Bert and Sue Miskell are eagerly anticipating their first Cross Country Chase. Veterans of three Motorcycle Cannonballs, Bert as rider 119 and Sue as support crew, they’re looking forward to the challenge of the Chase. The couple will be riding a 1934 Harley-Davidson VLD and a 1930 Harley-Davidson sidecar.

The bike is currently being prepared at Rob Nussbam’s Retrocycle to be race ready. Rob and his team are giving the bike a complete front to rear rework to ensure it’s up to the rigors of the race. The side car is being restored by Jake Reed, former 119 crew member. One look at the side car would have many thinking it was hopeless. Jake’s magic touch on the Miskell’s 1915 side car (in worse condition when purchased) is testament that he’s up to the task.

Bert caught the antique motorcycle bug after reading an article in American Iron magazine about the 2016 Motorcycle Cannonball. While he owned several contemporary Harley’s and an Indian, he’d never ridden an antique motorcycle much less owned one. Bert and his 119 team took on the coast-to-coast adventure and while not making every mile, learned a lot and had a great time. Team 119 returned in 2018 loosing miles to a flat tire, and 2021, finishing with a perfect score and winning the Class III title. All three races were run on the same 1915 Harley Davidson F built by Matt Walksler without any major repairs or engine rebuilds, quite a feat to say the least!

The couple is using their Cannonball experience to prepare for this race, but are intrigued as how to manage without a support crew and truck while on a “new” antique bike with a side car. Bert is busy planning and finding parts for both bike and side car. Sue is looking forward to getting out of the truck and into the wind.