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The Journal of the AMA.
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EUROPEAN RIGHTS ADVOCATES OFFER ADVICE AS OVERSEAS REGULATIONS LOOM
AN END-TO-END MOTORCYCLE TOUR
EUROPEAN RIGHTS
OFFER ADVICE AS OVERSEAS REGULATIONS LOOM
AN END-TO-END MOTORCYCLE TOUR
STREET 1March 2016
MARCH 2016
AM_03_2016_sec01s_Street_Cover.indd 1 2/25/16 8:57 AM
Watch this space for updates about your valuable benefi ts as an AMA member.AMA REWARDS
Are You Covered? Value Your CostAmerican Motorcyclist magazine $19.95 IncludedAMA Roadside Assistance (When Enrolled In Auto-Renew Program) $104 Included*Unlimited Classifi ed Ads On The AMA Website $40 IncludedAMA Online Road And Trail Guide $19 IncludedAMA Member-Only Website $75 IncludedHotel And Motel Discounts (Choice Hotels, Red Roof Inn) $40** Up To 20% Off Gear Discounts (BikeBandit.com, EVS, Heat Demon And More) $187.50*** Up To 25% Off Protecting Your Right To Ride Priceless IncludedYour Membership Dues $49Total Membership Value $490.45
*must maintain valid credit card and email address on fi le for coverage to continue**average cost of $100/night stay – 2 nights***average $750 per year expenses on gear/parts/accessories
AMA Roadside AssistanceThe Best Deal In TowingGet peace of mind with AMA Roadside Assistance, which covers all your vehicles, as well as those of your family members living with you. Best of all, you can get this coverage at no additional charge. For details, call (800) 262-5646.
LodgingSave At Choice Hotels, Motel 6, Red Roof InnAt Choice hotels, save 15% off the best available rates at participating Comfort Inn, Comfort Suites, Quality Inn, Sleep Inn, Clarion, MainStay Suites, Suburban Extended Stay, Rodeway Inn and Econo Lodge hotels. Use the Member Discount code #00947556.
Special discounts at Motel 6 are also available up to 10% off . Use the Member Discount code CP540176.
Plus, get a 20% discount off available rates at Red Roof Inn. For discounts, call (800) RED-ROOF and use the code VP+ 503343. You can also make reservations online at www.redroof.com. Just enter the code VP+ 503343 in the fi eld labeled “VP+/ID#” when making reservations. The discount will be automatically applied.
EagleRider Motorcycle RentalsArrive And RideEagleRider off ers an AMA member discount of 10% discount on Harley-Davidson, Honda, BMW and Polaris rentals and tours. Call (888) 900-9901 or book at www.AmericanMotorcyclist.com/Membership/EagleRider.aspx, using discount code AMA015.
Motorcycle ShippingRide Where You WantIn the United States, call Federal Companies, an agent for Specialized Transportation, Inc., at (877) 518-7376 for at least $60 off standard rates. For international shipments, call Motorcycle Express at (800) 245-8726. To get your discount, be sure to have your AMA number handy. Motorcycle Express also off ers temporary international insurance.
Car RentalsSave Money When You DriveGet up to 25% off prevailing rates at any Avis or Budget car rental agency. For Avis, enter discount code: D388100. For Budget, enter code: Z942000. AMA Members save up to 25% on year-round Hertz rentals with discount code CDP# 497193.
AMA Gear Offi cial Online Store for AMA MerchandiseFind patches, pins, T-shirts, hats, coolers and much more at AMAgear.com.
Rider Accident Medical PlanAll members of the AMA are eligible to purchase coverage. Benefi ts are paid when a covered member is injured. See http://www.americanmotorcyclist.com/Membership/Members_Only/DiscountCodes for details.
Insurance, Credit Card, Finance and BankingThe AMA has joined with Nationwide to bring members-only money-saving off ers on insurance, a cash-back AMA-themed credit card, fi nance and banking. For more details see, www.nationwide.com/americanmotorcyclist.
THE ESSENTIALS
HOW YOUR AMA MEMBERSHIP PAYS FOR ITSELF
PRODUCT DISCOUNTS
ActionStation/Bohn Body ArmorSave 10% on complete product line—plus bonus. Go to www.actionstation.com/ama/ and use coupon code AMAB4U at checkout. AMA Members also receive exclusive discounted pricing on the Bohn Bodyguard System at www.bohn-armor-pants.com/ama/.
ADVMotoAdventure Motorcycle Magazine off ers a 20% discount on all subscriptions through AdventureMotorcycle.com and 20% off ADVMoto branded items and back issues on ADVMotoShop.com. Enter discount code AMADV20 at checkout.
AMA Motorcycle Hall Of FameSave $5 on admission to the AMA Motorcycle Hall of Fame at AMA headquarters in Pickerington, Ohio.
AMA Supercross And AMA Arenacross TicketsSave on advanced tickets; AMA members can get $5 off when they buy tickets online at Supercrossonline.com and use password AMASX16. AMA members can get $5 off when they buy tickets online at Arenacross.com and use password AMA5OFF. Certain restrictions apply, call (800) 262-5646 for details.
Anthony’s LeatherworksSave 10% on complete motorcycle garment restoration and repair. You can get your motocross boots fi xed from MX Boot Resole and Repair. Use code AMADISCOUNT at checkout.
BikeBandit.comVisit BikeBandit.com for a 10% discounts on motorcycle parts, gear and apparel. Enter your AMA number when checking out to receive your discount. (Discount is not available on tires.)
Biker Rain ChapsSave 25%. Visit www.bikerrainchaps.com/ama/ and use the code AMA-0116-NEWYEAR at checkout to receive your discount.
Black Wolf MototoursBlack Wolf Mototours off ers all-inclusive dual sport adventure tours in the Northern Rockies. Current AMA members receive 10% off any guided tour. Visit the Members Only section of AmericanMotorcyclist.com for discount code.
Brooks LeatherAMA members receive a 10% discount off all jackets, chaps, vests, rain suits, race suits, and gloves. You can shop online at www.brooksleather.com or at any participating Brooks dealer. Just present the code AMABRO when ordering.
Cardo Systems, Inc.10% discount for AMA members when presenting their membership card on Cardo’s scala rider® motorcycle communication products at participating authorized dealers only.
Colorado Motorcycle AdventuresColorado Motorcycle Adventures off ers AMA Members 10% off all motorcycle rentals and tours! Mention your AMA Membership when reserving your rental or tour. A current AMA Membership card required to receive discount.
Design Engineering, Inc.DEI is now off ering AMA members a 10% discount. Simply enter the discount code AMA10DISCOUNT during checkout.
Dowco PowersportsAMA Members save 20% on Dowco products, an industry leading manufacturer of motorcycle covers and luggage. To take advantage of the discount, use code AMA20 at checkout.
EVS SportsAMA Members receive 10% off and free shipping on all orders. Simply use the code AMAEVS16 during checkout at www.EVS-Sports.com.
Gear BrakeGEARBRAKE detects when you decelerate, even in instances of downshifting and engine braking where the brake is not applied, and automatically lights your taillight with a fl ashing alert! AMA members receive a 15% discount at gearbrake.com with the promo code: AMASAFE.
Heat DemonAMA members receive 10% off all products. Visit www.heatdemon.com/AMA and use the code AMAheat16 at checkout to receive your discount.
International Motorcycle ShowsAMA members save on advanced adult one-day general admission. The promo code is “AMA16” when you buy your tickets online from www.motorcycleshows.com.
MAD MapsThe best routes made easy. Save 20%. Use promo code AMATHXU at www.MADmaps.com.
MedjetLearn More and Enroll – visit www.MedjetAMA.com or call Medjet at 1.800.527.7478 and reference American Motorcyclist Association. Reduced annual Medjet membership rates for AMA members under age 75 start at $225 – a savings of 16%.
MYLAPSMYLAPS provides a 20% discount off MSRP or any current sales price on web-orders or orders coordinated by the AMA for all Motorized Products to AMA members. To receive the discount, enter code AMA-789HJK at checkout.
Pagnol MotoAt Pagnol Moto we develop and design extremely high quality gear for riders by riders. Visit www.pagnol-moto.com and use the code 1AMAVIP at checkout to receive your AMA exclusive 10% discount.
Rider MagazineMembers pay only $19.99 for 2 years (24 issues) + 2 extra FREE issues. Visit the Members Only section on www.AmericanMotorcyclist.com for the discount link.
RoadRUNNER Motorcycle Touring & Travel magazineRoadRUNNER Motorcycle Touring & Travel magazine off ers a 20% subscription discount to AMA members. RoadRUNNER is the touring expert of North America, providing information on the best places to ride. AMA discount code is CRIAMA at www.roadrunner.travel/promo/ama.
SenaThe Global Leader in Bluetooth and ‘Audio Action Camera’ Innovation for Powersports, Motorsports and Outdoor Sports – is now off ering AMA members an exclusive 15% discount on its product lineup. Log into the ‘Members Only’ section on the AMA website to get the code and #RideConnected.
Shark KageA multi-functional ramp which adds the functionality of a bed extender, cargo cover, work table, cargo box and sunshade; all-in-one product! Enter code AMA20 to take advantage of the AMA exclusive 20% discount.
Shock SoxStreet ~ Dirt ~ Off -Road ~ SHOCK SOX, “The 10-Second Removable Fork Seal Protector.” Get 10% off your order by entering your AMA number during checkout at ShockSox.com. For colors, sizes and model-applications, visit www.ShockSox.com
Spot LLCAMA Members receive unprecedented and exclusive service credit on SPOT Spot Trace, Gen 3, and Satellite Phone products in addition to existing device promotions. Visit the Members Only section on www.AmericanMotorcyclist.com to view details.
TomTomTomTom would like to off er you a 10% discount on any TomTom product (excluding accessories). Visit www.tomtom.com to place your order and enter AMA10_TT2016 at check out to receive your discount.
US ChromeAMA Members save big at US Chrome! We off er a $30.00 discount on cylinder plating and dealer pricing on Wiseco, Wossner, ProX and Vertex piston kits. For more information visit the Members Area of the website.
Warm & SafeHeated clothing and controllers designed by bikers. To encourage others to join the AMA we off er members an 18% discount. Enter AMA at check out to receive your discount.
320316_AMA_Member_Benefits.indd All Pages 1/29/16 1:56 PM
DIRTSTREETMAIN 32 March 2016
AM_03_2016_sec02m_Contents_Letters.indd 2 2/2/16 9:26 AM
Watch this space for updates about your valuable benefi ts as an AMA member.AMA REWARDS
Are You Covered? Value Your CostAmerican Motorcyclist magazine $19.95 IncludedAMA Roadside Assistance (When Enrolled In Auto-Renew Program) $104 Included*Unlimited Classifi ed Ads On The AMA Website $40 IncludedAMA Online Road And Trail Guide $19 IncludedAMA Member-Only Website $75 IncludedHotel And Motel Discounts (Choice Hotels, Red Roof Inn) $40** Up To 20% Off Gear Discounts (BikeBandit.com, EVS, Heat Demon And More) $187.50*** Up To 25% Off Protecting Your Right To Ride Priceless IncludedYour Membership Dues $49Total Membership Value $490.45
*must maintain valid credit card and email address on fi le for coverage to continue**average cost of $100/night stay – 2 nights***average $750 per year expenses on gear/parts/accessories
AMA Roadside AssistanceThe Best Deal In TowingGet peace of mind with AMA Roadside Assistance, which covers all your vehicles, as well as those of your family members living with you. Best of all, you can get this coverage at no additional charge. For details, call (800) 262-5646.
LodgingSave At Choice Hotels, Motel 6, Red Roof InnAt Choice hotels, save 15% off the best available rates at participating Comfort Inn, Comfort Suites, Quality Inn, Sleep Inn, Clarion, MainStay Suites, Suburban Extended Stay, Rodeway Inn and Econo Lodge hotels. Use the Member Discount code #00947556.
Special discounts at Motel 6 are also available up to 10% off . Use the Member Discount code CP540176.
Plus, get a 20% discount off available rates at Red Roof Inn. For discounts, call (800) RED-ROOF and use the code VP+ 503343. You can also make reservations online at www.redroof.com. Just enter the code VP+ 503343 in the fi eld labeled “VP+/ID#” when making reservations. The discount will be automatically applied.
EagleRider Motorcycle RentalsArrive And RideEagleRider off ers an AMA member discount of 10% discount on Harley-Davidson, Honda, BMW and Polaris rentals and tours. Call (888) 900-9901 or book at www.AmericanMotorcyclist.com/Membership/EagleRider.aspx, using discount code AMA015.
Motorcycle ShippingRide Where You WantIn the United States, call Federal Companies, an agent for Specialized Transportation, Inc., at (877) 518-7376 for at least $60 off standard rates. For international shipments, call Motorcycle Express at (800) 245-8726. To get your discount, be sure to have your AMA number handy. Motorcycle Express also off ers temporary international insurance.
Car RentalsSave Money When You DriveGet up to 25% off prevailing rates at any Avis or Budget car rental agency. For Avis, enter discount code: D388100. For Budget, enter code: Z942000. AMA Members save up to 25% on year-round Hertz rentals with discount code CDP# 497193.
AMA Gear Offi cial Online Store for AMA MerchandiseFind patches, pins, T-shirts, hats, coolers and much more at AMAgear.com.
Rider Accident Medical PlanAll members of the AMA are eligible to purchase coverage. Benefi ts are paid when a covered member is injured. See http://www.americanmotorcyclist.com/Membership/Members_Only/DiscountCodes for details.
Insurance, Credit Card, Finance and BankingThe AMA has joined with Nationwide to bring members-only money-saving off ers on insurance, a cash-back AMA-themed credit card, fi nance and banking. For more details see, www.nationwide.com/americanmotorcyclist.
THE ESSENTIALS
HOW YOUR AMA MEMBERSHIP PAYS FOR ITSELF
PRODUCT DISCOUNTS
ActionStation/Bohn Body ArmorSave 10% on complete product line—plus bonus. Go to www.actionstation.com/ama/ and use coupon code AMAB4U at checkout. AMA Members also receive exclusive discounted pricing on the Bohn Bodyguard System at www.bohn-armor-pants.com/ama/.
ADVMotoAdventure Motorcycle Magazine off ers a 20% discount on all subscriptions through AdventureMotorcycle.com and 20% off ADVMoto branded items and back issues on ADVMotoShop.com. Enter discount code AMADV20 at checkout.
AMA Motorcycle Hall Of FameSave $5 on admission to the AMA Motorcycle Hall of Fame at AMA headquarters in Pickerington, Ohio.
AMA Supercross And AMA Arenacross TicketsSave on advanced tickets; AMA members can get $5 off when they buy tickets online at Supercrossonline.com and use password AMASX16. AMA members can get $5 off when they buy tickets online at Arenacross.com and use password AMA5OFF. Certain restrictions apply, call (800) 262-5646 for details.
Anthony’s LeatherworksSave 10% on complete motorcycle garment restoration and repair. You can get your motocross boots fi xed from MX Boot Resole and Repair. Use code AMADISCOUNT at checkout.
BikeBandit.comVisit BikeBandit.com for a 10% discounts on motorcycle parts, gear and apparel. Enter your AMA number when checking out to receive your discount. (Discount is not available on tires.)
Biker Rain ChapsSave 25%. Visit www.bikerrainchaps.com/ama/ and use the code AMA-0116-NEWYEAR at checkout to receive your discount.
Black Wolf MototoursBlack Wolf Mototours off ers all-inclusive dual sport adventure tours in the Northern Rockies. Current AMA members receive 10% off any guided tour. Visit the Members Only section of AmericanMotorcyclist.com for discount code.
Brooks LeatherAMA members receive a 10% discount off all jackets, chaps, vests, rain suits, race suits, and gloves. You can shop online at www.brooksleather.com or at any participating Brooks dealer. Just present the code AMABRO when ordering.
Cardo Systems, Inc.10% discount for AMA members when presenting their membership card on Cardo’s scala rider® motorcycle communication products at participating authorized dealers only.
Colorado Motorcycle AdventuresColorado Motorcycle Adventures off ers AMA Members 10% off all motorcycle rentals and tours! Mention your AMA Membership when reserving your rental or tour. A current AMA Membership card required to receive discount.
Design Engineering, Inc.DEI is now off ering AMA members a 10% discount. Simply enter the discount code AMA10DISCOUNT during checkout.
Dowco PowersportsAMA Members save 20% on Dowco products, an industry leading manufacturer of motorcycle covers and luggage. To take advantage of the discount, use code AMA20 at checkout.
EVS SportsAMA Members receive 10% off and free shipping on all orders. Simply use the code AMAEVS16 during checkout at www.EVS-Sports.com.
Gear BrakeGEARBRAKE detects when you decelerate, even in instances of downshifting and engine braking where the brake is not applied, and automatically lights your taillight with a fl ashing alert! AMA members receive a 15% discount at gearbrake.com with the promo code: AMASAFE.
Heat DemonAMA members receive 10% off all products. Visit www.heatdemon.com/AMA and use the code AMAheat16 at checkout to receive your discount.
International Motorcycle ShowsAMA members save on advanced adult one-day general admission. The promo code is “AMA16” when you buy your tickets online from www.motorcycleshows.com.
MAD MapsThe best routes made easy. Save 20%. Use promo code AMATHXU at www.MADmaps.com.
MedjetLearn More and Enroll – visit www.MedjetAMA.com or call Medjet at 1.800.527.7478 and reference American Motorcyclist Association. Reduced annual Medjet membership rates for AMA members under age 75 start at $225 – a savings of 16%.
MYLAPSMYLAPS provides a 20% discount off MSRP or any current sales price on web-orders or orders coordinated by the AMA for all Motorized Products to AMA members. To receive the discount, enter code AMA-789HJK at checkout.
Pagnol MotoAt Pagnol Moto we develop and design extremely high quality gear for riders by riders. Visit www.pagnol-moto.com and use the code 1AMAVIP at checkout to receive your AMA exclusive 10% discount.
Rider MagazineMembers pay only $19.99 for 2 years (24 issues) + 2 extra FREE issues. Visit the Members Only section on www.AmericanMotorcyclist.com for the discount link.
RoadRUNNER Motorcycle Touring & Travel magazineRoadRUNNER Motorcycle Touring & Travel magazine off ers a 20% subscription discount to AMA members. RoadRUNNER is the touring expert of North America, providing information on the best places to ride. AMA discount code is CRIAMA at www.roadrunner.travel/promo/ama.
SenaThe Global Leader in Bluetooth and ‘Audio Action Camera’ Innovation for Powersports, Motorsports and Outdoor Sports – is now off ering AMA members an exclusive 15% discount on its product lineup. Log into the ‘Members Only’ section on the AMA website to get the code and #RideConnected.
Shark KageA multi-functional ramp which adds the functionality of a bed extender, cargo cover, work table, cargo box and sunshade; all-in-one product! Enter code AMA20 to take advantage of the AMA exclusive 20% discount.
Shock SoxStreet ~ Dirt ~ Off -Road ~ SHOCK SOX, “The 10-Second Removable Fork Seal Protector.” Get 10% off your order by entering your AMA number during checkout at ShockSox.com. For colors, sizes and model-applications, visit www.ShockSox.com
Spot LLCAMA Members receive unprecedented and exclusive service credit on SPOT Spot Trace, Gen 3, and Satellite Phone products in addition to existing device promotions. Visit the Members Only section on www.AmericanMotorcyclist.com to view details.
TomTomTomTom would like to off er you a 10% discount on any TomTom product (excluding accessories). Visit www.tomtom.com to place your order and enter AMA10_TT2016 at check out to receive your discount.
US ChromeAMA Members save big at US Chrome! We off er a $30.00 discount on cylinder plating and dealer pricing on Wiseco, Wossner, ProX and Vertex piston kits. For more information visit the Members Area of the website.
Warm & SafeHeated clothing and controllers designed by bikers. To encourage others to join the AMA we off er members an 18% discount. Enter AMA at check out to receive your discount.
320316_AMA_Member_Benefits.indd All Pages 1/29/16 1:56 PM
DIRTSTREETMAIN 32 March 2016
AM_03_2016_sec02m_Contents_Letters.indd 3 2/2/16 9:25 AM
March 2016Volume 70, Number 3Published by theAmerican Motorcyclist Association13515 Yarmouth Dr.Pickerington, OH 43147(800) AMA-JOIN (262-5646)www.americanmotorcyclist.com
American Motorcyclist magazine (ISSN 0277-9358) is published monthly by the American Motorcyclist Association, 13515 Yarmouth Dr., Pickerington, OH 43147. Copyright by the American Motorcyclist Association/American Motorcyclist 2016. Printed in USA.Subscription rate: Magazine subscription fee of $19.95 covered in membership dues.
Postmaster: Mail form 3579 to 13515 Yarmouth Dr., Pickerington, OH 43147. Periodical postage paid at Pickerington, Ohio, and at additional mailing offi ces.
8. LETTERS10. VIEWPOINT 12. RIGHTS26. HALL OF FAME34. EVENTS CALENDAR46. GUEST COLUMN
PAGE 22. U.S. 14 end to end with Douglas Weir.
NAVIGATION
STREET COVER Are restrictive laws from other countries going to dictate U.S. riders’ rights?
DIRT/COMPETITION COVER AMA Hall of Famer Bill Werner offers tuning tips for competition.
The AMA Championship Banquet honored the top competitors of the 2015 season during a ceremony
at the Hyatt Regency in Columbus, Ohio.
To switch the version you receive, call (800) 262-5646, ask for membership services.Want to read both versions? Call the above number to get both delivered to your
home for just $10 more a year. Members can read both versions online at www.americanmotorcyclist.com/magazine for free.
Dirt/Com
petiti
on E
dition
Only
!
Street
Edition
Only
!
PAGE 22. Tuning for competition with two of racing’s best.
Jeff
Guc
iard
o
It’s the ride that matt ers. When the sun meets the horizon and there’s nothing in front of you except the open road. That’s the only way to live.
Get GEICO Motorcycle insurance today.
geico.com | 1-800-442-9253 | Local Offi ce
Motorcycle
Some discounts, coverages, payment plans and features are not available in all states or all GEICO companies. GEICO is a registered service mark of Government Employees Insurance Company, Washington, D.C. 20076; a Berkshire Hathaway Inc. subsidiary. Motorcycle and ATV coverages are underwritten by GEICO Indemnity Company. © 2016 GEICO
DIRTSTREETMAIN 5
4 AmericanMotorcyclist.com
54 March 2016
AM_03_2016_sec02m_Contents_Letters.indd 4 2/2/16 9:52 AM
Dirt/Com
petiti
on E
dition
Only
!
Jeff
Guc
iard
o
It’s the ride that matt ers. When the sun meets the horizon and there’s nothing in front of you except the open road. That’s the only way to live.
Get GEICO Motorcycle insurance today.
geico.com | 1-800-442-9253 | Local Offi ce
Motorcycle
Some discounts, coverages, payment plans and features are not available in all states or all GEICO companies. GEICO is a registered service mark of Government Employees Insurance Company, Washington, D.C. 20076; a Berkshire Hathaway Inc. subsidiary. Motorcycle and ATV coverages are underwritten by GEICO Indemnity Company. © 2016 GEICO
DIRTSTREETMAIN 5March 2016 54AM_03_2016_sec02m_Contents_Letters.indd 5 2/2/16 9:25 AM
COMMUNICATIONS
American Motorcyclist13515 Yarmouth DrivePickerington, OH 43147(614) 856-1900submissions@ama-cycle.org
James Holter, Vice President of Communications and MarketingJim Witters, Managing EditorHeather Wilson, Associate EditorMark Lapid, Creative DirectorJeff Guciardo, Production Manager/DesignerHalley Immelt, Graphic Designer
Steve Gotoski, Advertising Director (Western States)(951) 566-5068, sgotoski@ama-cycle.org
Zach Stevens, National Sales Manager(626) 298-3854, zstevens@ama-cycle.org
All trademarks used herein (unless otherwise noted) are owned by the AMA and may only be used with the express, written permission of the AMA.American Motorcyclist is the monthly
publication of the American Motorcyclist Association, which represents motorcyclists nationwide. For information on AMA membership benefi ts, call (800) AMA-JOIN or visit AmericanMotorcyclist.com. Manuscripts, photos, drawings and other editorial contributions must be accompanied by return postage. No responsibility is assumed for loss or damage to unsolicited material. Copyright© American Motorcyclist Association, 2015.
AMA BOARD OF DIRECTORS
Contact any member of the AMA Board of Directors at www.americanmotorcyclist.com/about/board
Maggie McNally-Bradshaw, ChairSchenectady, N.Y.
Ted Cabral, Vice Chair, Penngrove, Calif.
Ken Ford, Assistant TreasurerBartow, Fla.
Paul Puma, Executive Committee Member, Laguna Beach, Calif.
Jeff Skeen, Executive Committee Member, San Diego, Calif.
Jerry Abboud, Thornton, Colo.
Russ Brenan, Irvine, Calif.
David Foley, Milwaukee, Wis.
Tony Moseley, Fort Worth, Texas
Roger Pattison, Taos Ski Valley, N.M.
Robert Pearce, Murrieta, Calif.
Jim Viverito, Chicago, Ill.
(800) AMA-JOIN (262-5646)AmericanMotorcyclist.com
AMA STAFF
EXECUTIVE
Rob Dingman, President/CEOJeff Massey, Chief Operations Offi cer Bruce Moffat, Chief Financial Offi cerDonna Perry, Executive Assistant to President/CEORob Rasor, Director of International Affairs
ACCOUNTING/DATA ENTRY
Dawn Becker, Accounting ManagerLori Cavucci, Data Entry RepresentativeDeb D’Andrea, Data Entry RepresentativeMelanie Hise, HR Assistant/Payroll CoordinatorEd Madden, System Support SpecialistNicole Weppler, Member Fulfi llment Specialist
AMHF/MOTORCYCLE HALL OF FAME
Connie Fleming, Manager of Events and AMHF OperationsJordan Cavallaro, Museum Admissions and Collections AssistantPaula Schremser, Program SpecialistKaty Wood, Collections Manager
AMA RACING/ORGANIZER SERVICES
Bill Cumbow, Director of RacingRob Baughman, Assistant Road Riding ManagerKip Bigelow, Motocross ManagerJoe Bromley, Program Development ManagerJane Caston, Racing CoordinatorKevin Crowther, Director SX & Pro Racing RelationsAlex Hunter, Racing Projects ManagerMichael Jolly, Off Road/Track Assistant ManagerBeth Owen, Off-Road CoordinatorMike Pelletier, Assistant Motocross ManagerJessica Robinson, Track Racing CoordinatorKen Saillant, Track Racing ManagerSerena Van Dyke, Recreational Riding CoordinatorChuck Weir, Off Road Racing ManagerConrad Young, Timing & Scoring Manager
BUSINESS MEMBER PROGRAMS
Jim Williams, Vice President, Industry Relations andBusiness Member Programs
DISTRIBUTION/FACILITIES SERVICES
John Bricker, Mailroom ManagerHeida Drake, Copy Center OperatorBill Frasch, Mailroom Clerk
GOVERNMENT RELATIONS
Sen. Wayne Allard, Vice President, Government RelationsNick Haris, Western States RepresentativeRick Podliska, Deputy DirectorSteve Salisbury, Government Affairs Manager, Off-HighwayMichael Sayre, Grassroots CoordinatorElizabeth Starek, Staff AssistantCasey Wright, Government Affairs Manager, On-Highway
STATE CHAPTERS
Marie Wuelleh, State Chapter Manager
INFORMATION TECHNOLOGY
Jennifer Kirkpatrick, IT DirectorDave Coleman, Network Architect
MARKETING
Amanda Donchess, Membership Marketing ManagerKaitlyn Sesco, Marketing ManagerHannah Saunders, Marketing Coordinator
MEMBER SERVICES
Christina Dolin, Member Services RepresentativeTiffany Pound, Member Services ManagerCristy Wiles, Member Services Representative
MOTION PRO, INC. I MOTIONPRO.COM I 650-594-9600
ENJOY THEENJOY THEADVENTURE
KURT CASELLI
KC66 TOOL PACKKC66 TOOL PACKIN COLLABORATION WITH THE KC66 FOUNDATION
Learn more about how to help by visiting: Kurtcaselli.com
Protecting and Supporting the Lives of Off-Road Riders.
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KC66 TOOL PACK
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MSRP: $49.99*A portion of the proceeds for every pack
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• Offi cial tool pack designed to meet the needs of the USA ISDE Team• External fl ap with quick access pouch features molded pull tab providing effortless grip with or without gloves• Motion Pro molded zipper pull tabs offer a sure grip when opening or closing compartments• Heavy duty adjustable web belt extends through the side pockets• Zippered inner map pocket • Non-Slip Textured backing with added foam back support pad• Zippered side pockets with accessory web belt loops• Durable 600D Ballistic Nylon construction
June 7*-11*Special Pre-Registered Events 6/6!
Sign Up February 2016
Lake George NY
EarlyBird Sign-up
Before March 15
Enter to win a
ScalaRider Headset!
Every Registered
Attendee receives a
Special Ticket
Friday Night Spectacular’s Grand Prize Drawing2016 Harley-Davidson® Softail Slim*must be present to win
Demos Guided Rides Shopping Entertainmentamericade.com 518-798-7888
AMA Full February.indd 1 1/19/2016 4:52:06 PM
DIRTSTREETMAIN 7
6 AmericanMotorcyclist.com
76 March 2016
AM_03_2016_sec02m_Contents_Letters.indd 6 2/2/16 9:25 AM
June 7*-11*Special Pre-Registered Events 6/6!
Sign Up February 2016
Lake George NY
EarlyBird Sign-up
Before March 15
Enter to win a
ScalaRider Headset!
Every Registered
Attendee receives a
Special Ticket
Every Registered
Every Registered
Attendee receives a
Special Ticket
Friday Night Spectacular’s Grand Prize Drawing2016 Harley-Davidson® Softail Slim*must be present to win
Demos Guided Rides Shopping Entertainmentamericade.com 518-798-7888
AMA Full February.indd 1 1/19/2016 4:52:06 PM
DIRTSTREETMAIN 7March 2016 76AM_03_2016_sec02m_Contents_Letters.indd 7 2/2/16 10:07 AM
ANOTHER TAKE ON ETHANOLI have been riding for over 50 years and
have been an AMA member since 1981. I started riding my fi rst motorcycle in 1965 on a Ducati 90 and thought I had the world by the tail. Over the years, my bride and I have had 13 bikes, including an infamous “Water Buffalo” and the latest, a Can-Am Spyder. We’ve toured from Texas to British Columbia to Newfoundland to West Virginia for well over 200,000 miles with tremendous scenery and experiences.
I also currently own seven Massey Ferguson tractors, which I use on our wooded acreage in Wisconsin, most of which are over 50 years old. I currently also own seven chain saws. I have noticed a huge difference in gasoline over the years as the manufacturing process has changed. Years ago the color of gasoline looked like what you would see after a night of consuming large quantities of barley pops. Now gasoline looks just like water and has about the same volatility.
The common thread in these stories is that gasoline has changed dramatically over the years and now has a shelf life of about 30 days, after which it starts to deteriorate. Over the years I have had a lot of carburetor trouble in motorcycles, tractors and small engines. An old time mechanic said years ago to add 1 or 2 oz. of automatic transmission fl uid when you fi ll the gas tank to clean the carburetor. ATF acts as a detergent in transmissions and will do likewise to clean carburetors.
Many times while fueling up at a gas station I will ask the attendant if the fuel has ethanol and the normal response is that they have no idea. In Wisconsin, they
are getting better at labeling pumps, but sometimes even premium fuel contains ethanol.
Recently, due to concerns about using ethanol in ATVs, boat motors and recreational vehicles, more gas stations are carrying premium fuel with no ethanol. Since I started using exclusively premium gasoline and ATF every time I fi ll a motorcycle, tractor or small engine, I have not had a carburetion problem.
So, in the great ethanol debate, maybe we should be lobbying Congress to go ahead and allow E15, but also encourage gas stations to provide some pumps with no ethanol, providing customer choice. All gas stations may not be equipped to handle a separate tank just for ethanol-free fuel, but in every town there will probably be a least one, and motorcyclists will fi nd it. I will gladly pay more for pure gasoline to avoid engine problems, especially at current fuel prices.
Ed HassAMA Charter Life MemberEllsworth, Wis.
Thanks, Ed, for your note. The problem with forcing more E15 into the marketplace is that distributors are virtually eliminating E0 availability. Per the Environmental Protection Agency’s November ruling, the amount of E0 nationally will go from 9.2 billion gallons in 2015 to just 130 million in 2016. We also advise against adding automatic transmission fl uid to your fuel. Today’s fuels are formulated with detergents, while ATF was not designed for combustion and will signifi cantly increase harmful exhaust emissions.
RIDING ALONEIn your February issue, Scott Marek
presents good reasons why riding solo is more doable these days (more dependable bikes and cell phones).
I have been riding solo since I fi rst sat on a motorcycle. Four years ago, I was 64 years old. Since then I have upgraded from a 1200 Sportster to a Softtail Heritage. By now I count 75,000 miles under my belt. To enjoy solo rides, apart from technicalities, I think is in your personality.
I like to be alone in the seat and on the road. I like it for weeks! I like the unexpected and the newness every day. I like to adapt to weather, accommodations, irregularities and surprises. I like to feel capable and in balance, not only on the wheels, but inside me as well. I like the Zen of solo traveling.
I also like the family-like greetings from bikers everywhere on the road, the gas station, the cafes and the motels.
I want to send my gratitude to all of you who ride for the sake of riding. I really can’t see any other reason to do it.
Mette Helena ElfvingReno, Nev.
AGAINST THE ODDSIn 2003, when my son Braden (Brady)
Lee Parker was 4 years old, he informed me that his dad, Robert Douglas (Doug) Parker, was our Walmart parking lot angel and that was the reason we always got such a great parking spot at Walmart. His dad was killed in a motorcycle accident a year prior to that.
At age 10, Brady asked me to buy him a dirtbike. My quick and immediate response was “No, absolutely not.” But after a year of him begging, I reluctantly gave in, only after he promised me that his dad and father in heaven would protect him.
We bought a used inexpensive Roketa bike and he began riding. Since then, it has been an amazing journey. That fi rst bike led to a newer bike, and he then began racing.
I look back and laugh. When we hit the race track, it was a boy and his bike and his little brother, and a mom and her picnic basket. No tools, no spare tires, just a bike, a brother, and a basket.
His fi rst full year racing in 2012 in the Missouri State Championship Series, he placed sixth overall in his 85cc Senior class. The bike that got him there was a 2004 KX85 we bought from Brad Hall of Chesterfi eld, Ill., and it was as sweet a bike as the guy we got it from.
In 2013, he won his fi rst state championship in the Missouri State Motocross Championship Series on a 125cc Yamaha that his racing friend
MEMBER LETTERS
Letter of the Month
SOLID SERVICE I wanted to thank the AMA Roadside
Assistance folks for the professional and prompt service that was provided to my wife on Jan. 22, 2016. She was driving home during the evening rush hour and her car became disabled. Being stranded on the interstate during rush-hour traffi c is very scary and the service team did an excellent job securing her vehicle and rescuing her from a precarious situation.
As a side note, I’m a transportation engineer at the Ohio Department of Transportation, and I can attest to the dangers of standing on the shoulder of a busy freeway. We routinely park our work vehicle on the shoulder when performing inspections of buried drainage infrastructure. Despite the bright fl ashing lights and the recent adoption of the “Move Over Ohio” law, many drivers do not move to an adjacent lane when feasible.
I encourage travelers to recognize, apply, and promote this simple act for disabled vehicles in addition to roadside workers, which was the intended group for the law.
Jeffrey E. SyarColumbus, Ohio
Letters to the editor are the opinions of the AMA members who write them. Inclusion here does not imply they refl ect the positions of the AMA, its staff or board. Agree? Disagree? Let us know! Send your letters to submissions@ama-cycle.org; or mail to 13515 Yarmouth Drive, Pickerington, OH 43147.
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Sound Off!
A roundup of recent comments on Facebook (www.facebook.com/americanmotorcyclist, www.facebook.com/amasupercrosschampionship). Instagram and Twitter (@AMA_Riding, @AMA_Racing).
In response to a motorcycle-themed book giveaway…
Robert Johnson: If you can’t be riding, nothing is better than researching and reading about them. Love to read about
various brands’ histories.
In response to Ryan Sipes being named 2015 AMA Athlete of the Year in the national championship category…
@Sweeneyphoto: Well deserved. Congrats @r_sipes
On Branden Walther receiving the 2015 AMA Sportsman of the Year award…
@Hazbeenz: Thanks @ama_racing for recognizing such quality individuals such as Branden and his family!
In response to the Ask the MSF feature from the February issue about whether road riders should be in neutral or first gear when stopped…
Pete Rainwater: I agree with this well-written and well-thought-out response. BTW, I am a former MSF instructor who has provided the
same basic instruction to students.
Joe Racine: I almost always keep it in first. Even if you position yourself an escape position, it will take valuable seconds to get the bike in gear and that may take too long. Inexperienced or experienced shouldn’t make a difference in this situation.
Nick Knudt: You can’t get the holeshot if you’re in neutral.
Stephen Garner Jr. helped us find.In 2014, sitting in first place, seventh
race of the year, we woke up at our motel to find everything had been stolen overnight. Unfortunately, we didn’t get
to finish the championship that year.
This past year, 2015, Brady took a sixth place trophy in the Missouri State series on a 125cc Honda.
His plans for 2016 are to take
his 2004 YZ250 two-stroke and race with all he’s got, and beyond that he wants to be racing with the pros someday.
We just want to say thank you to the AMA and all the motocross people we have met along the way. You have made a difference for this single mom and her young motocross racing son’s life.
I also want to encourage those thinking about pursuing motocross, that if we can do it, anyone can! See you in the winner’s circle!
Sandi BernardFulton, Mo.
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Final Trim Size: 7-1/2˝ x 10-1/8˝
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Date Created: 06/16/14
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REPRESENTING YOUR INTERESTSAMA Board Improves Procedures
Over the last several years, the AMA Board of Directors has made numerous improvements to the way it does business. These improvements include the implementation of term limits, improvements to board election procedures and a change in the make-up of the board to provide more individual member seats than business member seats.
The effect of those changes has been more apparent in the last couple of years as the fi rst group of term-limited board members reaches the limits of their terms. The most recent member to leave the board due to term limits is Northwest Region individual member representative Perry King.
A well-known actor of stage, screen and television for more than 40 years, Perry is an avid motorcyclist and has served the board tirelessly since 2008. He was originally appointed to fi ll a vacancy on the board and has been instrumental in bringing about positive change within the AMA. In addition to his AMA Board service, Perry has served with distinction as emcee for the annual AMA Motorcycle Hall of Fame Induction Ceremony since 2009 and has done so free of charge. We hope that Perry will be willing to continue in this role for years to come.
The voting to replace Perry recently concluded with the election of Ted Cabral, who will join the board at its next scheduled meeting in April. Ted, a 38-year member from Penngrove, Calif., began attending AMA-sanctioned fl at track races with his father in the early 1970s. He was the general manager of Cycle West Honda/Suzuki in Petaluma, Calif., for more than 20 years. In the
1980s, he held a professional AMA motocross license and later worked as a technician on professional motocross and road racing teams. More recently, in 2013, Ted was appointed to the California Off-Highway Motor Vehicle Recreation Commission and currently serves as chairman. He also is a member of the California State Parks
Transformation Advisory Committee.One of the unforeseen byproducts
of term limits is what to do if qualifi ed candidates do not come forward to contest a vacancy on the AMA Board. This situation occurred in both the Southwest and South Central regions in the previous two election cycles. One of the seats was fi lled by a special election that yielded only one candidate and the other was fi lled by appointment by the board.
In addition to Perry King, North Central region individual member Jim Viverito was also set to “term out” in February of this year. While there were two candidates who came forward to run for the Northwest board seat, there were no candidates from the North Central region.
In its last two meetings, the AMA Board of Directors decided to address this lack of interest and has amended the AMA Code of Regulations with respect to term limits. The code previously allowed for individual directors to serve only two consecutive three-year terms. The new language allows a director who has already served two consecutive terms to run for a third term if approved by a two-thirds majority vote of the entire board.
Under the provisions of the new regulation, Jim sought and received the
AMA Board’s approval to run for a third term. The board has authorized a special election for the North Central region’s individual member director position. Candidates interested in running for the board seat should contact the AMA at elections@ama-cycle.org or (614) 856-1900 to request an application. Applications will be accepted through March 31.
Additionally, the AMA Board has abolished the requirement that a candidate for the board obtain the signatures of at least 50 current AMA members from the candidate’s region. The board felt that the signature requirement was a barrier to those otherwise interested in running for offi ce and that the current candidate evaluation process conducted by the board’s Nominating Committee negated the need for the signature process.
The ability for a candidate to overcome not being selected by the Nominating Committee to run for the board, however, remains intact. Candidates for the board not selected by the Nominating Committee may still be placed on the ballot if they obtain at least 250 signatures of current AMA members.
There is no compensation for serving on the AMA Board of Directors, but it can certainly be very rewarding if you are willing to dedicate your time to the organization and our mission to promote the motorcycle lifestyle and protect the future of motorcycling. Yes, at times it can also be a thankless task, but a strong AMA Board made up of representatives of the membership is essential for good governance.
Rob Dingman is AMA president and CEO.
VIEWPOINT
By Rob Dingman
Perry King
Jim Viverito
Ted Cabral
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AMERICAN MOTORCYCLIST TRIM: . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 8” X 10-1/2˝
BLEED: . . . . . . . . . .8-1/4˝ X 10-7/8˝
SAFETY: . . . . . . . . .7-7/8˝ X 10-1/2˝
Client: Progressive
Job No: 14D00226
Created by: Dalon Wolford
Applications: InDesign CS6, Adobe Photoshop CS6, Adobe Illustrator CS6
Fonts(s): Gotham Family
Job Description: Full Page, 4 Color Ad
Document Name: Cobblestone ad / American Motorcyclist
Final Trim Size: 7-1/2˝ x 10-1/8˝
Final Bleed: 8-1/8˝ x 10-3/4˝
Safety: 7-7/8˝ x 10-1/2˝
Date Created: 06/16/14
Progressive Casualty Ins. Co. & affiliates. Do not attempt.
Helping you save with every mile. Now that’s Progressive.1-800-PROGRESSIVE | PROGRESSIVE.COM
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Terms and Conditions: Offer valid for a one time, one car group upgrade on an intermediate (group C) through a full-size four-door (group E) car. Maximum upgrade to premium (group G), excluding intermediate SUV (group F). Offer valid on daily, weekend, weekly and monthly rates only. The upgraded car is subject to vehicle availability at the time of rental and may not be available on some rates at some times. Valid at participating Avis locations in the contiguous U.S. and Canada. The savings of up to 25% applies to the time-and-mileage charges only of the rental. Mention AWD # D388100 to receive this discount. One coupon per rental. A 24-hour advance reservation is required. May not be used in conjunction with any other coupon, promotion or offer. Upgrade will be applied at vehicle pick-up time. Renter must meet Avis age, driver and credit requirements. Minimum age may vary by location. An additional daily surcharge may apply for renters under 25 years old. Fuel charges are extra. Rental must begin by December 31, 2016.
©2015 Avis Rent A Car System, LLC
OHIO CITY RESTRICTS OHV RIDINGMacedonia Riders Avoid Ban
The Macedonia, Ohio, City Council passed an ordinance in October restricting off-highway-vehicle use on private property within the city limits. But riders say the law is a compromise that prevented much more stringent restrictions from being enacted.
AMA member and Macedonia resident Mike Hawkins was one of the OHV riders who met with city offi cials after introduction of an ordinance so restrictive that some residents thought OHV use would be illegal in the city. City offi cials say the new law will not prevent people from using their OHVs, but it will prevent abuse.
The original proposal called for a 500-foot setback from nearby homes and a 250-foot setback from homes on the same property. Riders would have been required to stay at least 100 feet away from sidewalks and streets. And no riding would have been permitted on lots of less than an acre.
Hawkins says he owns four acres, but probably would not have been able to ride on his property under the proposed regulations.
Under the adopted ordinance, riders can come within 10 feet of sidewalks, streets and property lines. Vehicles can be ridden for two hours a day between 10 a.m. and 8 p.m. or dusk, whichever is earlier.
The city also requires landowners to buy a $5 permit for using their land to ride on. If riders violate the city’s rules, the permit can be revoked for a year. Reinstatement carries an additional $25 fee. The penalty for not buying a permit is $10. Violations of the ordinance also can be cited as misdemeanors. The ordinance also outlaws the use of competition vehicles and allows only “unaltered stock muffl ers.”
“We tried to come up with a solution that would still let parents teach their kids to ride in their backyard, but, at the same time, have some respect for their neighbors,” Hawkins says.
MOTORCYCLISTS GET TWO BUDGET WINS
Congress Extends Breaks For Tracks, Electric MotorcyclesIn its $1.8 trillion federal spending bill
approved Dec. 18, Congress included two provisions likely to benefi t motorcyclists during the coming year.
The Protecting Americans from Tax Hikes Act of 2015 – PATH Act – extends a tax break for motorsport entertainment complexes that allows owners to depreciate the cost of renovations or construction over seven years instead of the 39 years for most other owners of nonresidential property.
The extension applies to construction or renovations that are placed in service during 2015 and 2016.
“This provision benefi ts track owners, race promoters, workers and the communities that are home to motorsports facilities,” says Wayne Allard, AMA vice president of government relations. “The shorter time frame for recovering their investment serves as incentive for track owners to move forward with expansion plans and upgrades.”
Also included in the PATH Act is an extension through 2016 of the federal tax credit for buying an electric motorcycle. The credit is 10 percent of the purchase price to a maximum of $2,500. However, the new law excludes three-wheeled electric motorcycles from the tax credit.
President Obama signed the bill Dec. 18.
“This provision benefi ts track owners, race promoters, workers and the communities that are home to motorsports facilities. The shorter time frame for recovering their investment serves as incentive for track owners to move forward with expansion plans and upgrades.”
— Wayne Allard, AMA vice president of government relations
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Terms and Conditions: Offer valid for a one time, one car group upgrade on an intermediate (group C) through a full-size four-door (group E) car. Maximum upgrade to premium (group G), excluding intermediate SUV (group F). Offer valid on daily, weekend, weekly and monthly rates only. The upgraded car is subject to vehicle availability at the time of rental and may not be available on some rates at some times. Valid at participating Avis locations in the contiguous U.S. and Canada. The savings of up to 25% applies to the time-and-mileage charges only of the rental. Mention AWD # D388100 to receive this discount. One coupon per rental. A 24-hour advance reservation is required. May not be used in conjunction with any other coupon, promotion or offer. Upgrade will be applied at vehicle pick-up time. Renter must meet Avis age, driver and credit requirements. Minimum age may vary by location. An additional daily surcharge may apply for renters under 25 years old. Fuel charges are extra. Rental must begin by December 31, 2016.
©2015 Avis Rent A Car System, LLC
NOHVCC ‘GREAT TRAILS’ GUIDE RELEASEDProvides Resource For The OHV Industry
“Great Trails: Providing Quality OHV Trails and Experiences,” a 350-page book for trail managers, has been released by the National Off-Highway Vehicle Conservation Council.
The AMA is one of 11 organizations that funded the project.
Written by U.S. Forest Service veteran Dick Dufourd, the guide includes information about the design, planning, construction, maintenance and management of OHV trail systems that are sustainable and fun to ride.
The initial printing of 200 copies was a limited edition that included the NOHVCC 25th Anniversary logo on the cover. The next printing will be available for about $30, to cover the cost of production.
More information is available at www.greatohvtrails.com.
NATURE CONSERVANCY BUYS WASHINGTON LANDGroup Pledges To Maintain Existing Uses
The Nature Conservancy announced its plan for 48,000 acres it bought in Kittitas County, Wash., (approximately 100 miles southeast of Seattle) and assured recreational access will be permitted that is “consistent with historic, legal use.”
All of the land, known as the Central Cascade Forest, will be open to non-motorized uses, such as hunting and bird-watching. But there are 29.5 miles of single-track motorcycle trails on the land, as well.
The Nature Conservancy property is interspersed with U.S. Forest Service lands, so those using the trails are likely to pass through the Nature Conservancy holdings without noticing.
However, under the land’s previous owners – Plum Creek Timber – unapproved ATV riding occurred, according to a report in the Yakima Herald. ATVs will not be allowed on The Nature Conservancy lands.
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Down to the Ocotillo Wells State Vehicular Recreation Area visitors who are destroying the “pumpkins” at the Pumpkin Patch site. The pumpkins are “globular sandstone concretions” resulting from wind and water erosion over perhaps millions of years. The destructive visitors are depriving others of the enjoyment of this unique feature.
Up to motorcyclists everywhere for being better auto drivers. A report from the British insurance company Equity Red Star fi nds that motorcyclists are 23 percent less likely, on average, to make a claim on their car policy, indicating that riders are safer than other drivers behind the wheel of a car. Even after adjusting the fi gures to account for differences in the age of car drivers and motorcyclists, the company still reports riders are 21 percent better behind the wheel. The insurer examined 200 million policies between 2007 and 2012. ERS is a Lloyd’s underwriting business that has been a motor insurer for more than 60 years.
Down to Reddit founder and CEO Steve Huffman for being a less-than-attentive motorcyclist. Huffman was asked in the November issue of Atlantic Monthly magazine whether he owns an Apple Watch. His response: “No, but I have a Pebble Time and love it. I can fi nally read texts while driving my motorcycle.”
HOUSE HOLDS HEARING ON OHV BILLSMeasures A� ect Numerous California Riding Areas
The U.S. House Subcommittee on Federal Lands conducted a hearing in December on the Clear Creek National Recreation Area and Conservation Act (H.R. 1838) and the California Minerals, Off-Road Recreation, and Conservation Act (H.R. 3668), both of which are of great signifi cance to off-road enthusiasts from California and nearby states.
H.R. 1838, sponsored by U.S. Rep. Sam Farr (D-Calif.), would allow off-road vehicles to return to the 75,000-acre Clear Creek Management Area southeast of Hollister, Calif., and establish the 21,000-acre Joaquin Rocks Wilderness area, a compromise proposal that has bipartisan support among California’s congressional delegation.
Clear Creek, which offers about 240 miles of trails, was closed to motorized vehicles by the U.S. Bureau of Land Management in 2008 after the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency raised concerns about naturally occurring asbestos. Asbestos is a known carcinogen. The EPA claims that the dust kicked up by dirt bikes and all-terrain vehicles presents a health hazard for riders and others.
But studies by the International Environmental Research Foundation found that the lifetime risk from asbestos for those riding at Clear Creek fi ve days a year was about the same as for someone who smokes less than one cigarette a day for that same year.
Under the Resource Management Plan adopted by the BLM in 2014, the
Serpentine Area of Critical Environmental Concern was opened to some motorized traffi c on a very limited basis.
H.R. 3668 would designate 965,000 acres of the Mojave Trails area in the Mojave Desert as a special management area that would be closed to renewable energy development. The bill also would designate 1,200 miles of roads and trails for OHV use and include a “no net loss” provision for trails and roads to prevent closures.
The bill also would designate six National Off-Highway Vehicle Recreation Areas at Spangler Hills, El Mirage, Stoddard Valley, Rasor, Dumont Dunes and Johnson Valley. El Mirage, Spangler Hills and Johnson Valley would be expanded.
H.R. 3668 also would transfer 4,600 acres to the city of Apple Valley for creation of an OHV park. The bill would prohibit the president from designating any national
monuments on land that is part of an OHV area or special management area.
H.R. 3668, sponsored by U.S. Rep. Paul Cook (R-Calif.), is similar to the California Desert Conservation and Recreation Act (S.B. 434) sponsored by U.S. Sen. Dianne Feinstein (D-Calif.).
Feinstein has been battling unsuccessfully since 2009 to get Congress to pass her bill, and in late 2015 asked President Obama to sidestep Congress and designate the Mojave Trails National Monument, the Sand to Snow National Monument and the Castle Mountains National Monument through the American Antiquities Act of 1906.
U.S. Sen. Dianne Feinstein (D-Calif.)
U.S. Rep. Paul Cook (R-Calif.)
U.S. Rep. Sam Farr (D-Calif.)
founder and CEO Steve Huffman for being
than-attentive
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COLORADO COUNTY HALTS TRACK PLANSSix-month Moratorium, Restrictions In Place
Offi cials in Douglas County, Colo., placed a six-month moratorium on the construction of motorsports facilities on residential properties of less than 4.5 acres and enacted temporary restrictions on existing tracks in rural residential and agricultural areas.
The restrictions include:• A maximum of two
vehicles on a track at one time
• Tracks must be situated on a 1-acre area at least 100 feet from all property lines
• Riding is limited to between 7 a.m. and 7 p.m.
Dennis Larratt, an AMA member and co-founder of the Colorado Off-Highway Vehicle Coalition, says the regulations are “arbitrary and rigid,” but believes some compromises can be achieved.
County offi cials say they want to strike a balance between residents who use their land for recreation and others who come to rural areas for solitude.
AMA WINS NATIONAL AWARDShowalter Group Recognizes Grassroots Innovation
The AMA won fi rst place in the 2015 Showalter Political Involvement Program Innovation Award competition, announced Dec. 11 in Naples, Fla., at the annual Innovate to Motivate conference. Winning organizations must demonstrate innovative programs and results from their innovations.
During 2015, the AMA revamped its advocacy outreach to strengthen its position as the voice of the motorcycle community before national, state and local legislatures. That effort included the creation of a fully integrated advocacy resource center that serves as an information storehouse for all issues related to motorcycling and government.
“At the core is the belief that AMA
members and motorcycling advocates should be informed of the processes of government relations,” says Wayne Allard, AMA vice president of government relations. “The changes affected real-world outcomes, such as preventing unfair dirt-bike bans in select counties.”
The Showalter Innovation Award recognizes innovations and results in the grassroots and political action committee profession. Among the past winners are companies like Pfi zer, International Paper, Southwest Airlines, Kraft Foods, and New York Life. Past nonprofi t winners include The Campaign for Tobacco Free Kids, Citizens for a Sound Economy and the American Cancer Society’s Cancer Action Network.
Wayne Allard, AMA vice president of government relations, with Amy Showalter of The Showalter Group Inc.
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ALABAMABuck’s Pocket State Park received
a $526,996 grant through the federal Recreational Trails Program for 15 to 25 miles of off-highway-vehicle trails along a section of Sand Mountain in Jackson, DeKalb and Marshall counties. The grant is part of $1.6 million the state awarded for 15 trails projects. The remainder of the grant from the Federal Highway Administration will go to the state’s parks, public trust lands and city parks.
CONNECTICUTThe cost of a basic rider course
through the Connecticut Rider Education Program run by the state Department of Transportation is increasing from $200 to $220 in 2016. The intermediate rider course rose to $130 from $115, and the experienced rider course is now $100, up from $85. The cost of the sidecar, trike, three-wheeled course increased to $220 from $200. State law requires prospective riders to pass a training course conducted by CONREP or a private school to obtain a motorcycle endorsement on their driver’s licenses.
MISSOURIA bill fi led by state Rep. Rocky
Miller (R-Lake Ozark) would make the failure to wear a motorcycle helmet a secondary offense. Under current law, motorcyclists may be stopped by a law enforcement offi cer for failing to wear a helmet while riding. If Miller’s bill is enacted, a helmet citation could be issued only if the motorcyclist is pulled over for another violation fi rst.
MONTANAThe BlueRibbon Coalition and
other advocacy groups are suing the U.S. Forest Service over a plan that bars motorized access to some areas of the Kootenai National Forest. The plan designates 115,000 acres as recommended Wilderness and eliminates mechanized and motorized
recreational uses. The lawsuit claims the Forest Service failed to follow federal guidelines for recommended Wilderness areas and failed to provide adequate opportunity for public comment.
PENNSYLVANIAS.B. 1058, introduced by 14
senators, would prohibit law enforcement agencies from engaging in motorcyclist profi ling, would require training of offi cers concerning conduct that constitutes profi ling and would provide that a victim of profi ling could bring a private lawsuit against any police offi cer or police department that engages in motorcyclist profi ling. In the action, the victim may be awarded injunctive relief, actual damages, punitive damages and reasonable attorney fees and costs.
WEST VIRGINIAH.B. 2150, sponsored by 11
delegates, would make it illegal for anyone to modify a motorcycle exhaust system in a way that makes it louder than 95 decibels as measured under SAE Standard J1169. At the same time, H.B. 2251, introduced by Delegate Ralph M. Rodighiero (D-Logan) includes loud exhaust notes, engine revving and vehicle stereo systems in its prohibitions on disturbing the peace.
WISCONSINTwo bills that would create a state
off-road motorcycle program are under consideration by the state Assembly. A.B. 470, sponsored by state Rep. Jeffrey Mursau (R-Crivitz) and S.B. 395, introduced by state Sen. Jerry Petrowski (R-Marathon), would create the Off-Highway Motorcycle Council to make recommendations to the state Department of Natural Resources on matters related to trails, routes and other OHM issues. The motorcycle program would be operated in a manner similar to the state’s ATV program.
MINNESOTA COUNTY EYES OHV PARK272-Acre Site Considered Near River
The Renville County, Minn., Board of Commissioners heard a consultant’s recommendation to proceed with an environmental assessment and storm
water mitigation plan for an off-highway-vehicle park on 272 acres near the Minnesota River.
The consultant, I+S Group, worked with Great Outdoors Consultants of Fort Collins, Colo., and the National Off-Highway Vehicle
Conservation Council on the report.The cost of acquiring the property and
developing OHV trails is estimated at $1.3 million.
Residents near the proposed park have told county offi cials that sound, dust and other issues cannot be mitigated, and they want the county to stop spending money on the project.
STATEWATCH
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DIRTSTREET 17March 2016AM_03_2016_sec05s_StreetContent.indd 17 2/2/16 9:30 AM
SISTERS’ CENTENNIAL MOTORCYCLE RIDECelebrating History By Alisa Clickenger
This year marks the 100th anniversary of AMA Motorcycle Hall of Famers Adeline and Augusta Van Buren’s history-making cross-country motorcycle ride. The Van Buren sisters were the fi rst two women to cross the continental United States, each on her own motorcycle, and were the fi rst women to ride to the 14,115-foot summit of Pikes Peak.
We plan on making history again, and in their memory I have organized the AMA-sanctioned Sisters’ Centennial Motorcycle Ride July 3-24 to follow in their footsteps. The idea is simple: 100 years later we will have 100 women riders crossing the United States from Brooklyn to San Francisco.
The Sisters’ Centennial Motorcycle Ride will honor the Van Buren’s achievements and promote the growth of the modern-day women’s motorcycle market, as well as the motorcycle community at large. Descendants of the Van Buren sisters will be on the entire ride.
Record numbers of women are now riding motorcycles, and with this event we have the opportunity to not only highlight the Van Buren sister’s accomplishments, but also entice non-riding women to join our ranks. Community events and meet-and-greets are planned across the country, including at the AMA Motorcycle Hall of Fame in Pickerington, Ohio, and at AMA Vintage Motorcycle Days at Mid-Ohio Sports Car Course in Lexington, Ohio.
Scheduled community events include:• Brooklyn, N.Y.: Ride Launch Party (July 3)• Springfi eld, Mass.: Launch Party (July 4-5)• Latrobe, Pa.: Lincoln Highway Experience
event (July 7)• Pickerington, Ohio, and Lexington, Ohio:
AMA Motorcycle Hall of Fame and AMA Vintage Days (July 8-9)
• Anamosa, Iowa: National Motorcycle Museum (July 11)
• McCook, Neb.: Community event (July 13) • Pikes Peak, Colo.: Pikes Peak event (July
15)• San Francisco, Calif.: Grand Finale Party
with emcee Erin Hunter Sills, the 2014 AMA Female Racer of the Year (July 23)
The ride will follow the Van Burens’ 1916 route as closely as possible. Register at
www.sistersmotorcycleride.com.
AMA Member Tested
WARM & SAFE HEATED JACKETInfo: www.warmnsafe.com/generation-4-womens-heated-liner/MSRP: $239.95
I’ve been riding for over 30 years, and I have lived in areas where riding with heated clothing was a requirement if you wanted to extend your riding
season. When I moved from Northern California to Arizona, I packed my heated gear in storage. That was almost six years ago, and I’ve only used it once when I was riding in Montana at altitude. Come this past December, some of our mornings in Arizona dipped down to 37 degrees, which gave me the opportunity to put Warm & Safe’s Generation 4 Women’s Heated Liner to the test.
Years ago, my fi rst heated gear was a vest, but my arms always got quite cold, and there was little to no adjustment on the amount of heat it delivered. In the early 2000s, I graduated to a FirstGear jacket designed by Warm & Safe.
This Generation 4 Jacket proved that it is a piece of equipment that has gone through testing and time in the saddle. It generates 90 watts of heat using something the company calls “Soft Heat Pure Science Heating Method.” It has refl ective piping to be seen better at night and refl ective material at the neck.
When you size this jacket, you will want it to be snug so that the anti-bacterial stretch panels will keep heat against your body as intended. It is a breathable shell with wind stop and moisture block.
It is intended to be used with the Warm & Safe “Heat-troller,” which is a controller designed to regulate the temperature delivered to the jacket. The Heat-troller was easy to use. I stuck it in the top of my tank bag so I could easily reach it with my left hand and adjust the temperature while riding.
There is polar fl eece inside the neck to keep your neck area comfortable and avoid chafi ng with the jacket fully zipped while riding. There are several zippered panels that hide
plugs for adding heated pants and heated gloves to the jacket if you feel like you need more warmth when riding in extreme cold. For me, these add a little bulk to the jacket, but if I were in Alaska or Canada, I wouldn’t complain about them and would probably use them regularly!
You will feel more heat generated in the front of the jacket. This is intentional because this jacket is made for riding. I adjusted my windscreen all the way down so I could get a cold burst of air on me while riding and turned the Heat-troller up a little when testing it. It’s also recommended that you wear a moisture-wicking layer underneath, so that if you do perspire, it will evaporate better.
The coolest thing about this jacket is its versatility. It can be used both on and off the bike. For off -the-bike power, you get a 7.4-volt, 7.8-amp battery and an adapter cable allows you to hook 12-volt motorcycle jacket products to the remote battery. I tested this while walking my dogs in the morning on another 38-degree day. The battery is a little bigger than an iPhone and won’t fi t in its own pocket easily, but it does come with a handy belt clip. The battery lasted a solid hour (specifi cations state it should last at least three hours). It will not, however, heat to 90 watts, as it would when the jacket is running off the 12-volt source of a motorcycle battery.
Warm & Safe off ers a wide variety of jackets, pants, gloves, glove liners and socks that are all heated. Their size ranges are well defi ned and also include tall off erings. As you can imagine, it is a product line up that covers motorcycling in cold, inclement weather very well and also stretches the value of your product purchase to uses beyond just motorcycling.
By Lisa Malachowsky
that it is a piece of equipment that has gone through testing and time in the saddle. It generates 90 watts of heat using something the company calls “Soft Heat Pure Science Heating Method.” It has refl ective piping to be seen better at night and refl ective
When you size this jacket, you will want it to be snug so that the anti-bacterial stretch panels will keep heat against your body as intended. It is a breathable shell with wind stop and
It is intended to be used with the Warm & Safe “Heat-troller,” which is a controller designed to regulate the temperature delivered to the jacket. The Heat-troller was easy to use. I stuck it in the top of my tank bag so I could easily reach it with my left hand and adjust the temperature while
There is polar fl eece inside the neck to keep your neck area comfortable and avoid chafi ng with the jacket fully zipped while riding. There are several zippered panels that hide
include tall off erings. As you can imagine, it is a product line up that covers motorcycling in cold, inclement weather very well and also stretches the value of your product purchase to uses beyond just motorcycling.
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the Case for
MOst Of us think that
1: i’M never gOnna Crash
2: PrOteCtiOn is wOrn
On the Outside, Like
Leather jaCkets and
suits. and that’s Ok.
But i want to tell you aBout
a diffeRent way of thinkinG. and foR many RideRs like me, it makes a lot moRe sense.
But fiRst heRe’s the PRoBlem.i dont Ride fast, am caReful and
usually consideRate. But its the
otheRs - tRaffic, tRucks, doGs
and deeR, GRavel and diesel sPills. fact is i’m moRe neRvous than i was.
But i Really like RidinG in jeans
and my favoRite jacket and don’twant to Get all suited uP every time
i Ride. sPecially in the summeR when
most of us Ride.
so when i heaRd aBout this Bohn
GeaR - it’s like aRmoRed lonG
john’s, it Got me thinkinG.
i usually weaR a Base layeR any
way, comfoRtaBle undeR my jeans,and feels Good on toP. so this
Bohn BodyGuaRd system is like
that But with slim Pads set into
Pockets all aRound.
Basically wheRe you’d land if you
wRecked. once i have them on you
can BaRely see oR feel it’s theRe,and my noRmal jeans fit RiGht oveR.
so they’Re comfoRtaBle to weaR all
day on the Bike, and aRe cool which
is imPoRtant. theRe’s lots of imPRes-sive cRash RePoRts on the site, But
i haven’t Been down myself. thankfully.it woRks foR me, i feel secuRe.
you should check it out online, and
i’d say Give ‘em a tRy, as you Get
90 days to actually use them with-out hassle. i Got the Pants fiRst,But theRe’s a Good deal foR
the Pants/shiRt comBo. made in the usofa too.
CheCk Them here:www.GETRidEPanTs.com
GOOD VIDeoONLIne
COOL
Phone 530 898 9269
www.GetRidePants.com
Ask the MSF
ACCOMMODATING PASSENGERSQ: What is the best guidance for a fi rst-time motorcycle passenger?A: Riding two-up can be a great way to share the joys of motorcycling. But two-up riding can be challenging, and it requires cooperation between the rider and the passenger. A passenger who does not understand how to move with a motorcycle can impair handling and even contribute to a crash.
Fully gear up before mounting the motorcycle. The rider mounts fi rst, and the bike should be supported by the rider’s legs (not the side stand or center stand).
The passenger should not put weight on the left footrest and expect the rider to keep the bike from tipping. Instead, the passenger should throw a leg over the saddle and promptly center the passenger’s weight over the bike.
Once on the bike, the passenger’s feet should be kept on the footrests at all times, including at stops. The passenger should hold on to the rider’s waist or the bike’s seat strap or handholds, and anticipate the need to brace occasionally for acceleration and braking.
When going through turns, looking over the rider’s inside shoulder in the direction of the turn will help the passenger naturally lean with the bike. Passengers should not lean away from the turn, as this will make cornering more challenging for the rider.
Riders need to master basic skills before considering taking on a passenger. Speeds and lean angles should be kept modest, and riders should maintain plenty of safety margin to avoid having to brake hard or swerve.
If it’s an enjoyable experience, the passenger will keep coming back for more!
and braking.When going through turns, looking
over the rider’s inside shoulder in the direction of the turn will help the passenger naturally lean with the bike. Passengers should not lean away from the turn, as this will make cornering more challenging for the rider.
Riders need to master basic skills before considering taking on a passenger. Speeds and lean angles should be kept modest, and riders should maintain plenty of safety margin to avoid having to brake hard or swerve.
If it’s an enjoyable experience, the passenger will keep coming back for more!
DIRTSTREET 19March 2016 1918AM_03_2016_sec05s_StreetContent.indd 19 2/2/16 9:30 AM
SPEND $40 AND GET A FREE T-SHIRT!Valid February 15 - March 31, 2016
A brand new way to purchase AMA apparel and merchandise featuring expanded product lines.
The Official Online Store of the American Motorcyclist Association
Code: 4318 for Men’s Cut
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Buy the AppStay connected to the most thrilling indoor motorsport on Earth.
Search in iTunes or on Google Play for “AMA Pro SX” or visit AmericanMotorcyclist.com for details.
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MEDJET AIR TRANSPORTConsider Air Medical Transport Protection For Peace Of Mind
Traveling includes a number of risks and costs that many never consider. Take, for example, the enormous costs of air medical transport, something that may or may not be covered by your personal health insurance policy.
AMA member benefit partner Medjet’s air medical transport membership program and its supplemental motorcycle transfer protection can protect AMA members during personal and business travel. The service can cover your transport from one hospital to the one of your choice.
Medjet membership can help you avoid monumental out-of-pocket costs, and
there are no adventure travel exclusions with a Medjet membership, nor are there any health questions for those under age 75, no deductibles, co-payments or claim forms.
The cost for AMA members under age 75 is $225, $45 off the normal rate, with family memberships available. Motorcycle protection is available for an additional $35 per membership, per bike.
For more information about the benefit and Medjet’s services, visit www.medjetama.com or call (800) 527-7478. Mention that you are an AMA member and provide your AMA number to receive the special discounted rates.
SPECIAL BOARD ELECTION PLANNEDAMA Board Updates Term Limits
At its October 2015 meeting, the AMA Board of Directors modified board term limit rules and made it easier for members to apply to run for a seat on the board.
Individual member representatives now may run for a third consecutive term if approved by a two-thirds majority vote of the board. Also, potential candidates no longer have to submit 50 signatures of current AMA members from their region with their candidate application.
In addition, it was decided that a special election will be held for the individual member representative from the North Central Region.
AMA Board Member Jim Viverito’s final term on the board expired in February 2016, but no qualified candidates applied to run for his seat in the regularly scheduled election.
Viverito was approved by the board to run for a third term under the new rules and will serve at least until the election. Candidates must meet requirements in the AMA Code of Regulations.
Members interested in running for the open seat can request an application at elections@ama-cycle.org or by calling (614) 856-1900. The deadline for candidate applications is March 31.
AMA STAFF CHANGESGovernment Relations, Marketing Get New Hires
Members who are politically active in their communities will have a new AMA staffer to call on for support. Michael Sayre has joined the AMA government relations office in Washington, D.C., as grassroots coordinator.
Sayre comes to the AMA from the University of Michigan, where he was program assistant for the Inter-university Consortium for Political and Social Research Summer Program in Quantitative Methods.
Sayre has been riding motorcycles for six years and has been an AMA member for four. His current bike is a 2012 Yamaha FZ8.
“As grassroots coordinator, I hope to empower AMA members to defend the right to ride,” Sayre says. “In particular, I hope to join the fight against E-15 fuels, as well as support lane splitting proposals at the state level.”
Communications And MarketingHannah Saunders is the new AMA
marketing coordinator. She graduated from The Ohio State University in 2015 with a bachelor’s degree in strategic communications.
Saunders previously interned with the Ohio offices of the American Red Cross, Fairfield Medical Center and the Office of Energy and Environment at Ohio State.
As a child, she spent most weekends at motocross and AMA Supercross events, watching family members race.
“My younger brother, uncle and cousins all race, so it is a family sport that is close to my heart,” she says. “I am excited to work with AMA and learn more about the motorcycling community.”
In addition, James Holter was promoted to vice president of communications and marketing. He is responsible for the communications, marketing, sales and creative departments.
Previously, Holter was AMA director of communications and managing editor of American Motorcyclist. Holter joined the AMA staff in 2005. He is a 19-year member of the AMA.
Jim Witters replaces Holter as the managing editor for American Motorcyclist. Witters joined the AMA staff in January 2014 as the government affairs editor. He has been an AMA member for eight years and is a lifelong motorcyclist.
DIRTSTREET 2120 AmericanMotorcyclist.com
2120 March 2016AM_03_2016_sec05s_StreetContent.indd 20 2/2/16 9:30 AM
SPEND $40 AND GET A FREE T-SHIRT!Valid February 15 - March 31, 2016
A brand new way to purchase AMA apparel and merchandise featuring expanded product lines.
The Official Online Store of the American Motorcyclist Association
Code: 4318 for Men’s Cut
Code: 4319 for Ladies Cut
NOW OPEN!
DIRTSTREET 21March 2016 2120AM_03_2016_sec05s_StreetContent.indd 21 2/2/16 9:30 AM
FROM END TO ENDSometimes, A Road’s True Beauty Is Hidden In Its Entirety By Douglas Weir
As a serious rider of U.S. roads, I have thought for decades about riding a two-lane U.S. highway from end to end. Although I have ridden long stretches of U.S. highways such as U.S. 20 and U.S. 50, I had never done an end-to-end ride, until now.
Decision TimeThe accompanying sidebar, “End-
To-End Options” (page 24) lists a large number of end-to-end rides that you can do. In general, whenever most riders discuss these rides, they immediately think of east-to-west or west-to-east options.
A popular one, obviously, is U.S. Route 66. However, most of Route 66 is a boring motorcycle road. Except for a short distance west of Seligman, Ariz., it is fl at and dead straight. So, unless you are a big fan of art-deco neon signs and funky motels or a history buff seeking out the notable portions designated as National Scenic Byways, Route 66 would not be my fi rst choice. Documentation of this particular route is great, however.
So, which U.S. route to choose?Where you live is obviously a big factor.
If you have to commute hundreds of miles just to get to the start of a particular highway, you might look at a diff erent option. Because we are riders, topography can play a large part in our selection, and also scenery. Perhaps historic signifi cance might be a factor? The Lincoln Highway (mostly U.S. Routes 30 and 40) comes to mind. It was the fi rst transcontinental route.
My fi rst choice was the north-to-south U.S. Route 89, the so-called “National Park Highway.” It goes through or near Glacier, Yellowstone, Bryce, Zion and Grand Canyon National Parks.
It also has some pretty memorable topography, and is fairly close to where I live.
ResearchIt is amazing what information you
can get about each highway from the Internet (or books). Just key in the highway number you are considering. There is info from trade associations, Wikipedia pages, state guides, etc. For U.S. 89, there are many pages of search hits, including several books.
Practical ConsiderationsThere are many practical
considerations, given the time and distance involved in an end-to-end tour. The ideal setup would be to travel two highways on one very long ride, having similar starting and ending points. For example, U.S. 40 and 50 both end (or did end) near San Francisco. They both start fairly close to each other in Atlantic City, N.J., and Ocean City, Md., respectively. For a one-way ride you could buy a bike at one end, and ride it home.
Another plan might be to ride one way and have your bike shipped home. You also can have a bike shipped from almost anywhere to your home for less than $1,000. (Federal Companies off ers an AMA member discount.) You could then fl y home, or for even more fun, take Amtrak. (Unfortunately, Amtrak does not take motorcycles, but they do take bicycles.)
Another plan would be to split the ride in half, perhaps over two years? For example, you could start in central Utah on U.S. Route 191/666 and head north in July or August and return on U.S. 89 back to your start. The next year, you could start at the same spot heading south in
May/June or September/October.Another practical consideration would be
that many U.S. highways start in or pass through
the centers of major cities. It might be extremely annoying or downright dangerous to do that, so a modern beltway around major cities might make more sense.
Weather can be another reason to split the ride, especially when riding north/south. It can be risky to head north on U.S. Routes 89 or 191 before July. Glacier National Park is rarely fully open before mid-July. On the other hand, Nogales in July/August, with its 100-plus daytime temperatures, might be life-threatening. Do your research and use your best judgment.
My End To EndI was thinking it was about time to
replace my long-in-the-tooth Suzuki V-Strom. So, I went to CycleTrader.com to consider potential models. It was then that I had a eureka moment. Here was my chance to update my motorcycle on an end-to-end tour without having to backtrack or fi nd another route home.
Despite the June weather considerations, I started to look in the Phoenix area. However, I didn’t fi nd what I was looking for there. So, I expanded my search. One bike to replace the V-Strom that came up over and over was Yamaha’s Super Ténéré. I then checked some of my recent motorcycle mags. Most of my riding buddies are on BMW GSs but the Ténéré appeared to be a perfect fi t for me. I found one, just outside of Chicago, that was set up for long distance touring. And the price was right.
East Entrance to Yellowstone
Douglas Weir and his Yamaha Super Ténéré
Ryan
Lin
dber
g
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I checked my end-to-end table and found U.S. Route 14. It starts in Chicago and ends at the east entrance of Yellowstone National Park. I then did further research. Although most of the eastern end is fl at and straight, it passes by the Black Hills of South Dakota and crosses the Big Horn Mountains in Wyoming. And I always enjoy visiting Yellowstone, our fi rst national park.
Perfect! So, I sent a deposit to BBK Motorsports in Elgin, Ill., and got a mid-June airline ticket to Chicago’s Midway Airport. The nice BBK folks picked me up at Midway.
Because I live in the boonies of northern Idaho, I had forgotten how bad city traffi c can be. It took two hours to travel the few miles to Elgin from Midway. This convinced me that although U.S. 14 technically begins on Lake Shore Drive in downtown Chicago, there was no way I was going to ride there that afternoon in the 95-degree heat. (If you want to read about that part of the 25 miles or so that I missed, Wikipedia has an excellent article that says that U.S. 14 used to start on Route 66.)
I am not going to give you a blow-by-blow diary of my ride. Southern Wisconsin has some nice rolling hills and farms. I crossed the Mississippi River at La Crosse, Wis. Minnesota also has pleasant farm country. I took the beltways around Madison, Wis., and Rochester, Minn. South Dakota is fl atter still, but the recent heavy rains made everything very green. I crossed the Missouri River at Pierre, S.D.
The long section of U.S. 14 between Pierre and Wall, S.D., has no services, so I made sure I gassed up in Pierre. Speaking of services, there are very few motels still left on two-lane U.S. highways. I stayed in motels that were near interstate highway crossings.
Wall is the entrance to the Badlands National Park. The colorful rock formations are certainly worth the diversion.
When you get to Rapid City, S.D., the fun begins. The Black Hills have some great riding! Iron Mountain Road (16A), the Needles Highway (SD 87) and Spearfi sh Canyon (14A) are narrow, twisty roads. Some are just like the slot car roads of the Alps, but get out early before the cars and motor homes spoil the ride. Just off U.S. 14, near Sundance, Wyo., is Devil’s Tower, which is always worth a visit.
Just past Sheridan, Wyo., U.S. 14 climbs into the Big Horn Mountains. This part of Route 14 isn’t usually on most lists of the
10 best motorcycle roads in the U.S., but it should be. The combination of elevation gain and great roadway engineering make it worthy of riding it twice. When you get to the junction near the highest point in the Big Horn Mountains, you have a choice between 14 and 14A. Although both choices are great riding, the pavement quality on the western descent of 14A is poor. U.S. 14 also passes by the nice Shell Creek Falls.
Then comes Cody, Wyo., with its Western kitsch, and fi nally the eastern entrance to Yellowstone National Park.
The biggest disappointment? There was no sign that said: “END U.S. 14.”
Was U.S. 14 a good choice, and was the Super Ténéré a good long distance ride? Yes and yes. I logged 1,466 miles vs. the table’s value of 1,500.
Are You Up To The Challenge?So, you have heard my story. Are you
up to the challenge of an end-to-end tour?
Wall Drug, SD.
My entrance to U.S. 14 from Illinois State Route 31 at Crystal Lake
Roadside bar on U.S. 14 near Spring Green, Wis.
Anthonys_logo_add.indd 1 7/17/15 3:10 PM
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• Yamaha Super Ténére One lucky AMA member will win a new bike!
• 4 – TomTom Rider 400 GPS Units (1 per quarter)
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• 12 – Guardian Weatherall Plus motorcycle covers
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Quarterly Drawings!
U.S. Minimum Route From To Distance 1 Fort Kent, Maine Key West, Fla. 2200 2 Houlton, Maine Everett, Wash. 3400 6 Provincetown, Mass. Long Beach, Calif. 3200 10 Detroit, Mich. Seattle, Wash. 2400 11 Champlain, N.Y. New Orleans, La. 1700 12 Detroit, Mich. Aberdeen, Wash. 2500 14 Chicago, Ill. Yellowstone, Wyo. 1500 15 Rochester, N.Y. Walterboro, S.C. 1000 16 Detroit, Mich. Yellowstone, Wyo. 1800 17 Winchester, Va. Punta Gorda, Fla. 1100 18 Milwaukee, Wis. Douglas, Wyo. 1200 19 Erie, Pa. St. Petersburg, Fla. 1300 20 Boston, Mass. Newport, Ore. 3300 21 Cleveland, Ohio Beaufort, S.C. 800 23 Mackinaw, Mich. Kingsport, Tenn. 900 24 Pontiac, Mich. Grand Junction, Colo. 1600 25 Cincinnati, Ohio Brunswick, Ga. 800 26 Ogallala, Neb. Astoria, Ore. 1500 27 Mackinaw, Mich. Miami, Fla. 1700 29 Baltimore, Md. Pensacola, Fla. 1100 30 Atlantic City, N.J. Astoria, Ore. 3100 31 Mackinaw, Mich. Mobile, Ala. 1300
U.S. Minimum Route From To Distance 33 Richmond, Va. Benton Harbor, Mich. 800 34 Chicago, Ill. Granby, Colo. 1100 36 Uhrichsville, Ohio Estes Park, Colo. 1500 40 Atlantic City, N.J. San Francisco, Calif. 3100 41 Copper Harbor, Mich. Miami, Fla. 1900 45 Ontonagon, Mich. Mobile, Ala. 1400 50 Ocean City, Md. Oakland, Calif. 3100 51 Hurley, Wis. La Place, La. 1400 52 Charleston, S.C. Portal, N.D. 2000 54 Pittsfi eld, Ill. El Paso, Texas 1500 56 Kansas City, Kan. Springer, N.M. 900 59 Lancaster, Minn. Laredo, Texas 1800 60 Virginia Beach, Va. Los Angeles, Calif. 2900 61 Grand Portage, Mich. New Orleans, La. 1600 62 Niagara Falls, N.Y. El Paso, Texas 2100 63 Ashland, Wis. Memphis, Tenn. 1000 64 Nags Head, N.C. Farmington, N.M. 2300 65 Minneapolis, Minn. New Orleans, La. 1400 66 Chicago, Ill. Los Angeles, Calif. 2100 67 Dubuque, Iowa Presidio, Texas 1600 69 Albert Lea, Minn. Port Arthur, Texas 1200 70 Atlantic, N.C. Los Angeles, Calif. 2900 71 International Falls, Minn. Baton Rouge, La. 1800 75 St. Vincent, Minn. Galveston, Texas 1700 77 Milbank, S.D. Brownsville, Texas 1700 80 Tybee, Ga. San Diego, Calif. 2600 81 Pembina, N.D. Laredo, Texas 1800 82 Savannah, Ga. Alamogordo, N.M. 1900 83 Westhope, N.D. Brownsville, Texas 2100 84 Brunswick, Ga. Pagosa Springs, Colo. 2000 85 Fortuna, N.D. El Paso, Texas 1700 87 Havre, Mont. Port Lavaca, Texas 2100 89 Glacier, Mont. Nogales, Ariz. 1700 90 Jacksonville, Fla. Van Horn, Texas 1700 91 Sweetgrass, Mont. Barstow, Calif. 1400 93 Eureka, Mont. Wickenburg, Ariz. 1500 95 Eastport, Idaho San Luis, Ariz. 1700 97 Oroville, Wash. Weed, Calif. 900 99 Blaine, Wash. Los Angeles, Calif. 1400 101 Olympia, Wash. Los Angeles, Calif. 1200 183 Presho, S.D. Refugio, Texas 1100 *191 Malta, Mont. Douglas, Ariz. 1700 **200 Duluth, Minn. Sandpoint, Idaho 1600 212 Minneapolis, Minn. Yellowstone, Wyo. 1100 231 Schererville, Ind. Panama City, Fla. 1000 281 Rock Lake, N.D. McAllen, Texas 1900 285 Denver, Colo. Sanderson, Texas 900 287 Chouteau, Mont. Port Arthur, Texas 2200 301 Wilmington, Del. Bradenton, Fla. 1200 385 Lead, S.D. Fort Stockton, Texas 1200 395 Laurier, Wash. San Bernardino, Calif. 1600
*U.S. 666 (The Devil’s Highway) has been re-numbered to U.S. 191. **Route 200 is several state highways strung together.
END-TO-END OPTIONSThis table of U.S. highways can help you decide what route
to take for an end-to-end tour. Note that not all highways are included. Some U.S. highways are too short to make a worthy trip. For example, U.S. Route 4 goes between Portsmouth, N.H., and East Greenbush, N.Y.—a distance of only 250 miles. A nice day ride, perhaps, but not worthy of an end-to-end tour.
Many of the old U.S. highways have been vaporized by the Interstate Highway system. For example, the original, continuous U.S. 99 and U.S. 66 designations are no longer used. So, I was fortunate in that my aunt had given me a road atlas from 1940. The only super highway in existence then was about half of the Pennsylvania Turnpike, now I-70. Because highways are always changing route names, I obtained most of the “From” and “To” columns from the 1940 version. In a few cases the current highways go farther now than they did then. In all cases, I tried to include the longest route possible. An example is U.S. 89 heading south. Today, it ends at Flagstaff , Ariz. It used to follow the road that stretches all the way to Nogales, Ariz., on the border with Mexico.
The fi nal column in the table is what I call “Minimum Distance.” Because this is based mainly on current interstate travel, the mileage is probably somewhat low and doesn’t include side trips or deviations. For example, actual U.S. Route 6 mileage is almost 3,700 miles vs. the minimum distance listed here, which is 3,200.
There are several quirks in the table. Route 200 is not a U.S. highway. It is several state highways strung together. Also, U.S. 666 (The Devil’s Highway) has been re-numbered to U.S. 191.
DIRTSTREET 2524 AmericanMotorcyclist.com
2524 March 2016AM_03_2016_sec05s_StreetContent.indd 24 2/2/16 9:31 AM
• Yamaha Super Ténére One lucky AMA member will win a new bike!
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• 1 – Cardo Systems/Scala Rider Packtalk Duo
• 1 – Shark Kage Ramp
• 12 – Guardian Weatherall Plus motorcycle covers
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2000 YZ250Je� Emig’s Last Winning Bike
The track for the 1999 U.S. Open of Supercross had two defi ning qualities: a brutal whoop section and an extremely short start. AMA Motorcycle Hall of Famer Jeff Emig and his team focused on setting up Emig’s 2000 Yamaha YZ250 so it could attack those obstacles with perfection.
Enzo Racing worked on the chassis and suspension setup for the event, held in Las Vegas’ MGM Grand Garden Arena, and Emig was able to dial in the bike with just a few compression and rebound adjustments the night of the race.
For the power, Emig’s team, Strategic 3 Motosports, enlisted FMF Racing and Terry
Varner to build the engines. The design worked, and Emig was able to dominate both nights of competition.
Essentially competing as a privateer that year, Emig’s 1999 U.S. Open of Supercross win was not only a classic example of an under-funded rider beating the world’s best factory teams, it was also Emig’s fi nal win as a professional racer.
The U.S. Open triumph capped a successful AMA Motocross and Supercross career for Emig. In all, Emig won four AMA national championships, an FIM World Supercross title and was a six-time member of the U.S. Motocross des Nations team.
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The AMA Motorcycle Hall of Fame in Pickerington, Ohio, features the people and machines that have defi ned the sport, lifestyle and business of motorcycling in America. The Hall of Fame is a 501(c)3 non-profi t corporation that receives support from the AMA and from the motorcycling community.
For info and directions, visit www.motorcyclemuseum.org, or call (614) 856-2222.
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During his 11-year professional career, Emig earned 37 AMA national wins. When he retired, he was fourth on the all-time AMA 250 National Motocross wins list, sixth on the all-time AMA 125 motocross list and tied for seventh on the combined AMA Motocross/Supercross wins list. He also was the 1997 AMA Pro Athlete of the Year.
Following the 1999 win, Emig was poised to make a return to pro competition, but practice injuries slowed his comeback and he decided to retire. He
continued to be active as a team owner and later became an ambassador for motocross by making appearances at amateur racing events across the country. Today, he’s a well-known commentator on AMA Supercross broadcasts.
Emig’s YZ250 is on loan from Yamaha Motor Corp. USA. To see it and many other motorcycles that helped shape the history of motorcycling in America, visit the AMA Motorcycle Hall of Fame in Pickerington, Ohio.
DIRTMAIN
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2726 March 2016AM_03_2016_sec06m_HallOfFame.indd 27 2/2/16 9:28 AM
Enter for your Chance to Win!
®
2016 Raffle Bike
A minimum donation of $5 per ticket, or $20 for five tickets, is suggested. www.MotorcycleMuseum.org or call (800) 262-5646
www.motorcyclemuseum.org/myhalloffame or call 1-800-342-5464 for assistance
$180donation
8”
8”
$20donation
3”
3”
$80donation
6”
6”
Put yourself in the AMA Motorcycle Hall of Fame Museum
The AMA Motorcycle Hall of Fame is YOUR hall of fame—we couldn’t exist without the generous support of our donors. Now there’s a new way for you to show that support in a very visible way: My Hall of Fame. The idea is simple: A $20 charitable donation gets you a 3-inch-square space on the wall in the Hall of Fame entrance foyer that hangs during the campaign year. Want a bigger space? A 6-inch square is an $80 donation, and an 8-inch square is a $180 donation. You also get an offi cial certifi cate noting that your picture is on display in the AMA Motorcycle Hall of Fame.
Hang your picture, your kid’s picture, your company logo, almost anything. It’s up to you! Get in the AMA Motorcycle Hall of Fame today!
0214 My Hall of Fame ad half page.indd 1 12/10/13 1:45 PM
AMA Motorcycle Hall Of Famer
DAVID BAILEY: 1990s MOTOCROSS ICONDavid Bailey was a leading AMA
Motocross and Supercross racer in the 1980s. He won the AMA 250cc National Motocross Championship and AMA Supercross Championship in
1983 and went on to win the AMA 500cc National Motocross Championship in 1984 and 1986.
Bailey tallied 30 AMA national race victories during his eight-year professional career, which was cut short in
his prime after a practice crash left him paralyzed just before the start of the 1987 season. After his injury, Bailey reemerged in the early 1990s as an expert motocross television commentator.
Bailey was born on Dec. 31, 1961, in San Diego. When he was 10, he started traveling the country with his stepfather, Gary Bailey, a motocross star of the 1960s who ran a traveling racing school. David started racing mini-bikes about that time.
At fi rst, David Bailey’s results were not noteworthy, but eventually his practice paid off . By the time he was in his late
teens, he started winning on the amateur level.
Bailey turned pro in 1979, riding Bultacos. His best fi nish in his rookie season was a 14th overall in the 250cc outdoor national at Mount Morris, Pennsylvania.
In 1980, Bailey became one of the fi rst Team Green Kawasaki support riders. His results improved rapidly. He cracked the top 10 at a couple 250 nationals and one Supercross.
After fi nishing seventh in the fi nal standings of the AMA 250 Motocross Championship in 1981, Bailey earned a factory ride with Honda for the 1982 season and began to turn in some consistently strong performances. He earned fi ve podium fi nishes in the 250 outdoor series and one in Supercross.
The 1983 season was a turning point for Bailey. His off -season training paid off and he opened the year with his fi rst AMA national victory in the Anaheim Supercross. Bailey went on to win the AMA Supercross title. He then won the 1983 AMA 250 National Motocross title as well, after tallying three national victories.
Bailey fi nished runner-up to Jeff Ward by a single point in the
AMA Supercross series in 1984. Honda wanted to spread its talent around in motocross and moved Bailey to the 500cc series, where he dominated, winning eight straight races in the 10-race season.
The 1986 season was a busy one for Bailey. He competed in three series: Supercross, and 250cc and 500cc motocross. He won the 500cc title over Honda teammate Ricky Johnson, but was runner-up to Johnson in both the 250 Motocross and Supercross championships.
Following his injury, Bailey remained athletically competitive. He later became a leading chair marathon triathlete.
David Bailey was inducted into the AMA Motorcycle Hall of Fame in 2004.
DIRTMAIN 2928 March 2016AM_03_2016_sec06m_HallOfFame.indd 28 2/2/16 9:28 AM
Enter for your Chance to Win!
®
2016 Raffle Bike
A minimum donation of $5 per ticket, or $20 for five tickets, is suggested. www.MotorcycleMuseum.org or call (800) 262-5646
www.motorcyclemuseum.org/myhalloffame or call 1-800-342-5464 for assistance
$180donation
8”
8”
$20donation
3”
3”
$80donation
6”
6”
Put yourself in the AMA Motorcycle Hall of Fame Museum
The AMA Motorcycle Hall of Fame is YOUR hall of fame—we couldn’t exist without the generous support of our donors. Now there’s a new way for you to show that support in a very visible way: My Hall of Fame. The idea is simple: A $20 charitable donation gets you a 3-inch-square space on the wall in the Hall of Fame entrance foyer that hangs during the campaign year. Want a bigger space? A 6-inch square is an $80 donation, and an 8-inch square is a $180 donation. You also get an offi cial certifi cate noting that your picture is on display in the AMA Motorcycle Hall of Fame.
Hang your picture, your kid’s picture, your company logo, almost anything. It’s up to you! Get in the AMA Motorcycle Hall of Fame today!
0214 My Hall of Fame ad half page.indd 1 12/10/13 1:45 PM
DIRTMAIN 2928 March 2016AM_03_2016_sec06m_HallOfFame.indd 29 2/2/16 9:28 AM
INTERNATIONAL INFLUENCEMANY MEASURES,
ONE GOAL? SOME SAY EFFORT TO
REDUCE MOTORCYCLE USE IS AFOOT.
By Jim Witters
andatory helmet laws, graduated licensing, anti-tampering regulations and even bans on older bikes are among the dozens of
restrictions motorcyclists in other nations deal with daily, and their governments are trying to tighten the rules even further.
European and Asian nations enacted mandatory helmet laws in the 1970s, and motorcyclists in those countries accepted the laws as a way to make riding safer. But they didn’t suspect then that those laws were individual governments’ and international organizations’ first steps toward marginalizing motorcycles under the guise of “safety.”
In the intervening years, the United Nations, the European Union, international philanthropies and public/private partnerships have developed agendas that include standardizing motorcycle equipment and motorcyclists’ behavior worldwide.
U.S. agencies, such as the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration and the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, are part of these efforts and have been pushing for new laws and regulations that directly affect American motorcyclists’ right to ride and their right to decide the amount of risk they are willing to accept.
In 1976, the U.S. Department of Transportation stopped assessing financial penalties on states that did not have universal helmet laws, and many states repealed or modified their requirements, allowing riders to make this personal decision on their own. The federal penalty was reenacted in 1991, but was elilminated in 1995.
But the agencies did not stop efforts to convince states to return to universal mandatory motorcycle helmet laws.
“These rules, regulations and requirements are being put in place under
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AUSTRALIASome areas of Australia allow motorcycle and scooter parking on sidewalks, as long as pedestrian traffic is not impeded.
TAIWANTaiwan and other Asian nations are considering separate lanes for motorcycles to ease the extreme congestion and reduce the number of car-motorcycle crashes.
SWEDEN Motorcyclists, such as these assembled during a Swedish rally, are facing increased restrictions, including a plan to reduce speed limits for powered two-wheelers.
TAIWAN
the guise of increased safety,” says Wayne Allard, AMA vice president of government relations. “But the underlying concept is actually the reduction of risk, no matter what level Americans are willing to accept. And now the ultimate goal appears to be the reduction of motorcycle use, period.
“If we allow governments to determine the amount of risk that is acceptable and to force us into ‘safer’ and ‘safer’ options, how long will it be before motorcycles are banned altogether as the ‘less safe’ alternative to cars?” Allard asks.
Reports from the World Health Organization and the Organisation for Economic Co-operation and Development’s International Transport Forum call for all nations to adopt similar motorcycling provisions, with no regard for the wishes of stakeholders.
Public/private partnerships, such as the Global Road Safety Partnership, and private groups, such as the Bloomberg
Philanthropies, have entered the discussion, also recommending uniform regulations, especially in developing countries.
U.S. agencies then cite these trends and reports to justify their attempts to enact stricter regulations on American motorcyclists.
INTERNATIONAL RECOMMENDATIONSIt could happen here.The United Nations’ World Forum for
Harmonization of Vehicle Regulations and, specifically, United Nations Working Party 29’s proposals for Europe and Asia could be adopted throughout the United States.
The 1958 agreement, signed by the United States, calls for reciprocal approval of vehicle systems, parts and equipment.
Among the items under consideration for worldwide standardization: mandatory anti-lock braking systems, stricter exhaust emissions standards, sound emissions
restrictions, turn signal visibility standards and the location and identification of operating controls.
“While standardizing the location of turn-signal indicators or the symbol for a high-beam headlight may seem insignificant or even desirable to riders, in the longer term, agreements such as these could mean much more important decisions will be taken out of the hands of U.S. voters and motorcyclists,” Allard says.
The 2015 WHO report targets three key “risk factors” for stronger laws and increased enforcement that affect motorcyclists:
• Use of motorcycle helmets: mandatory helmet use by all riders, with a helmet-quality standard;
• Speed: a national urban maximum speed limit of about 30 mph;
• Drunk driving: driving laws with a blood alcohol content of less than or equal to 0.05 percent, as well as
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lower limits of less than or equal to 0.02 percent for young and novice drivers. The U.S. standard in most jurisdictions is 0.08 percent BAC.
The OECD’s research report, titled Improving Safety for Motorcycle, Scooter and Moped Riders, also calls for compulsory helmet use.
In Australia, the government adopted laws that forbid certain types of visors and bans mounting a camera on motorcycle helmets, reports Mark Hinchliffe, publisher of MotorbikeWriter.com.
Paris banned cars and motorcycles registered before 2000 from major areas of the city during certain hours as a way to curb pollution. And other French cities are considering even harsher bans.
The Fédération Française des Motards en Colère (French Federation of Angry Bikers) protested the move, flooding the streets with thousands of riders using the slogan that “The PTW (powered two-wheeler) is a solution, not pollution.”
In Sweden, the government’s current focus is on reducing the speed of motorcyclists. And the European Union has made obtaining a motorcycle license complicated and prohibitively expensive, according to some critics.
SWEDISH BATTLESMaria Nordqvist, who handles consumer
issues, traffic management and other issues for the Sveriges MotorCyklister (SMC, the Swedish Motorcyclist organization), says her group is one of the stakeholders working on the third version of Sweden’s motorcycle safety strategy. Work began in January 2015.
A 2015 effort collected 30,000 signatures and convinced Trafikverket, the Swedish Transport Administration, to discard its 30-point plan to reduce motorcyclists’ speed. However, the speed theme continues to dominate discussions.
“The one and only thing that is pushed forward from the Swedish Transport Administration is speed,” Nordqvist says. “Most of the things that we bring to the table are rejected. The other stakeholders state that we need something that is as efficient in reducing accidents as ABS. Having a valid A license [the highest motorcyclist classification in Europe], riding sober, safer barriers, safer roads, conspicuity are examples that are not seen as something that can reduce motorcycle fatalities—only better (i.e. lower, ed.) speed adaptation from riders is seen as a measure to reduce fatalities.”
Nordqvist says European regulations have not reduced traffic crashes.
“It is a combination of things: Safer
bikes, safer roads, older riders, improved education,” she says.
Motorcycle licensing also has a big impact on crashes and fatalities, she says.
SMC is translating and publishing a study that compares licensed and unlicensed riders who are injured or killed in traffic crashes.
“This is a huge problem in Sweden,” she says. “Thirty percent of all those killed on a motorcycle neither have a valid license nor own a bike. They aren’t motorcyclists, but their deaths affect us in terms of new restrictions and laws.”
At the same time, European drivers’ license requirements in effect since 2013 have resulted in a 50 percent drop in the number of new licensed riders in some countries.
“The scheme means that you must take a test three times to get A1, A2 and then A license at 16-18, 18-20 and 20-22 years of age, depending on the national laws,” Nordqvist says. “If you don’t have a license for bikes and want to ride a Harley or sportbike, you have to wait until 24 years to get a license.
“The costs are extreme,” she continues. “Administration costs and compulsory tests in Sweden would cost $800!”
EUROPEAN FOCUSDolf Willigers, general secretary of the
Federation of European Motorcyclists' Associations, says the impetus behind Europe’s proposals is the focus on vulnerable road users, including motorcyclists.
“For the European Commission, road safety is an important policy item,” he says. “The goal is to have a reduction of casualties of 50 percent by 2020,” starting with 2009.
While the numbers for car drivers are on schedule to meet that goal, the numbers for vulnerable road users are not.
“For motorcyclists this means, for example, a focus on personal protection equipment, including helmets,” Willigers says. “In every E.U. country, wearing an approved (UNECE) helmet is mandatory and in most E.U. countries up to 100 percent of the riders do wear a helmet.
“Other items the E.C. focuses on are improving awareness of PTW riders by other road users, encouraging research and technical developments aimed at increasing PTW safety and safer infrastructure—for example, safer guardrails,” he explains.
“Finally, better enforcement. But that is a national matter and not an E.U. thing, although they initiated cross-border enforcement for road-safety-related matters like drunk driving, speeding.”
The technical developments include intelligent transportation systems, road
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worthiness testing, advanced braking systems and anti-tampering measures. And the focus on personal protective equipment involves new standards for the equipment, not mandatory equipment use, Willigers says.
“The European motorcyclists have asked the EC to focus more on good and affordable initial training for riders,” Willigers says, “because we see that as the best thing to increase road safety for motorcyclists.”
AMA ACTIONSAllard says American motorcyclists
would be wise to pay close attention to the European developments, in particular, because U.S. agencies are following Europe’s lead, instead of taking the lead in response to American voters.
Déjà vu? The AMA and other motorcyclist rights groups overcame an effort led by the insurance industry to ban sportbikes in the United States in the 1980s. Cities, such as Myrtle Beach, S.C., have tried to limit the number of motorcyclists on the streets by enacting tough laws with stiff penalties.
In 2013, the AMA discovered a draft PowerPoint presentation from a CDC committee that included “potential for reduced motorcycle use” in its analytic framework for reducing crashes, injuries
and fatalities.The AMA scored a major victory in
2015 with the passing of the Fixing America’s Surface Transportation Act, which prohibits federal funding of motorcycle-only checkpoints and reestablishes the Motorcyclist Advisory Council for the U.S. Department of Transportation.
But federal agencies and state legislatures—often urged by insurance-industry lobbyists—continue their pursuit of mandatory helmet laws for all riders, mandatory anti-lock braking systems on all motorcycles–including dual-sport and dirt bikes–and other legislation and regulations that restrict rider’s rights and choices.
“Only the vigilance, dedication, hard work and political savvy of motorcyclists who have joined together with the AMA and state motorcycle rights organizations can turn back these misguided Washington bureaucrats,” Allard says. “The types of regulations they are proposing and enacting do not help prevent motorcycle crashes or injuries. Yet they clearly infringe on our riding freedoms and inhibit our enjoyment of our roads and trails.”
WHAT YOU SHOULD DOAll motorcyclists should become
AMA members to support our efforts to stand up to unfair and discriminatory laws and regulations. So recruit your riding buddies, your club members and enlist your family and friends.
All motorcycle enthusiasts should sign up for AMA Action Alerts and take action when called upon. Pass AMA Alerts along to other riders and encourage them to take action, too.
Get to know your local officials, let them know you and your motorcycling friends vote, and explain how their actions directly affect motorcyclists.
And Vote Like A Motorcyclist!
SOME GOOD IDEAS IN THE DISCUSSIONNot all ideas originating from foreign countries are bad for motorcyclists, especially where motorcycles figure prominently in traffic.
The OECD also proposed changes in the way motorcycles interact with other vehicles on the road, including:
• Promote appropriate behavior among riders and road users in general
• Improve vehicle safety features• Introduce “self-explaining” and
“forgiving” roads—roads that guide drivers and riders to adopt appropriate speed and behavior, along with traffic-calming measures
• Conduct more research to extend understanding of powered two-wheeler mobility and crash mechanisms.
“Some OECD recommendations are a step in the right direction,” Allard says. “The safety and needs of motorcyclists must be a part of the overall transportation discussion. And efforts to educate other road users and make them more aware of motorcyclists in their midst will help make the roadways safer for everyone.”
Some countries already are trying to better accommodate riders.
Mark Hinchliffe, who publishes MotorbikeWriter.com in Australia, says some jurisdictions are undertaking pilot projects that allow motorcycles and scooters to park on sidewalks in areas where they do not disrupt the flow of foot traffic.
Australian governments also are recognizing the benefits of lane splitting to alleviate congestion and reduce the number of rear-end collisions, he says.
In Taiwan and Malaysia, where a high percentage of all fatal crashes involve a motorcycle, a pilot project has established motorcycle-only traffic lanes. Preliminary results indicate a 39 percent reduction in the number of crashes.
“We encourage the United States and other countries to be responsive and creative in approaching vehicle and rider safety issues,” Allard says. “Rather than banning equipment or behavior that carries some degree of risk, elected officials and government agencies should listen to their constituents and focus their attention on measures that reduce the number and severity of crashes.”
WILLIGERSThe European approach includes protective gear, motorist education, safer infrastructure and better enforcement.
NORDQVISTIn Sweden, new motorcyclists face a tiered licensing system that requires three separate tests with combined costs of nearly $800.
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A few of the AMA-sanctioned events this month, listed on the following pages. GO RIDE
The eighth round of the Arizona Motorcycle Riders Association Off -Road Championship Series will be a Grand Prix at Canyon MX in Peoria, Ariz., on April 3. It’s hosted by Off Camber MC. Info: www.amraracing.com
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1 Dixie Dual Sport Inc. will kick off the fi rst event of the AMA Yamaha Super Ténéré National
Adventure Riding Series and the Beta AMA National Dual Sport Series, March 4-6, in Brooksville, Fla. Info: www.dixiedualsport.com
3The Pagoda Motorcycle Club is hosting a motocross race on
March 20 in Birdsboro, Pa. Info: www.pagodamc.org
4On March 13, in Ellerbe, N.C., Windy Hill Sports will host a
motocross race. Info: www.windyhillsportsmx.com
5 In Tucson, Ariz., Tucson Dual Sport LLC is hosting a dual sport and adventure ride on March 19-20. It’s a round of the Beta AMA National Dual Sport Series
and the Yamaha Super Ténéré AMA National Adventure Riding Series. Info: www.tucsondualsport.com
2 Pasadena Motorcycle Club will operate a Poker Run on March 13 in Pasadena, Calif. Info: www.pasadenamc.comJe
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CLUB1924
Planning to attend a few motorcycle rallies this riding season?
Be sure to keep your eyes open
for AMA Club 1924!
Daytona Bike Week March 4-13
Rolling Thunder Run May 27-30
Americade Motorcycle Rally June 7-11
Laconia Motorcycle Week June 11-19
Thunder in the Valley Motorcycle Rally June 23-26
AMA Vintage Motorcycle Days July 8-10
Bu� alo Chip Sturgis August 8-14
Ray Price Bikefest September 23-25
Sponsored by
Schedule tentative.
A few of the AMA-sanctioned events this month, listed on the following pages.MARCH EVENTS
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ALABAMA
COMPETITION
ENDURO
MAR 20: STANTON: PERRY MOUNTAIN M/C CLUB, (205) 340-4298
ARIZONA
RECREATIONAL
DUAL SPORT RIDE
MAR 19: TUCSON: 2 DAY EVENT, TUCSON DUAL SPORT LLC, (520) 979-8398, TUCSONDUALSPORT.COM
CALIFORNIA
RECREATIONAL
POKER RUN
MAR 13: PASADENA: PASADENA MOTORCYCLE CLUB, (626) 807-9268, PASADENAMC.COM
COMPETITION
CROSS COUNTRY
MAR 27: GRIZZLY FLATS: 2 DAY EVENT, EARTHSCAPE CUSTOM DIRT WORKS, (916) 320-0687
DESERT SCRAMBLES
MAR 26: (Includes ATVs) RED MOUNTAIN: SOUTHERN CALIFORNIA DIRT DIGGERS, (310) 913-1362, DISTRICT37AMA.ORG
ENDURO
MAR 5: HOLLISTER: TIMEKEEPERS MOTORCYCLE CLUB, (650) 823-3034, TIMEKEEPERSMC.COM
EUROPEAN SCRAMBLES
MAR 12: (Includes ATVs) BARSTOW: 2 DAY EVENT, HUNTINGTON BEACH MOTORCYCLE CLUB, (661) 510-3245, HUNTINGBEACHMC.COM
HARE SCRAMBLES
MAR 19: HOLLISTER: 2 DAY EVENT, GHOSTRIDERS MC, (408) 265-2122, GHOSTRIDERSMC.COM
FLORIDA
RECREATIONAL
ADVENTURE RIDE
MAR 4: BROOKSVILLE: DIXIE DUAL SPORT, INC., (727) 919-8299, DIXIEDUALSPORT.COM
DUAL SPORT-OFF ROAD
MAR 4: BROOKSVILLE: DIXIE DUAL SPORT, INC., (727) 919-8299, DIXIEDUALSPORT.COM
LOUISIANA
COMPETITION: ARENACROSS
MAR 12: LAFAYETTE: 2 DAY EVENT, FELD MOTOR SPORTS, (800) 216-7482, ARENACROSS.COM
NEBRASKA
COMPETITION: ARENACROSS
MAR 5: OMAHA: 2 DAY EVENT, FELD MOTOR SPORTS, (800) 216-7482, ARENACROSS.COM
NEVADA
COMPETITION: CROSS COUNTRY
MAR 12: TOULON: 2 DAY EVENT, WESTERN STATES RACING ASSOCIATION, (775) 853-6911, WESTERNSTATESRACING.COM
NEW JERSEY
COMPETITION: ENDURO
MAR 20: SHAMONG: SOUTH JERSEY ENDURO RIDERS, INC., (609) 268-9272, SJER.ORG
NORTH CAROLINA
COMPETITION: MOTOCROSS
MAR 13: (Includes ATVs) ELLERBE: WINDY HILL SPORTS, (910) 895-5438, WINDYHILLSPORTSMX.COM
OHIO
RECREATIONAL: SWAP MEETS
MAR 13: BRILLIANT: ABATE OF OHIO, INC., (740) 219-2716, ABATE.COM
PENNSYLVANIA
COMPETITION: MOTOCROSS
MAR 20: BIRDSBORO: PAGODA MOTORCYCLE CLUB, (610) 582-3717, PAGODAMC.ORG
VIRGINIA
COMPETITION: GRAND PRIX
MAR 20: SANDY LEVEL: VIRGINIA COMPETITION HARE SCRAMBLE SERVICES, (434) 509-9363, VCHSS.ORG
Kev
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DIRTSTREETMAIN 35March 2016 3534AM_03_2016_sec09m_Calendar.indd 35 2/2/16 10:48 AM
The AMA Beta National Dual-Sport Series features the country’s best organized dual-sport rides. Events include miles of well marked, challenging trail connected by scenic backcountry roads. The challenging, national caliber terrain is designed to bring out the best in each rider.
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MOTOCROSSFIM MOTOCROSS OF NATIONS
www.fim-live.com
Sept. 25: Maggiora, Italy
FIM JUNIOR MOTOCROSS WORLD CHAMPIONSHIPwww.fim-live.com
Aug. 21: Orlyonok, Russia
MONSTER ENERGY AMA SUPERCROSSwww.amasupercross.com
Feb. 20: Arlington, Texas: AT&T Stadium
Feb. 27: Atlanta, Ga.: Georgia Dome
March 5: Daytona Beach, Fla.: Daytona International Speedway (note: not a Feld Motor Sports produced race)
March 12: Toronto, Canada: Rogers Centre
March 19: Detroit, Mich.: Ford Field
April 2: Santa Clara, Calif.: Levi’s Stadium
April 9: Indianapolis, Ind.: Lucas Oil Stadium
April 16: St. Louis, Mo.: Edward Jones Dome
April 23: Foxboro, Mass.: Gillette Stadium
April 30: East Rutherford, N.J.: MetLife Stadium
May 7: Las Vegas, Nev.: Sam Boyd Stadium
LUCAS OIL AMA PRO MOTOCROSSwww.promotocross.com
May 21: Sacramento, Calif.: Hangtown Motocross Classic
May 28: San Bernardino, Calif.: Glen Helen National
June 4: Laktewood, Colo.: Thunder Valley National
June 18: Mount Morris, Pa.: High Point National
June 25: Blountville, Tenn.: Tennessee National
July 2: Buchanan, Mich.: RedBud National
July 9: Southwick, Mass.: Southwick National
July 16: Millville, Minn.: Spring Creek National
July 23: Washougal, Wash.: Washougal National
Aug. 13: New Berlin, N.Y.: Unadilla National
Aug. 20: Mechanicsville, Md.: Budds Creek National
Aug. 27: Crawfordsville, Ind.: Ironman National
WOMEN’S PROFESSIONAL MOTOCROSS CHAMPIONSHIP (WMX)
www.racewmx.com
March 7: Daytona Beach, Fla.: Daytona Amateur Supercross
March 19: Wortham, Texas: Freestone Spring Championship
April 9: San Diego, Calif.: California Classic Motocross Championship
May 20: Rancho Cordova, Calif.: Hangtown Classic
June 19: Mount Morris, Pa.: High Point Raceway
Aug. 28: Crawfordsville, Ind.: Ironman Raceway
Sept. 3: Millington, Mich.: Baja Brawl
Oct. 2: Englishtown, N.J.: Kawasaki Race of Champions
Oct. 9: Mechanicsville, Md.: Budds Creek MX
Nov. 26: Alachua, Fla.: Winter Olympics2016 NATIONALCHAMPION
National Championship 2016 NATIONALCHAMPION
AMA ATV MOTOCROSS NATIONAL CHAMPIONSHIP PRESENTED BY CST
www.atvmotocross.com
March 8: Daytona Beach, Fla.: Daytona International Speedway (Pro points only)
April 9-10: Kemp, Texas: Underground MX Park
April 23-24: Blountville, Tenn.: Muddy Creek Raceway
May 7-8: Crawfordsville, Ind.: Ironman Raceway
May 21-22: Mount Morris, Pa.: High Point Raceway
June 4-5: Tallassee, Ala. Monster Mountain
June 18-19: Walnut, Ill.: Sunset Ridge MX
July 2-3: Millville, Minn.: Spring Creek MX Park
July 16-17: New Berlin, N.Y.: Unadilla MX
July 30-31: Buchanan, Mich.: Redbud MX
Aug. 13-14: Hurricane Mills, Tenn.: Loretta Lynn Ranch
2016 NATIONALCHAMPION
National Championship 2016 NATIONALCHAMPION
AMA AMSOIL ARENACROSS SERIESwww.arenacross.com
Feb. 20-21: Tampa, Fla.: Amalie Arena
March 5-6: Omaha, Neb.: CenturyLink Center
March 12-13: Lafayette, La.: Cajondome
April 1-3: Ontario, Calif.: Citizens Business Bank Arena
April 9-10: Salinas, Calif.: Salinas Sports Complex
April 16-17: Tacoma, Wash.: Tacoma Dome
2016 EVENTS
DIRTSTREETMAIN
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3736AM_03_2016_sec09m_Calendar.indd 36 2/2/16 11:28 AM
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2016 EVENTS
April 22-24: Nampa, Idaho: Ford Idaho Center
May 6-8: Las Vegas, Nev.: Orleans Arena (Amateur National Championship)
2016 NATIONALCHAMPION
National Championship 2016 NATIONALCHAMPION
ROCKY MOUNTAIN ATV/MC AMA AMATEUR NATIONAL MOTOCROSS
CHAMPIONSHIP, PRESENTED BY AMSOIL
www.mxsports.com
Aug. 1-6: Hurricane Mills, Tenn.: Loretta Lynn Ranch
Northeast Area Qualifiers
March 5-6: Elizabeth City, N.C.: Elizabeth City MX
March 12-13: Hedgesville, W.V.: Tomahawk MX
April 9-10: Englishtown, N.J.: Englishtown
April 16-17: Dillwyn, Va.: Actiontown MX Park
April 23-24: Fredericksburg, Pa.: Sleepy Hollow MX
May 7-8: Seward, Pa.: Pleasure Valley
May 14-15: Winchester, N.H.: Winchester Speedpark
May 21-22: New Berlin, N.Y.: Unadilla MX
Northeast Regional Championships
June 4-5: Mount Morris, Pa.: High Point Raceway (Amateur)
June 11-12: Shippensburg, Pa.: Doublin Gap MX Park (Youth)
Southeast Area Qualifiers
Feb. 27-28: Jacksonville, Fla.: WW Ranch MX Park
March 19-20: Sutherlin, Va.: Birch Creek Motorsports Park
April 2-3: Okeechobee, Fla.: Florida Cycle Park
April 9-10: Hamer, S.C.: South of the Border MX Park
April 16-17: Tallassee, Ala.: Monster Mountain MX Park
April 23-24: Reynolds, Ga.: Silver Dollar Raceway
April 30-May 1: Wytheville, Va.: Pro Sport Motocross
May 14-15: Dalton, Ga.: Lazy River MX
Southeast Regional Championships
May 28-29: Blountville, Tenn.: Muddy Creek Raceway (Amateur)
June 18-19: Henderson, N.C.: North Carolina Motorsports Park (Youth)
Mid-East Area Qualifiers
March 19-20: Altamont, Tenn.: Fast Farms MX Park
April 2-3: Waynesburg, Ohio: Malvern Motocross Park
April 16-17: Rossville, Ind.: Wildcat Creek MX
April 23-24: Chillicothe, Ohio: ChilliTown MX
April 30-May 1: Bronson, Mich.: Log Road MX
May 7-8: Nashport, Ohio: Briarcliff Motocross
May 14-15: Bloomingdale, Mich.: Dutch Sport Park
May 21-22: Livingston, Tenn.: Thunder Valley MX
Mid-East Regional Championships
June 4-5: Buchanan, Mich.: RedBud MX (Youth)
June 25-26: Millington, Mich.: Baja Acres (Amateur)
North Central Area Qualifiers
March 12-13: Richwoods, Mo.: Romp MX
April 2-3: Casey, Ill.: Lincoln Trail Motorsports
April 9-10: Garwin, Iowa: Oak Ridge MX
April 23-24: Walnut, Ill.: Sunset Ridge MX
April 30-May 1: Maize, Kan.: Bar 2 Bar MX Park
May 14-15: Little Falls, Minn.: Little Falls Raceway
May 21-22: Mount Carroll, Ill.: McMotopark
May 28-29: Athelstane, Wis.: Pine Ridge Raceway
North Central Regional Championships
June 11-12: Byron, Ill.: Byron Motorsports Park (Amateur)
June 18-19: Tigerton, Wis.: Motozone (Youth)
South Central Area Qualifiers
March 5-6: Conroe, Texas: 3 Palms Action Sports Park
April 2-3: Fulton, Miss.: Veterans MX Park
April 9-10: Grand Cane, La.: Desoto Motorsports Park
April 16-17: Wellston, Okla.: Reynard Raceway
April 23-24: Wortham, Texas: Freestone Raceway
April 30-May 1: Amarillo, Texas: Bowers MX
May 21-22: Yantis, Texas: Johnsonville MX Farm
May 29-30: Brush, Colo.: Sweney Cycle Park (Sunday / Monday races)
South Central Regional Championships
June 11-12: Lakewood, Colo.: Thunder Valley Motocross Park (Amateur)
June 25-26: Alvord, Texas: Oak Hill Raceway (Youth)
Northwest Area Qualifiers
March 19-20: West Richland, Wash.: Horn Rapids Motorsports Complex
May 7-8: Junction City, Ore.: Eugene MX Park
May 14: Billings, Mont.: Billings MX (Saturday only)
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2016 EVENTS
Northwest Regional Championship
May 28-29: Washougal, Wash.: Washougal MX Park (Youth/Amateur)
Mid-West Area Qualifiers
Feb. 20-21: St. George, Utah: Saint George MX
April 2-3: Turlock, Calif.: Oatfield Raceway
April 16-17: California City, Calif.: Cal City MX Park
May 14-15: Hollister, Calif.: Hollister Hills SVRA
May 21-22: Rocksprings, Wyo.: Rock Springs MX
Mid-West Regional Championship
June 4-5: Rancho Cordova, Calif.: Prairie City OHV (Youth/Amateur)
Southwest Area Qualifiers
March 5-6: Buckeye, Ariz.: Arizona Cycle Park
March 12-13: Bakersfield, Calif.: Kern County Raceway Park
March 19-20: Haleiwa, Hawaii: Kahuku Motocross
April 2-3: Anza, Calif.: Cahuilla Creek MX
April 9-10: Moriarty, N.M.: Sandia MX at Moriarty
April 16-17: California City, Calif.: Cal City MX Park
Southwest Regional Championship
June 11-12: Pala, Calif.: Pala Raceway (Youth/Amateur)
2016 NATIONALCHAMPION
National Championship 2016 NATIONALCHAMPION
AMA VINTAGE MOTOCROSS GRAND CHAMPIONSHIP
www.americanmotorcyclist.com
July 9-10: Lexington, Ohio: Mid-Ohio Sports Car Course
Major Event
JAMES STEWART FREESTONE SPRING CHAMPIONSHIP
www.freestonemx.com
March 15-19: Wortham, Texas: Freestone Raceway
Major Event
RICKY CARMICHAEL DAYTONA AMATEUR SUPERCROSS
www.racedaytona.com
March 6-8: Daytona Beach, Fla: MX Sports
Featured Series
16TH ANNUAL FMF AMA TEXAS WINTER SERIES (PROAM)
www.freestonemx.com
Feb. 27-28: Wortham, Texas: Freestone Raceway
Featured Series
KING OF THE WEST SERIESwww.2xpromotions.com
Feb. 28: Palmdale, Calif.: LACR Raceway
March 6: Tulare, Calif.: DT1 MX Park
March 20: Rancho Cordova, Calif.: Prairie City SVRA (Hangtown MX)
April 7-10: Pala, Calif.: Pala Raceway (California Classic)
April 24: Snelling, Calif.: Oatfield Raceway
April 30-May 1: Lake Elsinore, Calif.: Lake Elsinore Motorsports Park
Featured Event
CALIFORNIA CLASSICwww.2xpromotions.com
April 7-10: Pala, Calif.: Pala Raceway
DIRT TRACKAMA PRO FLAT TRACKwww.amaproracing.com
March 10: Daytona Beach, Fla.: Daytona International Speedway
March 11: Daytona Beach, Fla.: Daytona International Speedway
April 9: Austin, Texas: Circuit of the Americas
May 14: Phoenix, Ariz.: Turf Paradise
May 21: Sacramento, Calif.: California Expo Fair
May 29: Springfield, Ill.: Illinois State Fairgrounds
June 18: Oklahoma City, Okla.: Remington Park
June 25: Lima, Ohio: Allen County Fairgrounds
July 30: Charlotte, N.C.: Charlotte Motor Speedway
Aug. 9: Rapid City, S.D.: Black Hills Speedway
Aug. 14: Peoria, Ill.: Peoria Motorcycle Club
Aug. 20: TBA
Sept. 4: Springfield, Ill.: Illinois State Fairgrounds
Sept. 17: TBA
Oct. TBA: TBA2016 NATIONALCHAMPION
National Championship 2016 NATIONALCHAMPION
AMA VINTAGE DIRT TRACK NATIONAL CHAMPIONSHIP SERIES
www.amaracing.com
March 5: Savannah, Ga.: Oglethorpe Speedway (Half Mile)
March 7: Barberville, Fla.: Volusia County Speedway (Half Mile)
March 8: Barberville, Fla.: Volusia County Speedway (Short Track)
April 30: Henry, Ill. (Half Mile)
May 1: Henry, Ill. (Half Mile)
June 17: Harpursville, N.Y. (Short Track)
June 18: Harpursville, N.Y. (Short Track)
July 2: Oshkosh, Wis.: Oshkosh Speedzone (3/8 Mile)
July 3: Oshkosh, Wis.: Oshkosh Speedzone (3/8 Mile)
July 9: Ashland, Ohio: Ashland County Fairgrounds (Half Mile)
Aug. 12: Indianapolis, Ind.: Marion County Fairgrounds (Short Track)
Aug. 13: Indianapolis, Ind.: Marion County Fairgrounds (Short Track)
Sept. 24: Cuddebackville, N.Y. (Short Track)
Sept. 25: Cuddebackville, N.Y. (Short Track)
Major Event
AMA DAYTONA BIKE WEEK FLAT TRACK www.stevenaceracing.com
March 5: Savannah, Ga.: Oglethorpe Speedway Park
March 7-8: Barberville, Fla.: Volusia Speedway Park
Featured Series
AMA ALL-STAR NATIONAL FLAT TRACK SERIES
www.stevenaceracing.com
March 4: Savannah, Ga.: Oglethorpe Speedway (Half Mile)
March 6: Barberville, Fla.: Volusia Speedway (Half Mile)
May 22: Peoria, Ill.: Peoria Speedway (Short Track)
May 23: Springfield, Ill.: Illinois State Fairgrounds (TT)
June 13: Bucyrus, Ohio: Crawford County Fairgrounds (Half Mile)
July 4: Frederick, Md.: Frederick Fairgrounds (Half Mile)
July 25: Ashland, Ohio: Ashland County Fairgrounds (Half Mile)
Aug. 5: Sturgis, S.D.: Sturgis Fairgrounds (Half Mile)
Aug. 14: Lewistown, Ill.: Spoon River Speedway (Short Track)
Sept. 5: Springfield, Ill.: Illinois State Fairgrounds (Short Track)
Sept. 26: York, Pa.: York Expo Center (Half Mile)
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ROAD RACEFIM MOTOGP
www.motogp.com
April 8-10: Circuit of the Americas
FIM SUPERBIKE WORLD CHAMPIONSHIPwww.worldsbk.com
July 8-10: Monterey, Calif.: Mazda Raceway Laguna Seca
MOTOAMERICA ROAD RACING SERIESwww.motoamerica.com
April 8-10: Austin, Texas: Circuit of the Americas
April 15-17: Braselton, Ga.: Road Atlanta
April 29-May 1: Millville, N.J.: New Jersey Motorsports Park
May 13-15: Alton, Va.: Virginia International Raceway
June 3-5: Elkhart Lake, Wis.: Road America
June 10-12: Birmingham, Ala.: Barber Motorsports Park
June 23-25: Tooele, Utah: Utah Motorsports Park
July 8-10: Monterey, Calif.: Mazda Raceway Laguna Seca
Sept. 9-11: Millville, N.J.: New Jersey Motorsports Park
2016 NATIONALCHAMPION
National Championship 2016 NATIONALCHAMPION
AMA ROAD RACE GRAND CHAMPIONSHIPwww.asraracing.com
July 1-3: Plymouth, Wis.: Road America2016 NATIONALCHAMPION
National Championship 2016 NATIONALCHAMPION
AMA VINTAGE ROAD RACE GRAND CHAMPIONSHIP
www.americanmotorcyclist.com
July 9-10: Lexington, Ohio: Mid-Ohio Sports Car Course
Featured Series
AMERICAN SPORTBIKE RACING ASSOCIATION
(SPRINT SERIES)www.asraracing.com
March 10-13: Daytona Beach, Fla.: Daytona International Speedway
April 16-17: Millville, N.J.: New Jersey Motorsports Park
May 28-30: Summit Point, W. Va.: Summit Point Circuit
June 11-12: Alton, Va.: Virginia International Raceway
July 1-3: Elkhart Lake, Wis.: Road America
Aug. 13-14: Joliet, Ill.: Autobahn Country Club
Sept. 24-25: South Beloit, Ill.: Blackhawk Farms Raceway
Oct.14-16: Daytona Beach, Fla.: Daytona International Speedway
Featured Series
AMERICAN SPORTBIKE RACING ASSOCIATION
(TEAM CHALLENGE)www.asraracing.com
April 10: Kershaw, S.C.: Carolina Motorsports Park
May 21: South Beloit, Ill.: Blackhawk Farms RacewayJune 16-19: Loudon, N.H.: New Hampshire Motor Speedway
July 1: Elkhart Lake, Wis.: Road America
2016 EVENTS
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FE
BR
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NEW BIKES GALORE!
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Adventureon California’sLost CoastRiver Run:Red Wing,Minnesota
ON THEPROWL
MOTO GUZZI’SSURPRISING NORGESport-TouringItalian Style
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July 17: Millville, N.J.: New Jersey Motorsports ParkAug. 21: Summit Point, W. Va.: Summit Point CircuitSept. 18: Alton, Va.: Virginia International RacewayOct. 15: Daytona Beach, Fla.: Daytona International Speedway
Featured SeriesAMERICAN SPORTBIKE RACING
ASSOCIATION (USGPRU SERIES)www.asraracing.com
April 9-10: Kershaw, S.C.: Carolina Motorsports Park
April 16-17: Millville, N.J.: New Jersey Motorsports Park
May 28-30: Summit Point, W. Va.: Summit Point Circuit
June 11-12: Alton, Va.: Virginia International Raceway
July 1-3: Elkhart Lake, Wis: Road America
Aug. 13-14: Joliet, Ill.: Autobahn Country Club
Aug. 27-28: Bloomingdale, Ga.: Roebling Road Raceway
Sept. 24-25: South Beloit, Ill.: Blackhawk Farms Raceway
OFF-ROADAMA INTERNATIONAL SIX DAYS ENDURO
QUALIFIERSwww.americanmotorcyclist.com
April 23-24: Romney, W. Va.: Full Gas Sprint Enduro
June 4-5: Idaho City, Idaho: Boise Ridge Riders
2016 NATIONALCHAMPION
National Championship 2016 NATIONALCHAMPION
AMSOIL GRAND NATIONAL CROSS COUNTRY SERIES
PRESENTED BY MAXXISwww.gnccracing.com
March 5-6: Palatka, Fla.: Rodman Plantation
March 12-13: Sparta, Ga.: Hill Family Farm
April 2-3: Morganton, N.C.: Steele Creek Campground
April 16-17: Union, S.C.: Big Buck FarmApril 30-May 1: Society Hills, S.C.: Moree’s Hunting PreserveMay 14-15: Springville, Ind.: Lawrence Co. Recreational ParkMay 28-29: Millfield, Ohio: Sunday Creek RacewayJune 11-12: Odessa, N.Y.: Seneca HighlandJune 25-26: Snowshoe, W. Va.: Snowshoe Mountain Resort
Sept. 10-11: New Berlin, N.Y.: Unadilla MXSept. 24-25: Masontown, W. Va.: Marvin’s Mountain TopOct. 1-2: St. Clairsville, Ohio: Powerline ParkOct. 29-30: Crawfordsville, Ind.: Ironman Raceway
2016 NATIONALCHAMPION
National Championship 2016 NATIONALCHAMPION
KENDA AMA NATIONAL ENDURO CHAMPIONSHIP SERIESwww.nationalenduro.com
April 10: Forest Hill, La.: Acadiana Dirt RidersMay 22: Greensboro, Ga.: Cherokee Cycle ClubJune 19: Huntersville, Minn.: River Valley Enduro RidersJuly 24: Cross Fork, Pa.: Brandywine Enduro RidersAug. 28: Chandlersville, Ohio: Ohio Woods RidersSept. 18: Park Hills, Mo.: Missouri MuddersOct. 23: Skiatook, Okla.: Oklahoma Trail Riders
2016 NATIONALCHAMPION
National Championship 2016 NATIONALCHAMPION
AMA ENDUROCROSS NATIONAL CHAMPIONSHIP SERIES
www.endurocross.comAug. 27: Atlanta, Ga.Sept. 3: Sioux Falls, S.D.Sept. 10: Salt Lake City, UtahSept. 24: Phoenix, Arix.Oct. 1: Denver, Colo.Oct. 22: Everett, Wash.Nov. 5: Boise, IdahoNov. 19: Ontario, Calif.
2016 NATIONALCHAMPION
National Championship 2016 NATIONALCHAMPION
KENDA SRT AMA HARE AND HOUND NATIONAL CHAMPIONSHIP SERIES
www.nationalhareandhound.comApril 2 (Youth) | 3 (Amateur) No ATVs: Murphy, Idaho: Dirt Inc.May 14 (ATV/Youth) | 15 (Amateur): Delta, Utah: Sage Riders Motorcycle ClubJune 11: TBAAug. 27 (Amateur/Youth) No ATVs: Panaca, Nev.: Silver State TrailblazersSept. 3-4: TBA Sept. 24 (No ATVs): Yerington, Nev.: Get-Xtr-EmeOct. 22 (Youth) | 23 (Amateur): Lucerne Valley, Calif: 100’s MC
2016 NATIONALCHAMPION
National Championship 2016 NATIONALCHAMPION
AIReS AMA/NATC MotoTrials National Championship Series
www.mototrials.comMay 21-22: Ocala, Fla.: Florida Trials AssociationMay 28-29: Sequatchie, Tenn.: Southeastern Trials Riders Association
June 18-19: Tillamook, Ore.: Columbia Observed Trials Association
June 25-26: Canon City, Colo.: Rocky Mountain Trials Association
2016 NATIONALCHAMPION
National Championship 2016 NATIONALCHAMPION
AMA VINTAGE HARE SCRAMBLE GRAND CHAMPIONSHIP
www.americanmotorcyclist.com
July 8: Lexington, Ohio: Mid-Ohio Sports Car Course
2016 NATIONALCHAMPION
National Championship 2016 NATIONALCHAMPION
AMA VINTAGE TRIALS GRAND CHAMPIONSHIP
www.americanmotorcyclist.com
July 10: Lexington, Ohio: Mid-Ohio Sports Car Course
2016 NATIONALCHAMPION
National Championship 2016 NATIONALCHAMPION
TENNESSEE KNOCKOUT EXTREME ENDURO
www.tennesseeknockoutenduro.com
Aug. 20-21: Sequatchie, Tenn.: Trials Training Center
Regional Series
AMA/NATC Youth MotoTrials Regional Championship
www.mototrials.com
June 22-24: Canon City, Colo.: Rocky Mountain Trials Association (West)
June 30-July 2: Sequatchie, Tenn.: Southeastern Trials Riders Association (East)
Regional Series
AMA EAST HARE SCRAMBLE REGIONAL CHAMPIONSHIP SERIES
www.americanmotorcyclist.com
March 20: Chatham, Va.: Rivers Edge
April 16 (Youth Bikes) | April 17 (Amateur Bikes): Port Elizabeth, N.J.: Tri-County Sportsmen
May 7 (Youth Bikes/Youth ATV) | May 8 (Amateur Bikes/Amateur ATV): Clifford, Pa.: District 6 Sports Association
July 16 (Youth Bikes) | July 17 (Amateur Bikes): Mahanoy City, Pa.: Valley Forge Trail Riders
July 30 (Youth Bikes) | July 31 (Amateur Bikes): Catawissa, Pa.: High Mountain Dirt Riders
Aug. 28 (Bikes/ATV): Speedsville, N.Y.: Cross Country Customs
Oct. 9 (Youth Bikes/Amateur Bikes): Rural Retreat, Va.: Rattlesnake Riders
Regional Series
KENDA SRT AMA WEST HARE SCRAMBLE REGIONAL CHAMPIONSHIP SERIES
www.westharescramble.com
March 19 (ATV/Youth) | 20 (Amateur): Gorman, Calif: Prospectors MC
April 9 (Amateur) | 10 (Youth): Shasta Lake City, Calif.: Redding Dirt Riders
April 23 (Youth) | 24 (Amateur): Lucerne Valley, Calif.: Vikings Motorcycle Club
May 21 (Amateur/Youth): Caliente, Nev.: Silver State Trailblazers
2016 EVENTS
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Sept. 17 (ATV/Youth) | 18 (Amateur): Lucerne Valley, Calif.: Desert Motorcycle Club
Oct. 1 (Amateur/ATV/Youth): El Centro, Calif.: RoadRunners Motorcycle Club
Nov. 5 (Youth) | 6 (Amateur): Longdale, Nev.: Darkside Motorcycle Club
Regional Series
KENDA FULL GAS SPRINT ENDURO CHAMPIONSHIP SERIES
www.sprintenduro.com
Feb. 13-14: Gaston, S.C.
March 2-3: Daytona Beach, Fla.
April 23-24: Romney, W. Va.: ISDE Qualifier
June 4-5: Altamont, Tenn.
July 9-10: Connelly Springs, N.C.
July 30-31: Brazil, Ind.
Aug. 13-14: Young Harris, Ga.
Nov. 12-13: Union, S.C.
Regional Series
AMA DISTRICT 37 BIG 6 GRAND PRIX SERIES
www.big6racing.com
March 5-7: Devore, Calif.: Glen Helen Raceway
April 2-3: 29 Palms, Calif.: 29 Palms Motorsports
April 30-May 1: State Line/Primm NV: Primm Casino Resort
Oct. 1-2: Ridgecrest, Calif.: Desert Empire Fairgrounds
Nov. 5-6: Gorman, Calif.: Quail Canyon MX
Dec. 3-4: TBA
Regional Series
KENDA SRT AMA WEST ATV CHAMPIONSHIP SERIES
www.americanmotorcyclist.com
March 19: Gorman, Calif.: Prospectors M/C
April 23: Lucerne Valley, Calif.: Vikings M/C
May 14: Delta, Utah: Sage Riders MC
Sept. 17: Red Mountain, Calif.: NHHA
Oct. 1: Ocatillo Wells, Calif.: RoadRunners M/C
Oct. 22: Lucerne Valley, Calif: 100’s MC
Featured Series
APPALACHIAN CHAMPIONSHIP ENDURO SERIES
www.aces-races.com
March 13: Ray, Ohio: Chillicothe Enduro Riders Association
April 3: New Straitsville, Ohio: New Straitsville Enduro Riders
April 10: Shade, Ohio: Lodi Township Enduro
June 5: Wellston, Ohio: Appalachian Dirt Riders
July 17: McArthur, Ohio: Enduro Riders Association
Aug. 7: Three Springs, Pa.: Green Marble Enduro Riders
Aug. 14: Logan, Ohio: Hocking Valley Motorcycle Club
Aug. 28: Chandlersville, Ohio: Ohio Woods Riders (In conjunction with National Enduro)
Sept. 4: Athens, Ohio: Athens Motorcycle Club
UPDATED: Sept. 18: Bergholz, Ohio: Ohio Valley Trail Riders
Oct. 9: Matthews, Ind.: Muddobbers Motorcycle Club
Nov. 13: Treaty City, Ohio: Treaty City Motorcycle Club
Featured SeriesCROSSROADS RACING SERIESwww.crossroadsracingseries.com
Feb. 20: Bedford, Ky.: Nikota Motorsports ParkApril 2: Salem, Ind.: High Fly MX ParkApril 23: Staunton, Ind.: Staunton MX ParkJune 4: Casey, Ill.: Lincoln Trail MotorsportsJune 10: Springville, Ind.: LCRPJuly 9: Bedford, Ind.: Bedford RockJuly 30: TBAAug. 13: Oden, Ind.: Parsons MX CompoundSept. 3: Casey, Ill.: Lincoln Trail MotorsportsOct. 15: Bedford, Ky.: Saddleback EastOct. 22: Staunton, Ind.: Staunton MX Park
Featured SeriesEAST COAST ENDURO ASSOCIATION
(ENDUROS)www.ecea.org
March 13: Port Elizabeth, N.J.: Tri-County Sportsmen Motorcycle ClubMarch 20: Shamong, N.J.: South Jersey Enduro RidersApril 3: Greenbank, N.J.: Meteor Motorcycle ClubApril 10: Chatsworth, N.J.: Pine Barons Enduro RidersMay 1: Delaware City, Del.: Delaware Enduro RidersMay 29: Heckscherville, Pa.: Reading Off-Road RidersJune 12: Deposit, N.Y.: Ridge Riders Motorcycle ClubJune 26: Blain, Pa.: Susquehanna Off Road RidersJuly 10: Gillett, Pa.: Southern Tier Enduro RidersJuly 24: Cross Fork, Pa.: Brandywine Enduro RidersAug. 7: Three Springs, Pa.: Green Marble Enduro RidersAug. 14: Berkshire, N.Y.: Ithaca Dirt RidersAug. 28: Mauricetown, N.J.: Competition Dirt RidersSept. 11: Shippensburg, Pa.: South Penn Enduro RidersSept. 25: Mahanoy City, Pa.: High Mountain Dirt Riders / Valley Forge Trail Riders
Oct. 16: Warren Grove, N.J.: Motorcycle Competition Inc.
Oct. 30: New Lisbon, N.J.: Ocean City Competition RidersNov. 20: New Lisbon, N.J.: Central Jersey Competition Riders
Featured Series
EAST COAST ENDURO ASSOCIATION (HARE SCRAMBLES)
www.ecea.org
April 16-17: Port Elizabeth, N.J.: Tri-County Sportsmen Motorcycle Club
April 23-24: Millville, N.J.: Competition Dirt Riders
May 14-15: Sahara Sands, N.J.: Motorcycle Competition Inc.
May 22-23: Berwick, Pa.: South Penn Enduro Riders
June 4-5: Three Springs, Pa.: Rocket Raceway
June 18-19: Tamaqua, Pa.: Reading Off Road Riders
July 16-17: Mahoney City, Pa.: Valley Forge Trail Riders
July 30-31: Catawissa, Pa.: High Mountain Dirt Riders
Aug. 20-21: Clifford, Pa.: Meteor Motorcycle Club
Sept. 17-18: Mount Cobb, Pa.: Ridge Riders Motorcycle Club
Oct. 1-2: Wellsboro, Pa.: Southern Tier Enduro Riders
Oct. 22-23: Sahara Sands, N.J.: Pine Barrons Enduro Riders
Nov. 12-13: New Castle, Del.: Delaware Enduro Riders
Featured Series
IOWA ATV HARE SCRAMBLE SERIESwww.iatvhss.com
April 30-May 1: Centerville, Iowa
May 28-29: Mt Pleasant, Iowa
June 18-19: Kahoka, Mo.
July 9-10: St Charles, Iowa
July 30-31: Thurman, Iowa
Sept. 18-19: Beaconsfield, Iowa
Oct. 8-9: Carlisle, Iowa
Aug. 19-20: Carlisle, Iowa: Heartland Challenge
Featured Series
MUD AND SNOW SCRAMBLE SERIESwww.squaredealriders.com
Feb. 28: Port Crane, N.Y.: Square Deal Riders
Featured Series
MOTORCYCLE RACING ASSOCIATION OF NEVADA (DESERT SERIES)
www.mranracing.org
March 26: Pahroc Summit, Nev.: Yucca Chuckers
April 9: Murphy’s Gap, Nev.: SNDR
April 30: Caliente, Nev.: Groundshakers
May 21: Panaca, Nev.: Silver State Trailblazers
2016 EVENTS
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July 30: Ely, Nev.: Coyotes
Aug. 27: Caliente, Nev.: Silver State Trailblazers
Sept. 17: Pioche, Nev.: Bushwackers
Nov. 5: Logandale, Nev.: Darkside
Featured Series
MOTORCYCLE RACING ASSOCIATION OF NEVADA (GRAND PRIX SERIES)
www.mranracing.org
March 5: St. George, Utah: Groundshakers
Sept. 3: Cedar City, Utah: Jackrabbits
Oct. 8: Mesquite, Nev.: Wildbunch
Oct. 22: Mesquite, Nev.: Gamblers
Featured Series
MOTORCYCLE RACING ASSOCIATION OF NEVADA (NIGHT TEAM RACE SERIES)
www.mranracing.org
June 4: Jean, Nev.: Wild Bunch
June 25: Jean, Nev.: MRAN
July 9: Jean, Nev: MRAN
July 22-23: Searchlight, Nev: Bushwackers
Featured Series
TRIALS INC.www.trialsinc.org
April 16-17: Fly, Ohio: Trail Run Trial (17th is Vintage Cup Series Round)
April 23-24: Southington, Ohio: Cleveland
May 14-15: Tippecanoe, Ohio: Tippecanoe
June 4-5: Sidell, Ill.: Illinois
June 18-19: Toronto, Ohio: Toronto (19th is Vintage Cup Series Round)
July 23-24: Canfi eld, Ohio: Canfi eld
Aug. 20-21: Little Hocking, Ohio: Wildwood
Sept. 3-4: Newark, Ohio: Newark (4th is Vintage Cup Series Round)
Sept. 17-18: Columbus, Ind.: Stoney (18th is Vintage Cup Series Round)
Oct. 1-2: Bedford, Ky.: Saddleback (2nd is Vintage Cup Series Round)
Oct. 15-16: Taylorsville, Ky.: Vintage Cup Finals
Featured Series
VIRGINIA CHAMPIONSHIP HARE SCRAMBLE SERIES
www.vchss.org
March 20: Sandy Level, Va.: River’s Edge
April 3: Dillwyn, Va.: CVTR
April 17: Arrington, Va.: April Fools
May 1: Martinsville, Va.: Blue Ridge 1
May 15: Bristol, Va.: Harleywood
May 29: Dendron, Va.: Reddy Hole
June 12: Spring Grove, Va.: TDR, Eastover
June 26: Rural Retreat, Va.: Hillbilly
Aug. 7: Martinsville, Va.: Blue Ridge 2
Aug. 21: Penhook, Va.: Sandy Bottom
Sept. 4: Rural Retreat, Va.: Coyote Run
Sept. 11: Spring Grove, Va.: Peninsula
Sept. 25: Rural Retreat, Va.: Iron Mountain
Oct. 9: Rural Retreat, Va.: Rattlesnake
Oct. 30: Spring Grove, Va.: Pipsico
Featured Series
WESTERN CHECKPOINT ENDURO CHAMPIONSHIPwww.westchec.org
May 1: Georgetown, Calif.: CERA - D36
June 23-24: South Fork, Colo.: SFPR - RMEC
Sept. 20: Campwood, Ariz.: ATR - AMRA
Oct. 15: Chimney Rock, Utah: Sageriders MC - USRA
Oct. 30: Elkins Flat, Calif.: Polka Dots MC - D36
Nov. 5: Upperlake, Calif.: Hayward MC - D36
Nov. 13: Stoneyford, Calif.: Valley Climbers MC - D36
Featured Series
WESTERN NEW YORK OFFROAD ASSOCIATIONwww.wnyoa.net
April 24: Newfi eld, N.Y.: Dream Riders
May 8: Odessa, N.Y.: Tompkins Trail Riders / Seneca Highland
May 22: Newark Valley, N.Y.: Valley View Dirt Riders
May 29: Richford, N.Y.: Broome-Tioga Sports Center
June 12: Odessa, N.Y.: GNCC at Tomahawk
June 19: Colesville, N.Y.: Full Action Cycles
June 26: South Edmeston, N.Y.: Thunder Ridge
July 10: Newark Valley, N.Y.: Conover Racing
July 24: Homer, N.Y.: Knobby Acres
Aug. 7: TBD: Scooters
Aug. 14: Newark Valley, N.Y.: Victory Mountain Dirt Riders
Aug. 28: Speedville, N.Y.: Cross Country Customs
Sept. 10-11: New Berlin, N.Y.: GNCC at Unadilla
Sept. 18: Moravia, N.Y.: Twisted Fence at Sand Hill
Oct. 9: Hapursville, N.Y.: The Finale
SPECIALTY2016 NATIONALCHAMPION
National Championship 2016 NATIONALCHAMPION
AMA ICE RACE GRAND CHAMPIONSHIPwww.americanmotorcyclist.com
Feb. 13-14: Waterford, Mich.: Pontiac Lake Recreation Area
RECREATION
AMA YAMAHA SUPER TÉNÉRÉ ADVENTURE RIDING SERIESwww.americanmotorcyclist.com
March 4-6: Brooksville, Fla.: Dixie Dual Sport, Inc. - Devil’s Creek Adventure Ride
March 19-20: Tucson, Ariz.: Tuscson Dual Sport, LLC. - 2 Sun Adventure 2016
April 16-17: Bybee, Tenn.: Appalachian Trail Riders - Slate Creek Adventure Ride
June 4-5: Odell, Ore.: Northwest Tour & Trail - Black Dog Adventure Ride
June 4-5: Bixby, Mo.: Midwest Trail Riders Association - Show Me 200 Adventure Ride
June 4-5: Lock Haven, Pa.: Durty Dabbers Motorcycle Club - Durty Dabbers Adventure Ride
June 11-12: Wabeno, Wis.: Wisconsin Dual Sport Riders, Inc. - 2016 Ride for Research
June 27-July 1: Colorado Springs, Colo.: Exit Tours M/C - Pikes Peak Region Adventure Tour
Aug. 20-21: Tillamook, Ore: Northwest Tour & Trail - Rat Dog Adventure Ride
Sept. 10-11: Pineola, N.C.: Appalachian Trail Riders - Blue Ridge National Adventure Ride
Sept. 17-18: Logan, Ohio: Buckeye Dual Sporters - Buckeye Dual Sporters
Sept. 24-25: Wabeno, Wis.: Wisconsin Dual Sport Riders, Inc. - Big Woods 200
Sept. 24-25: Boyce, La.: Acadiana Dirt Riders - Acadiana Adventure 400
2016 EVENTS
SAVEDATE
THE
Mid-Ohio Sports Car
CourseLexington, Ohio
July 8-10,2016
AMAVintage
MotorcycleDays
#AMAVMD www.AMAVintageMotorcycleDays.com
Proceeds benefi t the AMA Motorcycle Hall of Fame
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SAVEDATE
THE
Mid-Ohio Sports Car
CourseLexington, Ohio
July 8-10,2016
AMAVintage
MotorcycleDays
#AMAVMD www.AMAVintageMotorcycleDays.com
Proceeds benefi t the AMA Motorcycle Hall of Fame
0316_VMDAd_SaveTheDate_bgflat.indd 1 2/1/16 10:59 AM
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Oct. 22-23: Prescott Valley, Ariz.: Arizona Trail Riders - Howlin’ at the Moon
BETA AMA NATIONAL DUAL SPORT SERIES
www.americanmotorcyclist.com
March 4-6: Brooksville, Fla.: Dixie Dual Sport, Inc. - Devil’s Creek Adventure Ride
March 19-20: Tucson, Ariz.: Tuscson Dual Sport, LLC. - 2 Sun Adventure 2016
June 4-5: Bixby, Mo.: Midwest Trail Riders Association - Show Me 500 Adventure Ride
June 4-5: Odell, Ore.: Northwest Tour & Trail - Black Dog Adventure Ride
June 4-5: Lock Haven, Pa.: Durty Dabbers Motorcycle Club - Durty Dabbers
June 11-12: Wabeno, Wis.: Wisconsin Dual Sport Riders, Inc. - 2016 Ride for Research
Aug. 12-14: Salida, Colo.: Exit Tours M/C - Colorado 2-Day
Aug. 13-14: Columbus, Ind.: Stoney Lonesome M/C - Buff alo 500
Aug. 20-21: Tillamook, Ore: Northwest Tour & Trail - Rat Dog Dual Sport Ride
Sept. 10-11: McArthur, Ohio: Enduro Riders Association - Baby Burr National Dual Sport
Sept. 10-11: Golden Pond, Ky.: KT Riders - Land Between Lakes 200
Sept. 17-18: Logan, Ohio: Buckeye Dual Sporters - Nut Cracker 200
Sept. 24-25: Buck Meadows, Calif.: Family Off -Road Adventures - Yosemite Dual Sport Adventure
Sept. 24-25: Wabeno, Wis.: Wisconsin Dual Sport Riders, Inc. - Big Woods 200
Oct. 1-2: Mt. Solon, Va.: Washington Area Trail Riders - Shenandoah 500
Oct. 22-23: Prescott Valley, Ariz.: Arizona Trail Riders - Howlin’ at the Moon
Nov. 5-6: Port Elizabeth, N.J.: Tri-County Sportsmen M/C - Hammer Run
Nov. 12-13: Oracle, Ariz.: Trail Riders Of Southern Arizona - There Will Be Dust
AMA NATIONAL GRAND TOURSwww.americanmotorcyclist.com
Jan. 1-Dec. 31: Southern California Motorcycle Association 15 Best Roads: sc-ma.com, scmariskmanager@gmail.com, (602) 705-4902
Jan. 1-Dec. 31: Southern California Motorcycle Association USA Four Corners Tour: sc-ma.com, scmariskmanager@gmail.com, (602) 705-4902
July 3-24: Sister’s Centennial Motorcycle Ride: SistersMotorcycleRide.com, alisa@motoadventuregal.com, (562) 395-3830
Sept. 2-6: Southern California Motorcycle Association Three Flags Classic: sc-ma.com, scmariskmanager@gmail.com, (602) 705-4902
AMA NATIONAL GYPSY TOURwww.americanmotorcyclist.com
Thunder in the Valley (FIM North America Rally)June 23-26: Johnstown, Pa.: JohnstownThunder.com, jstcvb@visitjohnstownpa.com, (800) 237-8590
AMA PREMIER POKER RUNwww.americanmotorcyclist.com
Corn Roast Poker RunAug. 20: Mansfi eld, Ohio: Mansfi eldMotorcycleClub.com, karlae1764@embarqmail.com, (419) 526-5964
AMA SIGNATURE EVENTSwww.americanmotorcyclist.com
March of Dimes - Bikers for Babies (events nationwide): BikerForBabies.orgPediatric Brain Tumor Foundation - Ride for Kids (events nationwide): RideForKids.org
HALL OF FAME EXHIBITS AND EVENTS
AMA MOTORCYCLE HALL OF FAMEwww.motorcyclemuseum.org
The AMA Motorcycle Hall of Fame is on the AMA campus in Pickerington, Ohio, and is open 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. seven days a week. Closed: Easter, Thanksgiving, Christmas Eve, Christmas Day and New Year’s Day.Main Hall: AMA Motorcycle Hall of Fame: The main fl oor of the Motorcycle Hall of Fame celebrates Hall of Fame inductees, the heroes of the track, road, trails and halls of government who have elevated the sport to new heights. Now featuring the 2015 inductees.Founder’s Hall: Honoring the AMA Motorcycle Hall of Fame’s generous contributors.The Birth of a Hurricane: How AMA Motorcycle Hall of Famer Craig Vetter reimagined BSA for an American market.Sam Swope: Philanthropist, Motorcyclist: Motorcycles that represent the generous, charitable giving of Sam Swope.Motorcycle Toys and Collectibles Exhibit: A collection of more than 1,000 motorcycle-inspired toys.
AMA VINTAGE MOTORCYCLE DAYSwww.amavintagemotorcycledays.com
July 8-10: Lexington, Ohio: Demo. bikes from manufacturers, visit the swap meet, watch or compete in vintage racing, meet AMA Hall of Famers, attend seminars and more.
AMA TrademarksThe following represents active, registered trademarks, trademarks and service marks of American Motorcyclist Association, Inc. (AMA). Usage of any AMA trademark or registered trademark without our permission is prohibited. Please contact smaher@ama-cycle.org for more information or assistance.
(800) AMA-JOIN® • AMA Dragbike® • AMA Endurocross® • AMA Motorhead® • AMA Pro Grand National Championship® • AMA Pro Racing® • AMA Race Center™ • AMA Racer® • AMA Racing® • AMA Racing Land Speed Grand Championships® • AMA Supermoto® • AMA Supercross® • AMA SX Lites® • AMA U.S. ISDE Team™ • AMA U.S. Jr. Motocross Team™ • AMA U.S. Motocross Team™ • Amateur National Motocross Championships® • American Motorcyclist Association® • Arenacross® • ATV Hare Scrambles National Championship Series® • ATV Motocross National Championship Series® • Dirt Track Grand Championships™ • Grand National Enduro Championship® • Gypsy Tour® • Hare & Hound National Championship Series® • Hare Scrambles Championship Series® • Hare Scrambles National Championship Series® • Kids Just Want To Ride® • Motorcycle Hall of Fame® • Motorcycle Hall of Fame Museum® • Motorcyclist of the Year® • Motostars® • National Adventure Riding Series® • National Dual-Sport Series® • National Enduro Championship Series® • Protect Your Right to Ride® • Protecting Your Right to Ride® • Ride Straight® • Rights. Riding. Racing.® • Road Race Grand Championships® • Vintage Grand Championships® • Vintage Motorcycle Days® • Vote Like A Motorcyclist®
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2016 EVENTS
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A DANGEROUS HEAVENShaking O� The Shackles Of Fear
I stood in the parking lot that mid-September, staring uneasily at my heavily loaded bike. I had qualms.
Two days earlier, I’d awakened to sun streaming over me in the Sky Hook Motel in Mitchell, Ore.—a cheering sight, given the previous day’s rain and my plan to reach Prineville by way of NF-27. My maps disagreed as to whether this mountain backroad was paved, but just south of the Ochoco Divide Campground on U.S. Highway 26, a ribbon of tarmac disappeared into the trees so I turned right and began a winding climb.
Pine needles carpeting the curves discouraged deep lean angles, but vast forests, crystal-clear in the crisp alpine air, inspired a grin that grew with each new vista. Three miles or so in, I rounded a bend and saw a bright yellow sign announcing, “Pavement Ends.”
Fueled by endorphins, I rode onto the sketchy gravel road. A few hundred feet in, my squirming bike broke the natural high. My Suzuki V-Strom 650 ABS Adventure was up to the challenge but, with little off -asphalt experience, I wasn’t.
“Don’t be stupid,” I told myself and reluctantly began a U-turn. Precarious balance gave gravity the upper hand and my top-heavy Strom (and I) went down. I hit rocky dirt muttering, “Dammit, I’m in trouble now!”
I’d watched videos of women hoisting bikes heavier than mine, but never in gravel. I suspected that mattered.
Uninjured but annoyed, I crawled out from under the bike. I’d planned to explore Smith Rock State Park, but I might be going nowhere for hours if I couldn’t right my bike alone. After several failures that added scratches and weakened my legs, I gave up and signaled for road service with my SPOT device, then unfolded my chair.
I didn’t sit long. A pickup broke the silence and the couple in it stopped to help. Bike upright and reloaded, I canceled my SOS, returned to U.S. 26, and headed to the Eagle Crest Resort in Redmond for a weekend with a friend.
Two days later, as I prepared to continue my journey, I recalled the spill and hesitated by my bike. I felt fear rising. Encountering a situation I couldn’t handle by myself raised a question that shook me.
Am I too old to ride alone? I’m well-acquainted with fear. My
father’s fears molded his life and set the direction of mine. Dad loved fl ying more than anything. He qualifi ed as an instructor and earned every rating he needed to become a commercial pilot. But fear convinced him he couldn’t live this dream and enslaved him to a profession he loathed. I followed his example and fear became what I knew, until his fi nal stories.
I nursed my father through his last weeks of life and he repeatedly told me tales I already knew. In particular, there were two—one about fl ying, the other about dancing— and I listened more attentively, realizing that each revealed joy lost to fear. They expressed a dying man’s grief for a life lived without soaring or swirling.
With Dad’s last laments in mind, I vowed that my fi nal stories would ring with celebration, not regret.
I began facing fears that had, for 40 years, chained me to work that I despised. I asked myself what made me happy and followed the answers. At 63, when I inexplicably fell in love with a well-used 2001 Honda Shadow VLX, I learned to ride and discovered a joy unlike any I’d known.
I chose state Highway 242, a 36-mile jaunt over the McKenzie Pass, simply because my map designated it a scenic route. It proved challenging. Tight blind bends link the short straight stretches and I white-knuckled the bars each time I passed courteous cyclists who pedaled single fi le to let me by. Riding east to west,
terra fi rma dropped away precipitously a few feet to my right, tempting me to hug the double yellow.
Climbing the pass with my eyes on the road, majestic panoramas slipped by unappreciated. Jagged lava spires, arising within reach at the pavement’s edge, accentuated the eeriness of the black fl ows draping the summit. Gliding through hair-pin turns under the sun-fl ecked canopy of the west descent, the air was moist, soothing and richly fragrant. The ride was perilous, yet glorious—a dangerous heaven.
Leaving the pass, I cruised north on state Highway 126 then headed for the Pacifi c Ocean on U.S. Highway 20. I rode through forests and fi elds under brilliant blueness, reveling in all but the Albany and Corvallis traffi c.
Late in the day, with 70 miles of U.S. Highway 101 yet to cover, I paused in Newport. Fog, rain and the settling darkness made the last 30 miles treacherous.
Only a neighboring campfi re was visible as I pulled into the Cape Lookout Campground. I lit a small candle lantern and pitched my tent as mosquitoes sampled my face and hands, then crawled into my down bag, grateful for the ocean rhythms carrying me into sleep.
My father’s deathbed regrets taught me that joy has a price. We pay it by risking the dangers of our particular heaven, having come to terms with the reality that we may not always beat them. My heaven of solitary rides on lonely roads is becoming more challenging as I age, but I’m not ready to give it up. I prepare for the diffi culties I can envision, and I turn back when I realize I should.
That’s the best I can do, for it’s in my nature to ride solo as long as I can. My heaven is dangerous, after all, and it’s worth that risk.
Suzanne Shafer is an AMA member from Milton Freewater,
Ore.
uneasily at my heavily
By Suzanne Shafer
GUEST COLUMN
IF YOU’RE LIKE MOST PEOPLE, IT’S NOT FOR YOU.
©2015 H-D or its affiliates. HARLEY-DAVIDSON, HARLEY, and the Bar & Shield Logo are among the trademarks of H-D U.S.A., LLC.
UNITED BY INDEPENDENTS
Built for the few who defy all the limits.
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IF YOU’RE LIKE MOST PEOPLE, IT’S NOT FOR YOU.
©2015 H-D or its affiliates. HARLEY-DAVIDSON, HARLEY, and the Bar & Shield Logo are among the trademarks of H-D U.S.A., LLC.
UNITED BY INDEPENDENTS
Built for the few who defy all the limits.
The Road Glide® Special. h-d.com/RoadGlide
DIRTSTREETMAIN 47March 2016 4746AM_03_2016_sec10m_Guest_Column.indd 47 2/2/16 9:24 AM
People say riding a motorcycle is dangerous. But for those who can’t imaginelife without two wheels, NOT RIDING A MOTORCYCLE IS DANGEROUS.That’s why Allstate offers protection with one purpose: to keep riders riding.
LOCAL AGENT
877-361-BIKE
ALLSTATE.COM
Subject to terms, conditions, availability and qualifi cations. New Motorcycle Replacement is an optional coverage. Claims will be settled based on customer choice to obtain original equipment manufacturer parts for their bike make and model. Actual savings will vary and may depend on coverages selected. Allstate Indemnity Company, Allstate Property and Casualty Insurance Company, Northbrook, IL and Allstate New Jersey Property and Casualty Insurance Company, Bridgewater, NJ. © 2014 Allstate Insurance Company
CUBICLESAREDANGEROUS.
Client: AllstateCampaign: 2014 Moto Print Agency Job #: 610-ALMOTMG4011AD #/AD ID: AHMO0236Date Modifi ed: 04/29/14 4:20 PMCR: AD Round:
Bleed: 9.25” x 11.875”Trim: 7.625 ” x 10.5”Live: 6.75” x 9.25”
Keyline Scale: 1”= 1”Output at: 100%Page: 1 of 1
Region: USLanguage: EnglishNotes: None
ECD: C. Wickman CD: S. Block AD: A. Prewozniak P: D. Varichak AM: L. Hunter/H. Qualley BM: D. Block CW: J. Bernardin
NOT TO BE USED FOR COLOR APPROVAL
101654_b05_AHMO0236Leo BurnettApril 29, 2014 4:20 PMjmd
Thom Hill, Lebec, CA,leaves the office behind on his Harley® Sportster® 48.
DIRTSTREETMAIN 4848 March 2016
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