SCRC Loudoun VA Featured Member - January, 2008
Name: Deb Blaylock
Nickname: Gadget
Marital Status: Single
Location: Potomac Falls, VA
Hometown: Montgomery, AL
Children: No.
Age: 40-something
Occupation: Technical Support Manager
Current motorcycle(s): 2002 Yamaha V-Star 1100 Custom
How did you hear about the SCRC and when did you join?
I was looking for a group to ride with. I searched online and found the SCRC. After watching the forum for a couple of months I decided to join in Nov. 2005.
How long have you been riding?
I have been riding 30+ years.
Have you ever taken a motorcycle safety course?
Yes, at the Loudoun campus for NVCC in 1995.
What was your first bike?
It was a Honda CM80.
How many bikes have you owned?
5
Why do you ride?
I ride for several reasons. I ride for the sheer pleasure of being outdoors, seeing the beautiful scenery and taking in the different fragrances of the seasons. I also like the occasional challenge in driving conditions or weather and even physically pushing myself to go another mile. I like riding with the club for the companionship and support of each other for this sport. It is so nice to be able to share my enthusiasm for riding and gadgets with the group and know that they understand.
Have you ridden with an organized group before?
Yes, in 1988 - 90. The group had dinner rides each week during the summer months and planned a 2 week road trip/vacation every fall for those that could take that much time off. During the winter months we would have meetings/socials where we would review MSF safety videos and plan the next riding calendar. It was a great way to be introduced to group riding and the excitement of riding unfamiliar roads so far away from home.
What modifications have you done to your bike?
I have added a few gadgets... GPS, saddle bags, fork bag, engine guard with highway pegs, intercom radio and have new slip-on pipes to add too.
What accessories do you want to add to your bike?
A driver's backrest and maybe get a custom paint job.
What is your dream bike?
Probably the HD Heritage Softail although I really like the HD Fatboy.
What kind of riding do you like to do — straight-aways or twisties?
I like to do both and a good mix of both on a ride makes a great and interesting trip.
If you have a nickname, how did you get it? Tell the truth!
My nickname is Gadget and I earned it on the BWF trip this summer. I tend to err on the side of caution and like to be prepared for whatever might happen on the road. Whether is was very small cable ties or motorcycle jumper cables or a corkscrew - I just happened to have it in my bag.
What is your favorite riding route?
I like riding 211 to Skyline Drive. Scraping my foot pegs on 211 is the sign of a great twistie!
Do you ride your bike to work?
In a previous job I did. I do not ride to work in this position (yet).
What is the fastest you’ve ridden?
On the V-star my fastest speed has been 90 mph.
What is your favorite time of year to ride?
The fall. I really like the cooler temperatures and the beautiful colors.
Have you ever been down? If so, how were you hurt and what did you learn from the incident?
I have never been in a motorcycle accident. I have lost my balance and dropped my bike due to fatigue and exhaustion this last year. Aside from scratches on the pipes and engine guard the bike was not hurt. The boots and leather that I was wearing kept the gravel from really scratching me up. I learned to recognize fatigue when it starts and to know my physical limits when riding.
Have you ever done an "Iron Butt" ride?
No, not yet.
If not, what is the furthest you’ve ridden?
Approximately 450 miles over a 10 hour period with frequent stops for photos and shopping.
What was the worst weather in which you’ve ridden?
I got caught in rain and hail on Rt. 15 going North to Gettysburg one Friday night after work. I was totally unprepared with no rain gear or even a jacket. I checked into the nearest hotel and spent the night.
Do you know how to work on your bike?
I know enough about my bike to know that I don't want to mess it up. I have changed the oil and worried so much about whether I did it right that it was not worth it in the long run. I trust my service work and modifications to Breeze in our chapter.
What is your favorite road song?
Juke Box Hero.
What was your most adventurous ride?
Almost every ride I have been on has a sense of adventure. I am thankful that I always come home and with a sense of accomplishment.
What rallies or events do you like to attend?
I went to Rolling Thunder for the first time this year. That will probably become a regular event for me in the future.
Is there someone who rides "two-up" with you?
My neighbor has ridden a couple of times with me but she does not appreciate it like I do. She is vowing that she will get her own bike and learn to ride.
Off the cuff from...Gadget
The opportunity to ride and ride with this club came along at a time in my life when I needed it the most. I am very grateful for the friendships I have made and the adventures both on and off the road.
