Wingers in Tulsa
Maverick - Jul 8, 2009

Affectionately known as “Wingers,” Honda Gold Wing and Valkyrie riders converged on Tulsa, Oklahoma July 2 through 5, 2009 for the 31^st annual Wing Ding. While the party line is about Gold Wings and Valkyries on two wheels, trikes were also welcome, if they were powered by one of those big liquid-cooled horizontally opposed six-cylinder engines. In Tulsa Oklahoma, Wingers without trailers were the exception.

 

The “Cruising to the Pow Wow” bikers rode to Tulsa from all states including New York, California, Florida, and Washington, plus Alaska and Canada. They were welcomed with open arms by Governor Brad Henry, Tulsa Mayor Kathy Taylor, and the entire community.

 

The temperature was hot, just shy of 100, and faces were flushed. The air-conditioned Quiktrip Convention Center provided opportunities to cool down, but few took advantage of it; they didn’t have time!

 

Event planners had created a full and diverse rally schedule and the majority of the 9,072 registrants were busy, sun up to sun down in a variety of mostly motorcycling activities. I say “mostly,” and I want to clarify this early.  There were seminars on “Designing with Appliques” and “Designing Your Own Earrings,” and there was a “talent show,” a kind of American Idol tryout for older folks, not to be missed. 

 

Motorcycling made up the rest of the story.

 

                                

While some operators listened and learned in seminars, which were full to standing room only, others were on their bikes. In no particular order of preference, there were seminars on Rider Education and Safety Training, Keeping Cool, Motorcycle Lubrication Basics, Tires 101, GPS navigation for Motorcyclists and more. Other motorcycling activities included motorcycle riding practice on closed courses, demo rides, parts, accessories, and travel vendors (150 strong), a light parade, bike shows, poker runs, and competition riding. 

 

Honda Gold Wing owners are proud of their bikes. They dress them up, clean them, ride them gently, and they are intentional about developing skills as motorcycle operators. Many of these Gold Wing Riders are very good as they maneuver their 895 to 928 lb. beauties through closed courses and simulated traffic situations. 

 

                                 

Rider skill development was accomplished on a range where operators compete against each other, and the clock, on a course designed to challenge a variety of maneuvers including quick starts, braking, turning, and changing directions. Out of necessity, some needed to practice picking up their bikes.

 

During the rally, owners purchased and installed (or had installed) accessories, tires, parts, electrical components, and lighting, in anticipation of the “Light Parade” held Thursday evening. Some of the customizations were for show, some for performance, and some to assure their motorcycle’s uniqueness. 

 

Owners of other brands and non-motorcycle owners might say; “all Gold Wings look the same”…NOT SO! Each has its own personality. This is evidenced by the year-to-year changes and upgrades in design and technology, and also by the abundant aftermarket options for add-ons and owner creativity.

 

                                

The Gold Wing pictured above is owned by a gentleman from Louisiana. When we talked he took a step back and acknowledged the extent of his creation. Then he said proudly; “its mine!!” The bike has only 30,500 miles on it, but when he rides his Gold Wing, he rides with pride.

 

As did many others, he entered his machine in the bike show. In a somewhat obscure affirmation of man and motorcycle, an on-looker asked if he could take the Louisiana Gold Wing for a ride to which the owner replied; “Sure! But I’ll cut it off at the gate.” Point being; within this mass of power, technology, and electronics, lies a security system the owner controls from his pocket. 

 

 

Wing Ding 31 provided ample time for connecting with friends and making new ones. Again, seminars promoted the social dimensions of motorcycling. Examples are: How to have Fun at a Rally, Remembering Names, Leadership Training, Motivating Volunteers, and “Couple of the Year.”

 

                                

Wing Ding 31 is defined by ladies and gentleman (husbands and wives), who enjoy motorcycling together. Bars and clubs were profoundly devoid of motorcyclists during the evening hours of this rally. Rather, couples who really seemed to like each other, participated in talent shows, music festivals, light parades, bike shows, socializing with other couples over dinner, and riding their motorcycles.