The History of The Birth of the Caterpiller Run [Archive]

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Sparky_Bill

06-15-2003, 08:44 PM

From: sfwehrs
Date: Sun Apr 22, 2001 3:05 pm
Subject: Ride up north?

Was wondering who all would be interested in
getting a ride together heading north maybe in late May
or early June? Thought we could meet up with Jimbob
and Scooter tramp at Magnum Power Sports in
Nashwaulk(sp?) and hit some of the roads in their neck of the
woods. It would be alot of riding, but hey, that's what
we like to do right? Steve
****************************************
From: sks700_2000
Date: Sun Apr 22, 2001 3:11 pm
Subject: Re: Ride up north?

>>> Was wondering who all would be
interested in getting a ride together heading north maybe in
late May or early June? Thought we could meet up with
Jimbob and Scooter tramp at Magnum Power Sports in
Nashwaulk(sp?) and hit some of the roads in their neck of the
woods. It would be alot of riding, but hey, that's what
we like to do right? I'd just like to add
that Steve and I talked about this and I have a house
not far from JimBob (big Falls) and we could all stay
there for a night if we wanted. It's in the middle of
renovation and a bit rustic but it's someplace to sleep out
of the rain. Lee
*******************************
From: sks700_2000
Date: Sun Apr 22, 2001 3:12 pm
Subject: Re: Ride up north?

+ it will sleep about 10-12 easily and there is lots of room for
camping. Lee
*********************************
From: sfwehrs
Date: Wed Apr 25, 2001 4:55 pm
Subject: Re: Ride up north?

How does the weekend of June 9th work for everyone? Don't know if Hil and I
will stay over night or come back the same day. Just thought I'd throw a date
out and see what happens. Steve
*********************************
From: sks700_2000
Date: Mon May 7, 2001 7:09 am
Subject: June 9th

Hi all, Steve and I are working on getting
a ride together for the weekend of June 9th. We
want to ride north and meet up with some of our fellow
Vicsters up that way. I have a house in Big Falls (way up
there),and we will probably be staying there on Saterday
night. Anybody who would like to go with is more than
welcome. We will post more details as we figure them out.
If I can get an idea of how many would like to go, I
can make sure that the house is stocked and ready to
go. Please either post here or the North central site
or e-mail me at sks700@m... This should be
a good time and we would love to see as many as
possible go along Lee
*********************************
From: sfwehrs
Date: Sun May 20, 2001 2:38 am
Subject: Up north ride

Hil and I took a ride to Nashwauk today to scope
some roads for the June 9th ride Lee and I are
planning. LOTS of road construction, so looks like the best
route would be either Hwy 65 all the way up, or 169
north to 210 east to 65 north(my vote is the latter). I
really hope some of you can make it...nice roads, meet
some "up north" members and Magnum Power Sports is a
class dealer...very enthusiastic about Victory. Lee had
mentioned if folks wanted to stay the night he has a place
in Big Falls. Don't know if Hil and I will stay the
night(babysitter situation), so we'll probably ride back the same
evening. It makes for a long day of riding(our "rear ends"
will second that<G>), but well worth it. I think
we put on close to 500 miles today and although the
Mustang is better than stock, it feels REAL good to sit
on the couch again! Steve
*********************************
From: sks700_2000
Date: Tue May 22, 2001 1:40 pm
Subject: Northern ride

Morning all, I will be going up to my
house in Big Falls this weekend and I want to make sure
that it will be ready for our June ride. If you are
going with us or even think that you may want to,
please post or e-mail me with your intentions. I want to
stock up the freezer and refridgerator now so we don't
have to try to take stuff on the bikes. hoping
to see a bunch of you there, Lee
*********************************
From: sfwehrs
Date: Tue May 22, 2001 2:30 pm
Subject: Re: Northern ride

Hi Lee! It doesn't look like Hil and I
will be spending the night(have to be back by early
sunday am). There's a guy I work with who would like to
go with...I told him it would be OK with everyone,
even though he rides a crotch rocket! I'm hoping as it
gets closer we'll have some more interested. It is a
fantastic ride. Any news on your bike yet? Steve
*********************************
From: sks700_2000
Date: Tue May 22, 2001 4:06 pm
Subject: Re: Northern ride

It's to bad that you can't stay the night, I have
a nice route kinda planned out for the ride home on
Sunday. Do you think that the guy on the crotch rocket
can keep up? (LOL) I haven't heard anything on my
bike yet. Good thing the weather sucks or I'd be going
crazy. Lee
*********************************
From: sfwehrs
Date: Tue May 22, 2001 4:18 pm
Subject: Re: Northern ride

>>Do you think that the guy on the crotch
rocket can keep up? (LOL)<< You know the
funny thing is...he has problems with his hands falling
asleep due to the vibration, and it's a Honda! He told
me the other day that I must really have a problem
with numb hands with a V-twin and all. He couldn't
believe it when I told him no! He went and bought some
foam grips so he can last with the
Victory's<G> Steve
*********************************
From: sjaeger2000
Date: Wed May 23, 2001 12:49 am
Subject: june 9th Ride

I am thinking I am going with you guys. However I
cannot stay over if I don't get my wife a dog. I have a
lhasa poo breeder sending me pictures tonight and
possibly by next weekend we could have a dog. If not
though I am planning on riding up with you guys and
maybe back with Steve. I would rather stay overnight. I
tend to ride fast when I get tired and we all know
that is the wrong time to do that. Greymike and I
had a good ride with all the Harley folks. I had one
guy walk by my bike and say "I just can't seem to
like those Victories yet", I watched him and he walked
over to his Yamaha, I gues Harley snobs arn't the only
snobs around. We ran well with the pack and even the
best of them couldn't out do us, that is until the
five Boss hoss' came by. quite the site. It was a
good ride altogether even being caught in the rain.
The old cow catcher sheilds came in real handy. Can't
imagine the guys riding without sheild going 80 to 85 in
the rain. Talk to you later Lee. I am going to LA
this weekend so no riding for me.
*********************************
From: jimbob92c
Date: Tue May 29, 2001 12:25 am
Subject: Northern ride and misc.

Hey, we finally have had some decent weather up
here...Bobbi and I cruised over to Lake Winnie today, saw lots
of bikes out. A little cool out out very decent
riding. Linda asked what I play... I've been a musician for
more years than I care to admit. I did a pick-up gig
where some friends needed a guitarist. I play mostly
blues/swing but have been known to try most anything that has
chords in it <G>. Motels in the area? In
Marcell there is Richies Marcell Inn. They have about 6
rooms w/ bar and restaurant. Marcell is about 13 miles
south of Bigfork on Hwy. 38. Bigfork is about 35-40
miles south of Big Falls. Richies number is
218-832-3906. There is also The Timberwolf Inn 2 miles north of
Marcell. This is a newer structure with bar and
restaurant...a nice log sided place. They have quite a few more
rooms than Richies. 218-832-3990. Out on the Scenic
Highway, heading east 14 miles from Bigfork is the Antler
Motel. This is a new motel with store/gas pumps/hot
tubs/restaurant and bar. 218-245-2369. I'll let you know if I
find out a few more.. gotta run for
now... Jimbob
*********************************
From: sks700_2000
Date: Tue May 29, 2001 6:23 am
Subject: Re: Northern ride and misc.

Thanks Jim, I figured that you would be more helpful on the lodging than
me. I didn't know that Richies had rooms. I've partied in there a few
times. Lee
*********************************
From: sks700_2000
Date: Sun Jun 3, 2001 4:41 pm
Subject: Next weekend

There is still time to get in on next weekends
ride up north if anyone is interested. It sounds like
Pete from Brainerd will probably meet up with us in
Garrison and he has offered that if anyone from farther
west (Linda, or any others from out that way) want to
stay with him on Friday night they are welcome. It is
only about an hour to Garrison from his place. Some of
those little towns up north need a Victory invasion,
let's go make some noise. Lee
*********************************
From: sks700_2000
Date: Sun Jun 3, 2001 4:44 pm
Subject: Re: Next weekend

+ for those from around the cities, we will be meeting at the Harley dealer on
Hwy 169 in Elk River at 8:00 A.M. Saturday. Lee
*********************************
From: sfwehrs
Date: Sun Jun 3, 2001 7:18 pm
Subject: Re: Next weekend

>>+ for those from around the cities, we
will be meeting at the Harley dealer on Hwy 169 in Elk
River at 8:00 A.M. Saturday.<< Glad to see
Pete will make it! Let's get a nice group to go, huh
guys? We'll take 169 up to 210(in Aitkin I believe)
over to 65 north. We could stop along the way for
eats, or there is a DQ in Nashwauk right before Magnum
Power Sports we could eat at. Sounds like Jimbob and
Scooter tramp will meet us all there around noon-12:30.
They will know some nice roads to travel, and Lee has
offered his place in Big Falls for those who want to make
it a two day run. Those who want to come back
Saturday, Hil and I will be coming back on 65 to Blaine in
the evening. Like Lee said..."let's make some noise"
up north! Steve
*********************************
From: quickvictory
Date: Tue Jun 5, 2001 4:12 am
Subject: Re: Next weekend

I'm planing to make the weekend ride. Will meet ya'll down there (Elk River). I
assume I go north on exit 207 to find the Harley dealer? Randy
*********************************
From: sks700_2000
Date: Tue Jun 5, 2001 6:17 am
Subject: Re: Next weekend

Hi Randy, Glad you will make the ride. I'm
not sure of the exit #. If you're coming down 94, the
best way would be to take the Monticello exit (hwy.
25) and go north about a mile to Hwy 10. Then go east
on 10 through Elk River to Hwy 169 north. The Harley
dealer is on the east side of 169 about a mile or so
north of 10. Lee
*********************************
From: quickvictory
Date: Tue Jun 5, 2001 6:41 am
Subject: Re: Next weekend

Thanks Lee, That's easy enough to find. Not sure what direction I'll be
coming from. Will be riding southern MN and maybe part of WI before reaching
Elk River. see ya'll Saturday, Randy
*********************************

From: sfwehrs
Date: Tue Jun 5, 2001 1:52 pm
Subject: Re: Next weekend

Glad you can make it Randy! Looking forward to riding with you
again. Steve
*********************************
From: jimbob92c
Date: Thu Jun 7, 2001 12:02 am
Subject: weekend ride

Hi everybody... Wondering what the plan is for
Sat. What route north are you taking and do you plan any
stops? It looks like Bobbi and I should be able to meet up
with you somewhere along the trail. One thing I
have to add is how bad the forest tent caterpillars
are (or, army worms as everyone here seems to call
them). They have eaten all the leaves from the trees
from the Iron Range to well beyond Bigfork. The roads
are stained dark brown from the millions of squashed
caterpillars. If you enter into the woods it sounds like it's
gently raining...it's the caterpillars deficating (and
when there are thousands and thousands of them it's
quite something!) They seem to be everywhere and on
everything. If you stand still they'll be on you. They fall
out of trees, buildings, you name it. Squirming
masses of rotten caterpillars. I can't wait for them to
end their cycle of destruction. Anyway, You'll all
get to see the extent of their damage..(except for
the sporadic oasis of green). It's
incredible. Keep in mind the potential slippery nature of the
roads up here.......!!!(Hwy. 38 is pretty greased up
north of Marcell). Jimbob
*********************************
From: Sparky_Bill
Date: Thu Jun 7, 2001 12:29 am
Subject: June 9th Ride North

Well Heidi just told me that we could go on the
ride this weekend.... smile and the weather man said
he is going to smile upon us as well. Question Heidi
has is, are there going to be any other ladies
staying at Lee's? Please post soon as if not she
wants us to stay at a nearby motel. We are
meeting here at the Harley dealer on Hwy 169 in Elk River
at 8:00 A.M. Saturday. If you're coming down
94, the best way would be to take the Monticello exit
(hwy. 25) and go north about a mile to Hwy 10. Then go
east on 10 through Elk River to Hwy 169 north. The
Harley dealer is on the east side of 169 about a mile or
so north of 10. Sparky_Bill
*********************************
From: sfwehrs
Date: Thu Jun 7, 2001 12:57 am
Subject: Re: weekend ride

Hi Jim! Was planning on leaving Elk River
aroun 8:00 and take 169 up to 210, then north on 65 to
169 again and over to Nashwauk around 12:30 or so. I
think Pete from Brainerd is planning on meeting us in
Garrison, and I imagine we'll have at least one more stop
in there somewhere. Not sure if everyone wants to
eat sooner, or wait till we get to Nashwaulk...DQ
ALWAYS sounds good to me<G>. Then you could show
us some of those beautiful roads up
there...hopefully there's still some leaves on the trees, huh? Last
I heard, Julie and Cameron were planning on meeting
us at Magnum too. Gonna be a blast, and the weather
sounds like it'll pe perfect! Steve
*********************************
From: framy_jim
Date: Thu Jun 7, 2001 1:37 am
Subject: Re: June 9th Ride North

Phyllis and I are planning on staying over Saturday night, taking Lee up on his
hospitality. So Heidi will have at least one other woman there. Jim
*********************************

Sparky_Bill

06-15-2003, 08:46 PM

From: sks700_2000
Date: Thu Jun 7, 2001 2:04 am
Subject: Re: June 9th Ride North

glad to hear that you're going to make it Bill.
Jim Framstead's wife Phillis will be along also. We
have plenty of room. There is 1 camping trailor parked
up there also, so if one of the couples wants a
little more privacy that's available. Lee
*********************************
From: Sparky_Bill
Date: Thu Jun 7, 2001 2:20 am
Subject: Re: June 9th Ride North

Sounds like you folks have put a fun time
together and now I am glad I can be a part of it. Thanks
for the overnight Lee. Jim thanks for bringing your
wife.... smile....I did not see you on the Spirit Lake
run. Sorry about not recognizing you there. The 4 of
us met up on the Vikings run last year but I am not
good with names and sometimes faces. RedVic
just might make the ride too. The big guy is squirmish
about worms, so words to comfort him might help.....
grin Sparky_Bill
*********************************
From: sks700_2000
Date: Thu Jun 7, 2001 4:56 am
Subject: Re: June 9th Ride North

> RedVic just might make the ride too. The
big guy is squirmish about worms, so words to comfort
him might help..... grin Hey Don, hope you can
make it. If you don't sit still for too long, the
worms have a hard time taking big chunks of
flesh.(lol) Lee
*********************************
From: sfwehrs
Date: Thu Jun 7, 2001 4:59 am
Subject: Re: June 9th Ride North

>>RedVic just might make the ride too. The
big guy is squirmish about worms, so words to comfort
him might help..... grin<< By the look
of his shield on the Home Run Ride, the bugs don't
bother him much though<G>...Gonna be fun Don, hope
to see ya there! Steve
*********************************
From: sks700_2000
Date: Thu Jun 7, 2001 2:48 pm
Subject: Saturday

I have been talking (e-mailing) with Pete. He
scouted Garrison the other night and said that there is a
cafe there that is supposed to be good. I was thinking
that it would be a good place to stop for breakfast.
It is about an hour from Elk River. Does that sound
good to everyone? Lee
*********************************
From: sfwehrs
Date: Thu Jun 7, 2001 4:09 pm
Subject: Re: Saturday

Works for us. Is it right on 169? Steve
*********************************
From: sks700_2000
Date: Thu Jun 7, 2001 6:28 pm
Subject: Re: Saturday

He said that it is right across from the Holiday, which is on 169. Lee
*********************************
From: pm9654
Date: Thu Jun 7, 2001 8:36 pm
Subject: Re: Saturday

Hey, sure wish I could ride with you guy's, have a good time! Pat.
*********************************
From: Sparky_Bill
Date: Thu Jun 7, 2001 9:33 pm
Subject: Re: Saturday

By: sks700_2000 He scouted Garrison the
other night and said that there is a cafe there that is
supposed to be good. I was thinking that it would be a
good place to stop for breakfast. It is about an 
hour from Elk River. Does that sound good to
everyone? ***************************** We are open to whatever the group
wants. So make the
plans and we will be there for the
ride. Sparky_Bill
*********************************
From: framy_jim
Date: Thu Jun 7, 2001 10:07 pm
Subject: Re: Saturday

Sounds good to me, then we should be set till supper, with a late breakfast.
Jim
*********************************
From: jimbob92c
Date: Fri Jun 8, 2001 2:28 am
Subject: Saturday ride

O.K. there then, Bobbi and I will meet up
with the gang at Magnum Sports around
12-12:30. Do Lee or Steve have a route planned from Nashwauk
to Big Falls? If not, the group could take 65 north
to 8 (which crosses over to the Scenic Highway) and
take Scenic Highway 7 to our house. The road
construction is not as bad on this stretch (only the last few
miles to our place). We could stretch and confab
there, or even light up the B.B.Q.....or continue on to
Big Falls. If we did this route to our house we
would have to take a 5 mile detour of gravel to get
back on Hwy. 38. This detour is pretty packed, but
we're bound to pick up a little dust. If everyone
chooses to go this way and the bikes get a little dusty,
we can clean them off at the Fire Dept.in town
(pressure washer,hose,etc). I am a member,secretary,and I
have a key! You could also have a tour of the
facilities. From Bigfork we could head to Effie and go straight
north on #5 which crosses the Bigfork River and twists
and turns its way to Hwy. 6. On the way we could stop
at Little American Falls which is a class 3
rapids....it drops about 6 feet and really roars. From
Hwy. 6 we could head straight north through the great
bog to Big Falls. I don't know what side of Big Falls
Lee's cabin is at.....if it's south, maybe a trip to
Northome would be better. or...another way is to
head straight north from Nashwauk (on 65) all the way
to the Junction Bar in Togo. The road from there to
Hwy. 6 (via Effie) is a load of 90 degree corners. And
then 6 to Big Falls. I was slow on the draw to
invite people to our house...as I thought that the road
construction was a real pain in the patootee...and I am (ask
Sparky) pretty finicky about keeping my bike clean
(although I am getting better about this). I've
asked Sparky and Heidi if they want to stay here (that
old V2V stuff!) and anybody else is certainly welcome
too. We have the loft, a camper, and the queen bed in
the sailboat. If no one is interested in
that..we may just impose on Lee on the evening
too.!!!! May I ask what everyone thinks and were everyone
plans to stay? Sorry we drug our feet so long on
this..... Jim and Bobbi.....JimBob
*********************************
From: sjaeger2000
Date: Fri Jun 8, 2001 3:14 am
Subject: Re: Saturday ride

As it stands now I am planning to stay at Lee's
in wherever it is we are heading. The route I am
taking is behind the rest of you. I don't have a clue
where we are going all I know is it is north and I will
be on my Black. Sid
*********************************
From: sfwehrs
Date: Fri Jun 8, 2001 3:56 am
Subject: Re: Saturday

>>Hey, sure wish I could ride with you guy's, have a good
time!<< Pat, sorry you can't make it...maybe next
time? Steve
*********************************
From: sfwehrs
Date: Fri Jun 8, 2001 4:04 am
Subject: Re: Saturday ride

It all sounds good Jim! Hil and I will be coming
back saturday evening...sitter thing and I have to
work sunday now anyways. Looks like the guy I work
with is gonna come on his Honda crotch-rocket, he'll
be coming back with us. I told him to bring LOTS of
cash, cause after riding with the Vics he'll want to
buy a bike at Magnum! Can't wait and see ya' all
saturday! Steve
*********************************
From: quickvictory
Date: Fri Jun 8, 2001 4:09 am
Subject: Re: Saturday ride

Road Construction? My Victory doesn't like road
contruction! Just finished fixing it too..oh-oh! It's always
dirty though, living on gravel roads. Leaving in the
morning for some riding, hopefully I'll end up down by
the cities in the evening and be ready to roll
Saturday morning. Randy
*********************************
From: sks700_2000
Date: Fri Jun 8, 2001 6:45 am
Subject: Re: Saturday ride

Hey Randy, If you're interested, you can crash on my couch friday
night. Lee
*********************************
From: sks700_2000
Date: Fri Jun 8, 2001 6:47 am
Subject: Re: Saturday ride

Jimbob, I think Steve pretty much has the route planned out to get us to
Nashwauk. After that, we're following you. Lead on Lee
*********************************
From: Sparky_Bill
Date: Fri Jun 8, 2001 11:34 am
Subject: Re: Saturday ride

JimBob those roads you discribe sound GREAT.
 As for staying at your place. One of the draws of
this trip for me was everyone staying in one place.
Kind of takes me back to the boys scouts outings....
smile. Great fun, great memories. Was worried that no
other women were going to be along but Jim and Phyllis
came to the rescue. Jim and Bobbie I hope the two of
you stay too as I do not think it would be safe to be
riding back after dark on wormy roads, with deer jumping
out and 5 miles of gravel when you are the most
tired. Looking forward to a fun filled weekend away from the
city and back to the jack pines. Sparky_Bill
*********************************
From: jimbob92c
Date: Fri Jun 8, 2001 11:44 am
Subject: Sat.......

Okay... We'll try and plan out a good route
from Nashwauk... What is the turn-around time
for those who plan to head back south on
Saturday? I'll really have to start shining up the bike
tonight...<G> Jimbob
*********************************
From: sfwehrs
Date: Fri Jun 8, 2001 11:59 am
Subject: Re: Sat.......

Jim, We'll probably head back around 4:00.
Like to get home a bit before dark if possible. Like
Sparky said, lots of deer in that area. They scare me
more than cars & trucks...too
unpredictable! Steve
*********************************
From: quickvictory
Date: Fri Jun 8, 2001 1:42 pm
Subject: Re: Saturday ride

Thanks Lee, appreciate it, but I'm really not sure where I'll end up tonight.
Depends on how much zigging and zagging I do! :) I'm outta here. see ya
saturday, Randy
*********************************
From: sks700_2000
Date: Fri Jun 8, 2001 2:28 pm
Subject: tomorrow

Man, I'm gettin' pumped now. Just so that
everyone knows, the accommodations at our Big Falls house
are what I would call "dormatory style". It is an old
house that we are renovating. There are several beds in
each room. We also have the camper and some
roll-away's. There is not a lot of privacy, so if you normally
sleep with little on, you may want to bring sweats or
something. The weather looks like it is going to be perfect.
Bring sunscreen. Lee
*********************************
From: a_scooter_tramp
Date: Fri Jun 8, 2001 11:41 pm
Subject: Re: Saturday

About what time and which cafe in Garrison will
this parade be stopping at? We thought we would ride
down and join up there. Sound Okay?
scoot ~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~ He scouted Garrison the other night and said
that
there is a cafe there that is supposed to be good. I
was thinking that it would be a good place to stop
for breakfast. It is about an hour from Elk River.
Does that sound good to everyone?
*********************************
From: sks700_2000
Date: Sat Jun 9, 2001 1:39 am
Subject: Re: Saturday

Hi Scoot, sounds great! I don't know the name of
the cafe, but Pete said that it is right across from
the Holiday station on the north end of Garrison. We
should be there between 8:00 & 8:30. See you
then, Lee
*********************************
From: sks700_2000
Date: Sat Jun 9, 2001 1:40 am
Subject: Re: Saturday

oops... make that between 9:00 & 9:30
*********************************
From: jimbob92c
Date: Sat Jun 9, 2001 4:20 am
Subject: late note....

Hi intrepid travelers... Don't know if
anyone will be able to respond before take-off time....
but... Lee..do we need to bring any bedding?? otherwise..I think
we will skip the trip to our place (take a deep
breath and relax Randy..!) We will meet you at
Magnum, head north on 65 to the Junction Bar and glide
across to Effie (on Hwy. 1) go north on #5 and visit
Little American Falls, head out to #6 and go north to
Big Falls. There are stops on the way if
anyone feels the need......Bobbi and I are planning on
spending the night. Can't wait! Too Cool...see you
all soon... (you can't miss us...we're wearing
white walls) Jim and Bobbi
*********************************
From: sfwehrs
Date: Sat Jun 9, 2001 4:48 am
Subject: Re: late note....

YEEEHAWWW! Damn, I better get to bed. Hope I hear the alarm! Steve
*********************************

Sparky_Bill

06-15-2003, 08:47 PM

From: Sparky_Bill
Date: Sat Jun 9, 2001 8:36 am
Subject: Re: late note....

By: jimbob92c Date: 6/9/01 12:20 am 
Hi intrepid travelers... Don't know if
anyone will be able to respond before take-off time....
but.. I am not Lee but we are bringing
sleeping bags as
that could be a lot of bedding to wash. Nice that we
might get a mattress to lay the bag on....
smile Sparky(going back to bed now)Bill
*********************************
From: framy_jim
Date: Sat Jun 9, 2001 11:19 am
Subject: Re: late note....

Lee said we did not need to bring any bedding with. Looking forward to meeting
you. Jim
*********************************
From: sfwehrs
Date: Sun Jun 10, 2001 1:45 pm
Subject: Re: Pics of the ride today

>>Ok Steve. You've shown us some pictures,
now fill us in on the
ride!<< OK...OK... We met up IN THE RAIN<G> at the
new HD dealer
in Elk River(Zylstra's), man they have a nice
building there. Rode up to Garrison where Pete was waiting
on us and had breakfast at a real nice cafe he had
found...by now the sun was shining BRIGHT! Hopped on the
bikes and headed north...stopped at a wayside rest in
front of Big Sandy for awhile(it's a BEAUTIFUL stop).
Cruising up 65 we saw Scoot & Cameron waiting for us along
side the highway(GREAT folks, nice to finally meet you
both!) Pulled into Magnum's just past 12:30 where Jim &
Bobbi were waiting for us. The owner and wrench at
Magnum's were not able to be there(they wanted to ride
with us awhile)...there was a "Ride the range" benefit
going on and they wanted to represent Victory on the
ride. Headed towards Effie where we stopped for a cold
one and some pizza. Hilary, Matt and I broke off in
Effie so we could get home before dark and the rest of
the group headed towards Big Falls. We took 38 south
from Effie to Grand Rapids...theres about a 20 mile
stretch(guess) of pure heaven! Nothing but twisties and hills
and smooth pavement! Hil and I arrived home around
9:00, and Matt kept rolling south to Richfield. He had
400 miles on his trip meter in Macgregor, and we
still had 100 to go to get to Blaine. LOL...he was
getting more than a little sore on his Hurricane, but he
had a blast! You know, I've said it before and
probably wear it out<G>, but ALL the people Hil and
I have met through the Vic clubs are absolutely the
greatest people on the planet...it just blows me away
every time we go on a ride! BTW, with the
Mustang seat/backrest and highway pegs I think I could do
the "Iron Butt" for sure! Hil may say a little
different(LOL), but she doesn't get to ride that often so she
hasn't gotten "acclimated" to the rear pad yet...but she
likes it 10 times better than stock. Steve
*********************************
From: jimbob92c
Date: Sun Jun 10, 2001 2:09 pm
Subject: BigFalls ride

Bobbi and I got home about an hour ago
(7:50a.m.),we ran into rain just south of Bigfork (had to ride
the detour home). The rest of the crew were just
starting to pack up as we left. I'm sure they'll be riding
through some weather on the trip home! We had a
nice ride north...even with the mounds and patches of
caterpillers on the highway. We stopped at Little American
Falls and took a few pictures... then Lee led the way
up Hwy. 6 to BigFalls. The weather was great,
meeting Sid, Pete, Lee, Jim and Phyllis, Scoot and
Cameron, and Matt was great,...and seeing Steve and
Hilary, Randy, Don, and Sparky Bill and Heidi again was
great..... We had a fun evening at Lee's house....darts,
cribbage, cook-out, and fine conversation. I guess I snored
so loud last night that I peeled the chrome off of a
nearby kitchen chair. I don't believe it myself..I think
it was Don <G>. Bobbi and I debated
whether or not to stop at Deer Lake Charlie's...but it's
such an authentic backwoods bar that we couldn't help
ourselves. I kept wondering what everyone was
thinking..! All in all, it was a great ride. Bobbi and I look
forward to riding with all of you again. Hope you all
forgive me about the whoopee cushion..... Jim
*********************************
From: quickvictory
Date: Sun Jun 10, 2001 7:49 pm
Subject: Re: BigFalls ride

I just made it home! What a great weekend! 1000+
miles. This morning we ran through a shower between Big
Falls and Northhome. Had breakfast there in a nice
restruant. I split off from the rest on #200 between Remer
and Walker. Had sun the rest of the way home! Hey Jim
and Bobbi, Deer Lake Charlie's was way cool, thanks
for the pizza. And thanks to everyone who made
this ride possible. Randy
*********************************
From: mrs_don0083
Date: Sun Jun 10, 2001 9:14 pm
Subject: Re: BigFalls ride

Just finished reading all the messages... dam I'm
so bummed that we did not get to go. Don phoned from
Billings, MT Friday night and again from Spearfish, SD
Saturday night. At least HE had some fun this weekend! I
did pick up my Mustang seat and all the trimmings on
Friday and sat on the bike in the garage for about 5
minutes deaming of how nice it will be... however I did
not get outta the garage this weekend. Hope
we can do that ride again Lee on a weekend that Don
and I can go! Pouting BIG TIME! Thanks
for the photos Steve... at least I got to see a
little bit of the ride. Linda a.k.a.
Mrs_Don 2001 MG
*********************************
From: Sparky_Bill
Date: Sun Jun 10, 2001 9:33 pm
Subject: June 9th Ride

We are home now. Know everybody made it back safe
except Pete who had to keep riding and Randy who had to
head west as all young men do. Great time will
post more after cooling off. Sparky_Bill, Heidi
and Blaze
*********************************
From: framy_jim
Date: Mon Jun 11, 2001 3:14 am
Subject: Big Falls Ride.

Wow, what a great ride, it was really fun for
Phyllis and I to get to know the riders in the group
better. Like Steve said, a great group of people-Thanks
Steve for getting the pictures on so soon. Thanks to
Jim and Bobbi for the pizza and meeting up with us,
really had fun getting to know you and ride those
northern trails. The Vic is my 11th bike, with harley's,
bmw, and moto guzzi before it. All those bikes had
something special about them, the last harley (full
dresser) was great for road trips, but always had to have
a wrench with, bmw were very good handling bikes.
What surprises me so much about the vic is that its a
great handling bike- road from Longville down was
really fun- and its a great cruising bike. The more I
ride it, the more I appreciate what a great job
Polaris did on this bike. A special thanks to Lee for
getting this ride together, providing a resting place,
the hamburgers and of course the rain. Thanks Again
Phyllis & Jim
*********************************
From: sks700_2000
Date: Mon Jun 11, 2001 3:23 am
Subject: Weekend ride

Hi all, I got home about 4:00 after
stopping to get a new tail light bulb. I was wiped, so I
took a nap for about 2 hours. What a great
weekend!!! Thanks to everyone who made it and to Jim and
Bobbi for the pizza and Jim & Phyllis for breakfast.
 Pete showed us some very cool roads area the Brainerd
area. It's nice when everyone can lead different parts
and show the others their favorite roads. For
those who weren't able to make it, we have already
talked about making this an annual event, so hopefully
you can join us next year. We ended up with
11 people staying at the house, but there is always
room for more. It's not fancy, but it is
comfortable. Steve: good pics, thanks. All for now, Lee
*********************************
From: Sparky_Bill
Date: Mon Jun 11, 2001 3:23 am
Subject: 1st Annual Caterpillar Run

Okay I posted a few pictures, will do a web page
with the rest. You can find them in the photo section
here under "rides". Got to get the bike in the
garage and me into bed. I AM tired for sure. Bet I am
not alone in that respect. Sparky_Bill
*********************************
From: mrs_don0083
Date: Mon Jun 11, 2001 3:57 am
Subject: Re: Weekend ride

Lee Wrote: <For those who weren't able to
make it, we have already talked about making this an
annual event, so hopefully you can join us next
year.> Lee, I was thinkin more on the lines of next
weekend! LOL... Linda
*********************************
From: sjaeger2000
Date: Mon Jun 11, 2001 4:08 am
Subject: 1st annual worm or cat. run.

I can still smell the critters. Got home mowed
the yard, took my wife out to dinner and now I am
ready for bed. Lee this was a tremendous trip. You are
right about different people leading I think it is fun
both following others and getting a chance to lead. To
bad you are faster than me cause then you always get
to lead. I enjoyed the ride and everybodys
company a lot. While resting in Longhome for breakfast I
had a chance to listen to the group and the
conversations always ended in resounding laughter. I am sure
that says something about us I am just not sure what
it says. Lee your place is great and thanks for the
great nights sleep. I hope we didn't wake the neighbors
when we left. Camron and Scooter sorry you
couldn't go further with us but it was fun seeing you
waiting along the road as we came by and then joining in.
Maybe next time we can talk more at the
stops. Bobbie and Jim nice wormy route and I really like the
history lesson at the falls also. I will ask my sister if
she knows who you are (small world huh). Steve thanks
a bunch for your part in organizing and next year
you have to stay over we all had fun but we missed
you and Hillary at the house. See you all again soon
and ride safe Sid.
*********************************
From: sks700_2000
Date: Mon Jun 11, 2001 4:20 am
Subject: Re: Weekend ride

A fall ride up that way might be possible, but then we would have to bring our
own worms. (LOL) Lee
*********************************
From: sfwehrs
Date: Mon Jun 11, 2001 12:55 pm
Subject: Re: 1st Annual Caterpillar Run

I vote that "Caterpillar Run" be the official name of this ride!! Great name
Bill! Steve
*********************************
From: Sparky_Bill
Date: Mon Jun 11, 2001 9:19 pm
Subject: 1st Annual Caterpiller Run

Finally time to write. We thought this weekend
was one of the best -- great company and a great
ride. What was so unique was that as different leaders
took over, we had the chance to see the sites in each
of their areas. The Falls, the river, the west side
of Gull Lake, pancakes in Northhome and we traveled
on some terrific roads and stopped at some neat
spots. Thank you Lee for providing us with the opportunity to
stay in one place. It added to the fun and it was nice
to get to know everybody on a personal
basis. Sad part was Steve and Hil having to go home early.
Surprise was Cameron and Julie heading back when they did.
We all were surprised, thinking we were going to
party with them that night and swap stories, but poof
they were gone. And Tom we were sorry you had to leave
so soon after your short but sweet surprise
visit. Also, want to thank those of you who wrote words of
encouragement to get Don over his fear of worms.....
grin. Sparky_Bill, Heidi & Blaze
*********************************

Swiffer

06-16-2003, 10:50 AM

Wow Bill! That must have taken some time to round all those up. Sure brings back good memories!

Steve

sks700

06-16-2003, 01:10 PM

Thanks Sparky. That's a fun read. I bet the Jackpine Gypsie's wish they had records like that from their first years.

Lee

jimbob92c

06-16-2003, 05:27 PM

That's a memory jogger. I forgot that Steve suggested the northern run in the first place....and Lee stepped up to the plate with the location, and off the planning went. The caterpillars, of course, had their own agenda.

That was fun reading.

Jimbob

Sparky_Bill

06-16-2003, 08:51 PM

I too had forgotten how it got off the ground with Swiffer first bringing up the ride then Lee saying "hey I got a place to stay up there" and away it went.