In The Wind - BMWMCCbmwmcc.org › pdfs › 2012_03_BMWMCC ITW.pdfDAYTONA BEACH, Fla. – The historic 71st Daytona 200 AMA Pro Racing Daytona SportBike motorcycle classic will once

ColoradoBeemers.org In the Wind 1

In The WindMonthly Meeting

Wednesday, March 14, 2012Monthly meetings are held at Red & Jerry’s, located at 1840 W Oxford Avenue, Sheridan, CO 80110. Dinner and socializing at 5:00 p.m., meeting and speaker at 7:00 p.m.

Every Saturday at 8:30 a.m. (rain, shine, or snow), members meet for breakfast at Red Rocks Grill in Morrison.

If weather permits, we ride afterwards. Most rides are spontaneous, with destinations

determined that morning. Come with ride suggestions!

Monthly Meeting Speakers

April 11, 2912 - Speaker, Steve Farson

May 9, 2012 - Speaker, Bob Kelly

June 13, 2012 - Speaker, Greg Cocks

March 14, 2012

Speaker(s): Karst Postma and Paul “Shu” Shushan

See Page 3 for details.

2012 BMWMCC Ride BookDon’t miss receiving your copy -

Renew Today!

Club Membership$25 Single Membership$35 Couple Membership

Membership Form - Page 12 or Visit: www.coloradobeemers.org

Monthly Scheduled Rides

Mar 17 71st Daytona 200 Superbike Race

Mar 31 Ameche Internment Camp

Apr 01-06 Death Valley, California Trip

Apr 14 Bull’s Eye & Beemers Ride

Apr 28 Bishop Castle


P r e s i d e n t ’ s L e t t e rWaiting for Spring Break...

You may ask yourself, why would Carl be writing about spring break? I’m certain he’s older than most of those colleges that the “spring breakers” attend and have even been in existence - ha!

This story isn’t about the time honored tradition of beaches and bikinis, parties and a week at the beach in the warm sunshine. It’s more about the break I could use from winter right about now.

For most of my adult life I have considered the time between the Superbowl (the last party), and the start of daylight savings time (the unofficial start of the fun season), to be the most restless time of the year.

I find myself pacing around the house, pouting and whining - oh it’s too muddy to hike, it’s too cold and wet, we can’t ride west, all the dirt roads are covered with snow, it gets dark too soon and I can ride 105 to Palmer Lake with my eyes closed. There’s nothing to do, oh poor me; it’s truly sad to see a grown man in such despair!

But I’ll wait, and I’ll watch, and from years of beekeeping, I’ll notice the crocus and the daffodils popping up, and the fruit trees blooming. I’ll feel the sun and warmth on my face, see the longer days, and I’ll know the riding season is upon us once again, and I’ll get my break from the dark days of winter. I’ll get my “Spring Break!”

The 2012 ride book arrives this month. The club has put together an incredible ride and event season - so get out and ride!

See you all real soon,

Carl Thomte

PresidentBMWMCC


M a r c h S p e a k e rKarst Postma and Paul “Shu” Shushan

After six months of preparations, Tom McKinnon, Shu Shushan and Karst Postma shipped their bikes to Germany with the intent of riding from Europe, thru Central Asia, to Mongolia and back during the summer of 2010. As it worked out, they did not make it all the way due to a bike that tried to burn itself down, but they had a great adventure nevertheless.

The three made their way thru ten countries before the trip ended for Karst and the other two made their way back thru another ten countries...or so.

They rode thru snow and searing heat, low hills and high mountains, four lane highways and bike wide dirt roads, got lost a few times in the mountains and in a potato field, and met the most hospitable people you would ever want to run into.

Please join us for Karst and Shu’s presentation March 14th at Red and Jerry’s. They hope to give you a “flavor” of their experiences and to inspire you to set out on your own riding adventure!


Scheduled Events & RidesMarch 17, 2012

71st Daytona 200 Superbike RaceG.I. Jodi’s Bar and Grill

The time has come once again for the start of the American Superbike race season! The Daytona 200 AMA Pro Racing will feature the Daytona Sportbike Class this year.

The race takes place on the 3.5 mile road course at Daytona International Speedway. We kick off the riding season watching this classic race.

Join us for snacks, drinks, camaraderie and race action! Time will be announced.

Meet 1:00 PM - Race Start Time 1:30 PMG.I. Jodi’s Bar and Grill

11550 W. Meadows Drive-#BLittleton, CO 80127

Scheduled for Saturday

DAYTONA BEACH, Fla. – The historic 71st Daytona 200 AMA Pro Racing Daytona SportBike motorcycle classic will once again serve as the finale for 2012 Daytona 200 Week on Saturday afternoon, March 17, Daytona International Speedway officials announced today.

The Daytona 200, America’s most historic motorcycle race, is a grueling and demanding 200-mile race staged on the twists and turns of Daytona International’s Speedway’s 3.51-mile road course.

Motorcycle legends that have captured the Daytona 200 include Scott Russell, Miguel Duhamel, Kenny Roberts, Dick Klamforth, Brad Andres, Roger Reiman, Mat Mladin and most recently riders Ben Bostrom, Josh Herrin and Jason DiSalvo.

Daytona 200 Week motorcycle racing will begin on Saturday night, March 10 with the prestigious Daytona Supercross – the only AMA Supercross event in Florida in 2012.

Top riders such as two-time defending Daytona Supercross champion Ryan Villopoto, James Stewart, Chad Reed, Ryan Dungey and Trey Canard will battle for victory on the tough and challenging course, which will be designed for the fifth straight year by five-time Daytona Supercross winner Ricky Carmichael.

The rest of the Daytona 200 Week schedule including the AMA Pro Flat Track dates and remaining dates for AMA Pro Racing road racing schedule will be announced at a later date.


March - Apri l 2012Saturday, March 31, 2012Ameche Internment Camp

Departure 8:00 AM Red Rocks Grill, Morrison

Carl Thomte | 303-753- 6652 | [email protected] Cocks | 303-828-7576 | [email protected]

April 01-06, 2012Death Valley, California Trip

Departure 8:00 AM Red Rocks Grill, Morrison

Dennis O’Neil | 303-810-4910 | [email protected]

Saturday, April 14, 2012Bull’s Eye & Beemers Ride

9:00 AM Meet - 9:30 AM Depart Dick’s Sporting Goods Parking LotDick’s Sporting Goods Park | 6000 Victory Way | Commerce City 80022

Roy Cherry | 720-273-6772 | [email protected]

Saturday, April 28, 2012Bishop Castle

9:00 AM Red Rocks Grill, Morrison

Greg Cocks | 303-828-7576 | [email protected]

Bull’s Eye & Beemers Ride 2011


Unsafe HelmetsIt’s clear ... Motorcycle helmets save lives. To help protect the lives of motorcycle riders, the U.S. Department of Transportation (DOT) requires that all motorcycle helmets sold in the United States meet Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standard (FMVSS) 218. This standard defines minimum levels of performance that helmets must meet to protect the head and brain in the event of a crash. Each year, DOT conducts compliance testing of a variety of motorcycle helmets to determine whether helmets being sold in the United States meet the Federal safety standard. Because helmets add such a critical margin of safety for motorcycle riders, many States now have laws requiring use of helmets that meet FMVSS 218 requirements. Some motorcycle riders are violating these State laws by wearing unsafe helmets that do not meet FMVSS 218. Most of these helmets are sold as novelty items and circumvent FMVSS 218’s requirements. In some cases, some motorcyclists purchase these helmets in the mistaken belief that they offer protection. However, many people who wear these novelty helmets know that they are unsafe – but wear them anyway.

DOT StickerHelmets that meet FMVSS 218 must have a sticker on the outside back of the helmet with the letters “DOT,” which certifies that the helmet meets or exceeds FMVSS 218. It is important to note that some novelty helmet sellers provide DOT stickers separately for motorcyclists to place on non-complying helmets. In this case, the DOT sticker is invalid and does not certify compliance.

Snell or ANSI LabelIn addition to the DOT sticker, labels located inside the helmet showing that a helmet meets the standards of private, non-profit organizations such as Snell or the American National Standards Institute (ANSI) are good indicators that the helmet also meets the Federal safety standard. To date, we have never seen a novelty helmet that has a phony DOT sticker in addition to a phony Snell or ANSI label.

Manufacturer’s LabelingManufacturers are required under FMVSS 218 to place a label on or inside the helmet stating the manufacturer’s name, model, size, month and year of manufacture, construction materials, and owner’s information. A helmet that does not meet the Federal safety standard usually does not have such labeling.

Provided by U.S. Department of Transportation


N e w H e l m e t E v e d e n c eMotorcycle Helmets Reduce Spine Injuries After Collisions; Helmet Weight As Risk To Neck Called A ‘Myth’

Motorcycle helmets, long known to dramatically reduce the number of brain injuries and deaths from crashes, appear to also be associated with a lower risk of cervical spine injury, new research from Johns Hopkins suggests.

“We are debunking a popular myth that wearing a helmet while riding a motorcycle can be detrimental during a motorcycle crash,” says study leader Adil H. Haider, M.D., M.P.H., an assistant professor of surgery at the Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine. “Using this new evidence, legislators should revisit the need for mandatory helmet laws. There is no doubt that helmets save lives and reduce head injury. And now we know they are also associated with a decreased risk of cervical spine injury.”

For more than two decades, the researchers say, activists lobbying against universal helmet laws have cited a small study suggesting that, in the event of a crash, the weight of a helmet could cause significant torque on the neck that would be devastating to the spine. But results of the new study, published online in the Journal of the American College of Surgeons, shows that helmeted riders were 22 percent less likely to suffer cervical spine injury than those without helmets. The study reviewed and mined the National Trauma Databank, looking through information on more than 40,000 motorcycle collisions between 2002 and 2006.

Even with what researchers say are mountains of evidence that helmets reduce mortality and traumatic brain injury after a collision, many states, including Florida, Pennsylvania and Texas, have over the past 15 years repealed their mandatory helmet use laws after lobbying from motorcycle riders, Haider says. Anti-helmet lobbyists often cite a 25-year-old study which found more spine injuries in helmet wearers. That study, has been criticized by many, including the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration, because of flawed statistical reasoning. “Additionally, helmet technology has significantly improved since that time - now helmets are much lighter but even sturdier and more protective” Haider says.

Forty years ago, Haider says, nearly all states required helmets for motorcyclists of any age in the United States. Today, helmets are mandatory for all riders in only 20 states, Puerto Rico and the District of Columbia.

Motorcycle use has risen sharply over the past 10 years in the United States. Since 1997, motorcycle injuries in the U.S. have increased by roughly 5,000 per year and motorcycle fatalities have nearly doubled, according to the new journal article.

Continued on Page 9


F u n i n C o l o r a d o

Ride the rails through the Royal Gorge on Colorado’s oldest scenic train, the Historic Royal Gorge Route Railroad.

The Royal Gorge Route Railroad offers a class of service for every budget and taste. Choose from comfortable, just-renovated Coach Class with big views, or First Class options like Vista Dome for a classic dining experience or Sunshine Falls Bar and Parlor Car - where you can relax in a private, well-appointed railcar. Excursions and special events include Gourmet Lunch and Dinner aboard the Colorado Wine Train, Murder Mystery Dinners, Easter Bunny Train, Mother’s Day Brunch, Oktoberfest and Santa Express Train.

The Royal Gorge Route Railroad has the largest fleet of Vista Dome cars in the lower 48, offering panoramic views of the gorge in fully restored 1950’s glass topped dome cars. These cars are in service daily for Vista Dome service and gourmet lunch, dinner and wine trains.

Purchase tickets at the Historic Santa Fe Depot in Cañon City which is located directly off Highway 50 (Royal Gorge Boulevard). Turn south on 3rd Street at the traffic light and cross the track to the train depot. The train operates year-round except for the months of January and February and is closed Thanksgiving and Christmas day.

For additional information & schedule call (888) 724-5748 or

visit: www.RoyalGorgeRoute.com

2012 Historic Royal Gorge Route ScheduleMarch 17th - April 30th - Daily Departures at: 12:30pm

Classes of Service available: Coach, Vista Dome and Sunshine Falls Bar and Parlor Car.

Lunch and Lunch in the Dome classes of service are available on March 31st.Easter Day Brunch and Brunch in the Dome are available on April 7th and 8th.


Colorado Byways

Continued From Page 7

New Helmet EvidenceHaider’s study, like many others before, found a reduction in risk of traumatic brain injury in helmet wearers (65 percent) and decreased odds of death (37 percent). But the new paper, Haider says, is the strongest evidence yet that helmets significantly reduce cervical spine injury, which can result in paralysis.

Other Johns Hopkins researchers who contributed to this study include Curt Bone; Keshia M. Pollack, Ph.D., M.P.H.; Cassandra Villegas, M.P.H.; Kent Stevens, M.D., M.P.H.; David T. Efron, M.D.; and Elliott R. Haut, M.D.

Source:Johns Hopkins Medicine

Scenic and Historic BywaysFew states in the nation boast more nationally designated scenic byways than Colorado. But while you may think this has to do solely with the immaculate scenery of Colorado, think again. These byways trace timeless routes of historic and cultural significance, and their status as America’s Byways is a testament to the interlinked communities that have worked so hard to preserve their heritage.

In addition to the 11 nationally designated byways, Colorado also boasts 14 Scenic and Historic Byways recognized by the state for their historic, cultural and scenic value. All told, the byways make Colorado the ultimate road-trip destination in America. Colorado’s most scenic road trips have been designated by the Colorado Department of Transportation and marked by special signs depicting a columbine, Colorado’s state flower. Only one other state has as many nationally designated byways as Colorado. For more information on each of these byways, visit The Official Site of Colorado Tourism at: www.colorado.com/Articles.aspx?aid=42235


Let ’s Ride!

A K1200LT modified to a K1200SP [Snow Plow]. Nothing quite like mixing work with pleasure - can’t say Beemer riders aren’t innovative!

Let’s Ride --- Let’s Plow!!!

Chuck Ferrari


2012 Officers & Board Members

President: Carl Thomte - 303.753.6652 - [email protected]

Vice President: Roy Cherry - 720.273.6772 - [email protected]

Treasurer: Frank Ricci - 720.536.5841 - [email protected]

Secretary: Larry Eckstrom - 303.666.9084 - [email protected]

Membership: Greg Cocks - 303.828.7576 - [email protected]

Webmaster: Ken Off - 303.933.4225 - [email protected]

Club Store: Paul “Shu” Shushan - 303.697.8904 - [email protected]

Safety Director: Mark Konopka - 303.345.1672 - [email protected]

Ride Chair: Dennis O’Neil - 303.810.4912 - [email protected]

Social Director: Siggi Pflumm - 303.671.1425 - [email protected]

ITW Editor: Cathy Catrell - 720.981.8985 - [email protected]

Ride Book Chair: Cathy Catrell - 720.981.8985 - [email protected]

TOR Rally Chair: David Adair - 303.565.0679 - [email protected]

100K Foot Ride Chair: Ken Off - 303.933.4225 - [email protected]

Canyon Mixer Chair: Ken Off - 303.933.4225 - [email protected]

Forum Administrator: Bob Odenweller - [email protected]

Board Trustee: Ken Slough - 303.550-4619 - [email protected]

Board Trustee: Siggi Pflumm - 303.674.1425 - [email protected]

Board Trustee: Jeff Kelley - 303.710.7500 - [email protected]

Join the BMWMCC Facebook page.

All are welcome to become “friends” and post

news, photos, or whatever else you think would be

interesting to other riders.

mailto:[email protected]











Colorado Beemers––the premier motorcycle club of North America! Join like-minded motorcycle fans for club rides, breakfast meetings, social get-togethers, and safety meetings. Enjoy the great roads of Colorado and beyond with other adventurous motorcycle riders with weekly rides, weekend overnights and rides to rallies. Whether dual sport or touring, you are sure to find someone to ride with and enjoy our beautiful state. Colorado Beemers offers a monthly newsletter and an interactive website with an excellent knowledge base just for members. The club sponsors the internationally known “Top of the Rockies Rally,” and the “100,000 Foot Ride,” plus more than two dozen other rides and events. You will enjoy your motorcycle even more by joining this family-oriented, friendly group.

o Application for Membership o Renewal o Change of Address o MOA # _______ o RA # _______ o AMA # ______

Member & Spouse Name:________________________________________________________________Address:________________________________________________________________City, State, Zip:________________________________________________________________Home Phone: Cell Phone:________________________________________________________________Email:________________________________________________________________Bike Model(s):_________________________________________________________

Annual Membership Fees$25 Single / $250 Lifetime

$35 Couple / $350 LifetimeMake checks payable to:

BMWMCCP.O. Box 742

Morrison, CO 80465-5742Sign up online at www.coloradobeemers.org

By signing I/we understand that the BMW Motorcycle Club of Colorado cannot assume responsibility for any aspect of my/our safety and that if I/we participate in any sanctioned event, I/we do so voluntarily on my/our own assessment of ability, the course, and all facilities and conditions, assuming all risks. I/we release and hold BMWMCC harmless for any and all injuries or loss to my/our person or property which may result therefrom.

________________________________________________________________

Signature Spouse Signature

Volunteers Welcome!We would like to volunteer to:

o Lead a Ride o Help with Club Activity

o Help with Club Event o Other ____________

o Help with Club Activity ___________________

C l u b M e m b e r s h i p

P.O. Box 742 | Morrison, CO 80465-5742

http://www.coloradobeemers.org

Documents

In The Wind - BMWMCCbmwmcc.org › pdfs › 2012_03_BMWMCC ITW.pdfDAYTONA BEACH, Fla. – The historic 71st Daytona 200 AMA Pro Racing Daytona SportBike motorcycle classic will once