A “Pin Stop” is an event put on by the Harley Owner’s Group (HOG). At random times and at interesting places, the club dispenses lapel pins (or vest pins if you’re a motorcycle rider) to club members who stop by to collect same. Hence the name “Pin Stop” and the venue for this one was the Harley-Davidson Vehicle Operations in York, Pennsylvania.
The little “trophy” for the effort is about the size of an American quarter dollar coin. You could purchase several cases of the tiny bits of metal for the cost of gasoline to ride there. But that is the requirement. The only way this pin can be obtained is to ride there. That’s the way of all HOG Pin Stops. In my case, it was 353 miles round trip for this:
Of course it is a gimmick to entice the motorcyclist to ride and include themselves in the event. This is part of the Harley-Davidson “lifestyle” — to feel the sense of community within the group, be a part of the excited background over which the marketing department will contribute carefully selected words designed to fuel the desire for another motorcycle. Knowing this going in, I was immune to the hype.
As most open house events go, there was excitement whipped up by the various vendors under a large “big top” event tent. The temperature was balmy but an occasional trip into a tent to browse the wares provided relief from the bright midday sun. Food and drink vendors were also present. And no open house where motorcycles are concerned would be complete without the new models being represented.
While I hovered around the 15 or so new bikes set out by the various dealers, this 2015 Road Glide was the most “sat on” bike in the line up. It is quite the snazzy ride compared to my 2006 model of the same name. There are significant upgrades on this bike but I’m okay with keeping my current version.
Bringing a bit of historical fun to the event was the “Wall of Death.” If you check on YouTube, you’ll find several independent dare devils that perform this demonstration of centripetal force with motorcycles. On this day the “Ives Brothers” thrilled the crowd with motorcycle wall riding prowess. Fine young fellows who are real showmen. Take a look at the link I share below and you’ll see that in spite of their apparent youth, they’ve been in the business quite a while.
The history behind the stunt dates back to 1911 and earlier when board track races cropped up around the country. The practice was outlawed and the board tracks were destroyed but racers adapted and the “Wall of Death” stunt was invented. You can read more about the Ives Brothers here. There is a board track reference here.
Happily, my ride from York, Pennsylvania back to Virginia was smoother and not nearly as noisy as the “Wall of Death.” Although, any public highway can be a special thrill as well. Here’s the round trip track:
If you have a pin stop story, you’re welcome to share it here. Otherwise, ride on and enjoy the journey.
