The ATGATT Rat: December 2009

The Great Spirit Of Indian Motorcycles Comes Back To Life - Again

Classic Indian Chief motorcycle ready to roll

The revived brand, already for sale in 16 other states, clears California's tough emissions standards. But it arrives during the worst motorcycle market in decades.

See the full story at LA Times.com

Moto Guzzi 8-Cylinder Racing Bike

The 1950's era Moto Guzzi V8 is discussed at the Kneeslider.com.

Great Motorcycle Roads -- in Florida?!?

A decent motorcycle road in Florida? It's the land of sunshine and oranges, but I don't typically think of Florida when I think of great motorcycle roads. But friend and fellow rider Ed managed to find one, and posted this trip report.

I set out for a place called Ravine Gardens State Park outside Palatka, FL. This allowed me to set a route through the Ocala National Forest via FL-19, which for Florida isn't a bad ride. It really didn't matter what route it was since the roads in Florida are substandard compared to what I am used to, but at least I *am* riding.

Along the way I passed a couple of rolling road blocks -- you know the "loud pipes save lives" crowd. There were two sets of them and both in groups of about 10 bikes per and all riding side by side.

Yeesh! I just don't get it. There *are* a -few- people I know that I will ride next to (even though it limits my escape options), but to ride IN a group *that* size AND side by side ... not my cuppa tea!

I managed to find the park without incident, but was a bit disappointed due to the expectation of the park's name I thought it would be more garden-like. I hiked a couple of the trails, but never found any "garden" areas. Although I didn't find the garden, I did find the spring that cut the ravine that gave the park its name.

Ed took some great photos of the Ravine Gardens State Park in Florida.

Other recommended roads ...

A1A is a good road too because of the scenery.
US 17 is one of those quiet roads that only has a few small towns on it, so there is very little traffic and even less law enforcement

About The Author
Ed's a fellow Honda V4 owner, but lately has been seen riding his 600cc Suzuki Bandit, or even his dad's Harley Davidson. This is his first contribution to The ATGATT Rat.

Captain Kirk's Motorcycle

I was searching the internet for a better picture of Captain Kirk's motorcycle as ridden by Chris Pine in the latest "Star Trek" film.

But instead, I found many photos of "the original captain kirk's" motorcycle. William Shatner is a motorcycle enthusiast!?! I didn't know that. I like him better already.

And from there, further search revealed this bizarre, Star Trek tribute bike. As spacey as the motorcycle itself appears, it is actually a "stock" 2009 Victory Vision touring motorcycle. But it has a custom paint job featuring starships from the original Star Trek series.