The Northwest Rider

The 3rd annual Mountain Jam Motorcycle show was held on Saturday, April 18, 2009 at the Clark County Events Center in Ridgefield Washington.  This year’s event was organized by the Southwest Chapter of ABATE of Washington.

Hundreds of cyclists turned out for the event.  Sunny skies, mid-day temperatures in the 60’s and free motorcycle parking prompted many to arrive on two wheels.  The parking lot began to fill beginning at 9AM and continued to do so, with a steady stream of bikers, throughout the day.

JA “Maximus” Capabianco kicked off the event with the unveiling of his POW-MIA themed 1976 Harley Davidson Shovelhead, built by Johnny’s Ol’ Skool Motorcycle Repair of Vancouver WA, one of the show’s sponsors.

Bikes on display were exhibited by categories and included choppers, sportbikes, antiques, customs and just about everything in between.  Attendees were given the opportunity to cast their votes for the best in each category.

The ‘Steve Hertel Band’ and ‘Dirty Little Fingers’ entertained throughout the day, performing classic rock hits that energized the crowd as folks moved between booths and exhibits.

Vendors, dealers and local cycling clubs were well represented at this year’s event.  Attendees could buy factory and custom models, new or used, right off of the show floor.  Others could choose to compare rates on motorcycle insurance, learn more about motorcycle specific roadside assistance, or even get the latest info on vinyl windows for their homes.

There were a handful of vintage models on the show floor this year.  Among them was a Harley Davidson 42WLA, later deemed the ‘Liberator’ by Allied troops who rode the bike into villages and towns formerly occupied by Axis forces during World War II.

Chuck Martin of C&W Cycles of Vancouver WA was among the custom builders proudly showing their latest work at the event.  Custom bikes on display included a wide range of choppers and an assortment of ‘one of a kind’ masterpieces built from an assortment of salvaged items.

The 3rd Annual Mountain Jam Motorcycle Show was well attended this year and presented a complete cross section of the region’s enthusiastic motorcycling culture.  For more information on ABATE of Washington’s Southwest Chapter, visit their website at www.swwaabate.com/index.htm or contact Ed Baker at kbake1sg@hotmail.com