10 Facts about Biker in Chief - VP Mike Pence
We've had lots of politician photo ops on Harleys over the years, but the last time an actual rider was in the Executive Branch it was Jimmy Carter, and that was a Honda step through. Mike Pence rides a Harley, so let's get to know him better.
1. The Tradition of Indiana Governors who Ride
For years now there has been an annual charity ride in Indiana, started by former governor Mitch Daniels and ABATE (American Bikers Aimed Toward Education) in 2005 and benefiting charity. Not to overshadow the current leader, Mitch showed up again and rode with Mike Pence and the rest of the Hoosier bikers even after leaving office. Now out of politics Daniels seems to have spent some time building a custom Dyna based bike dedicated to the Hoosier state.
2. Peace between Bikers and Police
In the picture, Pence greets law enforcement at the 2016 event, aimed to increase motorcycle safety and awareness, plus raise money for the Indiana National Guard Relief Fund. Pence asked the crowd of bikers, "Would you join me in thanking all those who stand on the thin blue line of law enforcement and make sure they know we appreciate them and we are grateful for them?"
3. The First Old Lady
Mike doesn't go solo, the first lady (of Indiana) rides on the back as his old lady too. Governor Mike Pence and his wife Karen are show here preparing for the 23rd annual Miracle Ride, benefiting The Riley Hospital for Children at Indiana University Health. This annual ride raises money for one of the premier children's hospitals in the country, with locations throughout Indiana.
4. Extra Safety Gear
Serving as a good example, Gov. Pence makes sure to buckle up his helmet. Unlike most riders, Mike has a vital piece of extra safety gear to ensure there are no mishaps; A big body guard from the Secret Service who follows his everywhere (seen just behind him). Unfortunately, now that he is the Vice President Pence won't be allowed to ride a bike or even drive himself in a car while serving.
5. Teaching the Old Governor New Tricks
Pence says, that he rode motorcycles when he was younger but hadn't ridden in years when elected governor. In order to brush up he took a class with ABATE and starting riding again four years ago. Now back in the saddle, he seems to have jumped whole hog into riding again, taking any chance he can to lead a charity ride, or just take part in one.
6. Pence Preferres Borrowed Baggers
Unlike Mitch Daniels, as far as anyone can tell Mike Pence doesn't currently own a bike, but plenty of people and dealerships are happy to lend him a Harley. There are plenty of pictures on like of him and his wife riding and he seems to prefer baggers like the Harley-Davidson Street Glide pictured above
7. Leader of the Care Free World
Pence led the first leg of the nearly 150 mile ABATE sponsored ride from Indianapolis to Rushville. He was leader of the pack, and now just one heart beat away from becoming leader of the free world. But if Biden's last eight years are any indication, Pence is going to lead a fairly carefree life, at least compared to the stress you get in the top chair. Unfortunately, being VP means no riding for the duration.
8. Pence takes a Detour
Since getting back in the saddle Pence has been very enthusiastic about riding. He often will insist meetings get scheduled around his riding plans. Sometimes, that just can't be worked out, like this time when Pence took a detour to participate in another engagement at the American Legislative Exchange Council (ALEC) in Indianapolis.
9. Riding for a Good Cause
Approximately 3,500-4,000 bikers participated in the Miracle Ride, making it Indiana's largest and longest-running motorcycle charity ride. The Miracle Ride has been going since 1994, and starts with a Poker Run Saturday at several locations around the state and ended with a lap around Indianapolis Motor Speedway on Sunday. All in all several million dollars have been raised for the children's hospital over the years.
10. Trump Chopper
Mike Pence's boss, Donald Trump, actually does own a bike so maybe he can lend it to his second in command? The Trump Chopper is a 100% American made bike in black with 24 carat gold accents complete with Trump engravings, built by Orange County Choppers on an episode of American Chopper. The chopper is on display at the Doral Resort in Miami, so maybe Pence can get special permission to take it to Daytona for Bike Week?
If you need help or advice to get your motor running, the how to section of HDForums.com is full of it.
