Archive for the 'Terri' Category

Riding Noel from the Coast

Tuesday, December 18th, 2007

Fox Creek Leather Motorcycle Gear

Riding Noel from the Coast

Riding Noel from the Virginia Coast

A friend and I drove from the Eastern Shore of
Virginia, 412 miles one way so that my friend Roger could get a new jacket. Didn’t understand his desire at first, but I went with the plan anyway. We did this on bike, braving the winds of Hurricane Noel, and morning temps around 21 degrees. Knowing all this was going on, I was praying to God that Roger would cancel the trip. Didn’t happen. He insisted, and we rode. Best trip I’ve ever made. Roger rides a VTX 1800, and I’m on a tiny 883R Sportster, a bike that no one should ride for 412 miles in one day. Round trip came out to just around 900 miles, since we chose to go the way of I-81 and Rt. 460 back to the shore. (Rode Rt 58 on the way out)

Joe's YMCA Overpants

Anyway, I’m writing to express how impressed I was with the store, and the individuals who helped us out. I can’t recall both of their names, but Melinda comes to mind. Her customer service skills, and knowledge on proper fitting helped me get into a pair of leather over pants, gloves and belt, while Roger walked out with gloves, a new jacket and belt also. It was well worth the trip to get out there and see you folks. We’re already talking about when we can do it again.

Roger's Vented Reflector Jacket

Bottom line, we wouldn’t have rode so far if it wasn’t for the quality gear you sell. I was hesitant at first simply because of the ride and the weather at the time, but I regret none of it now. Please pass my thanks along to Melinda and (I can’t remember the other lady’s name) for their help, and the convincing that they did that leather pants were indeed a bonus when it comes to cold weather riding. I froze my tail off heading over the hills on the way out there, but the return trip was comfortable, and I can’t for the life of me understand how I went without them in the past. It did take a little convincing though on thier part however, that leather pants were indeed OK to wear, even by men. I made a comment that I felt like I should be singing “YMCA” when I was wearing them, but fortunately that feeling went away real quick.

Again thank you to Fox Creek. I’ll be sending a letter (and hopefully some pictures) via regular USPS mail, but for now, I hope this will at least let you know that there are two very satisfied bikers over here in the eastern part of the state who will be praising and recommending Fox Creek to everyone we meet.

Take Care -
Joe Posinski
Destroyer Squadron Twenty Eight
United States Navy Chief Petty Officer

Thanks, Joe and Roger

Thanks, Joe and Roger, for sharing your story with us. Sounds like you had a ‘cool’ ride in November!

What’s your story?

Tell me and you could be in our next issue…

 

Your stories and photos may be used in our newsletter, magazine advertising or web site. If your story is used in the newsletter, you’re automatically entered in a random drawing for a $500 Fox Creek Leather gift certificate at the end of the year.

From Moosonee to Memphis

Friday, November 16th, 2007

Fox Creek Leather Motorcycle Gear
Fox Creek Leather Men's Gear Fox Creek Leather Women's Gear Fox Creek Leather Big and Tall Sale Fox Creek Leather Motorcycle Boots Fox Creek Leather Motorcycle Luggage Fox Creek Leather Motorcycle Accessories Fox Creek Leather Clearance Sale

Ride On

Happy Thanksgiving!


From Moosonee to Memphis

Moosonee to Memphis

On a motorcycle trip to North Eastern USA in September 2006, I picked up bits and pieces of bike clothing, each garment seemingly better and more functional than the last. As it turned out, I ended up with too much clothing and most of it too expensive and of a sub-standard quality. So after countless hours of surfing the net and looking through magazines for suitable gear, I discovered a quality leather shop in Independence, Virginia - Fox Creek Leather.

Fox Creek is only around 1400 miles from my home - hum - why not make it one of our road trip destinations? Early this September, my biker friend Pete Bruce and I departed from Moosonee on the Polar Bear Express for the 186 mile trip to Cochrane, Ontario. That’s where we have our bikes in storage as there are no roads leading to Moosonee. (You can only fly or take a train in and out).

After three days of riding over 400 miles per day we arrived at Fox Creek where we were met by very helpful and courteous staff who soon outfitted us in the highest quality road garments that you can get (and at a price that was far below what we had expected to pay). The rest of our trip was made in style and comfort.

The remaining 3200 miles of our journey took us to Nashville to see Ben Harper at the Ryman Theatre, Memphis to visit Elvis at Graceland, Lynchburg to visit Jack Daniels, then up to Indianna where we saw Eilen Jewel at the Royal Theatre in Danville and Iris Dement at the Blue Bird Cafe in Bloomington, then back down into Kentucky and then back to Memphis’ Beal Street (again!), up into Missouri where we attended a Willie Nelson Concert and eventually returning to Cochrane after riding over 4500 miles in 15 days.

Next year’s trip is currently being planned - out to Reno to see the air races we think, but where ever we go we won’t need to worry about having the proper clothing and gear thanks to Paul Trachy, his family and his employees who understand and market only “top of the line” quality clothing and riding gear.

Ryan Hutchison and Pete Bruce
Moosonee, Ontario
Canada


Gift Ideas $100 and Less!

No matter what your holiday budget looks like, you can count on Fox Creek Leather for gift giving. From vests and belts to toolbags and rollbags to gloves, hats, goggles, wallets and purses, we have a huge selection of gift ideas for ‘way less than you might expect. At this moment, there are 132 Fox Creek Leather products priced $100 or less, and we’re adding new items every day. Heck, drop a sample size leather oil or leather soap (only $1 each) in your biker buddies’ stockings. Great as party favors, too!

Gifts $100 & Less


Women’s Classic Vest

starting at $100

 


Hats & Headgear

6 Options
$25 - $38

 


Travel & Rollbags

4 Options
$49 - $99

 


Goggles & Glasses

27 Styles
$10 - $28

This is just a start - click here for more items priced $100 and less. We’re adding new items to our website every day, and you never know what you may find. Our Blowout Sale offers even more goodies at great prices — with more than 15 vests under $100!*

*Limited styles and sizes available on the Blowout Sale.


Holiday Gift Ordering

It’s hard to believe, but the holidays are here! If you’re planning on surprising your special someone with Fox Creek Leather gear this year, don’t wait - order now! We want to make sure you get what you want — and get it in time for giving. Stock items in popular sizes go fast at this time of year, and it can take 6 to 8 weeks to replenish our stock when we sell out of a size.

Gift Announcement

Even though it’s too late to get a special order item in time for the holidays, it’s never too late to give Fox Creek Leather gear. If we happen to be out of stock in the size you need - or if you need special sizing - we can send a Gift Announcement for you to wrap while we finish your order. That way you can shop ’til the last minute and still be the hero of the holiday.

99 Gift Ideas Under $70

Friday, October 19th, 2007


99 Under $70

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No matter what your holiday budget looks like, you can count on Fox Creek Leather for gift giving. We have 99 gift ideas for under $70… and adding more all the time! Heck, put a bowl of sample size leather oil or leather soap (only $1 each) on the table and hand them out to your biker trick-or-treaters. Great as party favors, too!


99 Under $70


Gloves

18 Styles
$21 - $64

 


Glasses

12 Styles
$10 - $28

 


Wallets

16 Styles
$11 - $68

 


Luggage

10 Styles
$28 - $65

 

This is just a start - click here for more. Plus, we’re adding new items to our website every day, and you never know what you may find.


Holiday Gift Ordering

 

It’s hard to believe, but the holidays are just around the corner! If you’re planning on surprising your special someone with Fox Creek Leather gear this year, don’t wait until the last minute to order. We want to make sure you get what you want — and get it in time for giving. The cut-off date for special orders was October 1st to receive the gear for holiday giving. Stock items in popular sizes go fast a this time of year, and it can take 6 to 8 weeks to replenish our stock when we sell out of a size.

Gift Announcement

Even though it’s too late to get a special order item in time for the holidays, it’s never too late to give Fox Creek Leather gear. If we happen to be out of stock in the size you need - or if you need special sizing - we can send you a Gift Announcement for you to wrap while we finish your order. That way you can shop ’til the last minute and still be the hero of the holiday.


Newsletter Drawing

 

Congratulations to Kay Ray of Heathsville, VA. She won the $250 newsletter drawing, and just in time for the holidays. Who knows? Next time could be your turn…

We’ve Got Your Eyes Covered

Friday, September 21st, 2007
Fox Creek Leather New Products
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New Product Spotlight

New!! Fox Creek Leather now stocks sunglasses and goggles for your eye protection. We carry both Gatorz® sunglasses and Global Vision® sunglasses and goggles.

Gatorz® frames are milled in the USA from the highest grade T-6 7075 aircraft aluminum - the same grade the U.S. Government uses in military aircraft. This means your Gatorz® have fewer scratches, gouges and nicks, while the G15 polycarbonate lenses provide distortion-free 100% UV protection. Fox Creek offers the Radiator, Wraptor, and Velocity frame styles.

Global Vision® glasses and goggles are crafted with your safety and comfort in mind: they’re aerodynamically designed to deflect dust and wind. The UV400 filtering shatterproof polycarbonate lenses protect your eyes from sun and road debris. Fox Creek Leather sells a variety of frames with a wide selection of lenses - including colored, clear and mirrored styles. Global Vision® glasses and goggles are imported.

Travel Bags

Nylon Travel Bag

Nylon Travel Bag
Regularly: $110
SALE PRICE: $99

Got a bike? Like to go? Well, Fox Creek Leather has a bag to get you and your gear just about anywhere. Our Nylon Travel Bag set is made of heavy-duty, water-resistant nylon and can be used individually or strapped together. The large bag of this two-piece system is designed to fit most sissy bars and has a flap that zips down over the sissy bar for a smooth look. Take the large touring bag with you on weekend trips or the small bag for day trips. Need more storage space? Strap ‘em back-to-back around the passenger seat rest.

Yes, this is a nylon bag, but it’s made from heavy-duty Cordura-style nylon. It attaches to your bike easily and quickly, and the rollbag can ride solo on the passenger seat with or without a backrest. The D-rings are attached to the bags with nylon strapping and make bungee securing a quick fix. Both bags are padded and lined with weather-resistant vinyl and each has a water-resistant nylon cover to help protect your gear from the elements.


Classic Leather Travel Bag

Classic Leather
Travel Bag
PRICE: $99

Prefer leather? We’re re-introducing our 3-pc Classic Leather Travel Bag set. This set consists of an expandable sissy bar pack, detachable roll bag and weather resistant nylon rain cover. The leather rollbag can ride solo on the passenger seat with or without a backrest just like the nylon one. The rain cover fits nicely over the bag while mounted on the bar, closing at the bottom with a drawstring to keep your gear dry.

Regardless of which bag you choose, you can pack a lot of gear. Don’t forget to take your camera and send us some photos! We always like to get pictures and stories of your trips - some of us don’t get to take riding trips, and we live the ride through you.

Gift Bag Sets

Gift Bag Sets

Purchase select items as a gift set and save 15%!

It’s about time to start holiday gift shopping. Make it easy this year - start early, and buy Fox Creek Leather. We offer a variety of Men’s and Women’s Gift Bag Sets starting at only $46 so you can afford to give Fox Creek Leather to all the bikers on your list.

Don’t see what you need? Just call us at 800-766-4165 and we’ll help you build the Perfect Gift Bag this year. We have a wide selection of gift bag items for you to mix and match.

Holiday Gift Ordering

It’s hard to believe, but the holidays are just around the corner! If you’re planning on surprising your special someone with Fox Creek Leather gear this year, don’t wait until the last minute to order. We want to make sure you get what you want — and get it in time for giving. Special orders often take 8 - 10 weeks, and stock items in popular sizes go fast at this time of year. It can take 6 to 8 weeks to replenish our stock when we sell out of a size, so don’t be disappointed. Order early!

Blow-Out Sale

Blow-Out Sale

Fox Creek Leather has a limited number of items we’re moving out to make room for new merchandise. Men’s and women’s jackets, vests and chaps are ready to ship at a 40% discount. These items cannot be ordered on-line because all merchandise is subject to prior sale,
and it’s moving fast.

Since all the blowout items are one-of-a-kind, they are subject to prior sale. Most products on this page are unclaimed special orders, with some items simply older stock we need to move out to make room for new.

These items can be seen on our Blow-Out Sale Page,
but you must call 800-766-4165 to place your order. We want to confirm measurements and make sure the item has not sold before you place your order. Our hours are Monday through Friday 8 to 6:00, and Saturday 10 to 4 Eastern time.
Your call is answered by a real, live person - we don’t do the “press 1 for customer service” merry-go-round!

Poker Run Raises $2500 for Cancer Victim

Friday, August 31st, 2007

Fox Creek Leather Participates in Poker Run for Cancer Victim

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Poker Run
The Galax Elks Lodge organized a
Poker Run along the Blue Ridge Parkway
into neighboring North Carolina and
back through Independence, VA.

Elks have charity as one of our cornerstone virtues. Our motto is ‘Elks Care & Elks Share’. Elkdom as a whole supports many charities, needy children, veterans, etc.

Since Elks are dedicated to charity, we must fund-raise as often as possible (you can’t give what you don’t have) and the idea of doing a poker-run was first thought up as general lodge fund-raiser. When Chris was diagnosed, we decided that the poker-run idea would be an excellent benefit for Chris so we started planning it as such.

Chris Cochran is a 48-yr-old divorced father of two: his son is 21 years old and his daughter is eight. He’s as good a person as you would ever want to meet: warm-hearted, very caring and devoted to his family and friends. Unfortunately, Chris has been diagnosed with cancer - a tumor in his left lung and cancer cells in the lymph nodes around both lungs. Chris is a non-smoker but has been employed as an exterminator for many years.

Our poker run successfully raised about $2,500.00 from 36 bikes and 50 or so participants. Ray Bobbitt, the winner of the leather jacket donated by Fox Creek Leather, turned around and immediately auctioned it back off for an additional $150.00 above the $370.00 it had already raised. The best hand, won by Mitch Mundy, was donated back to Chris and we had two separate 50/50 drawings with both winners (Ray Bobbitt and Steve Little) donating their winnings back to Chris.

Elks sponsor many different events throughout the year for a wide range of causes. We have not had a poker run in the more than three years I have been a member but have done so in the past. With this being as successful as it was, we are looking at doing another run in October to benefit underprivileged children and veterans (half & half).

- Bobby Fender, Galax, VA

Poker Run

Donations for Chris or inquires regarding other charitable causes can be made to: Galax Elks Lodge #2212 / Attention Bobby Fender, ER / P.O. Box 1535 / Galax, VA 24333 or you can call the lodge any day after 3:00pm (Eastern Time): 276-236-2212.

Blowout Sale

Thursday, July 19th, 2007

Fox Creek Leather Blowout Sale

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Great News for Bargain Hunters

Fox Creek Leather has a limited number of items we’re moving out to make room for new merchandise. Men’s and women’s jackets, vests and chaps are ready to ship at a 40% discount. These items cannot be ordered on-line because all merchandise is subject to prior sale, and it’s moving fast.

Brown Laced Vest
Brown Laced Vest

This brown men’s laced motorcycle vest (size 40) is made of top quality brown leather, and fits a 39″ chest size. The nicest thing about all of our vests is that they fit properly. Most imported vests are cut in a box shape and the tops flair out over your shoulders instead of contouring to the natural lines of your body. This vest features an interior breast pocket with leather trim to prevent fraying, and a leather-lined gun pocket. A pair of open front pockets are great for stashing a map or keys. If you’re looking for a great value on a leather vest that is made in USA and guaranteed for life, you’ve found it. The regular price on this vest is $135, but it’s on sale now for only $81 - that’s a $54 savings! Be sure to call soon as there’s only one.

Blowout Sale 40% Off
Check Out All Our Blowout Sale Merchandise

Butterfly Vest
Butterfly Vest

Looking for a women’s vest instead? This Butterfly Vest sports purple and white inlaid butterflies on each shoulder and a larger butterfly on the back. Silver and lavender beads adorn the fringe on both sides, and silver hardware and a pair of open pockets complete the front. This was a sample - we have only one and it’s a size XL. The lightweight naked leather is soft and sensual to touch, and laced sides let you wear it alone or over a jacket. Regular price for this vest is $127, but the sale price is $76 - a savings of $51. As with all our leather apparel, this vest is made in the USA and guaranteed for life.

Chaps
Chaps

If you’ve ever ridden in the cold or rain, you’ll appreciate our chaps. I’ve ridden in mid- to upper 30’s comfortably in mine. Waterproof? I don’t know if they can ‘legally’ be classified as waterproof, but mine have kept me dry in some pretty heavy downpours. Our leather motorcycle chaps combine classic styling and superb craftsmanship to provide a great look that keeps you protected on the road. Thick, supple 1.6-1.8mm naked leather will mold itself to fit your body perfectly over time. Chaps zip on and off easily so that they can be removed when the day warms up, or you stop for lunch. We have a dozen pair in plain, braided and fringe finishes with nylon lining in a few pair. Some of these chaps feature unusual size configurations like the XL waist/ S thigh for only $107 (regularly $179). Others are discontinued styles like the XS fringe braid (originally $204 - now: $122).

What about jackets? You can save between $120 and $240 on men’s and women’s jackets in a variety of styles including Vented Racing, Reflector and Classics. Selections include brown leather… black leather… even white. The catch? The only sizes and features available are listed on our Blowout Page, and there’s only one of each.

Since all the blowout items are one-of-a-kind, they are subject to prior sale. Most products on this page are unclaimed special orders, with some items simply older stock we need to move out to make room for new.

These items can be seen on our Blowout Sale Page, but you must call 800-766-4165 to place your order. We want to confirm measurements and make sure the item has not sold before you place your order. Our hours are Monday through Friday 8 to 6:00, and Saturday 10 to 4 Eastern time. Your call is answered by a real, live person - we don’t do the “press 1 for customer service” merry-go-round!

24 Wheels and 2000cc’s

Saturday, July 7th, 2007

Motorcycle Safety Foundation Basic Rider Course in Dublin, VA

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June 8th: Twenty-four students arrived at New River Community College in Dublin, Virginia, boasting a variety of riding skill - from never thrown a leg over to nearly 30 years’ experience. This is Melinda’s story of her longing to ride her own bike and how she came to be in Dublin, VA this particular Friday evening.

Melinda on Suzuki GZ250
Melinda on Suzuki GZ250

For the last 19 years I have had a great desire to ride a bike - my own bike - not just be a passenger on my husband’s. When we first met we went to all kinds of motorcycle rallies and long rides with our friends and I always had a longing to be in the front seat. Back then there really were not many women drivers. It seemed almost silly to want to be one so I tucked the thought of having my own bike way back in my head and it only sporadically came to the forefront.

As time went by the one adventure I was able to take on a regular basis was with my horses. I love horses and feel that there is a certain pride and dignity in them that is very rare and hard to find in anything else. Horses are also extremely loyal and one of mine has been labeled as one of the best friends I have ever had.

When out on a horse I feel really spiritual and close to God because I am in wonder of the magnificent part of the world that I am blessed to live in. There is also a great feeling of freedom when riding a horse that is impossible to acquire when doing most anything else. I have always shared horseback riding with my husband, daughter, and grandsons but realized one day that I wanted something that was just for me.

Honda Rebel 450
Melinda’s Rebel

I mentioned to Bill (my husband) that I would like to ride my own motorcycle and then we would forget about it until the idea popped back in my head.

Imagine my surprise when Bill called me from work to say that he found just the bike for me. It was a 1987 Honda Rebel 450 and it was laying in a ditch with weeds growing over it. My first thought was that there was probably a reason that it was in the ditch-junk maybe-but when Bill said we could buy it for $500 I decided to go for it. At that price I knew that I wouldn’t be too torn up if I messed it up while learning. In the end all it needed was O-rings so for $30 my bike was ready to hit the road.

I didn’t even know how to start a bike let alone drive one so it was a real learning experience for me. Within the first week of having the bike I was riding the gravel mountain roads near my home and soon I started riding in to work. I was a little scared and realized I breathed a sigh of relief and said a little thank you when I made it past certain points in my trip.

I truly feel like I am on a huge adventure every time I make a trip on my Rebel. I think I even felt like a rebel myself for doing it. After only a couple hundred miles I realized that I was hooked and needed to get my license and learn a little more about riding safely so I signed up for a motorcycle safety course at a community college not too far from my home.

MSF bikes
2000cc’s lined up for morning exercises

My co-worker Terri has had her license for 20 years and rides a Yamaha V-Star 1300 so I look up to her as an example. She and I had been talking about taking the safety course and we finally signed up for it. Terri talked to her friend Shirley who also wanted to take the course so it ended up being the three of us. I think we were all a little skeptical about it in the beginning. Maybe we were a little scared (I was), and maybe we were a little doubtful of our abilities, we may have even worried that it was a waste of a weekend but we did go for it and none of us regretted it.

We spent the first evening in a class room where we heard a lot about safety, the law, and some pretty gruesome statistics. We actually remembered a lot of the things we heard that night and put them to use the next morning when we got to pick our bike and start the riding part of the class.

MSF Exercises
Exercises in Dublin

I ended up on a Suzuki CZ 250 and it was very similar to my Rebel but the seat was a little lower so it was easier to get on. That may not sound very important but when you are short and get on and off as much as we did throughout the weekend it does matter. There were some people there who had never been on a bike before and I was impressed with them in the beginning and even more in the end.

MSF Instructors

We had three instructors who made it apparent in the beginning that this was a serious class and that although we could have fun the most important reason that we were there was safety. They gave us lessons on the proper way to get on and off the bike, to stop suddenly, to swerve, and how to curve.

They even had us doing a figure 8 in a box that for me was surely not big enough but by the end of the weekend it must have grown and I was able to pass that part as well. The class teaches you how to be seen while on your bike and how to get out of the way if you are not. We even ran over top of 2×4s which was really fun when you are going 15 miles an hour but may not be when you are going 55.

The instructors paid close attention to every detail of our maneuvers when practicing and when testing. They actually zoned in on details like whether you used both brakes the way you should and if you were in first gear when you come to a stop (so you can get out of the way quickly if needed).

One of the points made over and over all three days of the class was always look where you are going. Bikes like to go in the direction that your head is pointing. This really is important and is the only way I was able to do the figure 8 or go around all of the cones that were set up for us to do our maneuvers in or around (thank goodness these are really small rubber cones because a lot of us ran over them).

Another point that was made more than once was to wear the proper protective clothing. Always wear gloves, long sleeves, long pants, DOT approved helmets, and eye protection.

Melinda's Rebel
Melinda in her Fox Creek Leather
Reflector Jacket

A couple of days after taking the class I went for a ride. Bill laughed when I put my leather jacket on and asked if I was afraid of getting cold (it was 80 degrees). I told him no but that if I go down I still want to have skin on my arms.

Yesterday he left our house with only a long sleeve shirt, pants, and helmet and he lost control in a curve because the front brake stuck. He went off the bike and slid 10 feet on the pavement. He came home with road rash on his knuckles, arm, knee, elbow and shoulder and a broken ego.

I have to give credit where credit is due, he told me I was right about the leathers. I told him that I have worked at Fox Creek Leather for over 5 years and talked to bikers from all over the world and have learned a few things. Come on guys be sure to wear protective gear no matter what brand or material you prefer. Take care of yourself.

To summarize my feelings about the class and the motorcycle riding experience I want to say that the world seems to be a much larger and more beautiful place when you are on a horse or on a bike. Pick any view that you think is impressive in you car and then get on your bike or on your horse and you will have your breath taken away.

So where did the 24 wheels and 2000cc’s come from? Our class was divided into 2 sections - 12 riders and 12 bikes. Okay, that’s 24 wheels. 2000cc’s?? When you tally the cc’s for each bike in the class, it came to about 2000cc’s.

March Featured Rider

Tuesday, March 27th, 2007

Cindy & Craig Sherman

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Craig in Wyoming
Craig in Wyoming
in his Fox Creek chaps

Two years ago I bought myself a pair of your leather chaps. Priced reasonably well, I was curious as to the quality I would get. Not only was the phone support staff super knowledgable in helping me size my chaps correctly, I was amazed at the quality of the product.

I have worn them all over the country and people are amazed at how soft, yet durable and well fitting these chaps are.

Cindy in Georgia
Cindy modeling her Fox Creek Leather
Classic I in the hills of northern Georgia

My next purchase was for my wife last year. We were going on a trip and she needed a jacket. Needless to say she waited until the last minute, and like most women, wanted to order the size SHE wanted the jacket to be.

Craig in Montana
Craig in Big Sky country

Well after receiving the jacket (Women’s Motorcycle Classic I), it was too tight. She called, and “no problem, we’ll send the next size right out” was what she was told! Not only did she get the next size jacket by the time we needed it, we still had the original order on it’s way back to you.

The service you offer is outstanding and the quality of the products are excellent. People who see and touch that jacket are amazed at the quality and the price!

I plan on treating myself to a nice leather jacket, from you of course, later this year! Thanks for being and excellent American company.

Craig Sherman
Deerfield Beach, FL

In writing Fox Creek, Craig mentioned his son, Albert, returning home from Iraq. This is not a political commentary, but a tribute and introduction to one bright young Marine and his family.

Albert's Welcome home
Craig and Cindy’s son, Albert, a Marine
on leave from his third tour of duty in Iraq

As parents of a Marine who is coming home after his third tour of duty in Iraq, you bet we are proud to wear your products that proudly display the American flag! That flag or the Marine flag flies over our house 365 days a year!

Albert is in aviation support with the Marines. He did plenty of security patrols in Iraq, as well as travelling to different bases by helicopter to train other units. Sounds cool, but we lived with fear everyday he was away. If we didn’t hear from him for a few days, of course we started to get nervous. At least this time he had access to e-mail and the phone now and then. His first two tours all we had were letters and they took two weeks either way!

The military has been a great experience and learning tool for him. He has matured so much it makes us both so proud. Granted he was a good student and a good kid when he joined, but this has made him a man. He is now planning on getting out in October, coming home to Florida and becoming an EMT. He is taking classes and he will do it, as he’s that type of person that once he sets his mind to it, he’ll make it through.

What’s your story?
Tell me and you could be in our next issue…

Your stories and photos may be used in our newsletter, magazine advertising or web site. If your story is used in the newsletter, you’re automatically entered in a random drawing for a $500 Fox Creek Leather gift certificate at the end of the year.

February Featured Rider

Tuesday, February 20th, 2007

Dennis 'Roadie' Miller

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Dennis with his 2004 Yamaha Road Star

Acworth, Georgia is about 30 miles northwest of Atlanta. What used to be “out in the country”, is now part of the big mess called “Metro Atlanta”. In this part of Georgia, we’re in just about the best motorcycle riding country in the USA.

The North Georgia Mountains, Southeastern Tennessee and Western North Carolina are full of some of the greatest “twisties” anywhere. The Tail of the Dragon, US Highway 129 connecting Western North Carolina and Tennessee is about a 3 hour ride to the north. TWO (Two Wheels Only) motorcycle campground in Suches, Georgia is only about 2 hours north. The Blue Ridge Parkway is an easy ride from Metro Atlanta. The beaches of the Florida Panhandle are an easy weekend trip to the south. Only problem with riding south in the summer is when you cross the “gnat line” in Macon, Georgia.

Dennis and friends
Patriot Guard Riders at the dedication of the
Georgia National Cemetery in Canton, GA

We have about 11 months of almost perfect riding weather here. Winter temps, early in the day can be “uncomfortable” in January and February. I’ve left home on Polar Bear Rides on January 1st with the temps in the mid 20’s. By 11:00AM, it’s in the 40’s and by 2PM, we’re usually in the 50’s.

My Classic I is perfect for riding in this part of the country. I take out the liner in spring and fall and really only use it in winter. The jacket is heavy enough to keep out the coldest temps. In warmer weather, the zipper vents allow me enough flexibility to open them up if I get hot.

End of September, plans were to meet some friends in Panama City, Florida for the Fall Thunder Beach Ralley. First really cool morning of the fall, so I decided to put on my Classic I before I headed out. Motorcycle packed, I turned out of my sub-division and traveled about a half a mile, when a four legged yard shark came out of nowhere. First, I saw he was about a foot away going for my front tire. My instinct was to hit the brake but I still ran over him with my front tire. The braking I did caused a skid and I went down on my left side. I rode the slide for a while, but eventually separated from the bike and rolled another fifteen or twenty feet after the bike came to a stop. Got up and checked to make sure my arms and legs were all there.

Dennis in his Fox Creek Classic I jacket
Dennis in his Fox Creek Classic I

I got the bike up on its tires and looked over at the dog, laying on his back in the other lane. His eyes were open and they were blinking real fast. I contemplated going over and putting him out of his misery with a swift kick to the head. I hate to see any animal suffer. When all of a sudden he stood up looking kind of dazed, he shook his head from side to side then stopped, looked directly at me and started barking. I started to move toward him and he took off running for parts unknown.

I pushed the bike off of the road and surveyed the damage. Scraped saddle bag, bent shifter, scratched mirror, crushed crash bar and thats it! Damage to me, small road rash on one knee. Damage to my Classic I was road rash on the left elbow and shoulder, a small amount of road rash on the right elbow and upper arm, scratches on the buckle and a little road rash on the front. Nothing on my body that was covered by my Classic I had any kind of injury. What a jacket! I quit smoking in August and unfortunately have gained about 30 lbs so I’m gonna need a new jacket. I think I’ll try the Classic II this time.

Dennis with his 2004 Yamaha Road Star Midnight Silverado
Roadie in his Fox Creek laced vest
2004 Yamaha Road Star Midnight Silverado

I have been impressed with my “Fox Creek experience” and totally satisfied. Especially now, since I’ve gotten to test it in a crash. In the only other motorcycle accident in which I was involved, I was wearing a blue jean jacket. About 50 stitches in one arm convinced me that leather would be a permanent part of my riding ensemble.

My next trip is Bike Week in Daytona Beach. This will be my 11th. I usually ride down with friends and spend three or four days. This year, I’m taking the whole week. Leaving home on March 3rd and coming home on March 11th. I plan on riding from Atlanta to Daytona, totally on back roads. I don’t want to get on an interstate highway at all, if possible. If you guys are going to be down there, let me know where and I’ll drop by.

Sounds like a fun trip, Dennis, but we’re not going to Daytona. So, folks, we’re depending on you to keep us up-to-date on what happens at Bike Week. Send us your stories and photos about Bike Week or any other interesting ride or experience you would like to tell us about.

January Featured Rider

Thursday, January 11th, 2007

Jeff in Pusan, Korea

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Recently, I was standing in my doorway getting ready to go out for a ride. I looked in the mirror and saw that I had on my Harley-Davidson boots, Harley-Davidson shirt, Harley-Davidson jacket, Harley-Davidson fanny pack (with my Harley-Davidson handkerchief and Harley-Davidson wallet inside), Harley-Davidson bandanna, Harley-Davidson gloves, and Harley-Davidson helmet.

Jeff as Harley Guy
Jeff as “Harley Guy”

I was horrified. I had become “Harley Guy,” the type of guy that has Harley-Davidson stamped on everything he owns or wears. I hate that guy, but I had become him, the corporate sellout. I was rather disgusted with myself.

I immediately went inside the house and threw my Harley-Davidson jacket into the garbage can. Never wanted to see it again.

I started an internet search for leather motorcycle jackets. The name Fox Creek Leather kept coming up. I finally visited their site and thought that they had some beautiful products. Reading through their site, I was impressed by the thickness of their leather and the alleged care with which they are constructed.

Jeff's Harley April, 2006BC
Jeff’s Harley April, 2006BC (Before Crash)

I was very interested in purchasing one of their jackets, but was hesitant to buy anything because I would be buying it sight unseen via the internet from some place 8,000 miles away. So, I scoured the internet for personal reviews or comments on Fox Creek Leather Jackets. I visited many sites and many sources, but was unable to locate any negative comments or reviews. Not a single one.

I broke down and gave them a call. They went over specific measurements and eventually convinced me to get one size bigger than I thought I should. I bought the Classic Motorcycle Jacket II. I also bought a pair of braided chaps and some deerskin gauntlets.

They arrived in Pusan, Korea from Virginia, USA in 5 days.

As many reviews had said, the leather was very thick and weighed a ton, but was very soft. Everything fit absolutely perfectly. Although it is still a bit warm here in Korea, the vents on the jacket made it very comfortable to wear.

Harley After Drop
Jeff’s Bike October, 2006AD (After Drop)

Well. Just a few days after getting the jacket and other leather gear, I was wearing my new jacket and gloves and I slid on something, missed a corner, and slammed into a concrete telephone pole. I broke my leg and was launched off my bike. I tumbled along the ground for about 30 feet.

The leather jacket quite possible saved my life and definitely saved me from serious blood loss and significant upper-body injuries. I had one minor scrape on my right forearm, which I believe was just a bit of road burn caused by the inside zipper lining on the right sleeve.

Jeff and his Harley mechanic
Jeff and his Harley-Davidson repairman friend

There was absolutely NO damage to the jacket. There was a bit of dust on the right sleeve and right side of the jacket, but I dusted that off in the emergency room. There is not a single scratch on that leather jacket.