It’s not just about all fun and games, though, as you get to take part in a particularly good and meaningful charity event: the HOHS Kidney Dialysis fund. Each year up to 16 passengers undergoing kidney dialysis who normally could not participate in a vacation away from treatment are brought along on the cruise compliments of the rally’s hosts.

But the biggest plus for everybody is that they also give away a dynamite custom motorcycle. And this year being the 10th anniversary, the giveaway bike is a special one. The 2012 Harley-Davidson Street Glide is decked out with Von Braun Exhaust Smoke Screen mufflers and a virtual bevy of Kuryakyn chrome goodies as far as the eye can see. Darren from Gasoline Alley Harley-Davidson laid down an outrageous $10,000 paint job while Medallion Instrumentation Systems donated the awesome dash gauges. But wait, there’s more, as new wheels from Performance Machine and an Ultimate Seat finished the bike off. Some lucky son-of-a-gun is going to take that baby home and really make that a cruise to remember.

I spoke with one of the vendors, Von Braun Exhaust’s owner and Mr. Nice Guy Himself, Charlie Giordano, and asked about his contribution to the bike. “When Dean and Debbie Anderson, the owners of High Seas Rally, asked what muffler model I thought would be best for the anniversary bike I didn’t hesitate,” said Charlie. “I knew the Smoke Screens were the only choice. The shape of the end-caps mirrors the painted portholes on the back of the saddlebags. The stainless-steel screen mesh ends pick up on the air filter cover perfectly. And, the three pieces of trim on the side of each muffler are reminiscent of the rubbing strake rails running along the outside of the hull of ships for protection. The Roadsters also have a really nice, deep, warm sound that’s great for cruising.” Regarding his company’s participation in the event, Charlie said, “I’m going to be honest with you. At times I’m not the most social fella in the world. My home and shop are located about a mile up a dirt road. And quite often I won’t leave the property for days at a time. So, the idea of being on a boat for ten days and not being able to leave made me a little anxious. Well, last year was our first year attending the rally and we’ll be back again as long as we’re invited. Both my wife and daughter came along and we all had a great time and met some really wonderful people. And the contribution to the dialysis patients and their response is magical. Oh, and this year’s bike? The companies involved all outdid themselves. The winner will be very lucky.”

Von Braun Smoke Screens are available in several color and trim options. They are an easy, direct bolt-on for all Harley-Davidson touring models. Check out Von Braun Exhaust at www.VonBraunUSA.com or give Charlie a call at 774-563-8296. You’ll find a friendly and helpful voice on the other end unless he’s off cruising the high seas.