J&P Open House 2008

Friday morning started out sunny and in the upper 60's to low 70's. We rode 20 minutes southwest and by the time we reached Cambridge we were forced to stop and change into rain gear. On our journey to Dickeyville to see the Grotto Shine we were in and out of our rain gear a few times. As long as you are prepared to ride in rain with proper attire this type of weather offered no surprises. By the time we crossed into Iowa there were few clouds in the sky and once again we found ourselves riding in fewer articles of clothing. Ever take a photo of yourself looking into a gazing ball?

We saw many motorcycles in Iowa and even more the closer we got to Anamosa and our final destination for two nights, Cedar Rapids. We wondered if all these motorcycles were going to J&P Cycles 29th Annual Open House. This question was answered on Saturday when thousands, possibly as many if not more than 20,000 motorcycling enthusiasts met on the hollowed grounds of one of the biggest providers of after-market cycle parts. We all had photos taken with Michele Smith of American Thunder TV/Speed Vision, along with John Parham (J&P Cycles) and Jeff "Motorman" Palladino. The girls spent their time completing one of many different Bingo cards to be completed for prize drawings. The motorcycle safety presentation by Palladino was fantastic. I was so impressed that I purchased all three of his videos and will use them in the classroom. The stunt team this year was so much better than last, but then again last year the course was wet as it had rained. J&P Cycle fed the hungry crowd again this year with a free lunch! Water was also supplied free of charge throughout the entire day.

Marc and I talked about this event being on our yearly "riding adventures". If you have ever thought about attending this annual event, stop thinking about it and DO IT! You will not be disappointed. When we left the event, the wind was so strong we fought our way back to Cedar Rapids Holiday Inn Express. We estimated the wind speeds to be in excess of 50 mph! These were cross winds all the way back and our gas mileage suffered. This ride was Marc and Chris's first "long ride" on their 2002 Harley-Davidson Ultra Classic (last year Marc made it solo on his 2003 Honda Shadow). Each time Chris was asked how she liked the Ultra, she answered with a wide smile and said, "Wonderful." For many more photos go to Shutterfly and remember the password is always, "chrome".

Our trip ended with a stop in Galena, Illinois for a bite to eat a Gobbies. Marc and I had decided last year that we would share our hamburgers with our wives since trying to eat one by yourself can be a chore. The burgers are about as big as Marc's new Harley-Davidson coffee mug!

In all, we were able to dodge many of the storms that had passed through. Rain gear was worn and taken off more times then I can remember, but at least we were prepared just in case. Both couples were hooked up to intercom systems which made communication as easy as back in the day when we were still newlyweds! We logged over 570 miles and had no surprises. As they say, "Any ride is a good ride!" Thanks again to John Parham for hosting another enjoyable Open House at J&P Cycle! Be sure to place your Vote on the Poll Question below!