Motorcycles roar into town
Riders pass through en route to Harley celebration in Milwaukee
The Harley that Milo Anderson, better known as Ratbike Milo, got 33 years ago is like a scrapbook of his travels.
It’s covered with stories: desiccated lizards, beads, tattered flags, antlers, wrenches, rope, a fire alarm that used to work and a “Mile 0” sign he insists spells his name. He got the handcuffs five years ago from a Missoula motorcycle cop while headed to the Harley-Davidson 100th anniversary gathering in Milwaukee.
“My whole goal in life is to see how many smiles I can put on people’s faces,” the 53-year-old from Roseburg, Ore., said Tuesday as more-traditional Harley riders rode in on shiny hogs and swarmed around his “ratbike” to snap cell phone pictures.
Spokane Valley’s Shumate Harley-Davidson served a waypoint for Anderson and other pilgrims on their journey to Milwaukee, where the legendary motorcycle brand was born 105 years ago. Bikers nationwide are traveling 25 routes that converge for the anniversary celebration starting Aug. 27. The route through Spokane started in Seattle and continues 1,948 miles east. The five-day gathering in Milwaukee will include concerts, riding skills competitions for law enforcement officers and visits to the Harley-Davidson history museum that opened in July.
But mostly it’s just like a big family reunion and an excuse to ride.
“It’s not just a brand, it’s a way of life,” Anderson said.
Karen Bowen, 55, of Auburn, Wash., was skeptical when her husband, Dave, 62, got a bike in 2001. She refused to ride for two years.
“Then I said I’d try it,” she said, “and now he can’t get me off the back of it.”
The Bowens flew to the 100th anniversary celebration five years ago. This time they’re riding with about 20 others from the Tacoma Hog Group for their longest trip yet. Bowen said the idea that Harley riders are like family is true.
“It’s just wonderful how the people just gather around you and take care of you,” she said.
It’s a belief the happy-go-lucky Anderson puts into practice. Five years ago he made plans and friends as he went on his trek. Last time someone gave him a coveted pass to ride in the parade, so why wouldn’t it work out for this trip?
“Somebody’ll give one this year, too,” he said. “It’s just so much fun.”