Hoka Hey

See You On The Other Side...

2010-11-05T20:33:00.000-07:00

Hey folks! As you've probably already figured out, the Hoka Hey Challenge has finished. A winner was declared and the $500k in prize money was awarded to said winner by Jim Red Cloud at this year's Motorcycle Rally in Sturgis, SD. Since my last writing on this page, I've been immensely busy immersing myself in all things Cycle Source. I've even managed to get out from behind the computer and make my way to some truly amazing events in the world of motorcycling, such as: the BUB'S land speed records, at the Bonneville Salt Flats, and this year's Biketoberfest, in Daytona, FL.

For all the details on the Hoka Hey Challenge, you'll definitely want to pick up the December issue of Cycle Source Magazine. This month's issue begins a multi-month series of articles detailing several riders' first-hand accounts of their journeys along the Hoka Hey road.

As for me, now that I've made a few trips to a variety of events with Cycle Source editor-in-chief, Chris Callen, I've been given the honor of writing and shooting photos for the print magazine along with countless other back-office tasks that keep me pretty busy. In the Cycle Source Magazine print edition, you'll find my writing and photos under the byline, Dudley, a nickname bestowed on me by the Cycle Source staff, shortly after I started hanging around the magazine's offices and garage work areas.

As well, I'm hoping to spend a lot of time writing for the Cycle Source Magazine World Report blog which can be found at http://cyclesource.com/blog.htm or by selecting the News option on the top menu of the Cycle Source Website's main page.

It is with great sincerity that I express to all who've followed my writings thus far, how grateful I am that you enjoy my work and have been patient as I've found new homes both in the print edition of Cycle Source and on the Cycle Source World Report blog. I look forward to writing much more content on a far greater variety of motorcycling-related topics, and hope that you will follow my work in these new locations. For it's your stories and a deep love and appreciation for all things motorcycling that inspire the words I write and the moments I capture as a photojournalist.

Please keep me posted on how I can best deliver the content you want to know about by commenting on my posts or by emailing me directly. Your feedback really helps direct my journalistic path as it's always been my desire to bring to you the stories and information that you're most interested in hearing about.

Thanks again for your readership! As I make my way over to the Cycle Source World Report blog, I look forward to seeing and hearing from you on the other side!!!

Dudley...

2010-07-08T17:42:00.000-07:00

Hey folks, check out this story Chris wrote for BikerNet.Com about his incredible Hoka Hey journey. This awesome tale, which I expect to be one of many to come, depicts Chris' life-changing ride on the Hoka Hey road. You won't want to miss it!

http://bikernet.com/pages/story_detail.aspx?id=8344

A Quick Overview Of The Hoka Hey From Our Perspective.....

2010-07-06T20:28:00.000-07:00

Chris gets interview on Alaska Channel 2 News!

2010-07-05T16:15:00.000-07:00

At the end of a long ride, Gina Woods of Open Road Radio hooked Chris up with the on the scene reporters from KTUU www.ktuu.com for a quick interview.

Independence Day’s and Confused

2010-07-04T15:37:00.001-07:00

Apparently, there’s been some confusion online as to the status and whereabouts of Rob Keller. Well, as I’ve reported before, Rob rarely checks-in. But when he does, it goes directly from my phone to this site. So here’s the scoop; first off, Rob Keller remains uninjured and on his way to Homer, Alaska. Currently, he’s just outside Anchorage, Alaska. Rob reports that his travels have been slightly delayed by a Fourth of July parade. Personally, I think that’s a cool reason for a delay, and I recommended that Rob take a break from riding and enjoy the festivities!
Rob also reports that:

“Back in Seattle, I stopped in at the Crazy Horse Motorcycle Company aka the Hoka Hey Motor Company for some service and some time with John White, CEO of said organization and a good friend of mine, Jim Red Cloud’s, and Cycle Source Magazine’s. While there, I received first rate service for my Indian of Chicago-sponsored Indian Chief Deluxe motorcycle. Their service experts went over my bike from stem to stern. They replaced a worn rear tire, changed the oil, and welded on new oil plugs, the originals having been fused from heat and damage. They also replaced some other damaged parts, like a nonfunctioning turn signal and detailed the bike, making it shine like new!
Also, while spending time with John White, we had time to go to lunch together and he asked one of his staff, Tom Mongold, if he’d like to ride the rest of the way to Homer, Alaska with me. Tom was thrilled with the idea, and about half-an-hour later, Tom was packed and back with his bike ready to go.
Tom and I have been riding together ever since Seattle, and we’re having the time of our lives. We expect to reach Homer, Alaska sometime late July Fourth.”

As per the misinformation online regarding Rob Keller’s supposed accident, it is my sad duty to report that there was an accident wherein a rider by the name of Robert Shelton went down and was injured on the latter part of the Hoka Hey Challenge. Robert Shelton works with the Open Road Radio internet radio show hosted by Gina Woods. Although the whereabouts of his accident and the extent of his injuries are unknown to this writer at this time, I will report more detailed information as it comes in.
Robert, Gina, and all of your loved ones are in my heart and prayers. May God bless you and give you strength, peace, and courage in your time of need. Myself and all of us at Cycle Source Magazine are with you in spirit. Peace, brother Robert!!!

Chris Reaches Homer, Alaska

2010-07-03T02:53:00.001-07:00

Be Back Soon…

2010-07-01T19:59:00.001-07:00

Sorry folks. I’ve been really sick over the last few days. As such, I haven’t been able to post more than a few comment replies to the blog. I’ve got plenty of material to report, so as soon as I feel a bit better, I’ll be posting all the information I’ve got. In the meantime, take a look back at The Cycle Source Hoka Hey Reader Challenge. Now, more than ever, we could sure use your stories of hope and inspiration. Thanks for you patience. I’ll be back soon. Peace!!!

Arrivals

2010-06-29T08:07:00.001-07:00

Well folks, there were some absolute inevitabilities they came along with the Hoka Hey Challenge, and in we’re now seeing those things come to fruition. First off, as many of you may already know, the lead riders have crossed the finish line in Homer, Alaska. Congratulations to these and all the riders who chose to test their limits on this Challenge.

Secondly, Chris Callen has made his way into Canada and reports, “This country is absolutely beautiful.” Chris plans to ride through Western Canada and onto Homer, Alaska, to report on all the happenings at Hoka Hey road’s end. Godspeed, brother Chris!

And last, but far from least, at least from my perspective, my credit card bill has made its way to our mailbox. Did I really buy Chris an Electra Glide Ultra Classic on plastic? I thought that was just a dream. Oh, my head!

No really, folks, my wife and I couldn’t be happier with our decision to put Chris on that scooter. Otherwise, we wouldn’t have this awesome story to tell and all the great memories to share with Chris and Rob when they return. As most riders already know, money is fleeting, but memories, experiences, and the brothers and sisters we make along the way are forever!

More to come…

With an Aching Heart

2010-06-28T19:05:00.001-07:00

It has come to my knowledge that along the Hoka Hey Challenge there have been at least two rider fatalities. There is no way that I can possibly express my extreme sorrow at these losses. My heart and prayers go out to these riders and their families. My God bless and comfort them in this very difficult time.

My deepest regards…Curt Miller

Once In A Lifetime Honor

2010-06-28T16:57:00.001-07:00

Just in, folks: Chris Callen, reports that yesterday, while visiting the Lakota Sioux, Pine Ridge Reservation, he had the opportunity to meet and speak with Chief Oliver Red Cloud.

Chris explains,

“I brought him a can of tobacco and we had some time to talk about his life and pray for the Hoka Hey Challenge riders while seated on Chief Oliver Red Cloud’s front porch. There’s no way I can put into words what an honor it was to meet this great man and to have the chance to spend some time talking with him yesterday afternoon.

In his lifetime, Chief Oliver Red Cloud has spoken before the United Nations and the United States Congress as well as spending a great many years as the leader of the Lakota Sioux Nation.”

I can only imagine what this experience must have been like. Rarely do we come across irreproachable leaders who’ve stood the test of time, carrying the weight of their peoples’ needs as they move through life having all of the same problems we all do in addition to the ominous yolk they bare. What a great honor for Chris to have spent time with Chief Oliver Red Cloud.

What a great challenge for the rest of us to live up to the legacy of this great man and others like him!

Quick Update

2010-06-28T14:49:00.001-07:00

At his last check-in, late Saturday evening, Rob Keller was having mechanical difficulties with his Indian of Chicago-sponsored Indian Chief Deluxe motorcycle. Due to Rob’s focus on getting his bike repaired, I was unable to get any details as to the nature of the mechanical problems he’s having or his precise location.

We do know, from other sources that, as of today, he’s receiving help from an Indian shop somewhere close to his breakdown, which we believe occurred while travelling through New Mexico.

We, here at Cycle Source, send our best to Rob, that he may get back up-and-running and back on the Hoka Hey trail as soon as possible! Godspeed, brother Rob!

National Lampoon’s Chris’ Vacation

2010-06-28T14:25:00.001-07:00

During Chris’ travels across America, he’s made some stops along the way that are definitely worth mentioning. While making his way through Texas, Chris took a side trip and hit Route 66 for a good stretch. Riding along Rt. 66, Chris reports, “Driving down this historic highway is like passing through an ere graveyard of America’s past. Buildings stand empty and dilapidated, as if abandoned by the last worker who punched-out, with no one ever to return.”

Also, while traveling the fabled Rt. 66, which still quietly connects Chicago to Los Angeles for those seeking an historic route west, Chris took a tour of the Rt. 66 Devil’s Rope Museum. For those not hip to Western-American dialect, devil’s rope is another name for barbed-wire. Chris reports that the museum absolutely is worth a look. He explains, “it’s truly amazing, the history of this stuff: the number of iterations it’s gone through, all of the tools that have been developed for it’s fabrication, and all of the applications it’s used for.”

While at the museum, Chris met four motorcyclists from Russia travelling the entire length of Route 66. Although Chris speaks no Russian and these cats spoke virtually no English, they found a common language via their love for motorcycling, they exchanged patches, biker decals, and contact information, then parted ways. It never ceases to amaze me the bonds we make while riding, even when spoken word isn’t available!

Back along the Hoka Hey Route, Chris reports that while passing through Utah he climbed a particular stretch of gravel road with an incline of roughly 10,000ft. Chris, reports, “On the left side of this road there’s nothing but shear rock-face. To the right there’s no guard-rail and nothing between traveler and valley floor but cool, misty, mountain air.” Wow, one mistake on that road and, I believe Dave Mustaine said it best; “I’m a dirt torpedo!”

Lastly, Chris reports that while back in Arkansas, “I had myself a nice, refreshing swim in one for the nicest little swimming holes I’ve ever come across.” This swimming hole happens to be located on the Buffalo River, near the intersection of Routes, 74 and 412.

I don’t know about you folks, but this whole Hoka Hey thing sounds pretty great to me. Whether your the kind to follow the route and go for the money, or one to go off on your own adventure. Either way, you can’t lose.

By the way, sorry I was down for a while. I’ll try to keep the posts as close together as possible. More to follow…

Be Back Tomorrow

2010-06-27T20:15:00.000-07:00

As Curt stated in a previous post, he is dealing with an illness that brings him down rather quickly. I for one, thank him for giving so much of himself. Job Well Done and feel better soon!

Love from the road

2010-06-26T16:31:00.001-07:00

Chris Callen sends his love to Rob Keller, who’s currently riding through New Mexico. Chris just wanted Rob to recall that, as per his and Rob’s reenactment of the Hundred Years War, “Harley’s way out in front, baby! Ah, ha ha ha ha!”

But seriously folks, Rob and Chris have been brothers for over ten years and though they’re not riding together on the Hoka Hey Challenge, when each of them check-in here at Cycle Source, the first thing they ask is how the other is doing.

It’s really hard to put into words the fondness and love we riders have for the brothers and sisters we meet on the road. These bonds are like no other friendships we have. Most of us would put in all on the line to come to the aid of one of our brothers or sisters in need. It really goes that deep.

For those of you who don’t ride, if you’ve ever had the desire, throw your leg over the best two-wheeled, motorized vehicle you can buy or borrow and find out what our world is all about. Take it from me, a man who’s be riddled with illness for over 16 years, a man who no one thought was physically up to the task of riding, my decision to listen to my heart, rather than others’ misgivings, and get on a motorcycle has been one of the best decisions I’ve ever made!

If it weren’t for my choice to ride, I would’ve never met Rob or Chris or any of the great folks at Cycle Source Magazine. These cats are some of the best people I’ve ever met and they truly are my closest brother and sisters! The motorcycle really is the conveyance to all this world has to offer: the sights, the sounds, the smells, and most importantly, the people we meet and friendships we make along the ride!

This just in: Chris would like to offer a special thanks to Patricia and all those at Flaming Gorge Harley Davidson, in Rock Springs, Wyoming. While at the dealership, Hoka Hey Challenge checkpoint #3, Chris was able to get fresh oil and a quick once-over for his 2010 Harley from Flaming Gorge’s service department. Chris reports, “These cats wasted no time getting the service done right and getting me back on the road.”

Thanks, again, to all those at Flaming Gorge Harley Davidson for being part of this awesome Challenge and for taking great care of our brother, Chris!

More news coming soon…

Can you hear me Major Tom?

2010-06-26T15:04:00.001-07:00

Well, folks it has come to this writer’s attention following our riders across this great land of ours that there’s actually a landing strip in Wyoming, along the Hoka Hey route, called the, “Green River Intergalactic Spaceport.” Now, if you’re anything like me, you gotta wonder, ‘What the hell are they landing at that freakin’ place?’
Now, I’m not suggesting that this place isn’t completely on the up-and-up, but you have to give them credit for having extreme self-assuredness in their naming convention. They may not have the technology yet, but damn it all, their name tells us they plan to be the first! More power to them! Who knows, maybe, when you walk through the door, they’ve got the Beastie Boys cranking! We can only hope.
Now, back on Mother Earth,Chris Callen reports that the majority of Hoka Hey riders he’s met along the way couldn’t be happier with this run. Like Chris, some have given up on the cash, long ago, and feel free to travel whatever roads they want, seeing parts of the country they’ve always wanted to see. These riders are skip-checking along the checkpoints to keep up with what’s happening with all things Hoka Hey, but are perfectly content to find their own road to Homer, Alaska.
On a more somber note, Chris passed a rider down in and around the intersection of routes 70 and 24 in northern Utah this morning. Our thoughts and prayers go out to this and all the riders on the Challenge and their loved ones back home.
To all of those traveling the Hoka Hey road, on or off the route provided, may you have a safe and blessed journey. There’s much love from all of us at home and here at Cycle Source Magazine! Peace!!!

Quick Update

2010-06-25T21:13:00.001-07:00

Rob Keller checked-in just moments ago and, as has been the case since the start of this Challenge, had very little to report other than he and Bear continue to make their way along the Hoka Hey route at a steady, even pace. His new, much healthier diet has helped him to keep focused and energized. He is in great spirits and is having the ride of his life. He and Bear plan to ride straight through into day seven so as to make up for lost time.

Having spent time riding with Rob here at Cycle Source home base, I can attest to the fact that Rob does some of his best riding at night.

Rob explains that, “Riding at night, if your vision and reflexes are up to the task, is absolutely beautiful, man. The air is cool. The moon and the stars of the night’s clear sky, inspiring. Everything just seems to slow down.”

I couldn’t agree more, Rob. I, too love riding at night. The miles I’ve ridden at night are some of the best, most memorable, I’ve ridden. God, I love motorcycling!

Rob’s and Bear’s latest location:

Sage Words from Chris Callen

2010-06-25T17:36:00.001-07:00

During an extended discussion with Chris Callen late yesterday afternoon Chris explained that, as this ride unfolded, certain Hoka Hey truths have been revealed. Chris reported that, like many, regular, long-distance riders, he and Rob Keller believed themselves to have an excellent shot at not only finishing this event early, but possibly winning that Alaskan gold. Chris then explained that he quickly realized, before the end of Hoka Hey day two, this Challenge had nothing to do with open-road, or even back-road rallying from checkpoint to checkpoint. This wouldn’t just be a test of a motorcyclists physical endurance or a rider’s ability to make runs without sleep, or sustenance.

While all of those elements are being tested, the crux of the Challenge of the Hoka Hey is the challenge of not succumbing to the spirit of self-doubt. You see, the directions given to these riders are so incredibly cryptic that riders find themselves traveling at a snail’s pace, back and forth searching for the next leg of the trip.

Imaging, if you will, a MapQuest direction sheet with step-by-step instructions of how to navigate from checkpoint to checkpoint. Well, it’s sort of like that, however; the Challenge direction sheet, as described to me by Chris, doesn’t include the names of towns, or exit numbers, or those handy miles-to-travel-per-road data that make MapQuest and similar types of directions the invaluable travel tools we all know them to be.

So, think about yourself traveling with those directions. You’re sheet tells you to turn left onto 1st Street. The next instruction is to continue on 1st Street, then make a right onto West Main Street. No problem, right? Well, wait a minute. How far to 1st Street? It could be the very next left or maybe its 2 miles down the road. Hell, it could be 200 miles down the road. After the frustration of finally finding 1st Street, this process starts all over as your quest for West Main Street begins. Now extrapolate carrying out this proposition all the way from Key West, Florida to Homer, Alaska.

What becomes immediately apparent about the Hoka Hey Challenge is the tremendous mental frustration and spiritual defeat these riders must feel as they strive to run-down each and every turn in the Hoka Hey maze.

Chris explains that he and Rob knew prior to this event that they may have to dig pretty deep and push themselves pretty far to get this ride done, but never did he imagine how much he would actually be tested or how far his limits pushed. Chris admits that, at one point, the Challenge of the Hoka Hey had taxed him so much that he felt it necessary to stop for a bit and recollect his thoughts. He also very much needed to rest his tired body, mind, and spirit before returning to his ultimate task of completing this once-in-a-lifetime journey, providing the best coverage possible for the Cycle Source readership that means so very much to all of us here at Cycle Source. Truth!

Chris also really feels that the advantage those in the front have over the rest of the pack may be their intentional disregard or indifference to the chatter going on between the other riders and the folks following along back home. Chris explains that, doing this run is frustrating enough, without buying into all of the online conjecture or the frustrations of those who have either become downtrodden or quit altogether.

Chris plans to continue his ride, moving throughout the pack, interviewing riders along the way, gathering photos of our beautiful land, and maybe even taking in a few must see sights along the way.

Ride safe Chris, my brother! I wish I was on my ‘06 Road Glide right there with you!

Just in

2010-06-25T10:05:00.001-07:00

Chris ”Wildman” Callen just called in to help eliminate the ongoing rumors that Canada is forbidding the Hoka Hey Riders to pass thru the Canadian borders. Chris spoke to Jim Red Cloud’s wife Beth, who has spent her morning on the phone with the Canadian officials. She has spoken to the Canadian government and the Canadian Mounted Police, who have assured her that Canada is waiting for the Hoka Hey contestants with open arms. They have no intentions to stop the rally and will do everything in their power to make everyone’s journey through Canada as safe as possible. God speed and Bonjour coureurs! (That’s hello Riders in French)

What happened? Oh, my head…

2010-06-24T18:52:00.001-07:00

Sorry folks! I literally passed-out from too many hours without food or sleep. I’ve been trying to keep up with our scooters on the ground and researching interesting tales about where they’ve been in between.

There’s so much news from the road you won’t want to miss what’s coming up next. I’ll be burning the midnight oil to get these stories posted. So, hang on tight! There’s lots more Hoka Hey news to come…

Rob’s Latest Check-In

2010-06-24T07:44:00.001-07:00

Good morning, and a very warm welcome to Hoka Hey Challenge day, uh, uh, oh yeah, five. No sleep…computer screen gonna swallow me like in “Lawnmower Man” What? Oh, shit! Did that post?

Anyway, Rob and Bear rolled into the second Challenge checkpoint at around 12:30 EST this morning.

Rob reports that, “I’m having the time of my life, man. Bear and I aren’t going to leave a single stone unturned or a single road on the Hoka Hey map un-ridden at least once. I want to thank The Great Spirit for this beautiful continent, for the opportunity to participate in this run, and for my newfound riding brother, Bear. I wish Chris could be right here with us, so the three of us could all experience this together.”

As a friend of Rob’s, I can tell by the tone of his voice, how full of life he is riding this Challenge and how excited he is to be part of the whole Hoka Hey experience.

Rob and Bear are finding more reward on this journey than the cash prize at road’s end. This may be becoming a bit of a theme with the Hoka Hey Challenge. There’s so much our great country, continent, and whole world have to offer: the beautiful natural wonders, and the amazing people to meet along the way. There’s just no way to put into words what God has created for us to live, experience, and behold.

So, Hoka Hey Challenge or not, $500,000 or not, get on your motorcycle, in your car, or, hell, shoe leather express it, baby. Do whatever it takes. But do it! Get out there and see this glorious world, meet everyone you can and make them part of your ever growing family and experience the most fulfilling life we bikers have known about since the first time we threw a leg over some type of crazy, two-wheeled form of conveyance and never looked back!

More soon…

Our Commitment to Accuracy

2010-06-23T20:10:00.001-07:00

As we’ve discussed with several readers who’ve commented on the questionable validity of Rob’s riding partner, Bear’s Iron-Butt competition history, Navy SEAL Team membership, et al, our commitment is to provide the best, most accurate information we possibly can on any given subject matter.

Since we’ve learned of Bear, and Rob’s decision to partner with his newfound friend, we’ve been working tirelessly to uncover any information we can to validate Bear’s life story. While we have no reason to disbelieve him, his desire for privacy, in not providing Cycle Source with his full-name, makes it impossible for us to post his story with confidence in its accuracy.

As a result, we’ve modified all prior postings regarding Bear’s life prior to the Hoka Hey Challenge. Having spoken with Bear on the phone, this writer can honestly say, he seems like a genuinely decent man and, as such, it is my sincere hope that he will consent to a formal interview, and reveal his identity, so that his story may be told.

Take care of our brother, Rob, Bear. He thinks the world of you!

Not Just Fun and Games

2010-06-23T13:44:00.001-07:00

Okay, so we know you’re wondering, if half the web, and even the regular, slow-motion press is starting to question the validity of this whole Hoka Hey Challenge, what the hell does Cycle Source have to say about this thing. Well, it’s not for nothin’ that Chris Callen pulled himself out of the running for the Alaskan gold, shortly after his ride began. His commitment, like the rest of us at Cycle Source, is to tell this story exactly the way it goes down, no matter what happens. Period!

That said, Chris is really forlorn that many of the riders in this Challenge, so blinded by the money at road’s end, are failing to take in all of the beautiful, spiritually uplifting and, at times, chilling, once-in-a-lifetime opportunities this run has to offer.

Chris confirms what others online have reported: that lead riders have torn down sign posts, and run stop signs and red lights all in the name of staying even a few moments ahead of the next cat. As well, Chris confirms that, unlike that which the official Hoka Hey Challenge website states, the only bikes with GPS-tracking systems are those that the riders or their sponsors have installed themselves. In fact, the two remaining Cycle Source scooters are being tracked by FindItNowUSA GPS-tracking devices that Cycle Source was able to arrange to have installed after being linked-up with FindItNowUSA by Indian of Chicago, the generous folks who provided Rob Keller with his Indian Chief Deluxe motorcycle.

Chris’ personal search for soul and purpose, and the mission of Cycle Source Magazine, has always been metaphysics through motorcycling. Simply put, we’re examining the nature of what we perceive to be real by taking-in everything our Creator put before us, so as to find out why we are here and what contribution we can make. The motorcycle gives us the chance to carry out this quest in a manner unlike anything else. Atop our scooters, there’s nothing between rider and the elements. And that sense of freedom and exposure ultimately frees us to reach out to others without fear or trepidation. Riders quickly become brothers on the road and those brothers (sisters, too – ride on biker girls) quickly form regional, national , and even worldwide motorcycling communities that have become famous for their love and support of the underprivileged, and those down on their luck, forgotten or in need.

Chris reports, “Riders shouldn’t let that money get in their way of what this journey is really all about. No matter how this thing plays out, with the money off the table, for me it’s about the ride, and baby, the ride is amazing. This continent of ours is so beautiful and the people you meet along the way, so amazing, no amount of cash is worth zooming past it. We need to get back to the days of the AMA gypsy tours, when everyone was on the same journey and no money was involved. That’s the way I’m doing this thing, and I hope others realize along the way that the trip is the reward, not some cash prize in Alaska.”

So, you see folks, we’re not turning a blind eye to what’s happening on this Challenge. We’re just doing the run the way we believe our readers would do it if they were there, themselves, not for cash, but for the accumulation of memories, making new friends and finding old ones on the road, and maybe, just maybe, coming a bit closer to that mysterious reason of why we’re here.

More to come…

And your local sheriff thinks your pipes are too loud…

2010-06-23T07:20:00.001-07:00

Good morning, and welcome to the start of Hoka Hey Challenge, day four. As we hear in from around the country, local municipalities are cracking down on scooters with pipes they deem too loud. Most of us thought that rule only applied to our motorcycle’s exhaust system. Not so where Chris laid his head to rest for a quick ‘cat’ nap last night.

After only a few winks, Chris was rousted by a local constable telling him to move on from his area of rest, a parking space behind a large, main-street gas station, with no houses or other private dwellings in site. The reason for the officer requesting Chris to move on? The police station had received complaints that his SNORING was too loud! Now that’s a strict pipe law!

After moving down the road a ways, Chris, again, pulled to the roadside to finish his nap and reports in that he’s well rested and ready to roll straight through day four.

…On a personal note, I, myself, have several family members in law enforcement and cannot thank the men and women behind the badge for all they do to keep our homes, roads, and persons safe from those that would do us harm. Men and women of America’s myriad local, state, and federal police forces, my personal thanks for what you do…

Day Three, Gone But Not Soon Forgotten

2010-06-22T22:05:00.001-07:00

Well, our fearless road warriors have ridden hard and hammered out yet another day meeting the Challenge of the Hoka Hey mile for mile. As expected, Rob Keller makes precious few phone-in updates, however; our FindItNowUSA GPS-tracking system (www.FindItNowUSA.com) shows him and Bear in the northern part of Alabama heading into the second check-point.

Rob is keeping his running strategy close to the vest, but assures us that he’s still in this Challenge to win. Until he calls next, we’re left wondering how he plans to make up for lost time. But given his determination and strong spirit, we know better than to count him out just yet.

Day four awaits…

More news from the Hoka Hey Road…

2010-06-22T20:46:00.001-07:00

From my phone to this site, day or night, you hear it first! Chris Callen reports in he’s still running with the leaders and having the ride of a lifetime. His new 2010 Harley Davidson Electra Glide Ultra Classic, sporting a six gallon fuel tank, is earning him an extra forty miles per fill-up, on average. This, Chris says, makes it possible to run 1000+ mile days with only four fuel stops per day.

Chris also reports that the map from the second checkpoint to the third shows a full 2700 mile stage, from Mississippi zigzagging north and west, then leading right on into southwestern Canada, eh! With laughter in his voice, Chris proclaimed, “Yeah baby, we’ll be seeing the fabled Alcan (Alaska-Canada) Highway before too long!”

Currently, Chris is refreshed after a quick, but much needed pit stop. He reports that today’s run involved lots of back and forth driving, following the directions provided by the 2nd to 3rd stage map. He also says today was, “hot, hot, hot,” and that it, “felt like it was about a million degrees outside!” Thankfully, he, “drank about ten Gatorades,” to stay well hydrated.

As of this last check-in Chris, refueled and rehydrated, is running fast and furious for the Oklahoma border.

Godspeed, Chris!!!

Rob’s Latest Update

2010-06-22T14:06:00.001-07:00

Rob Keller has just checked-in from the road and, too, reports that he’s having an incredibly spiritual experience. Rob tells that he’s never been better. His health is terrific thanks to a changeover from caffeinated soda’s and various fast food meals, to electrolyte-balancing drinks, vitamins, nuts, and potassium supplements. His Indian of Chicago-sponsored Indian Chief Deluxe is running strong and his only complaint is that, “it’s hot as hell, man!”
Rob has been riding side-by-side with Bear since the Challenge began. The two have become fast friends and riding brothers and are committed to riding to Homer, Alaska as a team.

Cry Havoc and Let Slip the Dogs of War

2010-06-22T12:08:00.001-07:00

Hold on to your handle bars or handle-bar mustaches, whichever’s more readily available folks. The news from day three of the Hoka Hey Challenge is truly amazing. As most of you know, this journey was established from its inception as a total human experience, a mind, body, and spiritual journey. It would test the limits of the riders and accelerate their accumulation of wisdom over the metaphysics of the human experience.

In that vein, Chris “Wild Man” Callen, Cycle Source Magazine rider and the magazine’s editor-in-chief, although still running with the leaders, officially rescinded his contention for the $500,000 prize money should he win the Hoka Hey Challenge. He did so at the second check-point, in South Haven, MS early this morning.

Chris has seen riders making high-risk decisions, forsaking necessary sleep, food and hydration all in the name of pushing forward in the hopes of taking the cash prize.

Chris came to his decision sometime yesterday afternoon, while travelling down Marsh Mountain Road in Pinson, AL. Chris was so awestruck by the beauty and peacefulness of this wooded, backcountry road that he made three passes back and forth before continuing on. Chris reports that, it was at this moment that he realized by racing past these types of places he’d be denying himself the opportunity to experience the absolute beauty and character our tremendous North American continent has to offer.

In Chris’ words:

“So, instead of muddying my waters of spirituality with a monetary goal, I’ll be focused on a much more righteous proposition, the very proud honor of bringing an experience like this to our readers. I will also capture every essence, the sights, the smells, the feels, so I can share them with the one person I’d hoped to share them with along the way, but who couldn’t make it, Curt Miller. Curt, I love you, Bro, and I’m bringing back enough great memories and souvenirs for us both!”

Well, Chris, I love you too, and although I’m not there physically, I’m there in spirit and hope to do you and Cycle Source proud as I hold down the fort back here in Pittsburgh. And yeah folks, it may as well come out at this very emotional juncture, I’m the guy who put Chris on his new pony, “Something Wicked This Way Comes!”

Ride on, brother Chris, safe, hell-bent, throttle WFO, and with the love and support of the entire Cycle Source community right there with you!

Marsh Mountain Road, Pinson, AL…

Can I see your license and registration, sir? Yeah man, it’s right there on the back of the car, Dude…

2010-06-21T17:13:00.001-07:00

Yeah folks, we’re well into day two and we’ve all been up for at least a week with no sleep. Lines from old Cheech & Chong movies put us into hysterics far too easily. By the way, “he said his name is Ralph.”
Okay, okay…I digress. We’ve finally heard in from Rob Keller, our man on the Indian of Chicago-sponsored Indian Chief Deluxe motorcycle. He and his new riding bro, Bear, have crossed the 1st checkpoint, fueled up on gas, food, and fire, piss and vinegar. Their hell-bent and hammer-down and pushing to chase down the rest of the pack.
Rob reports the weather is beautiful, his Indian has a strong heartbeat and, thanks to Bear’s tenacious spirit, they’re able to keep focused and ride long hours, stopping only for the fuel that feeds their ponies and their bodies.
As Rob anticipated, his spirit is being fueled and challenged by the journey itself. Ride on, brother Rob!

Hoka Hey Update

2010-06-21T10:14:00.001-07:00

Great news from the road this morning. Chris checked-in just a bit ago with the announcement that he and Big Ben are still riding together and are currently leading the Hoka Hey Challenge! Team Cycle Source is definitely in this Challenge and we’re in it to WIN!!!

Chris is running fresh after catching a quick “cat” nap and picking up some high-protein snake-meat jerky at a local gas and sip. He and Big Ben plan to keep their whirlwind pace and, as they cross from state to state, Chris remains focused and his message clear: “Something Wicked This Way Comes!” Yeah, baby!

Rob Keller, has yet to check-in, but we expect that this veteran long-run rider won’t be stopping for phone calls for our benefit. Likely, rather, he’ll be hell-bent and throttle down to make up for time lost yesterday.

Stay tuned! From my phone to this page, you’re in the know!

Hotel bed is not what I had In mind

2010-06-20T23:19:00.000-07:00

YEP... I got a speeding ticket . . . All though it's a bit complicated, In the end I got it, so I'm out of the challenge, not eligible to win the prize so were heading back to PIT....

. . .The route directions & the actual "route" were different, not sure what's going on honestly but I'm still bummed I'm not in the mix...

Breaking News

2010-06-20T21:13:00.001-07:00

Just in: Rob Keller called in just minutes ago to report that his start was delayed by as much as three hours due to obligations involving press interviews and discussions with the Discovery Channel pertaining to the setup and filming of this incredible motorcycle challenge.
As a result of Rob’s and others’ efforts, Alystar Mckenneh of www.roadtosturgis.net, herself a motorcycle rider and film documenter, was hired by the Discovery Channel to join their team covering this challenge. Her expertise filming motorcycles in motion will no doubt lend tremendous support to their filming efforts.
A rider friend of Jim Red Cloud’s who goes by, Bear, was linked up with Rob shortly before Rob’s late start. Bear will be riding along side Rob, working hard to make up lost time.
Rob reports that, “With Bear riding a Harley Davison, Harley and Indian are running side-by-side. We plan to be make our way through to at least mid-pack by mid-morning tomorrow.”
Rob also warns that riders lacking at least some orienteering skills are certain to end up lost before getting far on the journey.
Stay tuned…this story has only begun to unfold!

Run Riot

2010-06-20T20:30:00.001-07:00

Can’t get enough from Cycle Source, Hoka Hey Central? Well, we get wait to get the news and post is as quickly as it comes in.

At last check-in, Chris reports he’s having the ride of his life. He’s just pulled ahead of Paul, the rider sponsored by Bare Knuckle Choppers and believes he’s about 45 minutes behind Big Ben from Milwaukee. Today marks his third day without sleep, but he says he’s wide awake and running strong.

Chris would like to, again, thank Jim Red Cloud for making Cycle Source a part of the Hoka Hey Challenge. Chris reports that this morning’s send off event was a beautiful and spiritual ceremony, including inspirational, Native American prayer. Chris was also honored by Jim Red Cloud to be one of the first three riders to leave on the challenge along with Jim Red Cloud’s two nephews, Chris atop his new Ultra Classic, and Jim’s two nephews riding their new Hoka Hey motorcycles. http://www.hokaheymotorcompany.com

Chris’s most recent location:

A big thanks to Cochise over on the message board for helping this writer stay as up to date as possible. Cochise reports that both Chris (Wild Man) Callen and Big Ben have crossed the first checkpoint and are making there way toward Mississippi.

No news yet from Rob Keller. This is no surprise to us at Cycle Source as his intentions all along were to ride full tilt from the start line, stopping only for gas and bites to eat so as to put as many miles as possible between himself and Key West as quickly as possible. We expect he’ll ride nonstop for a least a day or two before breaking the trip into smaller, more reasonable parts.

Rob’s most recent location:

Day 1 Hoka Hey Challenge

2010-06-20T17:17:00.000-07:00

Day One of the Hoka Hey:

We were up at sunrise, packed in at the starting line with all of the other racers ready to start our journey to Alaska. The race began pretty intense, not much room on the backroads, we hit rain, and I got lost three times (the map wasn't as easy to read as i had previously thought). Once we hit the main roads all systems got back on track, only 650 miles to the first checkpoint.

I hit the first checkpoint shortly before 6:30pm here in Daytona,Fl. It was time to recharge, refuel, review the map strategy. Unfortunatly the challange had claimed its first casualty here in the first leg of the race, one of the riders had went off road and crashed. Though he looked fine as I rode past, it was definately a reminder that this is any man's race. Still, I'm feeling good and confidant, and finding out I am in the top 20 helped. I am heading out again for the second leg, which will place me 905 miles from here. Crossing thru Georgia , Alabama, and putting me in Southaven, Mississippi at the Southern Thunder Harley-Davidson.

I'd also like to give a thanks to my friends at Custom Baggers for my windshield and Progressive Suspension. Until tomorrow, this is it as I head out again taking me one step closer to The Last Frontier.

First Road Reports

2010-06-20T09:03:00.001-07:00

No turning back now friends, the Challenge of the Hoka Hey has officially begun. As things currently stand, Chris Callen had an early morning start time and feeling fresh on his new ride is taking every advantage of his early lead. Currently, he’s turned west onto 595, likely to connect with US75, also known as “alligator alley,” heading for the gulf coast. Chris also reports to seeing two riders on baggers involved in a wreck somewhere between the starting line and his current position. No word on any injuries. Our prayers go out to those involved and to all the riders on this difficult ride.

Although, Chris Callen’s got the early lead, don’t count Rob Keller out just yet. You see Rob is riding with Jim Red Cloud and the team riding the new Hoka Hey Motorcycles. That’s no misprint folks, Jim Red Cloud, in collaboration with John White of Crazy Horse Motorcycles, have inked a deal and created the Hoka Hey Motorcycle Company. Rob is riding along with three of these Hoka Hey bikes as well as Alystar McKenneh, who has linked up with one of the documentary film crews covering this event. Currently, Rob is just outside the Florida Keys, but he’s running fast and hard with his Native American brethren. Other riders better be watching their mirrors, because this pack is moving like the wind and is coming with a single-minded purpose…WIN!

Something Wicked This Way Comes

2010-06-20T05:48:00.001-07:00

After working tirelessly for days on end, a computer/electrical problem with Chris Callen’s recently freshened 2003 Electra Glide Ultra Classic, his beloved “Black Pearl,” simply brought the bike to its knees. Although they were not able to bring the electronics of the bike into reliable, smooth-running compliance, Don and Athena at Vagabond Choppers had, otherwise, made the Pearl better than new. These two worked round the clock, side-by-side with Chris, spending their own cash, if necessary, trying to get the Pearl in top condition for the Hoka Hey Challenge. As such, Chris and all those at Cycle Source offer a special thanks to Don and Athena for their extraordinary efforts!

Yesterday afternoon, around 5:30pm Chris, the folks at Vagabond Choppers, and Chris’ support team back home in Pittsburgh made the tough call that, despite countless peoples’ best efforts, the Pearl was not to make this journey.

As of 5:30pm the evening before the start of the Hoka Hey Challenge, there seemed to be little chance that Chris would make the run. At this point he had, essentially, no bike and was still in Fort Lauderdale, FL several hours away from the starting line. What he didn’t realize was that he also had something working for him just as hard back home, the love and support of his friends and of those whose lives he’s indelibly touched.

While Chris was working at Vagabond’s Choppers, his friends back home were in contact with Bruce Rossmeyer’s Harley Davidson in Fort Lauderdale. When Chris called home to check in regarding his progress on the Pearl, the cats back home told him that the Pearl would live to run another day and that he should head to Rossmeyer’s where there was a 2010 Electra Glide Ultra Classic prepped, paid for, in the name of Chris Callen and ready for him to pick up.

Amazed as what his friends had done, Chris first refused to accept such a generous gift. But at the insistence of those in Pittsburgh, that taking the bike and running the Hoka Hey was a gift for them all, Chris accepted the bike, and made his way to Key West for the Challenge.

He left early this morning and his first stop will be at Harley Davidson of Daytona.

Thanks, Chris for making this run after such little rest or time to prepare. Thanks to Don and Athena at Vagabond’s Choppers for working so hard to make the Pearl whole once again. Thanks Mike and Scotty at Rossmeyer’s Harley Davidson for putting together a bike deal over the phone and with a credit card. And thanks to those who love Cycle Source Magazine and Chris Callen for putting him on a new Electra Glide Ultra Classic, dubbed, “Something Wicked This Way Comes,” for his Hoka Hey Challenge!

PS: Chris has just reported in seeing one of the Hoka Hey riders pulled over for speeding saying, “there goes the first half-million-dollar speeding ticket of the Hoka Hey, baby!” Well, that’s 999 riders left to keep in the mirror, Chris. Keep on rollin’!

7 hours until we depart !

2010-06-19T20:42:00.000-07:00

It's been a long day, but were all set to leave for the starting area to be there by 5 a.m.
The race will start at sunrise, 6:43 I think... Chief redcloud had some inspiring words at the briefing tonight, we also got to hear a short song performed by fellow tribesman....

Hoka Hey was the phrase shouted in unison by all of the challengers in the packed banquet room.

I also had to trim up the map pages so that they could fit into my map bag, last touches complete !

here's most of my nutrition I'll be packing into my saddle bags

The Cycle Source Hoka Hey Reader Challenge

2010-06-18T22:37:00.001-07:00

Cycle Source Readers: as Chris, Rob and Geno embark on their 7000+ mile journey across continental North America, acting as warriors fighting to raise funding and awareness for myriad noble initiatives, they draw inspiration from a variety of places. Much of that inspiration comes from the stories they’ve taken in throughout the years talking with readers like you, and the stories of those featured in the magazine.
While Team Cycle Source is battling the road, the elements, and the limitations of both man and machine, I’d like to offer the Cycle Source readership the opportunity to share their own “war” stories as additional inspiration for the ride.
These are your stories of triumph, whether in war, over injustice, battling illness, etc. Tell us your tale of victory over insurmountable odds and let those of us at Cycle Source as well as our readers be inspired by your story.
Please share your stories via the comment field at the end of this posting. Thank you, in advance, for your triumphs and the inspiration your stories will bring!

2010-06-18T18:48:00.000-07:00

06/18/2010 9:58 p.m.

Today it's finally setting in ! We showed up at 1 to the Marriot for registration after waiting in a long line with plenty of opportunity's to get a vibe and chat with other challengers. After a short interview with Cleveland Brown I have to say I'm even more confident about my strategy, my racing background has enabled me to see unique aspects.. Tech Inspection was quick and then I came back to the house to swim & stretch. I still have to build my I-pod playlist, I'm thinking the sunset this evening will bring me some inspiration for new music.

Were off to eat some konch fritters, a must have for any island stay... Tomorrow we have a briefing from 6-8 pm.... It's looking like Alaska will host the hardest part of the course for us, gas is the main concern but the bad road conditions will be in my favor for sure, I love sliding this bagger in the gravel !

I have to give shout out's to my dad Eugene Smales and my friends Jordan Onofer & Gregg Frey for making this journey with me. We have been working closely on our pit strategy and I know I can count on them. Also I'd like to thank Rob Buydos & Chris Callen for sharing their opinion's and advice. Dave Schlosser with my bike setup, with out my crew and my closest friends behind me I couldn't have shown Up prepared at this level... Kudos to my dear friend Rachel Reyna for updating this blog for me while i'm riding !

It's exciting to hear about Chris Carr making an entry into the event, I'll be cheering him on ! I'll be joining my two fellow journalist

Reunited

2010-06-18T10:53:00.001-07:00

Yes, sports fans; our cats from Cycle Source have reunited in Fort Lauderdale, FL and are soon off to meet the Challenge of the Hoka Hey. As you already know Chris Callen has been in Florida working hard to prepare his steed for the ride, completing Don’s at Vagabond’s tireless efforts by adorning the bike with Native American war paint.
Well, as of this morning Rob Keller arrived atop his fresh Indian motorcycle. Riding all the way from Indian of Chicago with Alystar Mekennah, from roadtosturgis.net. They made but few stops, but did manage to record an internet radio show (on Wednesday, June 16th) with the folks at BikerLowdown.com. You can check it out now at Bikerlowdown.com where they have OnDemand replays of recent shows.

Final Hours And The Bike Takes Shape.....

2010-06-18T06:14:00.000-07:00

So Thursday was a heavy damn day for the bike prep. While Don ocked the door at the shop, Athena and I hit the streets to track down parts and tools we'd need to finish. After rounding up our wearables through a trip to Sunshine Auto Salvage. These cats have the killer spot going on for South Florida, like a mountain of used parts from take offs and left overs to just plain good used stuff. Four stars from the workin' stiff's guide to the local motorcycle culture.

So, back to the shop after a side trip to Harbor Freight, needed some tools and stuff for a road pack, then we went to work. Well, Don and Athena went to work, I decided to finger paint my bike. No, actually I had a very specific plan. Curt had helped me do some research on warriors of the Native American Indian cultture and in addition to adding my sponsors stickers, I applied a design that would provide "Trouble for my enemy" "Speed" Ownership" and in general the Lakota version of military medals of valor.

As the night went on things got more goofy since this was our second all nighter in a row. Still, there was plenty to be done and a bit at a time it started to take shape. There was at one point, an absolute fury of work going on while Athena welded broken brackets, Don took it all back to better than stock spec and "Rebel Son" blasted out of the radio. We installed the Cycle Electric three phase charging system, filled up the Baker Six with Spectro oil of course, and got the progressive suspension front kit finished. Man, I said we like I meant it huh. No, really it was supposed to read THEY!

We had some parts that were wrong and would keep us from finishing Thursday night, at least that's what I'm saying the reason was. No problem, back to Sunshin in the AM, and then a call to work with Bill from Zippers to get the Thundermax dialed in and we're ready to start the final pack and head for the keys.

By 4:30 I had to throw in the towel. Still not sure how long they stayed, hell the might be there when I get back this morning. One thing I know for sure, while the bike still looks like we have a ton of work to get finished before we leave today, everything that they have done to it is being carried out with attention to detail like I've never seen. Don doesn't screw around man. This bike has 130,000 very hard miles and there isn't a single connector that he hasn't completely disassembled to clean and reassemble. Ths is better than a new bike man cause if he doesn't like the way a part looks or feels, we get a new one and that's that!

Thanks again to all our sponsors, please visit them if you have the chance and tell them we sent you. See you on the next turn, here we come Key West!!!

In Ft. Lauderdale.

2010-06-17T07:14:00.000-07:00

Well, after a day of travel I'm only a few hours, but still two days, away form the starting line. It was like hell to get it all done before I had to leave and many big thanks to Jean for helping me finish the mag and getting me to leave on time.

When I got into Vagabond Choppers Don was still hard at it. He's pulled plenty of all nighters in the past few weeks on the painstaking inspection and repair of everything on my tired old Black Pearl. Believe it or not it's on the way back up now and with one good push tomorrow, we should be on top of it. Still, I got ants in my pants and seeing the bike still in pieces did kinda blow my mind. Don is top shelf and so is his girl Athena, these two need major props for going so far outta their way to make sure i have peace of mind on the trip. With morning coming way too early, I'm calling it an early night so I'm ready when Athena calls the run bell. We are planning a day ofscrounging over at the parts store to grab a few last minute items. Stay tuned and I'll get you updated from the shop!

Our brother Curt...

2010-06-17T00:51:00.001-07:00

As I grow older, and hopefully wiser, I realize that the time we get to spend here on this beautiful earth is very short and that there is not enough time to see and do everything that our creator has placed before us. Our opportunities are less now more than ever because of our hectic work schedules and the lack of funds keep us busy trying to make ends meet.

There’s just not enough time to do what we want to do or need to do.

I also know that they say if you can count the number of friends you have on one hand, you’ve lived a good life. I just want to say I’m a very blessed man in this regard. I’ve had the pleasure of meeting a lot of people as I try to share my dreams of music and motorcycling with everyone I can. In my journey I’ve run across some incredible people, way too many to mention. This is one of them. Curt Miller and his wife Sharon have inspired me in more ways in a short time than anyone I can believe. You see Curt has been living with chronic, and now terminal illness for the last sixteen years. I met him at the Harley dealership when he was looking for a new motorcycle, he had just completed his riders training and earned his license. He was already riding a sport bike but wanted one of the Harley- Davidson’s. On the test ride Curt found the motorcycle of his dreams. Purchased it. I could tell he needed a little more instruction on riding a bigger bike so we made arrangements to ride together so I could work with him to hone his skills.

The first time I went to his house, and he and his wife invited me into their home, Curt knew I was a musician and handed me a 1962 Gibson Hollow body guitar, it was in perfect condition except for a hole in the lower front corner of the guitar. The instrument was damaged in a car accident when virtually new when in the hands of a friend of its original owner. He told me its original owner had then covered it with leather, sometime back in the sixties, to make it look like a Native American drum. Doing so had not only altered the guitar’s appearance, but also destroyed any hope of the instrument producing the beautiful sound its luthier intended. When Curt removed the leather he found its defect. Somehow he was able to get all the glue off without destroying the finish. It looked like it had never been played other than the pick marks on the edge of the sound hole. The guitar's song restored, it played beautifully and I sang a song for them.

Curt is also an accomplished musician and a graduate of the University of Notre Dame. His main instrument is the drums, but he dabbles with the guitar and bass, and played piano growing up. He has a Roland Electronic Drum set that is always setup in his family room.

When he sat down behind the kit and began to play a little for me, it took me about three seconds to realize how very honed he is at his craft.

Curt told me he never ventured far on his bike, he’d only done the same loop around his house. I told him I needed gas and he said he had some in the garage and I was welcomed to it, I told him, “No, my bike needs 'special gas' and you need to ride with me to the gas station” We then went for a ride on the motorcycles to the local gas station. At this time I did know of Curt’s illness and asked him why he wanted to ride motorcycles? He had all the right reasons and told me it was the adventure and a continued desire to do that which others had proclaimed he could never accomplish. At that point I knew we had many common bonds and I would spend as much time with him that he needed to become a skilled rider. After some encouragement, we took a brief ride on the Interstate that night and I couldn’t believe how excited he was at what he had accomplished in such a short time!

When we got back to the house Curt asked, “what do I owe you for the lesson?” But I was more interested in hangin’ out with this dude, than having him pay me for riding lessons.

He said, “that’s cool, but come inside. I have to show you something.” He quickly disappeared into the other room and came back with a brand new Fender Stratocaster Deluxe Players Edition guitar and handed it to me. He said, “this guitar deserves to be played by someone with your skill and talent. I want you to have it.” I couldn’t believe it, and I got choked up as I still do telling you this. The next conversation , morphed into the Hoka Hey Motorcycle Challenge as I explained my connection with Jim Red Cloud and the how this event would help the Lakota people.

He asked Sharon where the check book was and came back and handed me a check and said that he wanted to sponsor me in this challenge and if there was anything else I needed to let him know!

I just want you to know right now that the gifts he gave me weren’t taken lightly. I continue to talk with Curt on a daily basis and have involved him with Cycle Source Magazine, as well.

Since then he and Chris have also become brothers, because we all share so many common bonds. Jean girl and my wife Karen also have become close friends with Curt and Sharon in the short time since we met Curt and his wife.

Curt and Sharon live their lives with passion and have showed me how important the quality of time is. Curt told me the story of when he was young, he went to the library for the school and there was a homeless man reading a book. The librarian told the man to leave because this wasn’t a place for him. Curt demanded that they let him be and that, although the man had no worldly belongings, he recognized the value of knowledge and that an educated mind was the one thing no one could ever take from him. Curt was expelled from the field trip and severely reprimanded for involving himself with the grown-up affairs of the teachers and library staff. However, throughout his life, Curt has found himself on the same side of this line, fighting hard against any type of hypocrisy or injustice he runs across.

Although Curt feels there were times during his youth when his folks’ desire and drive for him to succeed were overbearing and even unwelcome, he has the wisdom to recognize that if he were to change any part of his past, he would not be the man he is today, a man that he openly acknowledges that, despite his illnesses, is the most blessed that he knows. Curt is lucky to still have parents and as a result of his family’s relentless desire for harmony and a willingness to be honest with each other and to give and take criticism they are close today despite the differences of opinion that they may have over specific issues. Curt believes it’s never to late to make amends. My time with Curt has taught me to appreciate life even more than I had before. Our time here is short and for some much shorter. Curt is my inspiration as I accept the challenge of the Hoka Hey - “It’s a good day to die”, on his behalf. I believe that we have made a connection and are soul mates. Every second I am on this ride I dedicate to Curt because he can’t be there. He will be riding beside me every step of the way. I will use his energy and combined with mine we will ride as one! Synergy of Spirits …thanking you brother, for everything.

Feeling charged up !

2010-06-16T07:20:00.000-07:00

New speakers, amplifier, wind shield, seat, fog lights . . . more pictures to come

I started this and ended up pulling an all nighter to get it finished. I'm not a huge fan of Harley engineering, I'll take my Jap bikes to work on any day lol . . .

I have a pretty good grip on my strategy at this point. The shop talk has been extraordinary, the chase van is about packed. Everyone in my crew is really going to extra mile for me & I'm realizing how much confidence that will give me when I'm forced to dig deep.

I'm feeling good physically, got an hour massage yesterday, and I've been drinking countless ounces of aqua !

I'm going to ride my dirt bike for a little while this evening. I'll be flying out of PIT tomorrow At noon . . .

Dutchamn Racing Bike Prep

2010-06-13T13:14:00.000-07:00

My man Dave @ Dutchman Racing went over my street glide today. He also mounted my new tires and prepped my spare wheels. With such a successful racing history and numerous championships as team manager, I'm happy to have Dave on board to help me prepare for this event. It comes down to confidence most times and this challenge will be a test of so many elements.

I can only imagine it now, but hallucinating while riding should be an unforgettable experience to say the least !

www.DutchmanRacing.com

Having The Right Gear To Make The Trip!

2010-06-13T09:44:00.000-07:00

After a series of stops at Baker, then S&S and then New Orleans, my bike is finally torn apart at Vagabond Choppers in Ft. Lauderdale. Don and Athena have agreed to be my pit crew and have been doing pre-run service making sure that it will make the ride with no problems. In addition to the Baker DD6 and 106” S&S motor, they now have the task of putting the Progressive front and rear suspension, Cycle Electric charging system, RSD brake rotors and Metzler tires on the bike. They are also doing a laundry list of parts swapping that were supplied by Harley-Davidson.
Harley also came through for me in a big way with their MotorClothes. I have been a big fan of their FXRG gear for a long time now but mine was the first generation so it had been used pretty hard.

As part of their sponsorship Harley made sure I would have the best protection from the elements, the new FXRG Jacket, Pants, Riding boots and a good rain suit. This rocks man cause the gear is so versatile that it really is my number one choice for all around riding gear. It has lightweight body armor, plenty of built in functionality and I swear, after reading Joann’s riding through winter series, I was jealous as hell. Below is a quick rundown of the gear they sent out and some shots of my trying it out. This will without a doubt help me face any conditions on the Hoka Hey.
FXRG® Midweight Leather Jacket
The FXRG Midweight leather is anything but midweight in performance. A waterproof leather jacket that is really waterproof. This is due to a fixed CoolMax® lining and wind- and waterproof c_change™ membrane technology from Schoeller® that reacts to body temperature and moisture levels to ensure an optimum body climate. Removable, lightweight and breathable Primaloft® warmth liner can also be worn separately as a light jacket. This give wet suit like performance for anyone who surfs or dives knows, cold and wet stays out, body still breaths.
Two large vertical front vents and one across the provide real circulation as the day starts to warm up. Removable, CE-approved lightweight body armor at elbows, shoulders, and back are good but not heavy enough to be uncomfortable. Pull-tab snaps allow easy installation of Heated Jacket Liner, which they also sent me, this thing is good for pre-sleep warming if ya’ dig my drift. It also has inside
zipper pockets, a cargo pocket, cell phone pocket, and eyewear pocket with a lens wipe attached to a safety cord. The official list of features goes like this: Two zipper hand-warmer pockets. YKK® Finguard® front zipper with re-designed zipper pull. A removable kidney belt, action back, pre-curved sleeves with zipper cuffs, snap waist tabs and snap-tab mandarin collar. 3M™ Scotchlite™ Reflective Material piping. Graphics on front and back, all with a 5-year warranty. At a retail price of $650 you might think that this is an expensive coat, but it’s actually a few coats in one. And let’s not even get into what the value is when you find yourself out on the road with no money for an extra night in a hotel and have to ride through the night over the Rockies…… Priceless!

Men’s FXRG® Leather & Textile Overpant
These are waterproof leather combined with strategically placed stretch Cordura® for maximum comfort and reduced weight (12% lighter). I wonder how much these will perform like my last pants without the fabric sections, but time will tell. I know that shedding some weight off isn’t a bad thing cause as good as the old ones worked, they were heavy as hell. The pants also sport the CoolMax® lining. Wind- and waterproof c_change™ membrane technology from Schoeller®. They have Angled thigh vents, which my old ones did not so I’m waiting to see how that works. Finally, the list of impressive features for the pants goes like this: Removable, CE-approved lightweight body armor at knees and back hip. Stretch Cordura® inner thigh and back knee panels for comfort. Pre-curved knee panels. Front zipper with adjustable waist. Zipper leg openings with gussets. Zipper waist attaches to all men’s FXRG® Jackets. Two front jean-style pockets. 3M™ Scotchlite™ Reflective Material piping. Graphics down right thigh and on back waist. Available in 32” and 34” inseams. All with a 5-year warranty. MSRP on the pants comes in at $425 but like I said above, no price can be put on comfort if weather ruins the ride of a lifetime.
FXRG®-3 Boots
Anyone that has seen me out on the road knows that when I’m not wearing my Vans sneakers, I have a ratty old pair of leather boots on. What they don’t know is that those boots have been with me for some 100,000 miles and although they look like hell on the outside, mainly due to my lack of proper care, they are the best riding footware I have ever had. Well, that was generation 2 of the FXRG Boot. Now in generation three, the boot is constructed with full grain oiled leather upper with Cordura® breathable underlays. It has a Breathable Gore-Tex® membrane waterproof lining, Shock Absorbers Twin Pad™ Comfort Technology and removable dual-density polyurethane sock footbed. They have a lightweight, flexible polyurethane midsole with rubber street side making it easy to ride with your foot in any position. Coming in at a retail of $210.00 there not a bad price when compared to a Rocky of the same quality, and these things do perform at that level.
Men’s Ride Ready Packable Rain Suit
Having the FXRG suit along is gonna be a great advantage but nothing replaces the ability to quickly get out of the rain, or in our case to get quickly out into the rain. Harley-Davidson MotorClothes has also thought of this for me and has sent along a rain suit made of waterproof nylon with full mesh lining. It has a zipper front with storm flap, adjustable elastic cuffs and a removable helmet-friendly hood. The official list of features: Two welded, waterproof hand-warmer pockets. 3M™ Scotchlite™ Reflective Material piping and panel across the back. Printed graphics on back, chest and sleeves. Pants feature elastic waist, stirrups, and articulated knees. Heat-resistant shields on inner leg. Adjustable leg openings with gussets to fit boots. Reflective piping down legs and printed graphic at lower leg. Includes storage bag. Bottom line is that this is a nice big, quick easy on and off rain suit with protector lining wear the pipe side of the bikes is. It all packs into a nice little space of about eight inches by eight inches at only an inch tall. At an MSRP of $139.00 it’s a little more than the average rain suit but I feel that it has the features to warrant that price.
Good luck to all the Hoka Hey Warriors, see you in Alaska; first, last, or in the middle, God willing, all safe and spiritually fulfilled.

Johnny Come Lately Riders?????? Yeah, Ok.......

2010-06-12T15:54:00.000-07:00

If you are coming here from the post on the Hoka Hey Yahoo Group and read that people are surprised that Rob is riding an Indian and that the rules say "nothing but Harley", that statement is wrong. There are many other bikes like a Sucker Punch Sally, another Indian, and several custom bikes that we know about personally. We talked with Jim Redcloud a long time ago about this and if the story was good he was happy to accommodate a rider that should be along. With Rob and the Indian, he has his own Harley but choose to ride the Indian for the fun of reenacting this great part of motorcycle history. I'm not sure what everyone is all wound up about, it's still an air cooled twin....

Anyway, we appreciate the guys on that group that have welcomed us into the mix and for the rest, we'll see you in Florida. Anyone is welcome to post here by the way but just so you know, neither Rob nor I are brats that are factory sponsored, we are lucky enough to be given help by people who believe in us to take the ride of a lifetime. Sorry if anyone had the impression that we are trying to throw any weight around, this blog is just about our journey, of which the Hoka Hey is now part.

Synergy of Spirits

2010-06-12T11:27:00.000-07:00

As most of you already know, the Hoka Hey Challenge is the inspired brainchild of Jim Red Cloud, a great man who, via this ride, has united a lot of passionate souls to help generate awareness, funding, and support for quite a few very worthy initiatives. What you may not know is that Jim is not the first to hold the Red Cloud surname to be a man of greatness.
The Native American, Red Cloud, born in the early 1820s, of whom Jim Red Cloud is a direct descendant, was one of the greatest warriors and statesman in American history. Before his years of glory in the hunt, in battle, and as Chief of the Lakota Sioux Nation, when just a young boy, his father gave him a pony. His father explained that, if he could learn to win the heart of and be at peace atop this animal without saddle or bridle he could, one day, learn to win the hearts and minds of and be a great leader of men.

Unlike other boys his age, who would have been likely to look for help or advise from their elders, Red Cloud, followed the lead of the older boys and roped his pony, dragged it to ground and tied it near his teepee. He again joined the older boys in regularly running the herd of ponies to water.
Before long, Red Cloud’s colt had become used to him and began to allow the boy to approach and handle it. At this sign of trust, Red Cloud took the initiative to try to ride the unbroken colt. Although thrown, but only a few times, Red Cloud was soon able to calm the colt and, from thence forward, ride the colt bareback, arms folded across his chest with no bridle, guiding the animal via small movements of body language that his colt grew to understand.
Eventually, Red Cloud became so adept at training his ponies that he began to train ponies for his father and grandfather, as well.
Red Cloud’s connection with his horses freed him to keep his wits about him during the hunt and during battle. Along with Red Cloud’s great intellect, wisdom, and his ability to lead, his transparent link with the animal which carried him made the two of them, together, virtually invincible against buffalo or human foe. The two had a synergy of spirits, if you will. If you doubt this, history shows that Red Cloud was never defeated in battle!
Why the tale of Red Cloud and his method of breaking horses? Well, it seems that our brethren here at Cycle Source (Chris Callen and Rob Keller) are doing their damnedest to revive the Hundred Years War. In that vein, Rob’s got himself a brand new Indian motorcycle that needed a name. With Rob’s tremendous good heart and soul-searching spirit as well as his strong love and support of the Native American community, just any old name wouldn’t do.
As such, to honor Red Cloud, Jim Red Cloud, Rob Keller, Chris Callen, the Native American community, all Veterans and US Armed Service Members, and all those affiliated with the Hoka Hey Challenge, I herby christen Rob Keller’s new Indian motorcycle the “Synergy of Spirits.”
I came to learn the story of Red Cloud from the book Indian Heroes and Great Chieftains, by Charles A. Eastman, 1918. (now in the public domain)
Curt Miller

Gifts For The Chief

2010-06-12T08:15:00.000-07:00

Since we have been invited to run with the Lakota, I remember my father telling me that it wouldn't be proper manners to show up empty handed. Hell, that was all the way back when the American Indian Movement came through this part of Western Pennsylvania through the "Free Peltier" Campaign around '77. Leonard Peltier, as it turns out, was arrested for his part in the 1975 shootout on the Pine Ridge Reservation, that's right, the same one we now ride for on the Hoka Hey.

I was in awe of these cats with their traditional dress and teepee community. When my dad took me too meet the chief and his braves we presented him with fresh trout that we had caught for that purpose. I have always felt like the lessons he taught me along the way only come to me now as I need them. So in that same tradition I have set a little time aside each week to collect trout from the stream near my house to make the same offering of my own to the chief that is responsible for this run. On this day, the man upstairs saw fit to provide me with these two beautiful examples of Western Pennsylvania trout that I may find myself in their good graces. Hoka Hey baby!

My Part Of The Hundred Years War!

2010-06-11T08:06:00.000-07:00

With Rob getting to ride an Indian we decided to up the ante on this little deal. While everyone will be chasing the half million dollars, the two of us will be carrying out a side battle that has been going on for one hundred years; Harley versus Indian. To accentuate this, Bob from Indian Motorcycles of Chicago, with the good people of Find It Now, has arranged for real time GPS devices to be put on each bike so you will be able to track the Hundred Years War as it goes down on the Hoka Hey. I scored this killer vintage race jersey to rep my brand and Rob has the red and creame Indian jersey as well. If we had two of the old motorcycle leather hats we'd really be in.

Vision upgrade

2010-06-11T04:07:00.000-07:00

As I was picking up my replacement Ray Ban polarized glasses, I spotted the Oakley's with the vented lenses... After some debate between Steeler's black and gold frames, it was orange and white that won that battle in the end. The Oakley's will provide fog free vision if it happens to rain

I've added this led light with head strap to ensure my hands will be free while digging through my saddle bags...

This upgraded 32 gig I-phone should hold all of my music, and who can forget Pandora internet radio....

I've been watching this 45 minute interview with Lance Mackey, what an inspiration to have while approaching battle !

Vagabond Choppers On It!!!!

2010-06-10T07:08:00.000-07:00

Donny Ransom and Athena are in full swing at Vagabonds. Getting the last batch of bullshit done to my bike to make it ready for the long haul. Don is a master and hasn't left a bolt unturned in his pursuit to make the old Black Pearl a worry free ride. He's changed more parts on her in this one week than I've changed since I bought it. After 130,000 miles, it needed everything. Big love to Progressive Suspension, Baker, S&S, Cycle Electric, Roland Sands, Harley-Davidson and Spe3ctro for the parts to get her back in the pink. I will be writing full articles on all the installs one at a time in Cycle Source and on this blog so stay tuned. For now, I have one week to finish a magazine before I leave. I am chain smokin' cigarettes and not sleeping much. Yeah, it’s kinda like training I guess. Oh well, gotta make the donuts!

Rob Keller picks up the Indian!

2010-06-10T07:00:00.001-07:00

Man i just picked up the indian motorcycle that ill be riding on our incredible journey. Thanks to Bob and the folks at Indian of Chicago, finally got to meet them and spend some time there. I'm really proud to be riding for them and I want to thank them for this chance to ride the Indian in the Hoka Hey. Their staff is great and helped me out tremendously. The GPS is on the bike now and Chris' has been sent to Florida so before too long we can let you know how to track us live.

11 more days left

2010-06-09T15:54:00.000-07:00

In spite of the gray skies here in Pittsburgh today, the swimming session went well... My trainer Janalyn showed me a few new things I wish I knew years ago ! Our day at the gym ended in the sauna, or should I say the sauna ended our day ! Tonight I will go fetch some new lenses for my polarized sunglasses, they're a huge help on the eyes... I still need to mount my new Kustom Bagger 11.5 windshield, and my Corbin classic solo seat is set to arrive by monday, just in time for my Wednesday departure... As soon as I get the bike setup complete I'll be sure to share a picture...

I plan on phoning in my blog entries via blue tooth headset while riding in the challenge. I can hardly wait until the gate drops, or the gun goes off haha

Taking a step back from the whole deal.......

2010-06-07T19:36:00.000-07:00

So here we are with our Hoka Hey gear on with Rob's 38 Ford Tractor. It's funny now to think that we are only three weeks away from the ride of a lifetime but the time is almost at hand. One thing that has been modified is the way I am thinking about this run.

Jean reminded me that this is MY ride of a lifetime so the original plan to put the whole deal on youtube and twitter and every other shit digital network tool there is, I will, under her reminder, be going the less technical route. Instead of lugging the computer and big cameras, the video gear and the whole bit, I am simply taking a pad and a pen. Instead of trying to capture the physical evedince of what this ride will be about, I am simply ging to do what I love to do, write what it feels like, what I smell, where I go and the way it strikes me. My hopes are that in this way I wont be cheating myself, or anyone who reads the product of my work, out of a clear sense of what this is all about. So other than the pen I will of course have a camera, but it will be a small digital pocket type deal and I am planning on only taking the pictures that are awe inspiring to me and lend themselves to the story as a whole.

Getting my gear together!!!!

2010-06-07T19:21:00.000-07:00

So, I have ben collecting gear for this trip for over two months now. Made a list and my chick was nice enough to run down a lot fo the items for me. While I can't go into great detail about what I will have with me I can tell you about a few of the preparations i have made so far.

As you can see from the photo above, I have a bunch of shit as part of my pack. I loaded all this crap into a box today and sent it off to Athena and Don who are working feverishly on the "Black Pearl" to make her ride for the big ride on the 20th. I will hook up with them at Vagabond Chopper HQ on the 16th and I figured that there was no way I was hauling the 43 pounds of provisions on the plane.

Before I packed it up, I took the time to seal and reseal the new one man quick tent I scored. I am so stoked about this damn ride that I can hardly think about work.... Killin' me!!!!

Spectro Oil rocks!

2010-06-07T11:15:00.001-07:00

Photo from Rogue

Be sure to check out our friends over at Spectro Oil. They will be supplying the needed fluid to keep us going. Thanks for the ongoing support!

With a little help........ We're almost ready!

2010-06-06T21:39:00.000-07:00

Finally got our Hoka Hey patches in the mail and made off like mad robbers to get them sewn onto vests for the race. Barb Lutz gave us the inside track and put all fifteen patches on mine and then fifteen more on Robs. She rocks man and we just wanted to say thanks again. www.lutzsleather.com It only hit me on the ride home, with the new vest on, that we are really doing this thing. We are just about to set off on the ride of a lifetime. Right On!

Indian Of Pittsburgh Visit

2010-05-14T22:47:00.000-07:00

Rob- I just wanted to send out a big thank you to Indian Motorcycles Of Pittsburgh who let me get my first ride on a Chief Vintage today so I would know what I was in for on the Hoka Hey. All and all I am really looking forward to my chance to ride this motorcycle in the challenge now. It's a good comfortable ride that's very easy to handle withe a really steep lean angle. It has a longer wheel base that makes it real stable and smooth. At eighty miles per hour this motorcycle is only turning 2800 rpms. They tell me it gets about forty two miles to the gallon and with a five and a half gallon tan that should be fine. Short of the addition of a few components that I'd like to have for comfort, I am ready to give 'er hell on the Vintage that Indian Motorcycles of Chicago is lining up for me.

2010-05-11T19:13:00.001-07:00

Testing 123 - Rob on mobile 2

2010-05-11T19:10:00.001-07:00

Testing our phone settings to post from the road. Chris on mobile one.

WOW, The Hundred Years War Rolls On!!!!!!

2010-05-11T17:51:00.000-07:00

Stop the presses! Through a sponsorship deal with Indian Motorcycles Of Chicago, Rob Keller will be piloting a new Indian Chief Vintage in the Hoka Hey Challenge. In addition to the sponsorship, IMOC will be providing live GPS locators to Rob Keller on the Chief and Chris Callen on the Harley-Davidson. You will be able to tune into either the Cycle Source or Chicago Indian Dealer web sites to track the progress of the Hundred Years War LIVE!!! See how long they stop, how long they ride and more importantly who is in the lead. Right up till the very end H-D and Indian will be dueling it out live and personal as these two long time brothers go head to head in a battle that spans generations and has divided motorcycling itself for over 100 years. Who will come out on top? Only time will tell!

http://www.indianmotorcyclesofchicago.com/