

:p

[86755]

My wife and I will be there...looking forward to meeting everyone!

We'll be the ones on the BMW motorcycle...

:p

Great!
Look for me, I'll be wearing a helmet.:laugh

[BeemoKat]

I'll be the one in jeans and a black t-shirt*














*I think that might be sixth time I've posted this joke on this forum!

[26667]

the password is "Swordfish"!

I thought the password was Mary.:scratch

I'm hoping the weather cooperates and I can run my bike instead of my snowblower! I hear it's a fun rallye

[bunkyone]

Hey all: I'll settle the pass word issue; it's "cool bike dude!" spoken with zeal. This is looking like a very cool weekend (in more ways then one, after all, this IS Michigan!) and I am looking forward to meeting some of you who have so patiently put up with my rambling here on the forum. Joe, have hooked up with a couple of Beemer pilots in Ludington who have expressed an interest in going. I'll let you know. In the mean time, where and when do we meet up? Vaya con Dios, Dutch

[147873]

When do the majority of people arrive? Is there a big crowd that stays Friday and Saturday nights or do most people come in on Saturday and leave Sunday? This will be my first Rally before the National and I want to make the best of it.

[jnjbrink]

I'll be the one in jeans and a black t-shirt*














*I think that might be sixth time I've posted this joke on this forum!



:laugh :laugh

[jnjbrink]

Great!
Look for me, I'll be wearing a helmet.:laugh

Just a helmet? Hmm...I'm beginning to worry a little...

:p

[jdmetzger]

When do the majority of people arrive? Is there a big crowd that stays Friday and Saturday nights or do most people come in on Saturday and leave Sunday? This will be my first Rally before the National and I want to make the best of it.

I would say the majority of people come and stay for both nights, though there are always a few who come in on Saturday and leave on Sunday.

[147873]

Looks like I'll make a weekend of it. what else do I have to do?????

[26667]

[QUOTE=26667;445509]I thought the password was Mary.:scratch

I can't believe nobody knows that joke.

[jdmetzger]

Hey all: I'll settle the pass word issue; it's "cool bike dude!" spoken with zeal. This is looking like a very cool weekend (in more ways then one, after all, this IS Michigan!) and I am looking forward to meeting some of you who have so patiently put up with my rambling here on the forum. Joe, have hooked up with a couple of Beemer pilots in Ludington who have expressed an interest in going. I'll let you know. In the mean time, where and when do we meet up? Vaya con Dios, Dutch

Anyone is welcome to stop by and say hello to me at any time. Look for this tent (or possibly a smaller one in the same color scheme) and this bike wearing an Ohio plate with an MOA, Airheads, and AdvRider stickers on the saddlebags (photo is not from the Sturgis rally). I will definitely be on my R80 due to me being too busy working on my house to finish re-assembly of the new heads on my GSPD before then.

http://www.jdmetzger.com/img/rides/jamesbay5.jpg

[jdmetzger]

Less than two weeks until the Mini rally! :clap

[bunkyone]

Hey all; Looks like it will be a great weekend!! Joe, let's see if we can convince "therealbatman" to join in our little adventure, shall we? Perhaps we can bribe him with the offer af a couple of cold ones at the end of the trail to cut the dust? Anyone else in this part of the state interested? I'll buy the first round!! (With my luck,it will be the ONLY round!!) Looking forward to May. Vaya con Dios, Dutch

[insertdisk]

:dunno I just sent of the ignition unit to Oak, Not sure of his turn around. I hoping that he repairs in time to reinstall and make the Mini. Bike would idle at 4000 rpm, Oak says it the the thing sticks some time on Air Heads.

[jjd49660]

Hey all; Looks like it will be a great weekend!! Joe, let's see if we can convince "therealbatman" to join in our little adventure, shall we? Perhaps we can bribe him with the offer af a couple of cold ones at the end of the trail to cut the dust? Anyone else in this part of the state interested? I'll buy the first round!! (With my luck,it will be the ONLY round!!) Looking forward to May. Vaya con Dios, Dutch

lol Yes, it is quite possible that I could take M-55, turn onto M-37 and grab him from his house! Of course if that was the route, it would mean we would have to meet up with you somewhere other than Pentwater... Or maybe we could convince him to meet up with me in Manistee and ride down to meet you in/near your place. Count me in for at least a round as well!
So how about it Mr exBeemer Batman dude?

(oh and btw, I think my wife is joining us)

Dutch, Mike - How about the Holland Blessing? It's this weekend- on Sunday... I am pretty sure I will be going...

[bunkyone]

Joe and Mike; I quess it would depend on the route we wanted to take. If we want to do freeways, 31 to 96 to 131 would be the way to go. I am not against meeting you guys somewhere along the way, and if you guys want to take 37 it would be about the same distance for everyone. It's about the same from Manistee to 37 as from Cadillac I think. I could meet you some where (Broman or Baldwin perhaps?) along the way. Let me know. I am attempting to convince my sweet wife to get Friday off so she can go too. As far as Holland goes, I haven't heard anything about it. Do you have time and location? Let me know and I will try to make it. Vaya con Dios, Dutch

[jjd49660]

It's one of the "nicer, cleaner" blessings I have been to- meaning, it seems to draw less of the "darker side" riders- lol
For me and the wife, it's has been our annual first ride. Just a reason to ride "somewhere"...

The following was copied from:
http://www.blessingofthebikes.com/index.html


Holland, MI, March 10, 2009: The 8th Annual Lakeshore Blessing of the Bikes will be held on Sunday, April 26, 2009 at the Ottawa County Fairgrounds in Holland, Michigan. Gates open at 10:00a.m. Blessing is at 2:00p.m. Reverend Phil Nguyen will officiate.

Donation: $5.00 per bike or vehicle. All gate proceeds from this charitable event will benefit Pathways, Inc. and Lakeshore Habitat for Humanity. The event kicks off the 2009 riding season.

The purpose: A gathering to start the riding season with a Blessing for a safe year, to promote a sense of community and fellowship among riders and to support local charities.

Hundreds of motorcyclists and non-motorcyclists participate in the blessing. Live music, food and motorcycles of every color, size, shape, and brand make this event interesting for all attendees. Vendors sell leather goods, t-shirts, jewelry, sunglasses and other "biker stuff". The event includes awards for "Bikers Choice" and best vintage bike (25 years or older). For a $10 donation, participants can enter their motorcycle. Winners will receive a trophy and cash prize.

[86755]

particularly for those of you coming from the North and West side of the state, HWY 66. This road runs from Charlevoix into Sturgis.
Last year, I left Sturgis and headed north on this route, through Battle Creek and into the Charlotte area (where I split and headed into Lansing). I was really pleased with this streatch of road: light traffic, somewhat twisty and yet not terribly slow. I wondered why I had never ridden it in the past, but I intend to ride it again this year.

Hope to see some of you out there next week!:thumb

[bunkyone]

Thanks for the tip on 66. It's a fun road in place's. There are a bunch of roads in this part of the state that have a lot of potential for fun riding. Most of the secondary highways (M-40,89,43, 37 and yes,66) will have some really good stretches. M.43 and 37 north of Kalamazoo have always been some of my favorites. By the way, the Battle Creek BMW club (our unsuspecting hosts for the week-end) also put on an antique motorcycle event in June at the
Gilmore Farms just north of Richland. If you like old cars,as well as bikes, they have one of the best collections in the country, as well as (IMHO) one of the best venues around. As far as making the Holland blessing, I can try to get there after church on Sunday, but no Promises.( As a Sunday school teacher, it's sometimes difficult to get away right after services. ) Vaya con Dios, Dutch

[glidepilot]

This rally will be my first BMW anything and here is the kicker....I live across town from it! (I bought my RT last summer).

I should be easy to spot since my wife will be riding her H.D. Low Rider and we will have our daughter with us. (I'll be on a Graphite '06 RT).

I know alot of you have been here before but I would be glad to answer any questions about the area. Might even be able to suggest a short ride route.

Looking forward to meeting you all.

Steve

[DPeakMD]

Glad you're coming, Steve. Hope you enjoy the Rally!

[jdmetzger]

Only 4 more days until the Sturgis Mini Rally! Come on out, setup a tent, and enjoy yourself! :thumb

There is plenty of room at this spacious location to spread yourself out...
http://www.jdmetzger.com/img/forum/sturgis07.jpg

[twisteddevil92]

Me and my wife are going to be leaving for the mini ralley in Mich. this wked. Anyone from Ohio going. We are leaving on Friday and going to take state route 33 to IN. If poss anyone want to ride up together. If so please send me an email on here or at twisteddevil92@yahoo.com or call me at 937-407-1494. Thanks

[twisteddevil92]

Steve (glidepilot) was wondering what the weather report is like for the wked up there. We are comming from Belle Center Ohio, about 1/2 hr from Lima. Now that I think i know how im going to get the sleeping bags on the R1200CL now i have to figure out how to put the tent on it. By chance you would have an extra tent up there would ya it would make it easer. lol Well hope to hear from you soon. thanks Scott

[86755]

Only 4 more days until the Sturgis Mini Rally! Come on out, setup a tent, and enjoy yourself! :thumb

There is plenty of room at this spacious location to spread yourself out...
http://www.jdmetzger.com/img/forum/sturgis07.jpg

Ah yes, the large trees at the far end of the open field, if I'm not mistaken. See you there.

[jdmetzger]

Weather isn't looking too horrible. Only a slight chance of any rain on Friday. Cool but not too out of line for what we usually experience. :)

Keep in mind the report could change before Friday. The chance or rain has been getting less for the past week, and I think the temperature may end up a little warmer than predicted. Just a guess.

[bunkyone]

Hey all; Thanks Josh for the weather report, I was a bit concerned about that, as this will be my S/O's first rally, and I really wanted it to be a good one. Joe and Mike, seeing as how the Lil' woman will be tagging along, we'll be taking the back roads down; M37 to 46, to M57 to 66 to the rally. Sound good? Let me know. Vaya con Dios, Dutch

[glidepilot]

Steve (glidepilot) was wondering what the weather report is like for the wked up there.
Scott,

Just saw your post. Josh posted a good link for the weather.

I do have a small tent if you are serious. Post me again and I'll give you my cell number.

Steve

[jjd49660]

Hey all; Thanks Josh for the weather report, I was a bit concerned about that, as this will be my S/O's first rally, and I really wanted it to be a good one. Joe and Mike, seeing as how the Lil' woman will be tagging along, we'll be taking the back roads down; M37 to 46, to M57 to 66 to the rally. Sound good? Let me know. Vaya con Dios, Dutch

Well Dutch, I haven't seen the realbatman in here to know if he is joining us for sure... If for some reason he isn't, then I may just meet you in Pentwater.


Either way the route sounds good- I heard good reports on the M-66 portion from a biker friend of mine!
Hey, its a Michigan road- it has to be good! lol

Looking forward to riding this weekend!!!

[twisteddevil92]

Steve,

That would be great, my cell is 937-407-1494. And then we can go over details. Maybe we can work something out thanks

Scott :type

Steve (glidepilot) was wondering what the weather report is like for the wked up there.
Scott,

Just saw your post. Josh posted a good link for the weather.

I do have a small tent if you are serious. Post me again and I'll give you my cell number.

Steve

[bunkyone]

Joe; Works for me. Let's give Mike one more chance to join our merry band of malcontents shell we? Otherwise, name the time and place and I'll be there. Already packed the bike, poor thing looks kinda' like a prospectors pack mule!! Vaya con Dios Dutch

[insertdisk]

I still have my ignition trigger at Oak's, no rally this year. Hope the weather is good for Saturday and Sunday: Friday looks like rain.

[86755]

I still have my ignition trigger at Oak's, no rally this year. Hope the weather is good for Saturday and Sunday: Friday looks like rain.

Ugh, sorry to hear that, especially since you started this thread.
Do you have anything else you can ride? All makes and models are welcomed.

[therealbatman]

Well Dutch, I haven't seen the realbatman in here to know if he is joining us for sure... If for some reason he isn't, then I may just meet you in Pentwater.


Either way the route sounds good- I heard good reports on the M-66 portion from a biker friend of mine!
Hey, its a Michigan road- it has to be good! lol

Looking forward to riding this weekend!!!

Joe,

Sorry, but it looks like I will be picking my daughter up and moving her back home from school on Saturday. I wished I could make it, but duty calls. I will however be riding M-22 on Sat May 16th leaving from Kestelwoods Restaurant on M-37 at 9am if you or anyone else are interested.

Enjoy Sturgis...let me know how it goes.

Mike

[glidepilot]

Here is something to do for a couple of hours Saturday. Get a bite to eat and a cold beer....and get your bike blessed also.

http://www.hamiltonharley-davidson.com/default.asp

The new owners seem like pretty good folks. (It changed from Hamlins to Hamiltons).

First road east of the campground (White School Road) north one mile to the highway. Right on the corner.


Steve

[bunkyone]

Mike; Sorry you can't make it, of course family comes first. The 16th. sounds doable, would you want to make your start time a bit later? (It's a long haul from Pentwater, and I work the night before).Steve, how does 10 A.M.Friday sound to you for a meet time? Perhaps at the Pentwater Convenience Center at the U.S. 31-Monroe Rd. exit? I'm buying the coffee. Dutch

[twisteddevil92]

Hello all, I have a question. I have a friend that would like to ride if he can. But he don't have a BMW He has a V-strome. I'm coming from Ohio and was wondering if he wanted to would it be ok if he comes up to the event. He enjoys all bikes and has 5 different one him self. Our theory here were we live we don't care what you ride as long as it rides. Thanks for your time.


Ugh, sorry to hear that, especially since you started this thread.
Do you have anything else you can ride? All makes and models are welcomed.

[jdmetzger]

Hello all, I have a question. I have a friend that would like to ride if he can. But he don't have a BMW He has a V-strome. I'm coming from Ohio and was wondering if he wanted to would it be ok if he comes up to the event. He enjoys all bikes and has 5 different one him self. Our theory here were we live we don't care what you ride as long as it rides. Thanks for your time.

Everyone is welcome, in my experience. I always see some Goldwings or other makes that are there. The more, the merrier!

[twisteddevil92]

ok thanks i well see is he would want to come. Scott


Everyone is welcome, in my experience. I always see some Goldwings or other makes that are there. The more, the merrier!

[BeemoKat]

Everyone is welcome, in my experience. I always see some Goldwings or other makes that are there. The more, the merrier!

I'm bringing a Harley riding pal. If I was worried about the reception she'd receive, I wouldn't have invited her.

[twisteddevil92]

Josh was wondering were in toledo do you live. I'm comming from Bellle Center by Lima. My family (were i was born and raised) in lakeside/Marblehead. I was wondering what route you take to get there. So far the route i have planed is to go to Ft. Wayne IN. and up any suggestions.



thanks scott

Everyone is welcome, in my experience. I always see some Goldwings or other makes that are there. The more, the merrier!

[wmubrown]

Wish I could be there... but I'll be in Chicago for my niece's 1st communion...

[glidepilot]

My wife will be on her HD also.

OOPS!! I mis-spoke about Hamiltons Blessing being this Saturday. My wife corrected me ...it is the following week.

Sorry about that.

Steve

[jdmetzger]

Josh was wondering were in toledo do you live. I'm comming from Bellle Center by Lima. My family (were i was born and raised) in lakeside/Marblehead. I was wondering what route you take to get there. So far the route i have planed is to go to Ft. Wayne IN. and up any suggestions.



thanks scott

It depends somewhat on how things go, tomorrow. I'm working on some things around the house that need to be finished by mid next week when a visitor arrives. If I run late, I may do the boring route and blast across on the slab. More likely, my route will be:

Route 65 along the Maumee River (South/East side) becoming 110 until Napoleon, then crossing the river at 108, following along route 424 on the opposite side into Defiance.

After that I think it's 18 to 15 into Ney - it's really a crap shoot from there. There are a few OK roads in the area as far as scenery and things, but you would probably be served just as well running up into Michigan and straight west. I did a run into Angola and then up but most of the curvy roads around the lakes, while scenic, are 25mph residentials. The most interesting part and best for riding is the run from Toledo/Waterville to Defiance.

[BeemoKat]

I'm riding pretty much the same way as I'm meeting my friend in Carey OH.

[twisteddevil92]

Ill Be on a R1200cl with my wife. and wearing blue jeans, and blue jean shirt with black vest and a black or bage hat. Look for me and Ill look for you all to.


scott

I'll be the one in jeans and a black t-shirt*














*I think that might be sixth time I've posted this joke on this forum!

[ghostridery2k]

Everyone is welcome, in my experience. I always see some Goldwings or other makes that are there. The more, the merrier!


That is great,i'm coming for saturday only with friend and i'm riding my Triumph.My K75 is in piecess waiting for new paint unless.............................:scratch .
See all you there,Y2K.

[therealbatman]

Mike; Sorry you can't make it, of course family comes first. The 16th. sounds doable, would you want to make your start time a bit later? (It's a long haul from Pentwater, and I work the night before).Steve, how does 10 A.M.Friday sound to you for a meet time? Perhaps at the Pentwater Convenience Center at the U.S. 31-Monroe Rd. exit? I'm buying the coffee. Dutch

Dutch, we will probably roll out around 9:30-9:45. Drop me a PM for more details...Sorry for the Hijack here folks.

[jjd49660]

looks like I never confirmed with anyone which day I was leaving for the ralley... well, it was/is Saturday- around 8:30 AM, for what its worth, now. Too bad we didn't plan on some meeting location for the ones who were active in this discussion.

[sudani]

This is me!

http://i412.photobucket.com/albums/pp201/sudani155/DSCN0643.jpg

Nice time and I won a tire gauge to boot!

http://s412.photobucket.com/albums/pp201/sudani155/

[insertdisk]

:dunno If only my part had come back from Oak I would of been down, but my Volvo just would not qualify as a MC by any stretch.

Hope everyone had a great time, how to catch the next one. Thinking about Tennessee but that is a week and being the only IT guy for my company, I have a hard time taking a week.

[glidepilot]

Nice time and I won a tire gauge to boot!

Hey...I saw you win that! Next year keep it in your shirt pocket and I'll know who you are :laugh

I was setting a couple tables over with Scott (Twisteddevil92) and his wife. My wife and daughter were with me Friday night and just my daughter Saturday night.

We had a good time.

Have a safe summer!!

Steve

[DPeakMD]

Hey! We had a great time!!!!

Met a lot of very nice folks and enjoyed the entire event.

Struggling to put faces to names here on the forum. We got to know twisteddevil92 and wife on our awesome lunch run!

Working on putting up some pics right now from the lunch run. I'll get some links when they're done.

[jjd49660]

well, here is what I found. I arrived mid-afternoon on Saturday with my wife. I didn't know anyone. No one from the group came up and welcomed us, or made any move. My wife and I each paid the $20.00 entrance fee. I was told there were some bikes that could be taken on test rides.
I later found out that there was a drawing at 7pm but you had to be present to win. We had to leave before that, due to our travel distance, we gave our tickets to someone who was standing near us.

I wanted to buy a left-over shirt, from last years rally. However I didn't have $10.00 cash on me. I inquired if I could just send them a check--- figuring that, hell I paid $40.00 bucks cash to "register", was not a known felon and pretty sure I had a honest face. I was told I would have to leave my name and address and they would mail it to me- after I sent them the check!
I didn't bother.

We walked around and watched the few entrants in the biker contests. Over-all, my wife and I didn't especially get any warm fuzzy feeling being there.

I made a suggestion to the guy doing the registering that it would be nice if they supplied those sticky name tags- it would of been nice to be able to see who was who and where they came from. I got the feeling he didn't like some outsider butting in on their rally organization.

I doubt that I will ever make the effort to go again. I can think of better ways of spending $40.00 bucks!

Regardless, it was a great day for a ride- and we enjoyed that!

[dancogan]

I can understand your feelings, jjd. It really helps if you know a few folks before you even get there. But if you sat down to watch the slow riding it would have been easy to strike up a conversation. I just stopped by for a few hours and spoke to a few people who were strangers up till then. It is a very laid back kind of rally. As you said, it was also a great day to ride! :)

[BeemoKat]

I had a great time! Had a nice ride out to the Warren Dunes State Park on Saturday, and my Harley riding friend had a good time too.

[sudani]

I had a great time! Had a nice ride out to the Warren Dunes State Park on Saturday, and my Harley riding friend had a good time too.

BeemoKat:

Was your HD friend the guy riding the nice black and matted grey HD? Wasn't he complaining about the cold? :)

[twisteddevil92]

Hello all,

Me and my wife drove from Belle Center Ohio (30min east of Lima Ohio). We left here at 3pm on Friday, we were on the road for about 43 min and we hit a hick of a rain strom. Stopped at on overpass and got our rain gear on. We started off again, was about a mile or so further and my wife tapped me on the shoulder and said one of the straps came loose on the side bag so we stopped again and fixed that.

After that we were in the rain for well over 3/4 of the trip until we stopped in Mich. for gas. We got got gass and then arrived at the camp ground around 7pm.

The people there were nice and helped us get stuff straight. I had to find an ATM so we could get some cash for the registration. My wife stayed while i ran into town. Got back got all the paper work done and off to our campsite we went.

We got set up and then got set up. I have to say a BIG Thanks to Steve there in MIch. for letting us use his tent while we were there. Since we could get ours on our bike.

Meet alot of nice folks and had a great time durring the games me and my wife got placed in the Twinki contest. and had fun with the other ones.

Won a ralley t- shirt with the door price with the tickets. We had a great time for our Very First Rally and hope to go to more but it well be a while. I well be having my first Knee scope this wed. and the second one next month.

But meet and learned a lot about my bike from another rider with the same one, and got a lot of ideals how to set my bike up for the next rally due to one of the guys there that had one like mine.

All to all We had a Great time and hope to see you all that we meet there again soon and now me and my wife are not Ralley Vergins lololol. Hope to have some pictures up soon. thanks Scott and Mandy Sedlak :bikes iThis is me!

http://i412.photobucket.com/albums/pp201/sudani155/DSCN0643.jpg

Nice time and I won a tire gauge to boot!

http://s412.photobucket.com/albums/pp201/sudani155/

[bunkyone]

Hey all; Well the better half and I got there @ 3:00 on Friday, and were all set up by 3:30. I was surprised that the entry fee was 20.00 EACH. I had assumed (and we all know what happens when we do that, don't we?) that the Fee was per bike. Other then leaving us a bit short on cash, no great problem. Joe I guess I should have asked what day you were coming down huh? Well we pig out on hot dogs Friday night and then spent most of the night shivering. I didn't realize that that it would be that cold that far south from here. Again, I had "assumed" that because it was close to the state line it would be warmer.(There I go again, assuming!!)Saturday was great! The wife and I spent most of the day ridding about in Indiana, checking out the farms and such. Spent most of the afternoon in Shipshewana (they were having their annual May fest) and returned to the rally sight happy and full of Dutch cooking. (I can STILL taste the sauerkraut and sausage two days latter!!) I'd have to say that it was a well organized rally, but didn't really feel like we belonged there. (Too much drinking I guess.) Saw a bunch of really nice bikes met a bunch of good folks, and won an air pump to boot. All in all, a pretty good time. Thanks to the Battle Creek club for putting this on, I know (having done this sort of thing myself) what a major PITA it can be. Perhaps name tags would be a good idea for next year? Vaya con Dios, Dutch

[PatrickDonovan]

This was the first Rally I've ever been to. I came alone and didn't know anyone there. I thought everyone I spoke to was pleasant and extremely knowlegable about BMW's. I can understand jjd's(?) feelings about not being welcomed. It seemed like everyone there was with a larger group of freinds. Luckily for me, I'm not too shy about introducing myself and starting conversations and met several good people leading up beer:thirty. All in all, I had a fine time except my sleeping bag was too light and my tent had shrunk since I last used it 17 years ago. I really think that the small rallies are better suited to small groups of people since their isn't as much to entertain with as with the national rally.

this is me :)
17601

[BeemoKat]

BeemoKat:

Was your HD friend the guy riding the nice black and matted grey HD? Wasn't he complaining about the cold? :)

That was someone else. She only complained a little, and with good humor.

[DPeakMD]

This was really a last minute decision for us to go. We had vague plans for the GA Mtn Rally, but a couple of things held us back. First was just the time to get down there and second was the weather. It looked like a lot of rain. I don't mind riding in rain, but camping in rain is just not a lot of fun! So we opted for Michigan! And we really were rewarded with two fantastic days!

http://gallery.me.com/swatdoc/100319/P1030170/web.jpg

Getting things together, we left in very light sprinkles about 2pm and drove straight up on the slab. We got to south of Ft. Wayne when it was getting ready to pour. I pulled off for a gas stop and to let Pamela put her rain liner on. The station had a nice covered area so we hung around a little longer and let the heavier rain pass through while enjoying some of their hot food! This was definitely where the locals hung out.

Got back on the road and pulled into the Rally around 6:30. We paid our fee and grabbed a hot dog. They had closed the line, but quickly opened it back up as more like us started to arrive.

Next was tent setup. Decided on the field and found a nice spot out in the open. Our gear stayed pretty dry in spite of the rain and had a chance to air-dry a little the last part of the ride! So we were in good shape. We walked around and chatted with folks and enjoyed some good conversations before nodding off for the night.

http://gallery.me.com/swatdoc/100319/P1030176/web.jpg

The next morning was very pleasant with lots of sunshine. We rubbed the sleep out of our eyes and went over for some hot coffee and a pastry. Got signed up for a later lunch run and spent the morning chatting with more rally-goers.

http://gallery.me.com/swatdoc/100319/P1030191/web.jpg

The lunch run was a blast! We had a perfect day to ride. Pamela took an incredible number of pictures. They're on the link below. We passed by a beautiful old covered bridge spanning a nearby river. (pic above). Had lunch at a great BBQ place. Mmm.

http://gallery.me.com/swatdoc/100319/P1030310/web.jpg

We got back in time to take a little test ride on a new R1200RT. I like the newer bike, but not enough to give up my 1150 yet. This one was the lowered version, which I definitely feel is too cramped. The local dealer folks were very nice. They let us do a two-up test ride without hesitation. Our local dealer is less understanding.

http://gallery.me.com/swatdoc/100319/DSC00784/web.jpg

We hung out for awhile and then went into town to work on gassing up the bike, getting some dinner and wine to enjoy that evening back at camp. We didn't win anything at the awards ceremony.

Enjoyed more conversations with folks and decided to call it a night a little earlier.

Sunday dawned another beautiful day. We had a fantastic pancake and sausage breakfast sponsored by the club and started to pack up. I had one OMG moment when we were packing up, the RT decided to take a nap in the grass. I had it on the center stand to load the side cases and it sunk in on one side. I saw it happening in slow motion and was able to catch the luggage rack I happened to be closest to, slowing it's descent. Thankfully nothing broke and had lots of help getting the beast uprighted again. Whew!

We had a gorgeous ride back home. Deciding to take the back roads. We left on IN-9 which is almost a straight shot for us. We jumped off briefly to get around Anderson on I-69, then hopped back on again towards home.

Total: 531 miles
Gas: ~13 gallons ($27)
Registration: $40 (for two)
Meals: ~$35

Not bad for a weekend of fun! Thanks to the Battle Creek Club for hosting a wonderful rally!

Link to photos (http://gallery.me.com/swatdoc/100319):

[86755]

I had a great time, again. My buddy was riding the mostly restored Honda CB550Four that many of you may have seen. He had been worried about attending the rally riding a Honda but I assured him that he had nothing to worry about. Thanks to many of you for helping him feel welcomed, and not making a liar out of me!

Until next year....

[twisteddevil92]

Very nice pictures on the link, Tell your better half she is great at taking picturs on the move. Is was nice to meet you and take the lunch run with ya. (Me and my wife are the ones with the life flight stuff). You got some great shots of the group on the roll and at the lunch spot. I'm going to down load them. I still have to check my email for the picture you sent me off of your phone. Thanks for the great time and it was GREAT to meet you folks.


Scott Sedlak
R1200CL


This was really a last minute decision for us to go. We had vague plans for the GA Mtn Rally, but a couple of things held us back. First was just the time to get down there and second was the weather. It looked like a lot of rain. I don't mind riding in rain, but camping in rain is just not a lot of fun! So we opted for Michigan! And we really were rewarded with two fantastic days!

http://gallery.me.com/swatdoc/100319/P1030170/web.jpg

Getting things together, we left in very light sprinkles about 2pm and drove straight up on the slab. We got to south of Ft. Wayne when it was getting ready to pour. I pulled off for a gas stop and to let Pamela put her rain liner on. The station had a nice covered area so we hung around a little longer and let the heavier rain pass through while enjoying some of their hot food! This was definitely where the locals hung out.

Got back on the road and pulled into the Rally around 6:30. We paid our fee and grabbed a hot dog. They had closed the line, but quickly opened it back up as more like us started to arrive.

Next was tent setup. Decided on the field and found a nice spot out in the open. Our gear stayed pretty dry in spite of the rain and had a chance to air-dry a little the last part of the ride! So we were in good shape. We walked around and chatted with folks and enjoyed some good conversations before nodding off for the night.

http://gallery.me.com/swatdoc/100319/P1030176/web.jpg

The next morning was very pleasant with lots of sunshine. We rubbed the sleep out of our eyes and went over for some hot coffee and a pastry. Got signed up for a later lunch run and spent the morning chatting with more rally-goers.

http://gallery.me.com/swatdoc/100319/P1030191/web.jpg

The lunch run was a blast! We had a perfect day to ride. Pamela took an incredible number of pictures. They're on the link below. We passed by a beautiful old covered bridge spanning a nearby river. (pic above). Had lunch at a great BBQ place. Mmm.

http://gallery.me.com/swatdoc/100319/P1030310/web.jpg

We got back in time to take a little test ride on a new R1200RT. I like the newer bike, but not enough to give up my 1150 yet. This one was the lowered version, which I definitely feel is too cramped. The local dealer folks were very nice. They let us do a two-up test ride without hesitation. Our local dealer is less understanding.

http://gallery.me.com/swatdoc/100319/DSC00784/web.jpg

We hung out for awhile and then went into town to work on gassing up the bike, getting some dinner and wine to enjoy that evening back at camp. We didn't win anything at the awards ceremony.

Enjoyed more conversations with folks and decided to call it a night a little earlier.

Sunday dawned another beautiful day. We had a fantastic pancake and sausage breakfast sponsored by the club and started to pack up. I had one OMG moment when we were packing up, the RT decided to take a nap in the grass. I had it on the center stand to load the side cases and it sunk in on one side. I saw it happening in slow motion and was able to catch the luggage rack I happened to be closest to, slowing it's descent. Thankfully nothing broke and had lots of help getting the beast uprighted again. Whew!

We had a gorgeous ride back home. Deciding to take the back roads. We left on IN-9 which is almost a straight shot for us. We jumped off briefly to get around Anderson on I-69, then hopped back on again towards home.

Total: 531 miles
Gas: ~13 gallons ($27)
Registration: $40 (for two)
Meals: ~$35

Not bad for a weekend of fun! Thanks to the Battle Creek Club for hosting a wonderful rally!

Link to photos (http://gallery.me.com/swatdoc/100319):

[BeemoKat]

This was our camp.

[BeemoKat]

Here's my Harley riding friend, Sally, at Warren Dunes State park. She had a great time.

[BeemoKat]

Another pic

[BeemoKat]

Grand finale from the after the rally "Deluxe Tour of Hell". Our visitors from Ontario were fascinated with the fact that there is a Hell, MI.

[DPeakMD]

Grand finale from the after the rally "Deluxe Tour of Hell". Our visitors from Ontario were fascinated with the fact that there is a Hell, MI.

Wow, I didn't know that really existed! Was it warmer there?

[BeemoKat]

Wow, I didn't know that really existed! Was it warmer there?

It's actually (not directly, some 75 miles east) North of Sturgis, lol! No warmer except for being later in the day!

[DPeakMD]

It's actually (not directly, some 75 miles east) North of Sturgis, lol! No warmer except for being later in the day!

We also met the couple from Ontario. They were very nice! She was on an F800ST and he was on a K-bike, IIRC. I think they also won the furthest distance award, didn't they? Glad you had a good time! I also thought of riding over to the Dunes, but couldn't pass up the BBQ!!!

Hope we'll see you guys at the national in July!