Bike Week

[hd333]

How are the crowds this year?

Headed up tomorrow for a concert at Meadowbrook, trying to figure how much of a delay we will see heading that way from Center Harbor area.


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[ishoot308]

Originally Posted by hd333

How are the crowds this year?

Headed up tomorrow for a concert at Meadowbrook, trying to figure how much of a delay we will see heading that way from Center Harbor area.


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Not sure about coming from Center Harbor, but I just drove by The Patrick’s Pub / Sawyers intersection on route 11 at 6:00 PM tonight and no traffic at all. Not sure what the Weirs would be like...

Dan

[TiltonBB]

The most back up has been route 3 going south into the Weirs. Over the weekend it was backed up to the Meredith Bay development at times.

Weirs Boulevard has hardly slowed down thus far. Even over the weekend it might have backed up as far as the NASWA a few times but I doubt anyone lost more than 10 minutes in traffic.

Endicot Street North has had some back ups over the weekend but today it didn't back up much at all.

Overall, I would say the number of people and vehicles has continued the decline of the last 10 to 15 years.

[TiltonBB]

Originally Posted by ishoot308

Not sure about coming from Center Harbor, but I just drove by The Patrick’s Pub / Sawyers intersection on route 11 at 6:00 PM tonight and no traffic at all. Not sure what the Weirs would be like...

Dan

And that is with the Dave Matthews band at Meadowbrook tonight too.

[ITD]

I was just on rt 25 in Center Harbor, I would say it is dead, not much traffic. I do expect it to pick up tomorrow, but it is much less than I expected. I also saw a June 9 to 16 DWI checkpoint sign on 104, so don't drink and drive people.

[PaugusBayFireFighter]

I took a short video this morning. Looks like a weekend crowd. Not bad for a Tuesday. Weather is always a factor.
This was the Hill Climb event on Tower Street.



https://youtu.be/AsHSQk4TTxU

[Slickcraft]

From Meredith I would consider going down Parade Rd (106) to Elm St. to Lakeport bypassing the Weirs.

[Hillcountry]

Wow... what a lame excuse for a “hill climb”
Not like I remember them...

[steve-on-mark]

Originally Posted by Hillcountry

Wow... what a lame excuse for a “hill climb”
Not like I remember them...

The " real hill climb" is tomorrow...always on Wednesday!

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[Biggd]

This has probably been the best weather for bike week in a long time.

[garysanfran]

And overall, as the biker population ages, their activities become more tame.

[Hillcountry]

Originally Posted by garysanfran

And overall, as the biker population ages, their activities become more tame.

Yup...just like the event itself! Glad I was here in the old days!

[Rusty]

The LDS has a good article about the hill climb:
https://www.laconiadailysun.com/news...53d91f506.html

[garysanfran]

Originally Posted by Hillcountry

Yup...just like the event itself! Glad I was here in the old days!

in the 60'. The bikers were "heathens" needing to be controlled by the National Guard. A car or two got turned upside down. Cops got to practice baton swings.

Then, as the bikers got older, they got money. The event became a viable part of the New Hampshire economic plan. The crowd I interacted with on Tuesday was very friendly, courteous and they bought a lot of pizza and hot dogs. A very large "burly" biker accidentally bumped into me and he couldn't have been more apologetic.

I heard the Pres. of Harley Davidson, on a radio show, commenting/lamenting on the fact that younger people are not getting into biking so much and their client base is fading, and thusly, so is Laconia Motorcycle Week's attendance.

[Doobs41378]

I’m glad I was in my early 20s and able to enjoy it when the crowds were still big around 1999 2000. Was fun to attend and stay the week. I cannot imagine doing that now.


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[jbolty]

Originally Posted by garysanfran

in the 60'. The bikers were "heathens" needing to be controlled by the National Guard. A car or two got turned upside down. Cops got to practice baton swings.

Then, as the bikers got older, they got money. The event became a viable part of the New Hampshire economic plan. The crowd I interacted with on Tuesday was very friendly, courteous and they bought a lot of pizza and hot dogs. A very large "burly" biker accidentally bumped into me and he couldn't have been more apologetic.

I heard the Pres. of Harley Davidson, on a radio show, commenting/lamenting on the fact that younger people are not getting into biking so much and their client base is fading, and thusly, so is Laconia Motorcycle Week's attendance.

Motorized entertainment including racing, off roading and general car culture is fading and has been. Motorcycles cost as much as a car now and the days of fixing up some old junker are about over. Kids don't know or care about working on engines and even if they did the electronics make it way harder.


Add to that the fact they everyone has their nose glued to their phone so meeting and talking to real people face to face is a lost art as well. Standing around and discussing some guys fully restored Indian or Yamaha with a Harley engine and kawasaki rear wheel is just not a thing any more.

Too bad but times change

[Hillcountry]

Lol @ “heathens”
Maybe some of the HA but definitely not the majority...just working class guys letting off steam for a few days...

[VitaBene]

Originally Posted by jbolty

Motorized entertainment including racing, off roading and general car culture is fading and has been. Motorcycles cost as much as a car now and the days of fixing up some old junker are about over. Kids don't know or care about working on engines and even if they did the electronics make it way harder.


Add to that the fact they everyone has their nose glued to their phone so meeting and talking to real people face to face is a lost art as well. Standing around and discussing some guys fully restored Indian or Yamaha with a Harley engine and kawasaki rear wheel is just not a thing any more.

Too bad but times change

The younger people are doing many things virtually that we did/ do in person. No thanks!!

[Merrymeeting]

The biggest tell for me that it is aging and will die out is the fact that AARP is one of the biggest sponsors this year!

[dogma]

The weather has been terrific so most bikers are out on rides and not hanging at the Weirs

[Dave R]

Originally Posted by Merrymeeting

The biggest tell for me that it is aging and will die out is the fact that AARP is one of the biggest sponsors this year!

The catheter tent was quite the shocker.

[LIforrelaxin]

Times change they always do. As the cost of hobbies goes up, people are forced to make choices. 30-40 years ago having a motorcycle and a boat was not unthinkable even in the Northeast were the season is short. But now, with the cost many people, like me make a choice... For me it was boating with out a doubt. I also have invested in a camper and love doing that with my family as well...

Investing in more toys when I already have 3 (Boat, Jet Ski, and Camper) that can be used only in the summer just doesn't make sense. I just don't have that much time. Not to mention my wife doesn't like Motorcycles, so it would be a toy for only me to enjoy....

Bottom line I love Bike Week always have, I have met many good people when I have had the opportunity to make my way to the Weirs....In years past I have been invited back to camp grounds and hotels to party... I have also taken people I have met out for boat rides... But people aren't as social anymore. Yes they are polite etc. but it is not as social as they used to be.

Top the decline of the social part of the event, with new laws and an ever increasing Police Presence, the event will continue to dwindle. The problem is as the event dwindles, the "Heathens" will become more and more noticeable and draw more attention to the Bad aspects of the event. Thus we have a vicious cycle.......

[Hillcountry]

Originally Posted by Dave R

The catheter tent was quite the shocker.

Ya.. right next to the viagra kiosk!

[garysanfran]

Originally Posted by Hillcountry

Ya.. right next to the viagra kiosk!

I visited both, I can't remember in what order...

[garysanfran]

Originally Posted by LIforrelaxin

Times change they always do. As the cost of hobbies goes up, people are forced to make choices. 30-40 years ago having a motorcycle and a boat was not unthinkable even in the Northeast were the season is short. But now, with the cost many people, like me make a choice... For me it was boating with out a doubt. I also have invested in a camper and love doing that with my family as well...

Investing in more toys when I already have 3 (Boat, Jet Ski, and Camper) that can be used only in the summer just doesn't make sense. I just don't have that much time. Not to mention my wife doesn't like Motorcycles, so it would be a toy for only me to enjoy....

Bottom line I love Bike Week always have, I have met many good people when I have had the opportunity to make my way to the Weirs....In years past I have been invited back to camp grounds and hotels to party... I have also taken people I have met out for boat rides... But people aren't as social anymore. Yes they are polite etc. but it is not as social as they used to be.

Top the decline of the social part of the event, with new laws and an ever increasing Police Presence, the event will continue to dwindle. The problem is as the event dwindles, the "Heathens" will become more and more noticeable and draw more attention to the Bad aspects of the event. Thus we have a vicious cycle.......

This was the cop watching over the Tower Hill climb event. I thought if there was an "incident" during the climb, it would be an event watching him run up the hill

[garysanfran]

Thought I'd share another...Not sure why they are posting 90 degrees off.

[Rusty]

Originally Posted by garysanfran

This was the cop watching over the Tower Hill climb event. I thought if there was an "incident" during the climb, it would be an event watching him run up the hill

I think the vest makes him look heavy. I'll bet he could outrun most of us.

[baygo]

Originally Posted by Rusty

I think the vest makes him look heavy. I'll bet he could outrun most of us.

You are probably right about that. If he's a Staty, he's considered an "elite" in his field.

[TiltonBB]

Originally Posted by baygo

You are probably right about that. If he's a Staty, he's considered an "elite" in his field.

He is a Sheriff. Most of the New Hampshire State Troopers I have seen are in very good shape.

This year there is a significant decrease in the number of police officers at the event. Several years ago it seemed that every 10th vehicle that went by was a police cruiser or motorcycle. That did not help attendance. There were also numerous officers on foot in past years but the number is considerably less this year.

Bike Week is in decline and people tire of attending only to see the same T-shirts and leather gear every year. If something new is not done to stop the decline in attendance Bike Week will soon be a distant memory. It seemed the recent attempt to bring in concerts with big name performers may have had a positive effect but that disaster ended up losing $75,000.

To some the decline may be a welcome change but to the Weirs area business who depend on that income to support them it may be another nail in the coffin.

[garysanfran]

Best weather for motorcycle week in years, but there will always be this damper…

https://www.laconiadailysun.com/news...9fa5e18a5.html

[chipj29]

Originally Posted by garysanfran

Best weather for motorcycle week in years, but there will always be this damper…

https://www.laconiadailysun.com/news...9fa5e18a5.html

Yeah, there have been a bunch of accidents in the area this week. Stay safe out there!

[LIforrelaxin]

Originally Posted by TiltonBB

He is a Sheriff. Most of the New Hampshire State Troopers I have seen are in very good shape.

This year there is a significant decrease in the number of police officers at the event. Several years ago it seemed that every 10th vehicle that went by was a police cruiser or motorcycle. That did not help attendance. There were also numerous officers on foot in past years but the number is considerably less this year.

Bike Week is in decline and people tire of attending only to see the same T-shirts and leather gear every year. If something new is not done to stop the decline in attendance Bike Week will soon be a distant memory. It seemed the recent attempt to bring in concerts with big name performers may have had a positive effect but that disaster ended up losing $75,000.

To some the decline may be a welcome change but to the Weirs area business who depend on that income to support them it may be another nail in the coffin.

Be him a Staty or a Sherriff, I still be he is in better shape then most people realize...

I have said it again and again, its really not the vendors and the same merchandise that are the problem. The event has spread out over the state, there are people that never even come down to the Wiers.... The problem is one of having nice facilities. Putting together a nice set of warehouse buildings in one of the fields that is use for vendors, would help tremendously so that people can get out of the sun or rain and vendors will not be trying to cram everything in under neath temporary shelters... Not to mention these buildings could have other uses attracting more events to the area. Then top that off with a nice permanent stage that could be used for performances, and you would have a top notch facility right at the Weirs... The problem is there is no incentive for the land owners do develop the property.... The term I have often used, is for a convention center to be developed... with open area, some buildings and a stage... Car shows, bike week, boat shows, etc etc could all benefit from such an undertaking... but I don't think the city of Laconia wants that, or at least they are not willing to provide incentives to make an investor want to develop the land.... If I was an investor and had a sizable piece of land that sold out for bike week, and that paid my taxes plus put a few thousand dollars every year in my pocket... I wouldn't be looking to do more either, unless the State or City made it worth my while......

Bottom line the City and State need to make it worth while for investors to develop the weirs back into an area that people want to be... and event organizers want to flock too... until that happens, the Weirs, and bike week will continue to decline.

[joey2665]

Originally Posted by LIforrelaxin

Be him a Staty or a Sherriff, I still be he is in better shape then most people realize...

I have said it again and again, its really not the vendors and the same merchandise that are the problem. The event has spread out over the state, there are people that never even come down to the Wiers.... The problem is one of having nice facilities. Putting together a nice set of warehouse buildings in one of the fields that is use for vendors, would help tremendously so that people can get out of the sun or rain and vendors will not be trying to cram everything in under neath temporary shelters... Not to mention these buildings could have other uses attracting more events to the area. Then top that off with a nice permanent stage that could be used for performances, and you would have a top notch facility right at the Weirs... The problem is there is no incentive for the land owners do develop the property.... The term I have often used, is for a convention center to be developed... with open area, some buildings and a stage... Car shows, bike week, boat shows, etc etc could all benefit from such an undertaking... but I don't think the city of Laconia wants that, or at least they are not willing to provide incentives to make an investor want to develop the land.... If I was an investor and had a sizable piece of land that sold out for bike week, and that paid my taxes plus put a few thousand dollars every year in my pocket... I wouldn't be looking to do more either, unless the State or City made it worth my while......

Bottom line the City and State need to make it worth while for investors to develop the weirs back into an area that people want to be... and event organizers want to flock too... until that happens, the Weirs, and bike week will continue to decline.

Absolutely correct. Why build something when you are making more money for a few weeks a year on vacant land. Worry about long term maintenance and lease renewals, etc. Also I am sure many vendors for Bike Week and the Car Shows pay in cash and the income goes unreported.

[Rattlesnake Gal]

Incredible Video - Bike Week Vintage Footage!

Completely unsure if this FaceBook video link will work, but it is incredible footage from the 60’s!



https://www.facebook.com/10000407674...8020516010493/

[Biggd]

Originally Posted by Rattlesnake Gal

Incredible Video - Bike Week Vintage Footage!

Completely unsure if this FaceBook video link will work, but it is incredible footage from the 60’s!

https://www.facebook.com/10000407674...8020516010493/

That video shows that there really hasn't been much change to the Weirs since the 60's. Financially, that model just isn't going to cut it in todays society.

[AC2717]

Originally Posted by Biggd

That video shows that there really hasn't been much change to the Weirs since the 60's. Financially, that model just isn't going to cut it in todays society.

was thinking the same exact thing

[FlyingScot]

Originally Posted by LIforrelaxin

Bottom line the City and State need to make it worth while for investors to develop the weirs back into an area that people want to be... and event organizers want to flock too... until that happens, the Weirs, and bike week will continue to decline.

Ironically, the end of Bike Week would probably make investment in the Weirs more attractive. Real estate money generally looks for gentrification opportunities, like Meredith or Times Square.

While there are many things about Bike Week that are really cool, hundreds of loud bikes with a lingering whiff of bikers' bad boy history fall somewhere between irritating and intimidating for many non bikers. This is the opposite direction of where cash typically flows.

[joey2665]

Originally Posted by Biggd

That video shows that there really hasn't been much change to the Weirs since the 60's. Financially, that model just isn't going to cut it in todays society.

Too many risks with uncertain rewards

[Hillcountry]

Originally Posted by Rattlesnake Gal

Incredible Video - Bike Week Vintage Footage!

Completely unsure if this FaceBook video link will work, but it is incredible footage from the 60’s!

https://www.facebook.com/10000407674...8020516010493/

HEATHENS!! How terrible we were...

[jetskier]

The other issue is that the demographics of bike week are in the wrong direction. The millennial interest in motorcycles and the associated culture is much less than that of our generation. We went to the hill climb yesterday (great event) and the crowd was clearly in their 50s, 60s and 70s predominantly. So over time, this is going to be a losing proposition. In addition, there is an opportunity cost in that it does displace some of the normal seasonal revenue.

Redevelopment of the Weirs to be a more contemporary (and a bit more upscale) area would probably be economically desirable. This is what happened with Hampton Beach (although most of it had to be rebuilt due to a fire).

Jetskier

[Rusty]

Originally Posted by baygo

You are probably right about that. If he's a Staty, he's considered an "elite" in his field.

He might even be an "Italian".

[LIforrelaxin]

Originally Posted by FlyingScot

Ironically, the end of Bike Week would probably make investment in the Weirs more attractive. Real estate money generally looks for gentrification opportunities, like Meredith or Times Square.

While there are many things about Bike Week that are really cool, hundreds of loud bikes with a lingering whiff of bikers' bad boy history fall somewhere between irritating and intimidating for many non bikers. This is the opposite direction of where cash typically flows.

Here is the thing, if a complex was built with some building etc. like I suggested... Things like the craft fairs etc. could all take place there, instead of tent cities down in Meredith at the parking lot of inns falls and other places. A multi-use facility doesn't have to be huge... it just has to be, and it will get used....But government needs to make it attactive for people to make the investment.

The Weirs has stayed stuck in time not because of the persona of bike week. But rather because the business have limited time to make their money. The owner don't want to make huge investments, when they don't see their profits increasing... When government gives tax incentives, Like agreeing not to raise property Taxes for X number of years, after a major investment, it makes an investor think about improving the property, and be able to improve business revenue, and having breathing room to make that happen before getting a more expensive tax bill.... It would take a convention facility a couple of years to build up events, and generate a positive cash flow after making the initial investment...

People have a stigma about bikers that is routed in a time gone by. They need to let it go... Yes there are some bad apples... but you can say that about boaters, hikers, etc....

If I had the money, I would love to by one of the larger pieces of land and develop it... It would be a risk worth taking... but only if the Town and State agreed to not riase taxes until I could get the building in place and start generate some positive income.....

[Rusty]

Originally Posted by LIforrelaxin

If I had the money, I would love to by one of the larger pieces of land and develop it... It would be a risk worth taking... but only if the Town and State agreed to not riase taxes until I could get the building in place and start generate some positive income.....

Write a plan consisting of the following 7 items and send it to some investors. Who knows, maybe they will give you the capital to start your business.
Let us on the forum read it also..that is if you want to.

Executive Summary
Business Description
Market Analysis
Organization Management
Sales Strategies
Funding Requirements
Financial Projections

[jbolty]

There should be a consolidated thread with all the other threads regarding what to do with the weirs.

Despite seeing it first hand it's still a little jolting to watch that movie and see many of the same places in the same spot 50 years later.

All the plans come back to the same thing. How to make money in the 6+ months when there are few tourists or make enough in the summer to carry over.

I took some people on a Mount cruise last summer who had never been to NH before and after they bought some fudge and a key chain they were done with everything the weirs has to offer in about five minutes flat.

Too bad but I think nothing is ever going to happen unless there is a muti million $ effort to gut the whole place at once into some sort of resort destination.

I could see a benefit in some sort of event park. A bunch of open air shed type buildings would not be too expensive and could be used for all sorts of parties, swap meet, concerts, car shows, etc and in the winter maybe boat storage. But where? Needs to be big and fairly flat and really no need to be near the weirs anyway. Gunstock comes to mind or maybe the top of the hill where shangrila used to be. Or airport plaza after that all folds up.

[FlyingScot]

Originally Posted by LIforrelaxin

The Weirs has stayed stuck in time not because of the persona of bike week. But rather because the business have limited time to make their money.

I think it's awesome that 60+ y.o. guys head out on the open road with their bikes and wives/girlfriends holding on. I especially admire the couples who are a bit infirm, but refuse to let that keep them off their bikes.

But the last time I was at The Tamarack during Bike Week, it was literally impossible to hold a conversation across the picnic table because hundreds were roaring by throughout the entire meal. You're dreaming if you think that's not a turn off for 90% of the population.

[ishoot308]

Every year for the past umteen years this same conversation appears on this forum how bike week is dieing...based on the crowds I saw this afternoon at the Weirs when I was there, it’s not going anywhere soon....

95 years and counting!

Dan

[garysanfran]

Originally Posted by Rusty

Write a plan consisting of the following 7 items and send it to some investors. Who knows, maybe they will give you the capital to start your business.
Let us on the forum read it also..that is if you want to.

Executive Summary
Business Description
Market Analysis
Organization Management
Sales Strategies
Funding Requirements
Financial Projections

Off the thread, but what happened with the plan to develop a conference at the top of the hill just south of Cumberland Farms? The land was cleared.

In the pic, note the billy club.

[garysanfran]

With thousands of bikes, a few things stand out, if you find them.

[Formula260SS]

Originally Posted by ishoot308

Every year for the past umteen years this same conversation appears on this forum how bike week is dieing...based on the crowds I saw this afternoon at the Weirs when I was there, it’s not going anywhere soon....

95 years and counting!

Dan

I agree... been here since Tuesday. It's changed a lot for sure but it's not going away any time soon.

[Nauset]

Originally Posted by jbolty

Motorized entertainment including racing, off roading and general car culture is fading and has been. Motorcycles cost as much as a car now and the days of fixing up some old junker are about over. Kids don't know or care about working on engines and even if they did the electronics make it way harder.


Add to that the fact they everyone has their nose glued to their phone so meeting and talking to real people face to face is a lost art as well. Standing around and discussing some guys fully restored Indian or Yamaha with a Harley engine and kawasaki rear wheel is just not a thing any more.

Too bad but times change

The boating industry is facing the same challenges. Younger people are not as interested in buying boats either.

[noreast]

Originally Posted by Nauset

The boating industry is facing the same challenges. Younger people are not as interested in buying boats either.

I don't know about that, Boating has never been a young mans game. The older you get, and the more money you acquire, the more interested you become. Except maybe those that grew up boating.

[jbolty]

Originally Posted by noreast

I don't know about that, Boating has never been a young mans game. The older you get, and the more money you acquire, the more interested you become. Except maybe those that grew up boating.

Originally Posted by Nauset

The boating industry is facing the same challenges. Younger people are not as interested in buying boats either.

I suppose there is an element of not being interested in what you can't afford also. Kids with giant student loans and worthless degrees are not buying much of anything except starbucks.

growing up as a local pretty much no one in my circle had a boat other than something with oars.

[thinkxingu]

Originally Posted by jbolty

I suppose there is an element of not being interested in what you can't afford also. Kids with giant student loans and worthless degrees are not buying much of anything except starbucks.

growing up as a local pretty much no one in my circle had a boat other than something with oars.

It's not just kids with "useless" degrees. For the past few decades, buying power of a huge segment of America has decreased. My parents could never afford now what they did 30 years ago on machinist's and grocery store clerk's salaries.

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[Hillcountry]

Originally Posted by thinkxingu

It's not just kids with "useless" degrees. For the past few decades, buying power of a huge segment of America has decreased. My parents could never afford now what they did 30 years ago on machinist's and grocery store clerk's salaries.

Sent from my Moto G (5S) Plus using Tapatalk

So true...my father talked me out of buying a house for $40k in the 80’s saying “you’re crazy paying that price...wait til prices come down”
Next chance I had, I had to buy at $210k... ya thanks dad!

[Biggd]

Originally Posted by Hillcountry

So true...my father talked me out of buying a house for $40k in the 80’s saying “you’re crazy paying that price...wait til prices come down”
Next chance I had, I had to buy at $210k... ya thanks dad!

That's it, blame it on your parents, Ha,ha.

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[Hillcountry]

Originally Posted by Biggd

That's it, blame it on your parents, Ha,ha.

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Remember when kids use to “listen” to parents’ advice? Didn’t work out so well in this case! Lol

[The Real BigGuy]

First year I can remember that you can’t hear the continuous rumble from the other side of the lake.


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[ITD]

Originally Posted by The Real BigGuy

First year I can remember that you can’t hear the continuous rumble from the other side of the lake.


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It's rumbling now, continuously, in the distance.

[Formula260SS]

Ran home last night for my daughter's graduation. Coming back up this morning lots of bikes. My prediction is it bangs this weekend. Good weather brings bikes. Wish I was still on the bike but we rode hard this week. My back hurts..... good year for our crew

[The Real BigGuy]

Yup, iiiittttttsss back!


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[dogma]

Quiet yesterday because lots of bikes headed over to Bentleys.

[webmaster]

I was at Weirs Beach Thursday afternoon and shot this video with my GoPro and gimbal as I walked around:

[joey2665]

Originally Posted by webmaster

I was at Weirs Beach Thursday afternoon and shot this video with my GoPro and gimbal as I walked around:

Link doesn’t work for me.


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[TiltonBB]

Originally Posted by joey2665

Link doesn’t work for me.


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Works fine here.

[GusMan]

Awesome video!

I'm not a biker (bass fisherman Actually)… looks like a lot of fun... and a great collection of custom bikes. I hope the tradition continues.

Cheers...

Gusman

[Rusty]

This screen shot in the video is kind of interesting..the cop was probably just being friending.

[webmaster]

Speaking of cops, I saw this one cruising around on a Segway and asked if I could take his picture:

[Doobs41378]

Originally Posted by webmaster

Speaking of cops, I saw this one cruising around on a Segway and asked if I could take his picture:

I find it hard to take them serious when they roll up on this thing or a horse. Just seems weird to me.


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[joey2665]

Originally Posted by TiltonBB

Works fine here.

Would not load from the winni app on my phone.

[Biggd]

I had some friends up for the weekend that still ride and surprisingly they wanted no part of going down to the Weirs. We hung out on my boat most of the weekend and they never got on their bikes again until it was time to go home.

[LIforrelaxin]

Originally Posted by FlyingScot

I think it's awesome that 60+ y.o. guys head out on the open road with their bikes and wives/girlfriends holding on. I especially admire the couples who are a bit infirm, but refuse to let that keep them off their bikes.

But the last time I was at The Tamarack during Bike Week, it was literally impossible to hold a conversation across the picnic table because hundreds were roaring by throughout the entire meal. You're dreaming if you think that's not a turn off for 90% of the population.

Every event is going to turn off some people, that is just life. Why would you go to the Tamarack during bike, we if you where going to be turned off by the noise? I have been around for several bike weeks. When I head over in that direction I know what I am getting into... So if you find your self at the tamarack during bike week, unless you have had your head in the ground, you know what you are getting into.... Bike week is just that a week... yep 90% of the population may not like it... and most that don't just stay away...

I don't like craft fairs, especially ones held out side, with the jungles of little white shelters... and I know I am not the only one... I don't complain about it, I just don't go around it.

If people can't deal with a the single week of bike week, we have deeper problems....

[LIforrelaxin]

Originally Posted by Rusty

Write a plan consisting of the following 7 items and send it to some investors. Who knows, maybe they will give you the capital to start your business.
Let us on the forum read it also..that is if you want to.

Executive Summary
Business Description
Market Analysis
Organization Management
Sales Strategies
Funding Requirements
Financial Projections

Don't think I haven't thought about it... But here is the problem... The cost of buying out current property owners is cost prohibitive.... It really needs to be one of the current property owners deciding that development makes sense...

[Dave R]

I noticed substantially more bikers using full-face helmets and safety gear than I've ever seen before, even on "cruiser-style" bikes where you'd normally see no helmet (or one of those pointless plastic yarmulkes) and no gear. That's a great trend.

[joey2665]

Originally Posted by LIforrelaxin

Don't think I haven't thought about it... But here is the problem... The cost of buying out current property owners is cost prohibitive.... It really needs to be one of the current property owners deciding that development makes sense...

I have done the same. As you say the cost to purchase from an existing owner will not yield the "cap rate' necessary to justify the purchase. There are better opportunities in the area for real estate investment income.

[Rich]

I've said it many times (and I'm sure other's have also), the Wiers has such potential, with it's unique charm and features: The lake, The Boardwalk, The Train, The Pier, The Beach, The Iconic Sign, The Mountains, The View!

If the business owners won't do it, the Chamber of Commerce should.

There could be a (not that I personally like any or all of these):

• Bike week (we have that)
• Boat week,
• Bikini week,
• Fishing week (coincide with the fishing derby),
• Wakeboard week (have some events that people can watch from shore),
• Waterski week (same as Wakeboard week),
• Artisan's week (have "Made in NH" type vendors),
• Sand Sculpting week,
• Ice Fishing week (is the lake ICE solid enough to support this off the docks?),
• Snowmobile week,

The list could go on and on. Of course, we don't really need a 'week' long event that will snarl traffic every week, some things could be weekend events, or 'Friday/Saturday night only events.

Have events that bring people of different demographic and economic backgrounds, nothing will appeal to everyone.

Once the area starts picking up, there will no longer be a need to have events to create a draw.

Look at what Meredith, Wolfboro and Alton have done, their waterfronts look beautiful and have much less to offer. Or take a trip to Lake George and see how that area looks!

Is it just that no one has any vision, or there just is no drive to do this? I'd think after a bit of time, those that own business's there would start to thrive, but all we have now is worn out looking arcades and such.

It looks like some updates have happened, the boardwalk has been improved, the roads, curbs, etc. This is a start, but how can business be encouraged to clean up and improve things? Do they need a tax break or some other incentive to update things?

At least those that purchased the Winnipesaukee Pier seem to have some vision and are slowly improving things!

[MAXUM]

Originally Posted by thinkxingu

It's not just kids with "useless" degrees. For the past few decades, buying power of a huge segment of America has decreased. My parents could never afford now what they did 30 years ago on machinist's and grocery store clerk's salaries.

Sent from my Moto G (5S) Plus using Tapatalk

The buying power of many has decreased because so many have no concept of living within the means they have and budgeting their money accordingly. Debt loads are high and payments for everything now the norm. It's sad... unnecessary... but a reality of today's way of thinking. Live by a monthly plan die by it as well.

It doesn't take luck or a huge income, just a little self discipline. No it's not always easy but it is doable.

[dpg]

Haha I love the AARP tent in the video.

[Biggd]

Originally Posted by MAXUM

The buying power of many has decreased because so many have no concept of living within the means they have and budgeting their money accordingly. Debt loads are high and payments for everything now the norm. It's sad... unnecessary... but a reality of today's way of thinking. Live by a monthly plan die by it as well.

It doesn't take luck or a huge income, just a little self discipline. No it's not always easy but it is doable.

Many kids today have huge incomes but also have huge debt. My kids make a lot of money but they are always struggling to pay all their bills. They spend a lot of money on credit.
They don't live lavishly so I don't think it's a case of living beyond their means.
It costs a lot of money to raise children today. Both parents have to work and that means putting kids in child care, which is incredibly expensive today along with housing and food. They say inflation is low but I don't believe it!

[joey2665]

Originally Posted by Biggd

Many kids today have huge incomes but also have huge debt. My kids make a lot of money but they are always struggling to pay all their bills. They spend a lot of money on credit.
They don't live lavishly so I don't think it's a case of living beyond their means.
It costs a lot of money to raise children today. Both parents have to work and that means putting kids in child care, which is incredibly expensive today along with housing and food. They say inflation is low but I don't believe it!

That's it, inflation is low, compared to what?

[Cindido]

I can't imagine not wearing a helmet - at least I stand a chance with mine on. This past weekend I did notice a lot more riders with helmets - maybe they were from states that require them, but it was nice to see. Then again, I'm glad that NH let's those who ride decide.

[MAXUM]

Originally Posted by Biggd

Many kids today have huge incomes but also have huge debt. My kids make a lot of money but they are always struggling to pay all their bills. They spend a lot of money on credit.
They don't live lavishly so I don't think it's a case of living beyond their means.
It costs a lot of money to raise children today. Both parents have to work and that means putting kids in child care, which is incredibly expensive today along with housing and food. They say inflation is low but I don't believe it!

Kids are struggling to pay their bills because they are taught that making payments is a reality that everyone just does and credit is just another form of income to be tapped into as needed. In fact one of the most brilliant marketing campaigns ever is the credit card rewards programs. Yes we will reward your stupidity! I wish I could run a scam like that, I'd gladly reward anyone 1% cash back when I can then whack you at a 22% compounding interest rate.

Both parents don't HAVE to work, I know the wife and I have managed on a single income since we were in our 20's. No it's not easy but it can be done even on a very modest income. It's no secret, get and stay debt free but that is a lifestyle choice many these days can't seem to grasp.

[The Real BigGuy]

Originally Posted by garysanfran

Best weather for motorcycle week in years, but there will always be this damper…



https://www.laconiadailysun.com/news...9fa5e18a5.html

After reading this it makes me wonder why anyone would ride without a helmet. Even the ones where they couldn’t say if a helmet would have prevented injury/death seemed to shout “should have had a helmet.” I understand the “see better w/o” comments but I’m thinking if a lid provided 10% better survivability I’d sacrifice a little vision (or get fitted for a better helmet). With all the four wheels out there driven by people who use only mirrors and never turn their head it seems more “when” than “if.”


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[MAXUM]

Originally Posted by Cindido

I can't imagine not wearing a helmet - at least I stand a chance with mine on. This past weekend I did notice a lot more riders with helmets - maybe they were from states that require them, but it was nice to see. Then again, I'm glad that NH let's those who ride decide.

I actually wonder if insurance coverage these days requires the use of a helmet irrelevant of the state laws?

[thinkxingu]

Originally Posted by MAXUM

The buying power of many has decreased because so many have no concept of living within the means they have and budgeting their money accordingly. Debt loads are high and payments for everything now the norm. It's sad... unnecessary... but a reality of today's way of thinking. Live by a monthly plan die by it as well.

It doesn't take luck or a huge income, just a little self discipline. No it's not always easy but it is doable.

Buying power ≠ discipline.

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[ishoot308]

Originally Posted by The Real BigGuy

but I’m thinking if a lid provided 10% better survivability I’d sacrifice a little vision (or get fitted for a better helmet)

Honest question...Since most deaths in automobiles are caused by head trauma, wearing a helmet in an automobile can only help your survivability in a crash. Why don't you wear one when driving your car?...

Dan

[MAXUM]

Originally Posted by thinkxingu

Buying power ≠ discipline.

Sent from my Moto G (5S) Plus using Tapatalk

Actually if you look at that graph much of what is there hasn't changed much.

Let's just take the big three:

Cost of a house, in 1975 that mortgage would have cost you 9.45% APR so as a percentage of income it the P&I payment in '75 was more expensive when comparted to both today's dollars and current interest rates hovering at less than half of that.

OK I'll concede the cost of a new car is twice that of 1975 BUT BUT BUT… I will point out a couple key differences. Anything that was made in 1975 was a piece of crap you'd be lucky to get 5 years and 75K out of before the stuff fell apart, rusted all to hell or just plain broke to the point of having to replace it as engineering back then was awful. Now a days one can easily buy a 15K used car and arguably it would far surpass the longevity and reliability of say your average 1975 Ford Pinto or Chevy Vega. Buying new these days is just plain dumb, not when you can buy off lease cars for a fraction of what they cost new. It gets even better when they hit 100K which is where I love to buy them then drive them another 100 or 200K.

College these days is expensive but I'll tell you what my daughter just graduated this spring from Manchester Community College with an Associates degree, where her credits are 100% transferrable into the state school system to finish out a 4 year program, and most will be accepted anywhere else. Cost you ask? 14K for both years combined. So it begs the question why would you send your kids to a place where they are racking up 30, 40, 50K + per year especially over the first couple of years? DUH?

It is about choices and it can be done.

[joey2665]

Originally Posted by MAXUM

Actually if you look at that graph much of what is there hasn't changed much.

Let's just take the big three:

Cost of a house, in 1975 that mortgage would have cost you 9.45% APR so as a percentage of income it the P&I payment in '75 was more expensive when comparted to both today's dollars and current interest rates hovering at less than half of that.

OK I'll concede the cost of a new car is twice that of 1975 BUT BUT BUT… I will point out a couple key differences. Anything that was made in 1975 was a piece of crap you'd be lucky to get 5 years and 75K out of before the stuff fell apart, rusted all to hell or just plain broke to the point of having to replace it as engineering back then was awful. Now a days one can easily buy a 15K used car and arguably it would far surpass the longevity and reliability of say your average 1975 Ford Pinto or Chevy Vega. Buying new these days is just plain dumb, not when you can buy off lease cars for a fraction of what they cost new. It gets even better when they hit 100K which is where I love to buy them then drive them another 100 or 200K.

College these days is expensive but I'll tell you what my daughter just graduated this spring from Manchester Community College with an Associates degree, where her credits are 100% transferrable into the state school system to finish out a 4 year program, and most will be accepted anywhere else. Cost you ask? 14K for both years combined. So it begs the question why would you send your kids to a place where they are racking up 30, 40, 50K + per year especially over the first couple of years? DUH?

It is about choices and it can be done.

I am sorry, I disagree with your assessment of college and even if you do start at a community college eventually you will need to transfer, yes the credits are transferable but you still have a minimum of 2 more years and in addition many professions require a master's degree now. As far as the car goes, you are not calculating repair costs on a used car.

All in all in the end since 1975, the big ticket item costs have increased further than the inflation rate and salaries have not kept up thus the younger generation is taking a double hit.

[Biggd]

Originally Posted by MAXUM

Actually if you look at that graph much of what is there hasn't changed much.

Let's just take the big three:

Cost of a house, in 1975 that mortgage would have cost you 9.45% APR so as a percentage of income it the P&I payment in '75 was more expensive when comparted to both today's dollars and current interest rates hovering at less than half of that.

OK I'll concede the cost of a new car is twice that of 1975 BUT BUT BUT… I will point out a couple key differences. Anything that was made in 1975 was a piece of crap you'd be lucky to get 5 years and 75K out of before the stuff fell apart, rusted all to hell or just plain broke to the point of having to replace it as engineering back then was awful. Now a days one can easily buy a 15K used car and arguably it would far surpass the longevity and reliability of say your average 1975 Ford Pinto or Chevy Vega. Buying new these days is just plain dumb, not when you can buy off lease cars for a fraction of what they cost new. It gets even better when they hit 100K which is where I love to buy them then drive them another 100 or 200K.

College these days is expensive but I'll tell you what my daughter just graduated this spring from Manchester Community College with an Associates degree, where her credits are 100% transferrable into the state school system to finish out a 4 year program, and most will be accepted anywhere else. Cost you ask? 14K for both years combined. So it begs the question why would you send your kids to a place where they are racking up 30, 40, 50K + per year especially over the first couple of years? DUH?

It is about choices and it can be done.

Yes, it can be done if you have no ambition to do more than needs to be done to just get by. Most people want more than just to get by so in that case both parents must work. Unless one parent is making a lot of money.
My son inlaw told me a few weeks ago that a family of 5 needs to make at least $300,000 a year to live in Metro Boston today. He works 2 jobs and my daughter works full time with three kids. They want more than just to get by. So with out actually asking them how much they make I'm assuming they make at least that if not more. Could they make it on one salary, maybe but I doubt it.

[Rusty]

Originally Posted by MAXUM

Actually if you look at that graph much of what is there hasn't changed much.

It isn't a "graph", it is a table with rows and columns.

However I would prefer looking at a graph that shows the cost of living difference.

[MAXUM]

Originally Posted by Rusty

It isn't a "graph", it is a table with rows and columns.

However I would prefer looking at a graph that shows the cost of living difference.

Ah indeed an astute observation in my lack of proper application of the English language, if only I had wasted hundreds of thousands of dollars (plus interest) in the hallowed halls of higher education I would have corrected my ineptness to properly identify a table versus a graph.

My sincere apologies.... as I am only a mere low life high school graduate.

[webmaster]

More about Bike Week from WMUR:

[noreast]

The tables with rows also doesn't include child care, which was almost free compared to what it is today. People making $15 to $20 dollars an hour, with a few kids could save money by not working, you can say don't have children then, but You can't compare anytime to the in recent history to what it's like starting out today, It's not even close. Now that's not an excuse to live like an idiot but there's no comparison. Also I know people who don't carry a balance who use there card for every single purchase to clean up on the rewards, I'm sure that's not the average user though.

[noreast]

Originally Posted by MAXUM

Ah indeed an astute observation in my lack of proper application of the English language, if only I had wasted hundreds of thousands of dollars (plus interest) in the hallowed halls of higher education I would have corrected my ineptness to properly identify a table versus a graph.

My sincere apologies.... as I am only a mere low life high school graduate.

Na, It only would have coat a couple grand back then, But I didn't do it either.

[The Real BigGuy]

Originally Posted by ishoot308

Honest question...Since most deaths in automobiles are caused by head trauma, wearing a helmet in an automobile can only help your survivability in a crash. Why don't you wear one when driving your car?...



Dan

I’ve been looking but can’t find any data to back up your claim. 30% of all traumatic brain injuries are caused buy auto accidents & 14% of the auto deaths of 14 - 25 year olds are caused by traumatic brain injury. Nothing about auto deaths caused tbi. Can you direct me to your info source?

I’m willing to bet that a much much higher % of motorcycle deaths are caused by tbi then auto deaths. Bottom line is I have a far better survivability in a car being hit by a car then on a bike being hit by a car. Mass & physics.


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[ishoot308]

Originally Posted by The Real BigGuy

I’ve been looking but can’t find any data to back up your claim. 30% of all traumatic brain injuries are caused buy auto accidents & 14% of the auto deaths of 14 - 25 year olds are caused by traumatic brain injury. Nothing about auto deaths caused tbi. Can you direct me to your info source?

I’m willing to bet that a much much higher % of motorcycle deaths are caused by tbi then auto deaths. Bottom line is I have a far better survivability in a car being hit by a car then on a bike being hit by a car. Mass & physics.


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My source of information was the American Automobile Association. I received a letter (spam mail) from them about 8 or so years ago stating this fact. I believe it had something to do with airbags but don't remember completely. Whether they are right or wrong is irrelevant, the fact is helmets do in fact save lives!

The question was a loaded one and the answer is "comfort". We don't wear helmets when driving an automobile because they are uncomfortable, they are hot, they get in the way, whatever you want to call it and 99% of our law makers and the general public allow comfort to supersede safety when it suits them. I find it rather hypocritical when these same lawmakers and public supporters try to force their safety mandates on motorcyclists.

In 2017 there were more than 40,000 automobile deaths in the USA, if even 10% could be stopped by wearing a helmet (i'm sure many more would be the real number) when driving that would be just about equal to all the motorcycle deaths that occurred in 2017 with or without a helmet. So if way more lives can be saved by wearing a helmet in an automobile, why don't we??

As an fyi, I personally do wear a helmet (most of the time) when riding my motorcycle but I want to be the one who chooses when and where...

Thanks!

Dan

[FlyingScot]

Originally Posted by Rich

Look at what Meredith, Wolfboro and Alton have done, their waterfronts look beautiful and have much less to offer. Or take a trip to Lake George and see how that area looks!

Apparently, beauty with "much less to offer" is what sells.

[Biggd]

Originally Posted by FlyingScot

Apparently, beauty with "much less to offer" is what sells.

In this case less is more.

[Poor Richard]

Anyone who says a helmet resticts their line of sight is either full of crap or is wearing an improperly fitted helmet.

I've always worn a full face helmet and not once had my vision obstructed by it....this was both on the street and during my time as a licensed racer (where full helmets are mandatory).

Sure, there are riders who will balk at the cost of a halfway decent lid yet their excuse is usually along the lines of "it's restrictive, can't see, too hot, etc" but the $300 to $600 every 5 years seems to me like cheap insurance.

I've had the pleasure of whacking my head on the ground while wearing a helmet. It's not fun but it's why I'm alive and posting.

I'd rather sweat than bleed. To each their own.

[TiltonBB]

The city proclaimed that Bike Week was a success this year with great weather and large crowds.

I was in the Weirs area every day and the crowds and traffic still seem to be less every year, including this year. Coupled with the fact that there were numerous accidents, including three fatalities, I am not quite sure that I would be so quick to call it a success. I guess it depends on your perspective.

https://www.laconiadailysun.com/news...7ae6d5824.html

[thinkxingu]

Originally Posted by TiltonBB

The city proclaimed that Bike Week was a success this year with great weather and large crowds.

I was in the Weirs area every day and the crowds and traffic still seem to be less every year, including this year. Coupled with the fact that there were numerous accidents, including three fatalities, I am not quite sure that I would be so quick to call it a success. I guess it depends on your perspective.

https://www.laconiadailysun.com/news...7ae6d5824.html

One of the fatalities was in Hampstead, not sure I'd consider that part of "Bike Week." Though the arrests were up, even with reportedly lower LEO levels... In any case, Laconia HD said 30% of their business comes this week, which is huge, and the quote about, "even 5,000 visitors means 5,000 more to the area" is an interesting point.

In the end, though I don't ride, I think it's a cool event that, with some investment--both for the week and area as a whole--could be even better.

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