American Motorcyclist 02 2012 Web Preview Version

FEBRUARY 2012

BENEFITS OF MEMBERSHIP A guide to the representation, rides, races and rewards that are part of your AMA membership.

THE JOURNAL OF THE

Carson City , NV

GREAT EXPERIE CAMARADERIE SEMINARS * RI

Enjoy great roads, great friends and great experiences, not to mention the camaraderie that you can only find in the presence of so many like-minded women motorcyclists. Join us in Carson City, Nev., for the country’s premier gathering expressly for female riders. Expect demo rides, seminars, parties and more at the AMA International Women & Motorcycling Conference.

EARLY REGISTRATION IS AVAILABLE EXCLUSIVELY TO AMA MEMBERS FOR $125, A $50 SAVINGS, THROUGH APRIL 30, 2012.

WomenAndMotorcycling.com For more information about Carson City and the surrounding area, please see visitcarsoncity.com

July 26-29

2012

CARSON CITY, NV

ENCES * DEMOS * GREAT ROADS IDES * PARTIES

NAVIGATION Cover

The AMA does much more than just fight for your right to ride. Every member, including those pictured on the cover, enjoys benefits that help make motorcycling the greatest sport on the planet. For full details, see page 34.

Photo: Collage of AMA members.

Navigation Photo

Motorcycle Hall of Fame Legend Roger DeCoster admires the gorgeous motorcycles on display Nov. 19 in Las Vegas, Nev., as part of the 2011 Motorcycle Hall of Fame Dave Mungenast Memorial Concours d’Elegance. For details, see page 40.

Photo: Sjodin Photography

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 2012.

Printed in USA. Subscription rate: Magazine subscription fee of $10 covered in membership dues; $15 a year for non-members.

Postmaster: Mail form 3579 to 13515 Yarmouth Dr., Pickerington, OH 43147.

Periodical postage paid at Pickerington, Ohio, and at additional mailing offices.

February 2012 Volume 66, Number 2 Published by the American Motorcyclist Association 13515 Yarmouth Dr. Pickerington, OH 43147 (800) AMA-JOIN (262-5646) AmericanMotorcyclist.com

4

AmericanMotorcyclist.com

8. LETTERS

You write, we read.

10. ROB DINGMAN All for one.

12. RIGHTS

Popular California riding area under attack, and fighting a community bike ban.

18. RIDING

Police Training: Learning defensive riding from the pros.

24. RACING

AMA Youth Rider of the Year Austin Lee, and U.S. ISDE team gets a manager.

30. HALL OF FAME

Kenny Roberts’ 1975 TZ750 dirt-tracker, and Hall of Famer Ralph Hepburn.

34. DON’T RIDE ALONE

When it comes to rights, riding and racing, there are benefits to AMA membership, and these benefits are all about one thing—you.

40. EXCELLENCE HONORED

The AMA Visa Card from Capital One Legends & Champions weekend brought motorcycling’s best and brightest to Las Vegas, Nev., on Nov. 18-20.

44. GO RIDE

What to do, where to go.

50. PHIL STEARNS A day at the track.

A Healthy Part Of A Complete Bike Week: Food and Fun With The Fast And Famous.

SAVE THE DATE: FRIDAY, MARCH 16, 2012 Daytona International Speedway • Full details at MotorcycleMuseum.org

ZX14_americanMotorcyclist_3rdPage.pdf

1

11/21/11

4:59 PM

EDITORIAL OFFICES

AMA BOARD OF DIRECTORS

American Motorcyclist 13515 Yarmouth Drive Pickerington, OH 43147 (614) 856-1900 submissions@ama-cycle.org

Contact any member of the AMA Board of Directors at AmericanMotorcyclist.com/ about/board Stan Simpson, Chairman Cibolo, Texas

Grant Parsons, Director of Communications James Holter, Managing Editor Bill Kresnak, Government Affairs Editor Mark Lapid, Creative Director Jen Muecke, Designer Jeff Guciardo, Production Manager/Designer

Maggie McNally, Vice Chairwoman Albany, N.Y. Jon-Erik Burleson, Assistant Treasurer Murrietta, Calif.

Perry King, Assistant Secretary Northern California

ADVERTISING Zach Stevens, National Sales Manager (626) 298-3854, zstevens@ama-cycle.org

John Ulrich, Executive Committee Member Lake Elsinore, Calif.

Steve Gotoski, Advertising Director (Western States) (951) 566-5068, sgotoski@ama-cycle.org

Dwight Conant, Kearsarge, N.H. Charles Goman, Winder, Ga.

Misty Walker, Advertising Assistant (614) 856-1900, ext. 1267, mwalker@ama-cycle.org

C

M

Y

Scott Miller, Milwaukee, Wis.

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 benefits, 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, 2012.

Art More, Surprise, Ariz.

Jim Viverito, Chicago, Ill. AMA PRESIDENT AND CEO Rob Dingman, Pickerington, Ohio

(800) AMA-JOIN (262-5646) AmericanMotorcyclist.com

CM

MY

CONTRIBUTORS AND STAFF

CY

CMY

K

CS

CR

CAMILLA SJODIN, Photographer Camilla has photographed exotic cultures and locales all over the world. We found her in Las Vegas, Nev., where she shot the AMA Visa Card Legends & Champions Weekend.

You can see some of her work starting on page 40. See more at www.sjodinphotography.com.

CRAIG RUEGSEGGER, AMA Member Tester Craig is a street rider who enjoys long days in the saddle. He squeezes in as many two- to three-day trips he can a year on top of his daily commuting. In this issue, he gives his impression of Arai’s new Vector-2, a top-quality street helmet designed for guys just like Craig.

AMY NYSTROM, AMA Member Tester Not only does Amy commute in all seasons, but she rides moto-trials and enjoys dual-sport and adventure riding. With all that road salt and mud in her life, she was a perfect candidate to test Honda’s Spray Cleaner & Polish.

LENNY DOMYAN, AMA Member Tester Lenny, who rides a 2007 Harley-Davidson Heritage Softail Classic, joined Nystrom in the tough assignment of reviewing Honda’s Spray Cleaner & Polish—one product that does two jobs. Who would have thought?

AN

LD

GRANT PARSONS, Director of Communications February is Grant’s favorite month. It’s too late to hook up the battery charger and too close to spring to bother.

MARK LAPID, Creative Director Mark has decided that 2012 will be the year he feeds his dual-sport jones. Is an enduro in the works? Only time will tell.

JAMES HOLTER, Managing Editor James always feels a little bit stupid whenever he drives sheet metal screws into his tires.

BILL KRESNAK, Government Affairs Editor The best trade Krez never made? Not swapping cash for a Kawi H1. “What’s money? You can’t ride it?” he asks. Word.

JEN MUECKE, Designer How long must you keep tire warmers on in 15-degree weather? About two laps.

JEFF GUCIARDO, Production Manager/Designer Jeff says he’s just cutting a few pounds, but the results suggest something more. Training for EnduroCross?

Other contributors include: Shan Moore, Jeff Kardas, Phil Stearns, Motorcycle Safety Foundation

MEMBER LETTERS

Send your letters (and a high-resolution photo) to submissions@ama-cycle.org; or mail to 13515 Yarmouth Drive, Pickerington, OH 43147. vehicle safety, education and seeing new trails built and old trails staying open.

LETTER OF THE MONTH

MOTORCYCLIST OF THE YEAR As an active supporter for over a decade of kids’ motorcycle racing and as the Kids Committee chairwoman for one of the finest kids’ enduro and hare scrambles series in our country (the Southern Enduro Riders Association), I want to express my happiness in the AMA’s selection for Motorcyclist of the Year, Nancy Sabater.

I have never met Nancy before, but seeing our “Moto-Patriot” on the cover of the AMA’s first issue for 2012 and seeing her recognized for the great lengths she went through to fight for our children’s rights to own a motorcycle brought an enormous sense of satisfaction and approval from me. And that was well before I even had the opportunity to read the article!

And what an article it was! I thoroughly enjoyed learning more about Nancy and her endless endeavors along with her own personal reasons on why having the lead law defeated was drastically important to her. Nancy’s comment on why she attended the rally in D.C. really hit home for me.

“There are people who want to go but can’t. Let’s represent them,” Nancy said.

Well, Nancy, for myself and for all of the SERA Kids who share the same love of motorcycle racing as you, we genuinely thank you for stepping up, speaking up and representing all of us on such a very important and momentous day for our youth riders when we could not. Congratulations, your award is well deserved!

Carolyn Reed Denham Springs, La.

AMA MOTORCYCLIST OF THE YEAR I would like to take this opportunity to congratulate Nancy Sabater on the honor of being chosen as the AMA’s 2011 Motorcyclist of the Year.

As the author of legislation to exclude youth-model motorcycles and ATVs from the Consumer Product Safety Improvement Act (CPSIA), I was impressed by all of the individuals and families who dedicated hours upon hours of their time to promoting my bill, the Kids Just Want to Ride Act. But among all those volunteers one person truly stood out, and that’s Nancy Sabater. Nancy is an example of what strong dedication to a cause and grassroots advocacy can lead to, and I was proud to declare victory with her as the bill to forever exclude these vehicles from the CPSIA was signed into law this summer.

Thank you to all of the youth riders and families that worked with me on the Kids Just Want to Ride Act, and a special thank you to Nancy Sabater for her time and efforts. I can think of no better person to receive the honor of 2011 Motorcyclist of the Year. Congratulations!

Denny Rehberg Member of Congress (R-Mont.)

8

AmericanMotorcyclist.com

AMA CLUB OF THE YEAR What a year for Cheaha Trail Riders!

First, there was the NOHVCC Club of the Year Award and then the AMA Club of the Year Award. This is great news, and we appreciated it greatly. It is a great honor to be selected as Club of the Year by the AMA. Our organization has worked hard each year, but we never work to receive an award. When it comes and we receive this type of recognition, it just makes us want to continue working hard to make a difference in America for off-highway

Danny Hubbard

Danny Hubbard Director, Public Relations Cheaha Trail Riders Inc. THE BEST PEOPLE Your cover and article on Debbie Evans was a great look at a very talented and interesting person who has earned her success. I met Debbie in the late ’70s while she was riding the AMA National Trials series. As someone who would never be more than a competent middleof-the-class rider, I was impressed with her skills and ability on two wheels.

I was more impressed, however, with the person behind the skills and ability. She was down to earth, focused, intelligent and fun. She was supportive of females (and at the time there were very few of us) involved in trials and I appreciated her encouragement. She gave a wonderful interview before one National to the local Rhode Island newspaper that conveyed a very positive picture of observed trials and of the people, male and female, who participated in the sport.

Reading about the stunt competition elicited a big grin and my memory of watching it on television (I believe Wide World of Sports). I was cheering like a maniac when she won the car-driving competition.

My involvement in observed trials has allowed me to meet and get to know many wonderful people and I’m honored that Debbie Evans was one of those who crossed my path! Thanks and ride safe Debbie!

Karen DeRita Richardson Albuquerque, N.M. PASS THE SALT, PLEASE After reading about George Richardson in the November issue and Gary llminen in the December American Motorcyclist, I felt like I needed to chime in for I, too, fulfilled a lifelong dream of running down the salt.

Once you have done it, all you want are more opportunities to race on the salt. It’s just like eating salt on your food; you get addicted to it.

The out run, impound and the return run consumed a whole day for any rookie like myself. The preparation of checking every nut and bolt twice, only to wonder while in pre-stage what you missed can be overwhelming; but it all goes away once you turn left onto the groomed salt flat and start to twist the throttle.

There’s nothing like the excitement of heading down the track between the red

I am astounded by this lady’s grit and determination. What an inspiration to us all! She overcame so much to reach her goal.

It’s a great story for anyone who is struggling now. I am sure her Dad would be so proud of her and the positive results of his love, guidance and mentorship.

I would love to see a full-length article and some updates on this AMA-zing upand-coming racer!

Gene Carey

flags, kissing the tank and pinning the throttle for a 2- to 3-minute ride. The out run is only half the battle, for you need the return run to conclude any record.

My base rolling chassis was a 1973 KZ400 with a blown engine that I modified into an electric bike. I’ve been able to establish two records in the electric bike class, one in 2010 and one in 2011.

While I didn’t peel paint off the bike frame, I did accomplish a personal goal of mine with the runs. Just being able to run on the salt and set records among all the past great racers was a great privilege for me on the hallowed ground of land-speed racing.

Gene Carey Indianapolis GREAT GIFT I read the story on Shayna Texter in the December 2011 issue of American Motorcyclist.

Michael Thomas Atlanta, Ga. DISTRACTED DRIVING I just read “Distracted Driving Out of Control” (December issue) and could not agree more. Drivers already have the distractions of scenery, talking to passengers, even listening to the radio.

Traveling down the highway on an interstate at 70 mph beside vehicles tailgating 10 feet behind each other is dangerous enough, but when these people are texting, talking on their cell phone, and doing other dangerous behaviors, it causes me to constantly look for an escape (which I am anyway).

No one is perfect. I understand that all too well. But driving down the highway today is like a bullet looking for a target or a target looking for a bullet. I love motorcycling. I try to stay off of the interstate and other divided four-lane

highways but I can’t always do that. Even if I could, it’s dangerous enough riding or driving down a two-lane with someone approaching, passing or following while distracted.

The Allstate research [referenced in the article] mentioned drinking as one of the distractions. I admit that it is, but how can that particular distraction be eliminated?

A motorcyclist can install a cup holder on the handlebars, and every car purchased today has a cup holder. Even police cars have cup holders. But cup holders and drinking should be the least of our concerns.

Let’s push for every state to enforce [bans on] texting and cellphone use while driving. People are not going to stop having children, and they are not going to leave them at home, and we probably can’t outlaw allowing children to ride in the car with us but, as your article clearly states, distracted driving is far out of control.

Hal Shoemaker Gretna, Va. CORRECTION In the January 2012 AMA Member Tested on the Helmetlok Carabiner, we omitted the website for the product’s U.S. distributor: www.helmetlok.us. One HelmetLok is $25. The optional cable is an additional $10.

On Facebook? Us, too! Like the fan page of the American Motorcyclist Association, and you could leave comments like these: www.facebook.com/AmericanMotorcyclist

Way to go, Nancy! Thanks for all of your hard work! Congratulations!— The Malcolm Family, in response to the announcement that grassroots activist Nancy Sabater is the 2011 AMA Motorcyclist of the Year.

Thank you, AMA. Your roadside assistance saved my tail Friday night out on Hwy 99 on my way up to Paradise.—Tim Stottlemyer, commenting on AMA Roadside Assistance. (AMA Roadside Assistance is available for no extra charge when you opt for auto-renewal. Details at AmericanMotorcyclist.com.)

One traffic light, turn left, and up into the Wasatch mountain canyons toward Park City, Utah; Wyoming; etc. This is the whole reason I relocated from the tri-state area

in New York to Utah: the roads right behind my house.—Faisel Zaman, commenting on how far he has to ride from his garage to great roads.

Chicago’s 34th annual Toys for Tots ride...rain or snow.—Steve Bodie, answering the question, Where are you going to ride this weekend?

Making “vroom, vroom” sounds in my garage. Kawasaki doesn’t do well in a foot and a half of snow.—Chris Seidel, same question.

High five to the American Motorcyclist Association!—Cycle News, responding to a report that a bill heavily regulating track dust was defeated in Congress.

You can connect with fellow AMA members on Facebook. You can also always find more information at AmericanMotorcyclist.com.

February 2012

9

FROM THE PRESIDENT

ALL FOR ONE The AMA Is The One National Organization That Represents The Interests Of All Motorcyclists.

The greatest strength of your AMA is its membership and that membership’s great diversity. The AMA is made up of all kinds of motorcyclists, from the 6-year-old motocross racer, to the 20-something sportbike rider, to the middle-aged trail rider, to the urban commuter, to the vintage flat tracker, to the baby boomer cruiser rider, to the adventurous dual-sport rider, to the two-up tourers and everything in-between.

By Rob Dingman Our greatest strength, however, also presents our greatest challenge—how to be all things to all people. If you joined the AMA because you were a racer, for example, you may expect the AMA to do more for racers and not even be aware of the other things with which the AMA is involved. By the same token, if you are a member of a state motorcycle rights organization, you may wonder why the AMA is involved in racing at all—and why we focus on racing programs as earnestly as we support our government relations activity. If you’re an urban street rider, our opposition to more federal Wilderness may not make sense to you.

For many, the motorcycling interest that you joined the AMA to pursue may be what you perceive the AMA to be focused on, yet the fact is that the AMA represents many riding constituencies.

The AMA is the one national organization that represents the interests of all motorcyclists. If such an organization didn’t exist, it would have to be invented to do all the things that the AMA does for riders in this country.

It’s that broad base—the big tent—that makes your AMA the most powerful voice in American motorcycling. When we all work together, there’s nothing we can’t accomplish.

Since many people aren’t familiar with everything the AMA does, this issue of American Motorcyclist contains a special section that summarizes the many benefits and services you enjoy as an AMA member. You can also get a full-color copy of the allnew AMA Member Benefits Guide online at AmericanMotorcyclist. com > Members.

There are many benefits of AMA membership. We have made a concerted effort over the last few years to develop the list of member benefits so that there would be something for every type of motorcyclist. We’re working all the time, too, on expanding that list. Among the slate of benefits are many tangible member discounts for things like gear or lodging that allow you to get back

“ 10

When we all work together, there’s nothing we can’t accomplish.

AmericanMotorcyclist.com

”

much more than the cost of your membership.

At the same time, there are numerous non-monetary benefits that are in many ways even more valuable to riders. I’m talking about our national government relations staff fighting for your rights as a motorcyclist, both in Washington, D.C., and in state capitals across the country, or our racing staff that makes sure all AMA competition is fair and equitable to offer the best experience possible.

Even those of you who understand what the AMA is and does for its members may not fully appreciate the importance of the AMA to the future of motorcycling. Take, for example, the recent lead law victory and its effects on a very important group within the motorcycling community: race promoters.

In addition to kids and families, there are a lot of people who benefited from the AMA’s efforts to fix the lead law. Race organizers and promoters are among them because the victory secured the immediate future for young riders and racers who fill the start gates at their events. In turn, it is the efforts of race promoters that help to ensure a strong future for adult motorcyclists and our industry, because if youngsters don’t learn to ride, the next generation of riders is suddenly at risk. If the pool of overall riders shrinks because of that, motorcyclists will find themselves with fewer numbers, and less clout, when it comes to protecting and promoting the motorcycle lifestyle.

Dig deep in motorcycling, and you find that everything is interconnected on one level or another. That is why it is important that we all work together. In the above scenario, for example, that means that AMA members should support those promoters who support the AMA. Tell event promoters who don’t sanction with the AMA how important their support of the AMA is to you, and encourage them to step up to the gold standard and become AMA sanctioned.

When you participate in an AMA-sanctioned event, you can be secure in the knowledge that the event will be governed by a fair and appropriate set of rules, that it will be safe with stringent risk management protocols in place, that it will be properly insured, that you will be racing against others at your skill level and that the event promoter supports the efforts of the AMA to protect the future of motorcycling. Equally important, only the AMA can award an AMA national No. 1 plate.

This example is, of course, only a small slice of how all motorcyclists can benefit by working together through the AMA’s efforts on your behalf. On pages 34-39 of this magazine, you can read about the many other benefits of AMA membership. I hope you’ll discover more good things about the AMA that you didn’t realize before.

Rob Dingman is president and CEO of the AMA.

MOST BIKERS ARE ALSO SOMETHING ELSE. GOOD THING WE COVER ALL KINDS. And we don’t just cover you, we cover you in some of the best ways possible. That’s why we’re the #1 motorcycle insurer. Ready to ride with the best? Visit progressive.com, call 1-800-PROGRESSIVE or a local agent today.

Progressive Casualty Ins. Co & its affiliates, Mayfield Village, OH. No.1 in motorcycle from 2009 Millward Brown national survey data. 11D00155 (02/11)

RIGHTS POPULAR CALIFORNIA RIDING AREA UNDER ATTACK Oceano Dunes Could Face Fines for Dust Despite protests from off-highway riders and state and local officials, a county air pollution board in California is pointing its finger at the Oceano Dunes State Vehicular Recreation Area (SVRA).

On Nov. 17, members of the San Luis Obispo County Air Pollution Control District board voted 7-4, with one abstention, to require the state to cut down on the particulates blowing from the sand dunes or face daily fines of up to $1,000.

Oceano Dunes is located at Pismo Beach, halfway between San Francisco and Los Angeles, and is one of the most popular state parks in California. It features more than five miles of beach open for vehicle use and has sand dunes that are open to off-highway vehicles (OHVs).

Based on a scientific study, the board claims that off-highway vehicles at Oceano Dunes are causing particulates to blow down to the community of Nipomo Mesa, causing health problems.

The state and others, meanwhile, claim that the study

12

AmericanMotorcyclist.com

is flawed. Off-highway riders fear the new rule to control particulates from the park is an attempt to close the dunes to OHVs. The San Luis Obispo County Air Pollution Control District has come under attack for relying on fines and fees to pay employee salaries. CalCoastNews.com reports that the district has 21 workers and 19 of them earn more than $100,000 a year in salaries and benefits.

“I’ve been following the issue very closely, and I know that the California State Parks Department doesn’t want to do anything that would endanger the health and safety of anyone,” says Nick Haris, AMA Western states representative. “I know they want to work with the district to take mitigating measures and ease the concerns of Nipomo Mesa residents.

“I also know that the state believes the air pollution board’s study is seriously flawed, and I wouldn’t be surprised if the state challenges the new rule in court,” Haris says.

RIGHTS

L-R: Fernando de la Torre and Bob Bumgarner

MOTORCYCLISTS FIGHT BIKE BAN

Photos Oceano: Frank Hoppen; Ban: John R. Hart

Gated Community Says ‘No Motorcycles’ Imagine living in a 3,000-home gated community and being forced to park your motorcycle outside the residential area because motorcycles are prohibited.

It doesn’t matter that your bike is perfectly maintained and has a stock, quiet exhaust system.

It doesn’t matter that your motorcycle is legally licensed for use on public roads.

It doesn’t matter that you’re a lawabiding citizen who has never caused any trouble for the community.

What matters is that you ride a motorcycle, and that it’s not allowed in this community.

Sound like discrimination? It is.

But AMA Member Bob Bumgarner, Lake Wildwood Motorcycle Club President Fernando de la Torre and other riders are fighting back.

They live in the 3,000-home Lake Wildwood gated community in Penn Valley, Calif., about an hour north of Sacramento. The Lake Wildwood community bans motorcycles.

Sure, you can live there and own a motorcycle. You just have to park it in a lot outside the community entrance gate and then walk or drive to your house. For Bumgarner, that’s 2.8 miles.

Bumgarner says the developer imposed the bike ban in 1971 when the housing project was getting under way and off-highway riders were riding on the vacant lots. The developer suggested the ban “could be changed [later] as circumstances change.”

Bumgarner and others believe it’s time.

“Forty years later, all but a handful of lots have been built out, the perimeter is fenced and we have a full-time security force,” Bumgarner says. “Clearly, the circumstances have changed but the policy against bikes has not.”

In 2004, the Lake Wildwood Motorcycle Club tried to get the community board to allow a trial period so that residents could ride their bikes to their homes. But the homeowners rejected the proposal.

“Unfortunately, the community voted down the trial by a nearly 3-to-1 margin, and that vote stands today as the reason the [community] board will not even consider the granting of a variance to

motorcyclists,” Bumgarner says.

Now, Bumgarner and other community motorcyclists are proposing that the community board grant a variance on a case-by-case basis for motorcycles that have federal Environmental Protection Agency sound-compliant exhausts.

“We proposed that only bikes with EPA-compliant mufflers be allowed simply because the potential for excessive noise was the only reason to ban motorcycles we were able to identify,” Bumgarner says.

On Nov. 3, Bumgarner and the others proposed that the matter go to binding arbitration. As of Nov. 28, however, they hadn’t heard back on their proposal.

The group contacted AMA Board Member Perry King for assistance, and King facilitated a response from the AMA Government Relations Department.

Nick Haris, AMA Western states representative, sent a letter to the president of the Lake Wildwood Association board supporting the riders.

Haris asked if the board would ban all cars from the property because one had an excessively loud exhaust system.

“Certainly not,” Haris wrote. “Then why is it reasonable to ban the operation of an entire class of legally licensed motor vehicles (motorcycles) without just cause?”

Heat ON. Heat OFF. Gerbing’s New Microwire® Heated Jacket Liner helps keep you warm when you’re on your bike.

And with its Hybrid Technology and available FlexPack Battery, you can stay warm when you’re off the bike as well. » Patented Microwire technology is so thin you can’t feel the wires » Instant heat -- Instant adjustments -- Instant comfort » Optional FlexPack Battery delivers up to 3.5 hours of off-bike heat » A full range of sizes, including different sleeve lengths, to fit you right Microwire Heat and Hybrid Technology. Gerbing’s brings you the best of both worlds. Heat on the bike and heat off the bike. Contact your nearest Gerbing’s Microwire Dealer and experience what the world’s warmest riders know.

www.gerbing.com (800) 646-5916

®

GER0113 Ride it Ad.indd 1

FEAR NO TEMPERATURE!

7/20/11 9:20 AM

Lock

In Your Membership and Save

Money

Renew now AMA Membership went up to $49/year on January 1, 2012, but existing members can renew for the old $39 rate through March 31, 2012.

Bank even more savings by buying a three-year membership at the reduced rate. Plus, a threeyear membership comes with free AMA Roadside Assistance at no additional charge.

Save money. Get peace of mind on the road. Support your right for ride. Renew now!

Online: AmericanMotorcyclist.com Phone: (800) 262-5646

U.S. INTERIOR DEPARTMENT PROPOSES MORE WILDERNESS Riding Opportunities Could Be Lost Access to thousands—and potentially millions—of acres of public land in nine states could be lost to motorcyclists and others under a massive land-use designation proposal submitted to Congress on Nov. 10.

The proposal, submitted by the U.S. Interior Department, is titled: “Preliminary Report on BLM Lands Deserving Protection as National Conservation Areas, Wilderness or Other Conservation Designation.”

The report identifies 18 areas in nine states that Interior Secretary Ken Salazar says should be managed as national conservation areas or Wilderness areas.

Those states are California, Colorado, Idaho, Montana, Nevada, New Mexico, Oregon, Utah and Washington.

Wayne Allard, AMA vice president for government relations, says AMA staff members are still analyzing the proposal, “but initial indications are that the report identifies more areas that should be designated as Wilderness or National Conservation Areas than areas that promote responsible motorized recreation.

“The AMA and many other groups have battled Wilderness proposals in the past that didn’t meet the strict criteria for earning a Wilderness designation under federal law, and the U.S. Interior Department’s new plan may include a lot of acreage that simply isn’t appropriate for Wilderness designation,” Allard says.

The BLM manages more than 245 million acres of public land nationwide, primarily in 12 western states.

U.S. Rep. Rob Bishop (R-Utah), who is chairman of the House Natural Resources National Parks, Forests and Public Lands Subcommittee, stresses that BLM land-

use decisions need to be made based on what the affected communities want.

“The long-term solutions for these lands in question will come from a locally driven process, not from dictates out of Washington,” Bishop says. “While we are considering lands for additional protections, the Interior Department has to include as part of the discussion federal lands that are currently locked up that could, and should, be managed for multiple use or given back to the states altogether.

“That element appears to be missing from the report and Interior’s general dialogue,” he says.

A Wilderness designation is one of the strictest forms of public land management.

Once Congress designates an area as Wilderness, nearly all forms of nonpedestrian recreation are prohibited.

A National Conservation Area is another land-use designation bestowed

by Congress to preserve land and may involve strict limits on motorized use.

The AMA supports appropriate Wilderness designations that meet the criteria established by Congress in 1964.

But over the years, groups opposed to responsible off-highway vehicle recreation have been abusing the Wilderness designation process to ban motorcyclists, all-terrain vehicle riders and bicyclists from public land, as well as to block access for the elderly, handicapped and children who rely on motorized transportation to enjoy public land.

Salazar has indicated that he hopes this report is incorporated into an omnibus public lands bill similar to another public lands bill that passed Congress in 2009 that ultimately closed 2.1 million acres.

Photos Wilderness: Jeff Kardas; Sound: Imre Szauter

RIGHTS

MOTORCYCLE SOUND TESTING DEMONSTRATED IN NEW HAMPSHIRE Procedure Is Simple, Effective Law enforcement officials, motorcyclists’ rights organization members and others gathered in a Concord, N.H., parking lot on Nov. 9 to conduct motorcycle sound testing using the procedure developed by the Society of Automotive Engineers, SAE J2825.

Hosted by the New Hampshire

Automobile Dealers’ Association, the event tested seven different motorcycles to demonstrate how the test procedure works with various types of bikes and exhaust systems.

Among those who took part in the testing and discussed the procedure were Police Chief Brian Page of North Hampton, Police Chief Kevin Walsh of Rye, State Police Sgt. Stephen Kace, state House Transportation Chairman Sherm Packard (R-Londonderry), AMA Government Affairs Manager Imre Szauter, New Hampshire Motorcyclists’ Rights Organization Vice President Candy

Alexander and representatives of various motorcycle dealerships.

“This was a great opportunity for everyone involved to see how straightforward motorcycle sound testing is using the SAE J2825 procedure,” Szauter says.

The AMA has long maintained a position of strong opposition to excessive motorcycle sound. The SAE J2825 standard is at the heart of model legislation developed by the AMA for use by jurisdictions seeking a simple, consistent and economical way to deal with sound complaints related to onhighway motorcycles within the larger context of excessive sound from all sources.

The SAE J2825 stationary sound testing procedure—“Measurement of Exhaust Sound Pressure Levels of Stationary OnHighway Motorcycles”—was developed and adopted by the SAE with support from the Motorcycle Industry Council in May 2009.

Under the SAE J2825 standard, sound limits range from 92 to 100 decibels.

For information on the AMA’s model legislation and to get other sound-related information, go to AmericanMotorcyclist. com > Rights > Sound Management.

Choose your Card design...

Select from designs that reflect your style.

...then seleCt your produCt online Go online for these additional product options. Select the one that fits your needs.

rewards Visa® Card For those who want to earn great rewards on everyday purchases.

low intro rate Visa® Card Save on balance transfers and everyday purchases.

Apply online at www.AMAVisa.com

Credit building Visa® Card For those who are new to credit or want to rebuild their credit.

RIGHTS

2011 OFF-HIGHWAY SUMMARY The AMA Government Relations Department monitored approximately 1,100 pieces of state legislation related to both on- and off-highway riding in all 50 states and Washington, D.C., and took action when necessary. Those actions included informational mailings to AMA members, news releases, testimony before lawmakers and providing information to key legislative committees. Here’s a breakdown of the off-highway legislation followed during the 2011-2012 legislative sessions around the country through Nov. 18, 2011. The onhighway breakdown was included in the January issue.

LAND moto USE: Re g rized recre ulation o f ation (38) MISC requir ELLANEO e soun ments, emUS: Equip OHV d reg R ulatio issions re ment n, an desig OAD US d utilit gulation, ned f E: Th y veh or off icles -road e use of v (39) ehicle use on pu s blic r oads (29) SNO W M OBIL MOT progr O E: a that c RIZED T prece m fundin Trends in RAIL reate

de sim g and and PRO re snowm ilar tr main ends gulation o obile tain mGRAM: P

f fte or oth ro otoriz er OH n ed tra grams REG Vs (3 ils (21 ISTR 7) ) ATIO N (22 ) OHV : Reg

ulatio

n of o

ff-hig h

way v

ehicle

YOU T of dir H: Regula tbike s and tions invo lv ATVs by y ing the us oung sters e (8) ATV: Regu lation s spe cific t ALCO o allHOL terrain /IMP vehic AIRE D OP les (1 5) ERAT ION (6) TAX: T direc axes levie tly be nefit d on dirtb RIDE a mo R ED torize ikes that d UCA d trail o TION s pro n’t (3) gram (12 HELM

ET U

TITL

ING

16

SAG

(3)

AmericanMotorcyclist.com

E (4)

)

s oth

er tha

n dirt bikes and LIAB ATVs ILITY (22) legisla AND

t I io N n S

affect privat URA N in e prope and pub g liability CE: Inclu li d e facilit rty owners c motorize xposure f es y liab or

d a

n r e d c ilit o insura re nce r y, and ind perators, ation equir emen ividual liab racing ility ts (36 )

RIGHTS

EDUCATING DRIVERS TO WATCH FOR MOTORCYCLES Caution Sign Installed At Purdue University The Motorcycle Safety at Purdue (MS@P) campaign has posted a motorcycle caution road sign adjacent to Purdue University in West Lafayette, Ind., as part of its effort to make roads safer for everyone.

Associate Professor Marifran Mattson, adviser to the student-run MS@P, says the sign was made possible through a partnership between MS@P and the city of West Lafayette.

The MS@P campaign encourages motorcycle riders to wear safety gear, get licensed and obey traffic laws. The campaign also encourages drivers to be aware of motorcycles. Info: ItInvolvesYou.com.

NEW MOTORCYCLE TRAILS OPEN IN SOUTH DAKOTA

Photos Trails: Courtesy Bill Hearne; Purdue: Courtesy MS@P

AMA Volunteers Play Key Role

There are now 20 miles of new motorcycle-only trails in South Dakota’s Black Hills National Forest, and more are on the way, thanks to the hard work of U.S. Forest Service crews and volunteers.

Bill Hearne and Gary Schmidt “These new ‘motorcycle-only’ trails require advanced riding skills,” says Bob Thompson, acting deputy forest supervisor for the Black Hills National Forest.

Tom Willems, recreation planner and partnership coordinator, adds: “We could not have done this without the help and support from our many volunteers and partnership organizations that have been there from the beginning” last spring.

“Bill Hearne, Bob King, Ted Erlewine, Gary Schmidt and Ryan McFarland were some of the key volunteers who organized the trail initiative and helped to get the ball rolling,” he says. “We would like to thank them for all of their outstanding work and time that they devoted to the project.”

Among the other volunteers were AMA Board Chairman Stan Simpson and members of the Texas Sidewinders Motorcycle Club, who did a lot of hard work to help create the trails.

Hearne, a trail volunteer and recently retired owner of Outdoor Motorsports in Spearfish, S.D., says: “by working with responsible groups, including the American Motorcyclist Association, we are working to create a process for identifying trails and speeding up the process to open them.”

DAN’s AN origiNAl.

And so is his Yuasa battery – the original equipment battery on more motorcycles, snowmobiles, all-terrain vehicles and personal watercraft than all other brands combined.

To locate your nearest Yuasa dealer, visit www.yuasabatteries.com.

THE ORIGINAL EQUIPMENT BATTERY

Buy Yuasa Batteries online!

Now you have the power to purchase our most popular Yuasa batteries at www.yuasabatteries.com.

Our dealers will ship them directly to you, or arrange for in-store pickup.

RIDING

DISPATCH FROM POLICE TRAINING

Learning Defensive Riding From The Pros By Rocco Capoccia It’s funny. You think you know how to ride a bike. But then you get introduced to a new program with different techniques and you realize you’re still learning.

Wait, did I say, “a bike?” According to Doug Wolfe, chief instructor and proprietor of Midwest Police Motorcycle Training (MPMT), a bike is a Schwinn or a Huffy. It’s not a motorcycle, a machine, or in police parlance, a “motor.”

I met Doug as part of my ongoing quest to improve in the fine art of motorcycle operation. I’m at MPMT in Troy, Mich., signed up for the entry-level Civilian Course. According to Doug, the difference between the civilian and professional courses are that the civilian course omits elements involving how, to a police officer, a motorcycle is a professional tool. To me, it’s sport, fun and transportation, and the Civilian Class is tailored to those expectations.

Our first day starts with a brief overview in the morning classroom session, and we get to know Doug a bit better. He’s an interesting character. His background includes a seven-year stint at Michigan State University where he was responsible for developing its Law Enforcement Motorcycle Program. He was also its primary test rider for all sorts of experiments on proper riding technique and situational analysis.

There are two main parts of the MPMT program: road speed and low-speed riding techniques. For low-speed maneuvers,

18

AmericanMotorcyclist.com

using torque is one of the most important techniques. Doug distinguishes between speed and torque. Speed makes you go fast, but torque allows you to properly control a motorcycle at low speeds.

At road speeds, braking is the critical component. Doug says he can teach a monkey to ride at 70 mph, but he cannot teach it to ride safely if it can’t learn to brake.

At the range, there are several trailers with Harley-Davidson Police Special Road Kings lined up in front of them and several hundred cones placed over an area the size of two football fields. The cones are large—think highway maintenance crews—and are far more intimidating than what I am used to.

After an explanation of controls and a pre-ride vehicle inspection, we get our first lesson in torque application and an impressive demonstration of Doug’s ability to make this 850-pound motorcycle move like a 95-pound ballet dancer.

The drills represent typical low speed riding; U-turns, figure eights, 90-degree turns from a stop. I thought I would be fine because I practice these techniques regularly. However, I was wrong. Specific to MPMT’s style, there is heavy emphasis on low-speed modulation through the rear brake. The constant rear brake modulation is new to me, and the tall cones make the ordeal much more difficult.

I’m looking right at the cones I do not want to hit. Two words; target fixation. As I

ride into and over the cones, I feel foolish.

As I ride, I see my mistakes playing out in my mind in slow motion. I finally get it, stop looking at the cones, look through the turns and improve. Like most things, with each attempt, my technique improves ever so slightly.

On the second day, we start with individual practice of the previous day’s techniques. Then, we move onto the road-speed portion of the training. Our first lesson is to learn what rear-wheel lock up feels like. We reach a predetermined speed and once crossing into a skid area, forcefully apply the rear brake, maintaining an upright torso and looking up and straight ahead.

Doug says that if the rear wheel drifts to the side, we should turn into the skid.

Thankfully, for me this is the natural reaction. That—along with staying on the skid to prevent high sides—and keeping the field of vision up and forward, makes this drill less problematic than I imagined.

Next, we practice a brake-and-escape drill. Starting slow and increasing speed with successive attempts, we enter an emergency braking area then transition to low-speed techniques to evade an

MAGGIE McNALLY ELECTED VICE CHAIR AMA International Women & Motorcycling Conference Among Major 2012 Initiatives Maggie McNally, the Northeast Region member representative on the AMA Board of Directors, has been elected vice chairwoman of the board. McNally, who has served on the board since 2009, is the first woman to hold the post.

“Maggie McNally has played an invaluable role in the leadership of the AMA,” says AMA Chairman of the Board Stan Simpson. “She’s been an active member of our nominating, state chapters and awards committees. We welcome her expanded responsibilities on the board as we strive to find new ways to promote and protect the motorcycling lifestyle.”

A longtime resident of Albany, N.Y., McNally is the third woman elected to the AMA Board of Directors. She follows notables such as Hall of Famer Hazel Kolb, elected to the board in 1978, who served as secretary. Following Kolb’s

obstacle. Trust me, maximum braking in a short distance within a tight space, then gaining low-speed control to evade a hazard in less time than you can read this, is not easy.

I walk through this drill several times, coaching myself. An instructor tells me to stop over-thinking it. I manage to get two clean runs in, attain proper speed, stop within the specified distance, and clear out without hitting any cones. During several other attempts, I lock up the rear tire and am not able to escape. I would have liked a few more good passes, but Doug tells me he is pleased with what I’ve accomplished nonetheless.

We conclude the afternoon session with more individual practice. By day’s end, the information is sinking in, the practice is helping, and I’m adjusting to a different motorcycle.

The remaining days alternated between low-speed practice and road-speed braking techniques. Once Doug is comfortable with every student’s ability to emergency brake, the group is taken into traffic in a formation, led and tailed by the instructor team. We are taken to a private road that serves as an excellent place to

death in 1990, Patty Mills replaced her on the board and later served as secretary.

McNally was elected vice chair to serve the remainder of former Director and current AMA Vice President of Industry Relations Jim Williams’ term, which runs through February 2012. At that time, McNally will run again to retain the post.

McNally says one of her major initiatives for next year will be promoting the 2012 AMA International Women & Motorcycling Conference, which takes place July 26-29 in Carson City, Nev. “Women are among the most passionate and dedicated motorcyclists,” McNally says. “For the AMA International Women & Motorcycling Conference, we’ll work with some very enthusiastic individuals—those whose clubs and organizations will partner with the AMA as we work hard to make this the best women’s motorcycling conference ever.”

Registration for the 2012 conference is now open to AMA members at the earlybird price of $125 through April 30, when it increases to $175. Register online at WomenAndMotorcycling.com.

practice road-speed handling of curves.

During the final afternoon, we have more low-speed practice, then the skills evaluation. The test evaluates our ability to demonstrate what we learned over the prior days. There are no surprises. We all know what we need to do. We just go out and do it.

Having full control at all times over one’s motorcycle is paramount to safety.

Understanding how to execute and react to emergency braking at real-world speeds is a critical survival skill. Proper execution of evasive maneuvers can keep you alive.

Improving your abilities in all three areas under the guidance of motorcycle police officers is a rare opportunity. I am already making plans to return for the advanced level courses.

Next time out, my sons are joining me. I want them to attain the level of proficiency I witnessed at MPMT. I will sleep better at night knowing they’ve received this training. I can think of no better endorsement.—Rocco Capoccia For more information about Midwest Motorcycle Police Training see MidwestMotorcycleTraining.com.

RIDING

WHAT MAKES AN AMAZING MOTORCYCLE EVENT Road Riding Event Maestro Tom Mehren

Since 2003, AMAchartered Sound RIDER! has promoted a number of AMAsanctioned events in the Northwest.

These include a rally, two five-day road tours and a Grand Tour.

The group has done a stellar job, and at the 2011 AMA Visa Card Racing

Championship Banquet in Las Vegas, Nev., Sound RIDER! was named the 2011 Recreational Road Event Organizer of the Year.

To find out how they make a tough job look so easy, we caught up with the group’s master planner, Tom Mehren, for what goes into a successful event.

Picking The Right Location Location is critical. Look for one that has it all—great roads, great scenery and

some intriguing geological or historical background.

In the Northwest, we’re lucky to have that throughout the region. Our annual Rally in the Gorge is situated smack in the middle of the Columbia River Gorge.

Our five-day road trips utilize the many mountain ranges, deserts and twisty back roads throughout Washington, Oregon and Idaho.

New Dates: March 9-18, 2012 One hot BIKE RALLY only in DAYTONA BEACH 1.866.296.8969

For calendar of events information, visit www.OfficialBikeWeek.com

RIDING

Routes And Maps

Photo Tom: Corey Parris; Riding: Courtesy Sound RIDER!

Provide attendees with detailed maps and route information so they can enjoy the rides you have planned any time during the event, rather than having to join a specific group ride at a set time. This way they can enjoy the route at their own pace whenever it’s convenient for them.

Our events include maps in four flavors.

We start with a detailed line map, add in turn-by-turn directions, then script up several paragraphs of route details and top it off with a downloadable GPS file.

Food Matters If food is involved with your event, make sure you provide or guide people to where they can get decent, healthy fare. Sending riders off to a sub-par greasy spoon or having junk food vendors as the only onsite option will send your attendees away in search of better choices. Part of a good promoter’s reputation lies in the food.

It takes a lot of searching and tasting to find a good food vendor and when we do—we stick with them. We work together with our caterer all year, trading recipes back and forth in search of the ultimate rally meal. For our Café to Café Grand Tour, we expose riders to the many

tasty out-of-the-way food stops we come across during our own travels.

Special Add Ons You picked a great location, you’ve got some good routes and good food.

Make it a home run by doing something special such as providing special guests, exposing a secret road or slipping in a unique game.

Our rally has included guests such as Reg Pridmore, David Hough and Lee Parks. We routinely pay to access the first paved road west of the Mississippi, which is otherwise closed to the public.

Treat Your Workers Well It’s not always possible to pay everyone who assists at your event, but they love motorcycles, and good people are willing to contribute time just to be there. Take good care of your full-time helpers by feeding them and making sure they have a place to sleep every night on your dime.

The core of our group has

AMA MEMBERS

SAVE UP TO 25%

worked together since 2003, so when attendees have needs, they are met right away and it runs like a smooth machine, which reflects well on a promoter.

Get Feedback When it’s all said and done, feedback is what you can use to make next year’s event even better. Your best source of feedback is from the attendees themselves. Make a point to follow up with a brief feedback request that allows your attendees to share their thoughts so you can make it better next time.

We didn’t get this far without asking and responding every year.

An email request follows each rally. We might think we know what we’re doing, but there is always a way to make an event even better.

To find out more about 2012 Sound RIDER! events, visit SoundRider.com. To learn more about sanctioning your own events with the AMA, contact Cherie Schlatter at (614) 856-1900.

American Motorcyclist Association members get to take advantage of exclusive savings from Avis. Just mention Avis Worldwide Discount (AWD) # D388100 when making your reservation to take up to 25% off every rental. Also, use coupon # TUTA035 to enjoy a FREE weekend day.

Visit avis.com or call 1-800-331-1212 for reservations.

Terms and Conditions: Offer of one weekend day free applies to the time-and-mileage charges only of the third consecutive day of a minimum three-day weekend rental on an intermediate (group C) through a full-size, four-door (group E) car. Maximum rental period is five days. Taxes, concession recovery fees, vehicle license recovery fee, customer facility charges ($10/contract in CA) may apply and are extra. Optional products such as LDW ($29.99/day or less) and refueling are extra. Weekend rental period begins Thursday and car must be returned by Monday 11:59 p.m. or a higher rate will apply. A Saturday night keep is required. Offer cannot be used for one-way rentals; one offer per rental. May not be used in conjunction with any other coupon, promotion or offer, except your member discount. One offer per rental. Valid at participating Avis locations in the contiguous U.S. and Canada (excluding the New York Metro area). An advance reservation is required. Offer may not be available during holiday and other blackout periods. Offer is subject to vehicle availability at the time of reservation and may not be available on some rates at some times. For reservations made on avis.com, free day will be applied at time of rental. 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. Rental must begin by 12/15/11.

12/15/12.

Avis features GM vehicles.

©2012 Avis Rent A Car System, LLC ©2011

20076

RIDING

Ask the MSF

involve the rider’s misuse of the ATV. Here are some rules for safe ATV operation:

FROM DIRTBIKES TO ATVS… Q: My 14-year-old son rides dirtbikes.

We also have an all-terrain vehicle (ATV) that I use for utility work, and he’s getting old enough to start helping out more.

What should I do to make sure he’s safe on the ATV, and does the MSF offer ATV safety training?

A: ATV safety training is offered by the ATV Safety Institute (ASI), a division of the Specialty Vehicle Institute of America. We reviewed your question with ASI for the best answer possible.

ATVs are categorized according to minimum operator age (depending on when the ATV was manufactured). The five categories are Y6+, Y10+, and Y12+ (Youth); T (Transition); and G & S (Adult).

They all have corresponding age labels that indicate the rider should be age 6 or older, 10 or older, 12 or older, 14 or older, and 16 or older, respectively.

A 14 year old may ride an ATV labeled for minimum age 14 or younger, but should not be allowed to ride one labeled

• Always wear a DOT-compliant helmet, goggles, long sleeves, long pants, overthe-ankle boots, and gloves.

• Never ride on paved roads except to cross when done safely and permitted by law—another vehicle could hit you.

ATVs are designed to be operated offhighway.

• Never ride under the influence of alcohol or drugs.

• Never carry a passenger on a singlerider ATV, and no more than one passenger on an ATV specifically designed for two people.

• Ride an ATV that’s right for your age.

• Supervise riders younger than 16 and only let them ride appropriately sized models. ATVs are not toys.

• Ride only on designated trails and at a safe speed.

• Take a hands-on ATV RiderCourse and the free online E-Course. Visit ATVsafety.org or call (800) 887-2887. for minimum age 16. Riders under 16 should be supervised by an adult whenever they ride.

With regard to ATV riding hazards, the vast majority of crashes and injuries

th

Celebration Join the Party June 5*-9, 2012

ALWAYS SOMETHING TO DO On the Road, Off the Bike & Around the Region MiniToursDemo RidesPokerRunsTourExpoEntertainmentDinner Cruises

Check out the bikes you love to ride!

Above motorcycle manufacturers participated in the 2011 event

Save $$ Register before May 1 Special June 4* events for Pre-registrants

www.americade.com 518-798-7888

Please supervise your son whenever he rides an ATV, and allow continued use only if he demonstrates the ability and judgment to operate the ATV safely.

GOOGLE BOOKS February 1960 Just because the snow flies doesn’t mean you stop riding. Snow scrambles, more popular in the 1950s-’70s, capture the essence of the never-say-die attitude of the sport’s toughest riders.

One example is Toledo Travelers Snow Run, held Jan. 10, 1960, on a cold and dreary northern Ohio winter morning. For most, the 75-mile race sounds downright miserable but for riders like overall winner and future Motorcycle Hall of Famer John Penton of Lorain, Ohio, it was the best way to celebrate the New Year.

“Later, the ground thawed some and gave the boys a chance to show off their mud run experience. They were dogged with the usual frozen clutches, cables and flat tires, plus a few broken chains.

Frank Piesecki of Toledo had lost only six points at the third check when part of his Beezer’s swinging arm broke in one of the sand pits.”

EnduroCross, anyone?

Read more about the history of American motorcycling at Books.Google.com.

MEMBER T E S T E D AMA MEMBER TESTED Arai Vector-2

Colors: 10 solids, 7 graphics MSRP: $629.95 Info: www.araiamericas.com The Vector-2 is Arai’s lowest-priced, fullface street helmet, and it offers plenty of value for the money. After unpacking the helmet, I was surprised by its weight—just 3 pounds, 8 ounces. After slipping it on and taking a ride, my biggest impression was how much quieter it was than my current lid.

The Vector-2 fit my head fairly well and was plenty comfortable during my 20-minute daily commute. The eyeport is also good, with excellent peripheral vision.

However, I did find the chin bar required me to drop my head more than I cared to in order to see a map on my tank bag.

The two-position chin vent and eyebrow vents provided a steady stream of cooling air, even at low speeds with air temperatures in the 90s. Opening and closing the two-position top and rear vents, however, produced little noticeable change in airflow. All vents operate easily with a gloved hand. A rubber breathguard reduces fogging inside the shield on cooler days, and releasing the shield lock lifts the visor slightly, which eliminates fogging altogether.

The helmet incorporates other wellthought-out features, such as an easy-togrip nylon tab on one of the D-rings that simplifies releasing the chin strap, even with gloves on. Tool-less visor removal allows for swapping shields while wearing the helmet (but doing so requires a fair amount of practice).

The shell liner snaps out for cleaning, then easily snaps back into place. Cheek pads are also easily removed and the liners slip off for washing.

On the Arai website I discovered a feature not covered in the owner’s manual: Peel-away layers allow for customfitting the cheek and temple pads to your face. However, the site didn’t fully explain which foam was removable or how to do it.

One thing to keep in mind with Arai helmets is that they are designed to be purchased

Want to be an AMA tester?

E-mail submissions@ama-cycle.org for an application.

after a measured fitting by a trained dealer.

Their specialized fit leaves little room for error. For example, in my case, the helmet size was estimated, and extended rides revealed some uncomfortable pressure along the forehead—a situation that almost certainly would have been avoided with a professional fitting.

Graphics are a matter of personal taste, but I can’t imagine that the Vector-2 doesn’t have you covered. It comes in 17 different looks: seven graphics packages and 10 solid colors.

While Arai may claim the DOT- and Snell-approved Vector-2 is missing a bell or whistle from its higher-end models, it certainly doesn’t feel like they cut any corners while crafting a good-looking helmet that offers great protection.—Craig Ruegsegger

Honda Spray Cleaner And Polish MSRP: $4.95-$11 Info: Your Honda dealer Ask any motorcycle or car enthusiast about Pro Honda Spray Cleaner & Polish, and they will tell you three things: It works great, smells good and it’s hard to find.

Despite all the wild speculation, it turns out it was pulled out of production to be reformulated because it contained ozone-depleting chlorofluorocarbons that manufacturers have phased out.

The “new-and-improved” version smells considerably different—not as good—and I hoped that they didn’t wreck the product when they reformulated it.

In terms of performance, the new stuff effortlessly lived up to its reputation. I simply wiped off grease, road grime, sticker glue, hazy paint and unidentified dirt from aluminum, as well as a number of other surfaces such as plastic, chrome and other metals, all without using a drop of water. Everything it touched looked new. It contains carnauba wax, so as a bonus it doesn’t dry out those moving parts (but don’t get it on your tires!).

Old bug crust on plastic took three or more soakings and lots elbow grease but they mostly came off—not perfect but better than anything else I’ve used.

The new Pro Honda Spray Cleaner & Polish

RIDING

doesn’t smell as good as the old stuff, but performs every bit as well, if not better.—Amy Nystrom I’m used to using one product for one purpose, so when this can of spray cleaner and polish showed up, I was skeptical.

I’m not a fan of products that claim to be able to do two (or more) things well.

Cleaning products are no exception.

So I put it through its paces. First, a helmet. It worked pretty well. Then a fender with bugs and road grime on it. It worked just great. Then I tried some harder-to-reach places. I used it, washed it off, got the bike dirty again and used the can again. Each attempt to prove it would not do what it advertised proved me wrong.

I learned, too, that a little goes a long way, and the shine it leaves behind is slick.

It works on your ATV or car as well.

For a longer-lasting shine, you can let the product dry to a haze. Since it comes out as foam and will drip while you wait for it to haze up, you will do well to spread it out a bit with a soft towel and let it dry. It will wipe off easily with a good microfiber cloth. Do not use this on rubber or leather; keep it away from the seat, grips, footrests and your tires.

This spray cleaner and polish is a great product. If you are planning a trip, have this on the shelf for your return. Clean up will take less time, and your bike will look good in short order.—Lenny Domyan

I also race a couple of the local series here in Indiana. I won a couple of them in 2009 and I won it again in 2010. We get a good crowd. A lot of people run them, and the competition is really fun.

AM: What’s the secret to your speed?

AL: I don’t know. You get in your own little zone and just go. Making the leap to the bigger races is a big deal. As soon as you get into it, it’s way different. I never went on the road until 2008, but once you get on a roll, it carries you a long way. You have to get your confidence up. You have to take each round one by one, but once you get some momentum behind you, it gets easier.

THREE QUESTIONS WITH… AMA Youth Rider Of The Year Austin Lee Austin Lee from Bedford, Ind., had a stellar 2011, winning the Super Mini (12-13) class in the Grand National Cross Country (GNCC) Series and the Super Mini Big Wheel (12-15) class in the AMA East Hare Scrambles Championship Series.

Lee also took home the overall GNCC Youth title with an outstanding performance in the final round doubleheader, where he scored a first and second to edge out Super Mini (14-15) riders Levi Keller and Anthony Stone.

We caught up with Lee to find out more about the country’s top youth off-road racer.

24

AmericanMotorcyclist.com

American Motorcyclist: So, Austin, how did you get started racing?

Austin Lee: I started racing off-road when I was 7. I started racing GNCCs then. My dad had raced them.

I have ridden since I was 4, though.

I started on a PW50. I ran a lot of motocross back then. After a few years, I started with hare scrambles and GNCCs. For me, it’s a lot more fun. The community and everything about it, all the people, are really great. People help you, they’re friendly and you make a lot of friends. The atmosphere of off-road racing is really laid back. I enjoy it.

AM: What pros do you look up to?

AL: Definitely Cory Buttrick and Thad Duval—all the young pros who were mini riders when I first started. Going back, Juha Salminen when he came over to America and raced. He rode the bike a gear higher than everyone else and definitely changed the sport. Back then, we really didn’t train as hard as we do now. Juha definitely brought the speed over here for sure, and we had to raise our game.

AM: What are your racing goals?

AL: My goal for 2012 is to get on a big bike. I’m running 200 A in the GNCCs. I hope I can win that and pick up where I left off in the minis. I’m going to race a KTM 200. I like the bike. I love KTMs in general. They’re awesome.

I definitely want to race for my career.

My mom and dad really support it. I hope I can continue to get more help and go pro in a couple years when I turn 16.

Photo Austin: Kevin Hudson

RACING

AM: Does your dad play a big role in your racing?

AL: Dad works on everything. My dad sets up everything. Setup is really important at every level. We race on the weekends and setup starts on Monday.

We’ll see what we can do to make it better.

I have a 3-mile woods course, and we have two motocross tracks that my dad built. That’s where I test. I practice MX all the time. Even though I concentrate on racing in the woods, MX is good practice for corner speed.

Also, my dad takes me to the races. He spends a fortune on me. Dad works on all the bikes and stuff. He loves it! He actually kind of took off from his own racing to concentrate on me. He quit two years ago when he knew it was going to get pretty serious with me, so I hope I keep going.

ANTTI KALLONEN TO MANAGE INTERNATIONAL SIX DAYS ENDURO TEAM Former World MX Racer Tapped For Role Antti Kallonen, former competitor and KTM North America’s off-road team manager, will manage the 2012 U.S. International Six Days Enduro (ISDE) team as it seeks a world title Sept. 24-29 in Saxony, Germany.

Robert Pearce, KTM North America’s vice president of operations and a five-time ISDE participant, will assist Kallonen with team operations.

Both positions are volunteer roles on the team.

Kallonen, whose day job involves guiding KTM North America’s efforts in major off-road racing series in the United States, brings a wealth of experience to the ISDE effort, including organizational and logistical expertise, fund-raising support, and a first-hand understanding of the culture of European off-road racing.

Prior to working for KTM North America, Kallonen raced the FIM MX World Championship from 1998-2002 until an injury forced his retirement. His initial stint in the United States was as the mechanic for Juha Salminen. In his six years as KTM’s off-road team manager, the factory team has won 28 national off-road titles.

“I’m honored and excited to take on the responsibility to lead the U.S. ISDE team in 2012,” Kallonen says. “The team is well established, but my goal is to bring the team together as a whole and work on the small details that are needed to take the team to the next level. One of my main focuses is going to be the riders and the preparation for the event. This will make the race-day operations easier so all the riders will need to do is to focus on doing their best on the track, knowing they have the best support possible behind them.”

Adds Pearce: “Antti and I work very well together on a day-to-day basis. Having the opportunity to work on such a project as the 2012 ISDE in Germany for the AMA and all the volunteers that it takes to be successful will be an awesome experience.

I am honored to have been selected along with Antti to be a part of the support team.”

In addition to Pearce, the ISDE team will continue to benefit from the participation of a number of leaders, each of whom plays a vital role with the team. These include Rick “Gunny” Claypoole, a Fédération Internationale de Motocyclisme (FIM) jury delegate and a driving force behind the U.S. ISDE effort for more than 30 years; Bruce Wakeley, team administration manager; and Jay Hall, manager of the

Parc Ferme and work area.

The new structure of the ISDE team follows the successful model the AMA has long used with regard to the Motocross of Nations, which it has won a record 22 times.

“In much the same way that Roger DeCoster guides the U.S. effort in the Motocross of Nations, Antti will lead us in our journey toward an FIM World Championship in ISDE competition,” says AMA Off-Road Manager Chuck Weir.

“Antti’s experience running a race team is evident in KTM’s success in premier U.S. racing series, and we’re excited that he’s on board to help lead us toward the United States’ first ISDE title.

“Also, just as Roger works with riders from all teams, Antti will welcome and support riders regardless of what bike they ride,” Weir continues. “While we obviously appreciate KTM North America’s backing of riders every year, the U.S. team at the ISDE will continue to feature qualifying riders on any brand of motorcycle.”

U.S. ISDE qualifiers will be organized by the Boise Ridge Riders June 2-3 in Idaho City, Idaho, and by the Appalachian Dirt Riders June 9-10 in Wellston, Ohio. More information about the Idaho event can be found at BoiseRidgeRiders.com. Details for the Ohio event are at ADROhio.org.

More information about the ISDE can be found at AmericanMotorcyclist.com > Racing > ISDE. Antti Kallonen

RACING

SPEED HONORED IN VEGAS

AMA Visa Card Racing Championship Banquet Recognizes Champions The AMA welcomed a injury to battle back in the full house of champions highly competitive series and their families, friends and ultimately dominate and fans to the Red the final round in a mustRock Casino, Resort and win scenario to capture Spa in Las Vegas, Nev., the title over his teammate on Sunday, Nov. 20, and defending National for the AMA Visa Card Enduro Champion Charlie from Capital One Racing Mullins.

Championship Banquet.

“I really didn’t think I For more information about Hundreds of top was going to get this at sponsor AMA Visa Card or to apply competitors, in disciplines all,” Bobbitt said from for a card, visit AMAVisa.com ranging from land-speed the stage. “I’m kind of racing to motocross to woods racing blown away right now. With all the other and everything in between, received their nominees—Kurt Caselli, Taddy [Blazusiak], national championship trophies and No. 1 Charlie [Mullins] and [Pat] Smage—all plates at the banquet. those guys are really good. So many of Special awards included AMA Athlete them are on KTMs, and I just think it’s of the Year honors, which recognizes top amazing what everyone’s accomplished. It riders in AMA National Championship was a great year for me. I’m really excited Series, Grand Championship events and about this, but I want to congratulate all ATV National Championship Series. the other riders for their stellar years. I’m The AMA National Championship looking forward to next year. I know we Athlete of the Year award was won by have a great team behind us.”

Russell Bobbitt, the overall champion of Daniel Bromley won the AMA Grand the 2011 AMA Racing Rekluse National Championship Athlete of the Year Award.

Enduro Championship Series, presented The Pennsylvania dirt-tracker has earned

by Moose Racing. Bobbitt won four a record 36 AMA amateur national rounds of the 10-round series. Notably, the championships in his career. In 2011, FMF/KTM rider overcame a mid-season his last season as an amateur, Bromley

26

AmericanMotorcyclist.com

won the AMA Dirt Track Horizon Award; the 250cc Modified Two-Stroke, 250cc DTX Grand Championships; the 250cc DTX Short-Track, 250cc DTX TT, 250cc Modified Two-Stroke Short-Track, 250cc Modified Two-Stroke TT, and 251cc-500cc DTX TT National Championships. He also competed in the AMA Racing Winter Dirt Track Championship Series where he won the 250cc DTX championship.

“I’m pretty speechless. It’s a pretty big honor,” said Bromley when presented with the award. He competes on KTM motorcycles with his older brother, Joseph. “Having a brother to race and compete with is really helpful because he’s out there helping me on the track, and I’m helping him. His lines are usually better than mine, so that helps. Having someone there supporting you on the track and off the track is really important. My goals for 2012 are to hit Daytona and most of the short-track and TTs. I want to make the (AMA Pro Racing) Pro Single mains because that’s where it begins.”

The AMA ATV Athlete of the Year Award was won by the most dominant rider in the history of XC2 Pro-Am class competition in the Can-Am Grand National Cross Country Series: Yamaha rider Walker Fowler. Fowler, of Rogers, Ohio, won every round against some of the fastest ATV riders in the country.

“It was just a crazy year for sure—a

Photos Sjodin Photography

Land-speed racers were out in force at the AMA Visa Card Racing Championship Banquet.

Emcee Ashley Phillips interviews amateur roadracer Ricardo Valquez.

Taddy Blazusiak (left) with the AMA’s Joe Bromley.

E THE ADVENTUR

is out there

coGetmite

dream season,” Fowler said. “I don’t think I’ll ever be able to do it again. It’s every racer’s dream to be able to do something that no one else can. But there are a lot more goals in front of me that are the same thing, and that’s what keeps us racers going. I just want to thank the AMA for giving us all these series to compete in and letting us go out and do what we do.”

The Can-Am Grand National Cross Country Series also delivered the AMA Female Rider of the Year: KTM’s Maria Forsberg, from Brier, Wash. Forsberg had a phenomenal year in the GNCC series, where she won 11 of 13 races in the Women’s class.

The AMA Veteran/Senior Rider of the Year was Tim Shephard. Shephard, of Sugar Grove, Ohio, was the AMA Senior Off-Road Vintage Grand Champion at the AMA Racing Vintage Grand Championships.

Austin Lee, the Super Mini National Champion from the AMA Racing East Hare Scrambles Championship Series, was the AMA Racing Youth Rider of the Year.

Lee, from Bedford, Ind., won three rounds of the 10-round series. Lee also won the GNCC Super Mini (12-13) class and the GNCC overall youth title.

The AMA Sportsman of the Year was presented to Claudia Danielewicz of Oxford, Mich. The award honors the man or woman who best exemplifies the quality of good sportsmanship. Danielewicz has been instrumental in advancing racing opportunities for women in AMAsanctioned off-road competition.

Speaking at the banquet, Stan Simpson, the chairman of the AMA’s Board of Directors, thanked all AMA racers for their contribution to making motorcycle racing the exciting sport it has become.

“On behalf of the board of directors of

Russell Bobbitt

. re. No Hassle High Adventu o, roads and tw The best routes ts. by local exper track, mapped inded nge with like-m A great challe ities, eekend’s activ riders. A full w campfires, food with camping, ll information at and prizes. Fu iding orcyclist.com/R AmericanMot

the American Motorcyclist Association, our AMA staff, and each and every AMA member, I congratulate all of you for your successful seasons,” Simpson said, addressing the crowd. “Your skill and determination have earned you a place among this elite group and taken you to the top of amateur racing. The AMA has its roots in amateur motorcycle racing.

But not only are you our past, you also represent the future of motorcycling. You are the backbone of the AMA.”

Other Special Awards Included AMA Media Award Shan Moore, off-road photographer and reporter AMA Motocross Organizer of the Year Feld Motor Sports, AMA Arenacross AMA Off-Road Organizer of the Year Source Interlink Media, GEICO AMA EnduroCross Championship AMA Track Racing Organizer of the Year Steve Nace Racing, Dirt Track AMA ATV Organizer of the Year Racer Productions, Can-Am Grand National Cross Country Series AMA Recreational Road Riding Organizer of the Year Sound RIDER! Sportbike, Dual-Sport, Touring, Scooter Rallies AMA Recreational Off-Road Organizer of the Year Dirty Dabbers, Great Adventure Dual Sport AMA Club of the Year Cheaha Trail Riders

Daniel Bromley

Walker Fowler

RACING Photo Corey Mays

Claudia Danielewicz

NEW DATE, VENUE: 2012 AMA ICE RACE GRAND CHAMPIONSHIPS Feb. 4-5, Davison, Mich.

Feld Motor Sports Maria Forsberg

Stan Simpson

Event promoter North American Action Sports (NAAS) has a new date and venue for the 2012 AMA Ice Race Grand Championships. The AMA’s first amateur champions of the year will be crowned Feb. 4-5 at the Sugarbush Golf and Country Club, with racing to take place on Potters Lake in Davison, Mich.

The AMA Ice Race Grand Championships feature classes for riders from 4 years old to 50-plus competing on bikes that range from lightly modified off-road machines to full-on, purpose-built ice racers.

Riders will battle for AMA national No. 1 plates in a number of classes. The top riders at the event also will compete for the AMA Ice Racer of the Year award, given to the most impressive rider on the ice, while the youth riders will chase the honor of AMA Youth Rider of the Year.

“Everyone at NAAS is looking forward

to one of our most exciting events of the year,” says Patrick Grzebinski of NAAS, which is known for mixing family fun with the racing atmosphere. “Last year, everyone had a great time, and the racing was spectacular. We can’t wait for Feb. 4-5 when we can kick off the 2012 racing season in style.”

A rain-out date is schedule for the following weekend in case weather doesn’t cooperate during the original Feb. 4-5 date.

“While the racers are the reason for the AMA Ice Race Grand Championships, this family event truly has something for everyone,” Grzebinski says. “The Sugarbush Golf and Country Club provides the perfect location to combine racing with casual fun and dining.”

To learn more about the event go to www.bajamx.com or call the NAAS office at (989) 871-3356.

HALL OF FAME

30

AmericanMotorcyclist.com

HALL OF FAME

1975 YAMAHA TZ750 DIRT-TRACKER Kenny Roberts’ Legendary Indy Mile Winner the first time at the Indianapolis Mile, where he quickly discovered that brute power led to a lot of wheel spin. Still, the TZ could hit about 150 mph at the end of each straight.

“Finding grip was a problem,” is the understated way Roberts explains it today.

Somehow, Roberts qualified for the 25-lap final. And off the line, he put himself in sixth place. But he admits that keeping the bike on the track took every bit of skill he possessed.

Then Roberts closed on the leaders— future Hall of Famers Rex Beauchamp and Jay Springsteen, as well as Corky Keener, all racing Harleys.

On the last lap, Roberts remembers, “I got a terrific drive off turn three. I have no idea why. The tire was almost gone, threequarters chunked.

“Coming off the last corner, I definitely had third, and I thought I could get second. I hit fifth gear and it was less

than a quarter mile at 145, so everything happened quickly.”

Somehow, Roberts got the TZ hooked up, and in the final feet of the race he blew past the trio for the win.

It was a spectacular debut, but it was also the bike’s only moment of glory.

Roberts tried to ride it at two more races, but reverted to his twin both times.

Despite Roberts’ efforts, HarleyDavidson won the title in 1975 with Hall of Famer Gary Scott.

This 1975 Yamaha TZ750 dirttracker was previously on display at the Motorcycle Hall of Fame on the campus of the AMA in Pickerington, Ohio.

To learn more about Kenny Roberts’ incredible career and this TZ750 dirttracker, as well as the fascinating stories of other members of the Motorcycle Hall of Fame and their historic machines, go to MotorcycleMuseum.org.

Photos Sjodin Photography

The early 1970s saw a variety of factories competing for the AMA Grand National Championship title, and winning.

Motorcycle Hall of Famer “King” Kenny Roberts won the title in 1973 and 1974 for Yamaha.

But by 1975 Harley-Davidson figured out how to make its XR750 work well, and Yamaha knew it needed to take drastic measures to try to keep the title—leading to what may be one of the most aweinspiring dirt-trackers ever created.

Yamaha tuners pulled the TZ750 two-stroke, four-cylinder motor out of the roadracer that Roberts used to win Laguna Seca in Monterey, Calif., that year and stuffed it into a dirt-track frame.

The engine pumped out 125 horsepower, 50 more than the Yamaha twin Roberts had ridden to GNC titles the previous two years.

Roberts tried this TZ750 dirt-tracker for

Hall of Fame features the machines and people of the Motorcycle Hall of Fame in Pickerington, Ohio. The Hall of Fame is a 501(c)3 non-profit corporation that receives support from the AMA and from motorcycling enthusiasts. For info and directions, visit MotorcycleMuseum.org, or call (614) 856-2222.

February 2012

31

2012 RAFFLE BIKE Get a Chance to Win! For details, please visit

MotorcycleMuseum.org 1948 Indian Chief

A minimum donation of $5 per ticket, or $20 for five tickets, is suggested.

Hall of Famer

RALPH HEPBURN Racing Star In The 1910s-’20s Ralph Hepburn was one of the great motorcycle racers of the 1910s and early 1920s. He won national championships in those decades and was a factory rider for both Harley-Davidson and Indian.

Hepburn was a star of the board tracks and dirt ovals, having won some of the great dirt-track Nationals such as Dodge City, Kan., and Ascot Park in Los Angeles.

Hepburn was born on April 11, 1896 in Somerville, Mass. His family moved to California when he was 10. Just after the turn of the century he was a big fan of the popular board track races of the day.

Hepburn began racing the boards in the amateur ranks.

When he was 18, Hepburn took an offer to travel with a barn-storming group that rode the motordromes (board tracks) and a few dirt tracks across the Midwest.

In 1916, Hepburn bought an ex-factory Excelsior and started earning podium finishes at the Nationals.

In June of 1919, Hepburn secured a factory ride with Harley-Davidson and became part of what may have been the greatest factory racing team of all time.

Hepburn’s Harley teammates included future Motorcycle Hall of Famers Ray Weishaar, Albert “Shrimp” Burns, Maldwyn Jones, Red Parkhurst, Fred Ludlow and Otto Walker.

Hepburn won the Motorcycle and Allied Trades Association (M&ATA) 200 Mile National Championship at Ascot Park on June 22, 1919, due in large part to his pit crew. The crew staged incredibly fast 38-second pit stops for gas, oil and new rear tire.

On July 4, 1921, Hepburn won the Dodge City 300, in perhaps the greatest performance of his career. It was the last

running of that classic event and all of the factory teams and riders were on hand.

Hepburn took the lead early in the race and was passed only briefly while making a pit stop. He went on to win the race by 12 minutes over second-place rider Johnny Seymour. Hepburn broke all existing 300-mile records in that race.

The next year he signed with Indian.

Quite by accident, Hepburn got to try his hand at sidecar racing in Milwaukee when Floyd Dreyer crashed in a heat race and was sent to the hospital. Dreyer’s crew got the rig straightened out and gave Hepburn a chance to drive. He hopped on and proceeded to win one of the 1922 sidecar national titles.

That year he also defended his 300-Mile National title, winning by 18 minutes in Wichita, Kan. In 1923, Hepburn won the Pacific Coast Championship. In 1924, he returned to Harley-Davidson and was runner-up to future Hall of Famer Jim Davis at the national finals in Syracuse, N.Y. At the end of the 1924 season, Hepburn spent his honeymoon with wife, “Sparky,” by racing in Australia with Jim Davis, Johnny Seymour and Paul Anderson.

While “down under,” Hepburn set a new speed record riding a Harley-Davidson on Adelaide Beach.

When he returned from Australia, Hepburn began an auto racing career.

Sadly, he died following a qualifying practice accident at the Indianapolis 500 on May 16, 1948.

Ralph Hepburn was inducted into the Motorcycle Hall of Fame in 1998.

To see more biographies of members of the Motorcycle Hall of Fame, go to MotorcycleMuseum.org.

DON’T RIDE ALONE When It Comes To Rights, Riding And Racing, There Are Benefits To AMA Membership AMA member benefits are about one thing—you. AMA members are the core of the Association. You provide the influence we wield in Washington, D.C., the commercial sway needed to negotiate discounts and benefits, and the critical mass that makes AMA-sanctioned amateur competition and recreational rallies the gold standard of motorcycle events in America.

This guide includes a summary of the benefits and services—in addition to this magazine—that you enjoy as a member of the AMA.

34

AmericanMotorcyclist.com

RIGHTS As the country’s premier motorcyclist advocacy group, the AMA targets anti-motorcycling forces in the halls of federal, state and local government.

We give you the tools to stop them.

With your help, we target key issues from coast to coast. Listed below are some of the issues that are fueling our current governmentrelations initiatives. Concerned? The AMA is your primary tool for making a difference. See AmericanMotorcyclist.com > Rights or call us at (800) 262-5646 for how you can help.

Your Voice, Amplified Anti-motorcycling foes are everywhere.

Thanks to AMA members, so are we. The AMA has legislative experts and lobbyists based in Washington, D.C., Ohio and California, along with grassroots efforts in nearly every state.

Keep Off My Motorcycle!

Every year, it seems, someone in Congress introduces a bill that would ban you from customizing parts of your motorcycle. These antitampering bills are already prevalent in Europe.

The AMA fights these laws, believing the choice should remain with you, the rider.

Kids Just Want To Ride Lawmakers essentially banned the sale of kids’ motorcycles through the application of a law designed to control lead content in small toys.

The AMA, its members and the motorcycling industry fought long and hard to overturn the ban—and succeeded.

Answers About Ethanol The jury is still out on whether fuels with high levels of ethanol damage motorcycle engines.

The AMA opposes the use of gasoline that contains up to 15 percent alcohol by volume, also known as E15, until further study.

Public Land Access For years, almost 43 million acres of federal land that doesn’t qualify for Wilderness protection has been locked up by bureaucratic rules, despite the fact that land managers think it should be open to responsible users. Joining with like-minded forces, the AMA is working to get those lands back in the public domain.

Motorcycle-Only Checkpoints Several states, including Georgia and New York, have flagged down motorcyclists—and only motorcyclists—and forced them through rigorous equipment and paperwork checkpoints while other motorists rolled by without scrutiny. The AMA works to stop this discriminatory practice.

Stop The Land Grab There are 33 million acres of national public land where responsible motorized recreation is allowed in designated areas. Every year, anti-motorcycle forces work to close down as much as they can through laws, lawsuits and congressional actions. With your help, we work to stop them.

Distracted Drivers Distracted and inattentive driving pose a major danger to motorcyclists. The AMA is an active participant at the federal level in the war on distracted driving, including taking part in national summits on the issue.

Riding On Your Own Land Believe it or not, plenty of local municipalities try to ban residents from riding motorcycles on their own land. The AMA and its members fight such ordinances outright.

Crash Prevention Thanks to the urging of the AMA and its members, the federal government has launched a national study into the causes of motorcycle crashes, the first in three decades. The study is expected to be completed in 2013.

Watching The Money When you buy gas for your off-highway vehicle, the gas tax money goes to the federal Recreational Trails Program, which the AMA and other groups helped establish. The program helps build and maintain trails. The AMA is fighting to keep the program intact against congressional efforts to allow these funds to be spent on non-trails projects.

Insurance Industry Attacks

barring bike bans on streets built or maintained with federal funds and is working on Capitol Hill to ensure the law isn’t changed.

Vote Like A Motorcyclist The AMA produces the only comprehensive national motorcyclist voter guide in the country so that riders know how their elected officials acted on, and voted on, motorcycle-related issues.

Keeping Racetracks Open It happens too often: A town expands into an area with a long-standing motocross track, then tries to shut it down. The AMA and its members stand against such actions.

Action Made Easy Understanding the problem is just the start of the battle.

All AMA members need to join together and speak with a consistent voice if we’re going to be heard on Capitol Hill. To learn specific ways you can take action to join the fight on any of these issues, visit American Motorcyclist.com > Rights.

The insurance industry wants to limit motorcycle engine output, mandate anti-lock brakes on all bikes, and claims that sportbikes are more dangerous than other types of bikes. The AMA is aggressively fighting back, talking with federal decision-makers and the insurance industry to point out the flaws in the industry’s research.

High-Occupancy Vehicle (HOV) Lane Access If you ride in HOV lanes, thank the AMA and its members. Though motorcycles were at first banned from HOV lanes, the AMA fought for, and won, the right for motorcyclists to use them. The AMA is working to keep access open.

Getting You Covered Some medical insurance policies won’t pay for medical care if a rider is injured on a motorcycle. The AMA is actively working on Capitol Hill to ensure you can’t be denied coverage for injuries suffered in a motorcycle crash.

Fighting Bike Bans When cities try to ban bikes from streets, the AMA fights back. The AMA got Congress to pass a law

February 2012

35

RIDING 36

AmericanMotorcyclist.com

RIDING Nothing beats swinging a leg over your bike, firing it up, pointing the front wheel down the road and rolling out for another great adventure. The AMA supports, promotes and sanctions a number of benefits and events that cater to just that: having fun on your motorcycle.

Rides And Rallies The best rallies in the country carry the AMA logo, from local events to mega-rallies like Americade and the Golden Aspen Rally.

These events are all searchable online at AmericanMotorcyclist.com

Great Roads Database Thanks to the expert knowledge of thousands of AMA members, you can find the best roads in any state, at any time, online at AmericanMotorcyclist. com—for members only.

Cruising Poker runs, toy runs, one-day mini-rallies, the AMA sanctions the best—and all of them are searchable online at AmericanMotorcyclist.com.

Organized Tours AMA Partner EagleRider offers up a comprehensive list of full-service tours. AMA members get an exclusive discount.

Arrive And Ride AMA partners such as Federal motorcycle shipping and EagleRider make it easy to ship your bike or rent one at your destination, and fly out to meet it for a hassle-free trip.

AMA Grand Tours Enjoy a season-long challenge ride that takes you to dozens of places organized around a central theme with AMA Grand Tours. Complete the challenge and get T-shirts, prizes and more.

AMA Longrider Show your pride by being part of the AMA Longrider program, where you can track your mileage and get special patches when you reach key milestones.

AMA Trails Atlas A complete listing of riding areas across the country is available online only to AMA members at AmericanMotorcyclist.com, complete with location, trail information and descriptions, fee and permit requirements and more.

Women Riders The AMA has a long history of welcoming women riders. We regularly feature women riders on AmericanMotorcyclist.com and in the pages of American Motorcyclist magazine. In addition, we’ve been staging conferences for women since the 1990s. This year’s AMA International Women & Motorcycling Conference, July 26-29 in Carson City, Nev. marks the fifth such gathering. More info: WomenAndMotorcycling.com.

New Riders We all know how important it is for beginning riders to get the right information as they learn.

AmericanMotorcyclist.com has a special area just for new riders.

Adventure Touring If you live for big-bore touring that includes

plenty of gravel roads and two-track, the AMA Yamaha Super Ténéré Adventure Touring Series is for you. With dozens of events nationwide, you’ll enjoy great routes and great camaraderie.

Dual-Sport Riding No road? No problem. The AMA KTM National Dual-Sport Trail Riding Series offers up dozens of events nationwide where all you do is show up on your dual-sport bike, get a rollchart and go riding on trails that only locals know about.

Advice For Kids Starting kids right is so important to ensuring they get the most safety, and the most fun, from the off-road experience.

AmericanMotorcyclist.com has in-depth stories and tips just for kids who are starting out.

Tips And Tricks This magazine and the AMA website, AmericanMotorcyclist. com, offer information for everything from touring secrets and tips for group riding to planning trips and buying a used bike.

We also have sections for off-road riders that will help you get prepared for a long day on the trail.

State Laws Database No matter where you ride, find out the local laws governing streetbikes, dirtbikes and dual-sport motorcycles at the AMA website at AmericanMotorcyclist.com.

Two Wheels Or Four The AMA’s partner organization, the All-Terrain Vehicle Association, is dedicated to increasing members’ enjoyment of riding and owning ATVs by serving as a source of authoritative information about where and how to ride, products, events, and racing. Learn more at ATVAonline.com.

ATVA News Members of the ATVA receive a bi-monthly insert in this magazine: ATVA News. The section brings you profiles of people who ride, tips to help you ride better, capsule evaluations, notices of new products and more.

Share The Fun With AMA Clubs Nothing makes the riding experience better than the company of a few (or a lot) of like-minded friends. More than 1,200 AMA clubs are available throughout the 50 states, or you can start your own.

Finding an AMA Club is easy. Visit the “Clubs & Promoters” area of AmericanMotorcyclist.com and search for clubs in your area. Clubs range from highly organized groups who stage large events, rallies and rides, to small, informal groups of riders who enjoy less structured organization.

Starting your own club is simple, as well. Social clubs need only five AMA members (more are welcome), while clubs planning to organize events sanctioned with the AMA will need officers to take an easy, online risk-management workshop hosted through the AMA. Special insurance is also available to AMA clubs.

AMA Roadside Assistance: Never Ride Alone

le At AvailabCharge! a r t No Ex se to hoo

If you c

ur

new yo

call One of the quickest ways to ruin a great ride tically re automa embership—day is to find yourself sitting alongside the road with a AMA m MA-JOIN tor (800) A dd it to you broken-down motorcycle. to a bership! mem AMA Roadside Assistance is designed to maximize your riding time and minimize the inconvenience of a breakdown, giving you peace of mind when you’re on the road, whether you’re riding on two wheels or driving on four.

AMA Roadside Assistance includes: • Coverage includes bikes, cars, pickups, motorhomes and trailers (excluding utility trailers) registered to you, your spouse, and dependent children under the age of 24, living at home or away at college.

• Coverage in all 50 states, plus Puerto Rico, Canada and the U.S. Virgin Islands.

• Towing—for mechanical breakdown—to the nearest qualified service facility within 35 miles or location requested by member of an equal distance to the nearest qualified facility at no expense to the member.

• All dispatch and hook-up fees.

• Flat tire assistance.

• Battery assistance/vehicle won’t start.

• Lockout assistance.

• Mobile mechanic: minor roadside repairs/adjustments (excluding costs of parts, labor and repair services) to repair and enable the vehicle to proceed safely under its own power.

• Emergency fuel, oil, water, fluid delivery. Members pay only for the cost of the fuel, fluid, oil or water (if any) to the service provider at the time of service.

• No exclusions for older motorcycles.

• We do not limit the number of services per year. The program allows one service call for the same service type within a seven-day period.

• Toll-free assistance available 24 hours a day, 365 days a year, from two national call centers.

• AMA Roadside Assistance pays first. No need to pay and wait for reimbursement.

February 2012

37

RACING 38

AmericanMotorcyclist.com

RACING An AMA Membership Card is a golden ticket to the most exciting sport in the world: motorcycle racing. From local races for kids to the top rung of motorcycle competition in the country, the path is clear. And it starts with competition in AMAsanctioned events.

Access Your AMA card is your license to race, giving you access to thousands of local, regional and national championship events all over the United States. As a member of the AMA, you are a cardcarrying motorcycle racer.

Rules The AMA offers a standardized national rulebook that ensures fairness and legitimacy. When you win an AMA event, it means something. In addition, the AMA rules structure allows for an organized process of protests and appeals, which means there is a fair and equitable process for resolving disputes.

Also, these rules are recommended by your representatives in AMA Congress, a volunteer body devoted to fair, equitable and logical rues.

Congress members hear your concerns.

Results The AMA Racing Department compiles results submitted by clubs and promoters from all over

the country in all racing disciplines sanctioned by the Association. Submitted results are available at AMARacing.com.

Classification Skill-based class assignments at an AMAsanctioned event are based on a standardized classification process detailed in the rulebook.

They are not based on the honor system. When you line up at an AMA race, the guys and gals to your left and right are about your speed.

The Gold Standard To be eligible for an AMA sanction, a club or promoter must undergo risk-management training.

The organizer must work to minimize risk to participants, and for when injuries still occur, the organizer must have competent medical staff on location.

A Path To Grow With a logical path from novice classes all the way to the pro level, AMA riders advance to become the best in the world.

Top Awards AMA Racing confers the highest honors in amateur motorcycle competition with Horizon Awards in many disciplines, as well as nationalcaliber awards for up-and-coming youth riders and vets.

Protection AMA events must carry suitable insurance

AMA REWARDS coverage. AMA organizers are given access to excellent insurance through approved providers.

STAYING INFORMED

Fraternity

American Motorcyclist Each month, you receive the best magazine covering the motorcycle lifestyle.

The greatest motorcycle racers in the country are AMA members, and many of them still compete in AMA events, even after their pro careers are behind them.

Black Book The official motorcycle and powersports value guide.

BlackBookUSA.com.

National Championships Only AMA racers are eligible for AMA national No. 1 plates and to compete in the series and events that award them.

More than any other symbol, that No. 1 plate represents the gold standard of AMA-sanctioned competition.

AMA Racing Championship Banquet Every year, the AMA honors its racing champions at a gala banquet—held in recent years in Las Vegas, Nev. This world-class affair recognizes top racers from all disciplines. It also bestows special awards upon racers who truly stand out, such as the coveted AMA Athlete of the Year Awards.

Now Available Free To AMA Members Get your full-color copy of the all-new AMA Member Benefits Guide online at AmericanMotorcyclist. com > Members and make sure to check out some of these featured benefits.

Optional coverage for competitors to help pay medical bills in the event of an accident is available.

AMA Districts

Referee & Promoter Training

AMA Credit Card Show your motorcycling passion and enjoy special rates and cash back with the AMA Visa Card from Capital One. Go to AMAVisa.com.

AMA Racing requires referees and track owners and promoters to receive training, resulting in a better experience for racers.

ATV Competition The AMA also sanctions numerous ATV competition events in partnership with the All-Terrain Vehicle Association.

If it happens on quads, from ATV motocross to Extreme Dirt Track to hare scrambles and more, the ATVA is there.

When you race in our events, you know that you’re participating in the most well-run, highest-profile ATV racing in the country.

Parts And Gear Save With BikeBandit.com Get 10 percent off your order at BikeBandit.com by entering your AMA number at checkout.

See More Online For a more comprehensive list of all the benefits of membership in the AMA, as well as additional ways to take full advantage of your Association, see AmericanMotorcyclist.com and download the official AMA Member Benefits Guide.

AMA Lodging Save At Choice Hotels AMA members save 15 percent 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. Reserve online at ChoiceHotels. com and use discount code #00947556.

Motorcycle Rentals Arrive And Ride EagleRider offers a 10 percent discount on HarleyDavidson, Honda, BMW and Polaris rentals and tours. Call (888) 900-9901.

Rider Insurance

AMA-sanctioned competition is organized into districts to keep competition fair. Districts help organize racetracks and events within specific areas.

THE ESSENTIALS

AMA Government Relations A full-time staff in Washington D.C., California and Ohio protects your right to ride.

Motorcycle Shipping Ride Where You Want In the United States, call Federal Companies, an agent for Allied Van Lines, 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 offers temporary international insurance.

Car Rentals Save Money When You Drive Get a discount of up to 25 percent off prevailing rates at any Avis or Budget car rental agency. For Avis, enter discount code: D388100.

For Budget, enter code: Z942000.

Camping Save With KOA KOA campgrounds in the United States and Canada offer a 10 percent discount.

Find locations at KOA.com, and get your discount coupon in the Members Area of AmericanMotorcyclist.com or by calling (800) AMA-JOIN.

AMA Gear Buy AMA Stuff Online Find unique patches, pins, T-shirts and more at AmericanMotorcyclist.com and the Hall of Fame at MotorcycleMuseum.org.

PRODUCT DISCOUNTS AMA/Sprocketlist Online Classifieds AMA members can place free classified ads in the AMA member classifieds at AMA.Sprocketlist.com or AmericanMotorcyclist.com > Shop > Classifieds.

AMA Supercross And AMA Arenacross Tickets Save on advanced tickets. Restrictions and conditions apply. See AmericanMotorcyclist.com or call (800) AMA-JOIN for info.

Ezy-Lift Products Save 10 percent by calling (800) 974-3032. Ezylift.com.

Flash2Pass Garage Door Openers Save 10 percent. Enter code AMA2011 at checkout from F2PTechnologies.com.

LifeLock Identity Theft Protection Get 30 free days and 10 percent off. Use promo code AMACYCLE at LifeLock.com or by calling (800) 543-3562.

MAD Maps The best routes made easy.

Save 15 percent. Use promo code AMATHXU at MADmaps.com.

Motorcycle Hall Of Fame Save $5 on your admission to the Motorcycle Hall of Fame at AMA headquarters in Pickerington, Ohio.

Schampa Cold-Weather Gear Save 15 percent. Enter discount code SCHAMA at checkout from Schampa.com.

Swisstrax Garage Floor Coverings Swisstrax.com. 10 percent off by calling (866) 748-7940.

XENA Security Products Save 20 percent. Call (888) 345-9362 with your AMA number to order.

XenaSecurity.com.

February 2012

39

EXCELLENCE HONORED Motorcycling Legends, Champions Stand Tall In Vegas

The AMA Visa Card from Capital One Legends & Champions weekend brought motorcycling’s best and brightest to the Red Rock Casino Resort and Spa in Las Vegas, Nev., on Nov. 18-20.

The induction of five motorcycling greats at the AMA Visa Card Motorcycle Hall of Fame Induction Ceremony, presented by KTM, kicked off the celebration on Friday evening. Then, Saturday saw more than 100 stunning motorcycles from all eras at the Motorcycle Hall of Fame Dave Mungenast Memorial Concours d’Elegance.

For information about sponsor AMA Visa Card or to apply for a card, visit AMAVisa.com

Finally, Sunday morning brought the AMA Visa Card Championship Banquet and the recognition of hundreds of AMA champions and special award winners from the 2011 competition season.

“With well over 400 members, today’s Hall of Fame is a Who’s Who of men and women who have thrilled us, inspired us and, in many cases, brought a tear to our eye with groundbreaking achievements that have forever altered the world of motorcycling.”

Perry King, Event Emcee And AMA Board Member

“The vision of the Hall of Fame induction ceremony is only possible with partnership. You need only to look around this room tonight and see the realization of this vision. I’m honored to be a part of this effort.”

“I have to thank the AMA. I did what I did, and that’s what we do. We ride motorcycles.

I do this because I’m a motorcycle person, and this room is full of motorcycle people.

To honor me like this in front of motorcycle people is very important to me.”

Kenny Roberts, 2011 Hall Of Fame Legend

Photos Sjodin Photography

Jeff Heininger, Chairman Of The American Motorcycle Heritage Foundation

February 2012

41

“This business means so much to me. I’m still enjoying working every day. I still go in early and leave late, but it’s the employees who do all the hard work. I really enjoy this industry. It’s been good to me.”

Fred Fox, 2011 Hall Of Fame Inductee “It is a great honor for me to represent my grandfather here tonight.

Norbert Schickel’s selection to the Class of 2011 is a dream come true for our family and attending his induction is a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity for us to celebrate his achievements.”

Ken Anderson, Grandson Of The Late Norbert Schickel, 2011 Hall Of Fame Inductee

“Being recognized with so many iconic people is touching, and to see my career made permanent as part of the Hall of Fame is really something. I’ll always have that. I’m truly honored to be inducted into the Motorcycle Hall of Fame.”

Doug Polen, 2011 Hall Of Fame Inductee

“I have been fortunate in my life to do exciting work that I love alongside people I love and admire.

Cook’s and my success at Cycle magazine and on the racetrack was due in large part to the talent and hard work of an army of people, who share in this honor and deserve our gratitude.”

Phil Schilling, 2011 Hall Of Fame Inductee

42

AmericanMotorcyclist.com

Photos Sjodin Photography

“I have to thank America for welcoming me. First was Bud and Dave Ekins. I met them in Germany in 1964, and it was the beginning of a great journey in America. We have come a long way from when I was inducted in 1999 in the AMA parking lot under an E-Z Up. This is a fantastic event.”

Roger DeCoster, 2011 Hall Of Fame Legend

INDIAN STANDS TALL AT BIKE SHOW

2011 Motorcycle Hall of Fame Dave Mungenast Memorial Concours d’Elegance Classic, historic and flat-out gorgeous motorcycles were on full display at the Red Rock on Saturday, Nov. 19, when more than 100 motorcycles took center stage at the 2011 Motorcycle Hall of Fame Dave Mungenast Memorial Concours d’Elegance.

Winning the Jim Davis Best in Show Award was Bob Mitchell, whose black and chrome 1947 Indian Chief amazed the crowd and judges with its attention to detail and the craftsmanship evident in the restoration.

“You get really top quality bikes at this show,” Mitchell says. “The people who are showing the bikes here are the ones that take bike restoration seriously, and it’s just a very nice group of people, too. I will definitely be back next year—probably with a surprise or two.”

CLASS WINNERS Best of Show 1947 Indian Chief, Bob Mitchell Best Preservation 1953 AJS 185, Don Johnson Kenny Roberts Award 1957 BSA Goldstar, Mike Iannuccilli Early Years of Motocross Museum Award 1938 Victor-Martin Speedway, Brad Newell Moto Armory Award 1965 Harley-Davidson Topper with Sidecar, Terry Gambel

“Most of all, I’d like to thank my family for holding up the fort. I also thank the Hall of Fame for honoring me with this great award for doing something I loved to do and would have done anyway.”

Stu Peters, 2011 Hall Of Fame Inductee

Dave Mungenast Award 1966 Triumph T120R, Tim Gilligan Roger DeCoster Award 1949 AJS 18S, Linda Selman American to 1953 1947 Indian Chief, Bob Mitchell American 1954-1975 1958 Harley-Davidson XLH Sportster, Loren Carpenter British to 1964 1961 Triumph TR5 AC, Danny Selman

European 1965-1975 MV Augusta 500cc, Brad Boyle Japanese to 1970 1966 Honda CA-77 Dream, Gary Briggs Japanese 1971-1975 1971 Kawasaki F-5 Bighorn, Al Lutino Antique Competition to 1969 1966 BSA Hornet, Don Harrell Classic Competition 1970-1975 1974 Honda Elsinore, Peter Palko

John Penton Award 1967 Husqvarna MX250, Chris Carter

British 1965-1975 1967 BSA Spitfire, Don Johnson

Specials and Customs to 1975 “Easy Rider” Billy Bike Replica, Paul Wheeler

Owen Collection Award 1975 Yamaha TZ750, Ray Abrams

European to 1964 1960 BMW R69S, Rick Huemmerich

Historic Racing 1978 Yamaha OW-36, Eric and Lee Hale

Bob Mitchell’s ’47 Indian

A few of the hundreds of AMA-sanctioned events this month, detailed on the following pages.

GO RIDE

4 5 4

5 25

5 4

1 1 1

1

The 2012 AMA Supercross Championship charges full speed into February with events in Anaheim, Calif., Feb. 4; San Diego, Feb. 11; Arlington, Texas, Feb. 18; and Atlanta Feb. 25. See the full schedule on page 45.

2

Some of the top amateur woods racers in the West will continue their quests for AMA Racing National Championships in the AMA Racing West Hare Scrambles Championship Series Feb. 18-19 in Paicines, Calif., hosted by the Salinas Ramblers. Youth riders race on Saturday, adults on Sunday. For the full schedule and contact info, see page 46.

3

Back East, amateur hare scrambles racers will battle Feb. 26 at an event hosted by High Point Hare Scramble in Elko, Ga. It’s part of the AMA Racing East Hare Scrambles Championship Series. For the full schedule, see page 46.

44

AmericanMotorcyclist.com

4

Keep your motorcycle appetite satisfied this winter at one of the many International Motorcycle Shows around the country. There are shows in Minneapolis Feb. 3-5, Chicago Feb. 10-12 and Charlotte, N.C., Feb. 24-26. Info: MotorcycleShows. com.

5

One of the best shows in motorsports?

Arenacross, where you’ll see some of the tightest, fastest and wildest action on the track. The AMA Arenacross Championship rolls through Lexington, Ky., Feb. 4-5; Fresno, Calif., Feb. 11-12; Reno, Nev., Feb. 17-19; and ends the season in Minneapolis Feb. 25-26.

Info: Arenacross.com.

6

KTM’s Russell Bobbitt continues his effort to defend his No. 1 plate Feb. 19 in Greensboro, Ga., in the AMA Racing Rekluse National Enduro Championship Series, presented by Moose Racing. More

16 3

info: NationalEnduro.com.

COMING UP Every summer, tens of thousands of enthusiasts attend AMA Vintage Motorcycle Days at the Mid-Ohio Sports Car Course in Lexington, Ohio. The 2012 event is set for July 20-22 and will once again feature vintage racing, the country’s largest motorcycle swap meet, seminars, stars from the sports past and present, bike shows and more. Info: AMAVintageMotorcycleDays.com.

The 2012 AMA International Women & Motorcycling Conference will be held July 26-29 in Carson City, Nev. The extravaganza will combine inspirational speakers, great roads, demo rides, product showcases and unmatched camaraderie. Info: WomenAndMotorcycling.com.

ARIZONA

FLORIDA

MOTOCROSS

COMPETITION

FEB 25-26: BUCKEYE: ARIZONA CYCLE PARK/CMC ARIZONA RACING LLC, (623) 853-0750, ARIZONACYCLEPARK.COM

MOTOCROSS

CALIFORNIA

NEVADA

253-9036, SCTATRIALS.COM

COMPETITION

ARENACROSS

FEB 18-19: CITRA: 2-DAY EVENT, MOTOCROSS OF MARION COUNTY, (352) 591-2377, MXMARIONCOUNTY.COM

RECREATIONAL

COMPETITION

FEB 17-18: RENO: 2-DAY EVENT, FELD MOTOR SPORTS, (800) 216-7482, ARENACROSS.COM

GEORGIA

NEW YORK

POKER RUN

COMPETITION

FEB 26: SUN VALLEY: ABATE-CA LOCAL 1, (818) 344-4656

ENDURO

RECREATIONAL

COMPETITION

FEB 19: GREENSBORO: CHEROKEE CYCLE CLUB INC., (770) 540-2891, SETRA.ORG

ROAD ENDURO

ARENACROSS

ILLINOIS

FEB 11-12: FRESNO: 2-DAY EVENT, FELD MOTOR SPORTS, (800) 216-7482, ARENACROSS.COM GRAND PRIX FEB 4-5: TAFT: 2-DAY EVENT, DIRT DIGGERS-SOUTHERN CALIFORNIA, (562) 432-5215, DIRTDIGGERSMC.COM

COMPETITION HARE SCRAMBLES FEB 26: KEITHSBURG: BURLINGTON VALLEY DUSTERS, (319) 753-6961, IERA KENTUCKY COMPETITION

FEB 5: YONKERS: RAMAPO MOTORCYCLE CLUB INC, (201) 767-3594, RAMAPOMC. ORG PENNSYLVANIA COMPETITION MOTOCROSS

HARE & HOUND

ARENACROSS

FEB 18-19: HARRISBURG: 2-DAY EVENT,

FEB 26: LUCERNE VALLEY: CHECKERS MC, (760) 341-5724, CHECKERSMC.COM

FEB 4-5: LEXINGTON : 2-DAY EVENT, FELD MOTOR SPORTS, (800) 216-7482, ARENACROSS.COM

TRAIL-WAY SPEEDWAY, (717) 359-7056,

HARE SCRAMBLES FEB 18-19: PAICINES: 2-DAY EVENT, SALINAS RAMBLERS M/C, (861) 663-0261, SALINASRAMBLERSMC.ORG OBSERVED TRIALS FEB 12: SAN DIEGO: SOUTHERN CALIFORNIA TRIALS ASSOCIATION, (619)

HALL OF FAME EXHIBITS AND EVENTS MOTORCYCLE HALL OF FAME MOTORCYCLEMUSEUM.ORG The 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 and New Year’s Day. Main Hall: Motorcycle Hall of Fame: Recognizing those who have made significant contributions to all aspects of motorcycling.

MINNESOTA

MOTORAMAMEVENTS.COM SOUTH CAROLINA

COMPETITION

COMPETITION

ARENACROSS

MOTOCROSS

FEB 25-26: MINNEAPOLIS: 2-DAY EVENT, FELD MOTOR SPORTS, (800) 216-7482, ARENACROSS.COM

FEB 18-19: HAMER: VICTORY SPORTS INC,

Jan. 14: Phoenix, Ariz.: Chase Field Jan. 21: Los Angeles: Dodger Stadium Jan. 28: Oakland, Calif.: Overstock.com Stadium Feb. 4: Anaheim, Calif.: Angel Stadium

(423) 323-5497, VICTORY-SPORTS.COM

Jan. 27-29: Cedar Park, Texas: Cedar Park Center Feb. 4-5: Lexington, Ky.: Rupp Arena Feb. 11-12: Fresno, Calif.: Save Mart Center

Feb. 11: San Diego: Qualcomm Stadium

Feb. 17-19: Reno, Nev.: Livestock Events Center

Feb. 18: Arlington, Texas: Cowboys Stadium

Feb. 25-26: Minneapolis: Target Center

Feb. 25: Atlanta: Georgia Dome

AMA PRO SUPERBIKE CHAMPIONSHIP AMAPRORACING.COM

March 3: St. Louis: Edward Jones Dome

March 15-17: Daytona Beach, Fla.: Daytona 200, Daytona International Speedway

Dirt-Track! All-American Motorcycle Racing: Celebrating the storied history of the men and machines who battle on the dirt oval.

March 10: Daytona Beach, Fla.: Daytona Int’l Speedway

30-Year Ride: Honda’s Ohio-made Motorcycles: Gold Wings aren’t the only bikes that Honda produced at its plant in Marysville, Ohio. This exhibit showcases the 30 years of production, from the CR250 to the Rune.

March 24: Toronto, Canada: Rogers Centre

May 4-6: Sonoma, Calif.: Infineon Raceway

March 31: Houston: Reliant Stadium

May 26-28: Tooele, Utah: Miller Motorsports Park

Founder’s Hall: Honoring the Hall of Fame’s generous contributors.

April 28: Salt Lake City: Rice-Eccles Stadium

AMA Vintage Motorcycle Days: July 20-22, Mid-Ohio Sports Car Course, Lexington, Ohio; AMA VintageMotorcycleDays.com

May 5: Las Vegas, Nev.: Sam Boyd Stadium

AMA PRO RACING

MONSTER ENERGY AMA SUPERCROSS SERIES AMASUPERCROSS.COM

March 17: Indianapolis: Lucas Oil Stadium

April 14: New Orleans: Louisiana Superdome April 21: Seattle: Qwest Field

AMA ARENACROSS CHAMPIONSHIP ARENACROSS.COM Jan. 13-15: Topeka, Kan.: KS Expo Centre Arena Jan. 21-22: Dayton, Ohio: Nutter Center

April 20-22: Braselton, Ga.: Road Atlanta

June 1-3: Elkhart Lake, Wis.: Road America June 22-24: Birmingham, Ala.: Barber Motorsports Park July 13-15: Lexington, Ohio: Mid-Ohio Sports Car Course July 27-29: Monterey, Calif.: Mazda Raceway Laguna Seca Sept. 7-9: Millville, N.J.: New Jersey Motorsports Park Oct. 5-7: New Orleans: NOLA Motorsports Park

February 2012

45

AMA PRO GRAND NATIONAL CHAMPIONSHIP AMAPRORACING.COM

June 9: Sacramento, Calif.: Power Balance Pavilion

March 15: Daytona Beach, Fla.: Daytona Short Track I, Daytona Flat Track

TBD: Los Angeles: TBD

March 16: Daytona Beach, Fla.: Daytona Short Track II, Daytona Flat Track AMA NATIONAL CHAMPIONSHIP SERIES AMA RACING NATIONAL HARE & HOUND NATIONALHAREANDHOUND.COM

Oct. 6: Denver: National Western Complex Oct. 20: Everett, Wash.: Comcast Arena Oct. 27: Boise, Idaho: Idaho Center Nov 17: Las Vegas, Nev.: Orleans Arena

Jan. 22: Lucerne Valley, Calif.: Rick Nuss, Desert MC; (626) 205-0121, DesertMC.com

AMA RACING WEST HARE SCRAMBLES AMARACING.COM

Feb. 12: Ridgecrest, Calif.: Richie Wohlers, Four Aces MC; (805) 358-2668, FourAcesMC.org

Feb. 18 (Youth) Feb. 19 (Amateur): Paicines, Calif.: Derrick Morris, Salinas Ramblers; (831) 663-0261, SalinasRamblersMC.org

Feb. 26: Reno, Nev.: Jeff Henning; Western States Racing Assn.; (775) 544-6463, WesternStatesRacing.com March 25: Murphy, Idaho: Bill Walsh, Dirt Inc.; (208) 459-6871, DirtIncRacing.com April 22: Lucerne Valley, Calif.: Steve Williams, Vikings MC; (310) 490-4575, VikingsMC.com May 5: Jericho, Utah: Talisa Flitton, Sage Riders; (801) 833-5946, SageRidersMC.com May 19: Jericho, Utah: KC Bogue, Sugarloafers MC; (435) 864-8305, SugarloafersMC.com Sept. 8: Panaca, Nev.: Zach Livreri, Silver State Trailblazers; (702) 994-6823, https:// sites.google.com/site/silverstatetrailblazers/ Oct 14: Johnson Valley, Calif.: Justin Shultz, SoCal MC; (949) 981-6776, SoCalMC.com Oct. 28: Lucerne Valley, Calif.: Ryan Sanders, 100’s MC; (949) 584-9395, 100sMC.org AMA NATIONAL ENDURO NATIONALENDURO.COM Jan. 29: Wedgefield, S.C.: Johnny McCoy, SERMA; (803) 481-5169, SermaClub.com Feb. 19: Greensboro, Ga.: Tom Cufr, Cherokee Cycle Club; (770) 540-2891, SETRA.org March 4: Salley, S.C.: Rhonda Dennis, Columbia Enduro Riders; (803) 788-4220, mastercraft@bellsouth.net April 22: West Point, Tenn.: Paul Traufler, NATRA; (256) 837-0084, NATRA.DirtRider.net May 6: Forest Hill, La.: Tracy Barstow, Acadiana Dirt Riders; (337) 519-2520, AcadianaDirtRiders.org June 17: Upton, Wyo.: Paul Douglas, Inyan Kara Riders; (307) 468-2840, NationalEnduro.com July 29: Cross Fork, Pa.: Peter Burnett, Brandywine Enduro Riders; (610) 368-7332, BER.us Sept. 9: Park Hills, Mo.: Michael Silger, Missouri Mudders; michael.silger@avnet.com, MoMudders.com Oct. 14: Matthews, Ind.: Doug Spence, Muddobbers MC; (765) 998-2236, MuddobbersMC.org Nov. 4: Stanton, Ala.: Glenn Hollingshead, Perry Mountain MC ; (334) 872-4286, PerryMountain.com ENDUROCROSS ENDUROCROSS.COM May 4: Las Vegas, Nev.: Orleans Arena

46

Sept. 15: Ontario, Calif.: Citizens Bank Arena

AmericanMotorcyclist.com

March 3 (Youth) March 4 (Amateur): Sparks, Nev.: Jeff Irwin, Cross Country Promotions; (916) 837-7713, ccp_racing@yahoo.com April 14 (Youth) April 15 (Amateur): Shasta Lake, Calif.: Karl Hankins, Redding Dirt Riders; (530) 953-7272, ReddingDirtRiders.com June 16 (Youth & C Amateur) June 17 (Pro, A & B Amateur): Elkton, Ore.: Toni Bamford, ETRA; (541) 968-1664, ETRA.net Aug. 25 (Youth) Aug. 26 (Amateur): Big Sky, Mont.: Jamey Kabisch, Lone Peak Racing; (406) 223-0478, BigSkyXC.com AMA RACING EAST HARE SCRAMBLES AMARACING.COM Jan. 22 (Youth & Amateur): Wedgefield, S.C.: Johnny McCoy, SERMA; (803) 481-5169 (7-10 p.m. EST), SERMAClub.com Feb. 26 (Youth & Amateur): Elko, Ga.: Bruce Douglas, High Point Hare Scrambles; (478) 8084131, rbduglas47@yahoo.com April 7 (Youth & Amateur): Battle Creek, Mich.: Kurt McKenzie, Battle Creek MC; (269) 964-0778, BattleCreekMotorcycleClub.com May 13 (Youth & Amateur): TBA: Rita Coombs, Racer Productions; (304) 284-0084, GNCCRacing.com June 9 (Youth) June 10 (Amateur): S. Edmeston, N.Y.: Jim Simmons, Thunder Ridge Sports; (607) 847-6522, ThunderRidge.biz July 8 (Youth & Amateur): Millfield, Ohio: Rita Coombs, Racer Productions; (304) 284-0084, GNCCRacing.com July 21 (Youth & Amateur): Valley View, Pa.: Tiffany Tobias, Rausch Creek Powersports; (570) 682-4600, RauschCreekRacing.com Aug. 4 (Youth) Aug. 5 (Amateur): Hill City, Minn.: Paul Otto, Range Riders MC; (763) 229-1177, RangeRidersMC.org Aug. 11 (Youth) Aug. 12 (Amateur): E. Freetown, Maine.: Gordie Coyle, Pilgrim Sands Trail Riders; (781) 294-8355, PSTR.org Sept. 1 (Youth) Sept. 2 (Amateur) Arrington, Va.: Chuck Honeycutt, April Fools Promotions; (757) 375-5665; AprilFools62@verizon.net AMA RACING MID AMERICA XC CHAMPIONSHIP HARE SCRAMBLES THEMAXC.COM March 3 (Amateur, Youth & ATV): Greenfield, Ind.: Mike Gibbs, Mid America XC; (317) 4186084

April 21 (Amateur, Youth & ATV): Mooresville, Ind.: Mike Gibbs, Mid America XC; (317) 4186084 May 20 (Amateur, Youth & ATV): Springville, Ind.: Mike Gibbs, Mid America XC; (317) 4186084 June 9 (Amateur, Youth & ATV): Casey, Ill.: Mike Gibbs, Mid America XC; (317) 418-6084 July 14 (Amateur, Youth & ATV): Martinsville, Ind.: Mike Gibbs, Mid America XC; (317) 4186084 Aug. 18 (Amateur, Youth & ATV): Marengo, Ind.: Mike Gibbs, Mid America XC; (317) 4186084 Sept. 8 (Amateur, Youth & ATV): Caanan, Ind.: Mike Gibbs, Mid America XC; (317) 418-6084 Oct. 13 (Amateur, Youth & ATV): Veedersburg, Ind: Mike Gibbs, Mid America XC; (317) 4186084 Oct. 27 (Amateur, Youth & ATV): Gosport, Ind: Mike Gibbs, Mid America XC; (317) 418-6084 AMA/NATC MOTOTRIALS AMARACING.COM May 19-20: Cahuilla Creek, Calif.: Pete Croft, So. California Trials Assn.; (714) 580-7369, SoCalTrials.com May 26-27: Cotapaxi, Colo.: Frank Peterson, Rocky Mountain Trials Assn.; (303) 477-6793, RockyMountainTrials.org June 16-17: Toronto, Ohio: Jim Watson, Trials Inc.; (317) 861-6275, TrialsInc.org June 23-24: Exeter, R.I.: David Alen, Rhode Island Trials Club, (508) 285-6074, RITrialsClub. com AMA/NATC YOUTH MOTOTRIALS AMARACING.COM June 6-8 (East): Sequatchie, Tenn.: Ashley Jackson, Southeastern Trials Riders Assn., (423) 942-8688; TrialsTrainingCenter.com July 20-22 (West): Howard, Colo.: Bill Markham, International Trials School; (719) 9423372, ITSoffroad.com AMA RACING ATV HARE SCRAMBLES AMARACING.COM March 3: TBD: Mike Gibbs, Mid America XC; (317) 418-6084, TheMAXC.com April 7: Battle Creek, Mich: Kurt McKenzie, Battle Creek MC; (269) 964-0778, BattleCreekMotorcycleClub.com June 9: S. Edmeston, N.Y.: Jim Simmons, Thunder Ridge sports; (607) 847-6522, ThunderRidge.biz July 22: Valley View, Pa.: Tiffany Tobias, Rausch Creek Powersports; (570) 682-4600, RauschCreekRacing.com Aug. 4: Hill City, Minn.: Paul Otto, Range Riders MC; (763) 229-1177, RangeRidersMC.org Oct. 13: TBD: Mike Gibbs, Mid America XC; (317) 418-6084, TheMAXC.com Oct. 27: Gosport, Ind.: Mike Gibbs, Mid America XC; (317) 418-6084, TheMAXC.com AMA ATV MOTOCROSS ATVMOTOCROSS.COM March 24-25: Pell City, Ala.: Millcreek

April 21-22: Blountville, Tenn.: Muddy Creek May 5-6: Mechanicsville, Md.: Budds Creek May 19-20: Walnut, Ill.: Sunset Ridge June 2-3: Oakland, Ky.: Ballance MX June 16-17: Mount Morris, Pa.: High Point June 30-July 1: Millfield, Ohio: Sunday Creek July 14-15: New Berlin, N.Y.: Unadilla

March 24-25: Anza, Calif.: Southwest area qualifier, The Ranch, (949) 276-5153 March 31-April 1: Washington, Ga.: Southeast area qualifier, Aonia Pass, (706) 678-3737 March 31-April 1: Uhrichsville, Ohio: Mid-East area qualifier, Crow Canyon, (740) 594-6686 March 31-April 1: Byron, Ill.: North Central area qualifier, Byron Motosports Park, (815) 234-2271

area qualifier, Tony Wynn MX, (870) 342-5373 May 20: Washougal, Wash.: Northwest area qualifier, Washougal, (360) 601-5347 May 26-27: Chatsworth, Ga.: Southeast area qualifier, Lazy River, (706) 278-1620 May 26-27: Walnut, Ill.: North Central area qualifier, Sunset Ridge, (815) 379-9534 June 2-3: Delmont, Pa.: Northeast regional (Amateur), Steel City, (304) 284-0084

July 28-29: Buchanan, Mich.: RedBud

April 14-15: Livingston, Tenn.: Mid-East area qualifier, Thunder Valley, (423) 323-5497

Aug. 11-12: Hurricane Mills, Tenn.: Loretta Lynn Ranch

April 14-15: San Antonio, Texas: South Central area qualifier, Cycle Ranch, (210) 635-9199

AMA INDOOR DIRT TRACK STEVENACERACING.COM

April 14-15: Marysville, Calif.: Northwest area qualifier, E Street, (916) 209-3855

June 2-3: Wortham, Texas: South Central regional (Amateur), Freestone, (713) 962-3386

Jan. 21: Du Quoin, Ill.: Southern Illinois Ctr

April 21-22: Mt. Morris, Pa.: Northeast area qualifier, High Point, (304) 284-0084

June 9-10: Mill Creek, Ala.: Southeast regional (Amateur), Mill Creek, (205) 699-8857

April 21-22: Underwood, Ind.: Mid-East area qualifier, CLCR, (612) 559-6777

June 9-10: Bowling Green, Ky.: Mid-East regional (Youth), Ballance MX, (423) 323-5497

April 21-22: Winterset, Iowa: North Central area qualifier, Riverside Raceway, (515) 266-7509

June 9-10: Milford, Calif.: Northwest regional (Youth & Amateur), Honey Lake, (530) 827-2639

AMA AMATEUR NATIONAL MOTOCROSS MXSPORTS.COM

April 21-22: Breaux Bridge, La.: South Central area qualifier, Gravity Alley, (87 342-5373

June 16-17: Ellerbe, N.C.: Southeast regional (Youth), Windy Hills MX, (423) 323-5497

Feb. 18-19: Hamer, S.C.: Southeast area qualifer, South of the Border, (423) 323-5497

April 21-22: Milford, Calif.: Northwest area qualifier, Honey Lake, (530) 827-2639

June 16-17: Millville, Minn.: North Central regional (Youth), Spring Creek, (507) 753-2779

April 21-22: Milford, Calif.: Southwest area qualifier, Honey Lake, (530) 827-2639

June 16-17: Conroe, Texas: South Central regional (Youth), Three Palms, (936) 321-8725

April 28-29: Batavia, N.Y.: Northeast area qualifier, Area 51, (585) 345-7433

June 16-17: Hesperia, Calif.: Southwest regional (Youth & Amateur), Competitive Edge, (909) 454-1070

Feb. 11: Du Quoin, Ill.: Southern Illinois Ctr Feb 25: Du Quoin, Ill.: Southern Illinois Ctr March 31: Du Quoin, Ill.: Southern Illinois Ctr AMA AMATEUR GRAND CHAMPIONSHIPS

Feb. 25-26: Elizabeth City, N.C.: Northeast area qualifier, Elizabeth City, (757) 549-7012 Feb. 25-26: Kemp, Texas: South Central area qualifier, UnderGround MX Park, (903) 498-4659 Feb. 25-26: Litchfield Park, Ariz.: Southwest area qualifier, Arizona Cycle Park, (623) 8530750 March 3-4: Reddick, Fla.: Southeast area qualifier, MX of Marion Co, (352) 591-2377 March 10-11: Hedgesville, W.Va.: Northeast area qualifier, Tomahawk, (304) 229-6682 March 10-11: London, Ky.: Mid-East area qualifier, Daniel Boone, (423) 323-5497 March 10-11: Du Quion, Ill.: North Central area qualifier, Paradise MX, (618) 542-6203 March 10-11: Hesperia, Calif.: Southwest area qualifier, Competitive Edge, (909) 456-1070 March 17-18: Englishtown, N.J.: Northeast area qualifier, Englishtown, (732) 446-7800 March 17-18: Orlando, Fla.: Southeast area qualifier, Bithlo, (814) 695-2453 March 17-18: Wellston, Okla.: South Central area qualifier, Reynard Racing MX, (405) 7931049 March 17-18: Haleiwa, Hawaii: Southwest area qualifier, Kahuku MX, (808) 668-6276 March 17-18: Mesquite, Nev.: Southwest area qualifier, Mesquite MX, (702) 883-7391 March 24-25: Axton, Va.: Southeast area qualifier, Lake Sugar Tree, (757) 549-7012 March 24-25: Rossville, Ind.: Mid-East area qualifier, Wild Cat Creek MX, (765) 379-2482 March 24-25: Prentiss, Miss.: South Central area qualifier, Golden Pine, (601) 506-8669 March 24-25: Richland, Wash.: Northwest area qualifier, Horn Rapids MX, (509) 496-2958

April 28-29: Blountville, Tenn.: Southeast area qualifier, Muddy Creek, (423) 323-5497 April 28-29: Millington, Mich.: Mid-East area qualifier, Baja Acres, (989) 871-3356 April 28-29: Richwood, Mo.: North Central area qualifier, Romp MX, (573) 701-8674 May 5-6: Armagh, Pa.: Northeast area qualifier, Pleasure Valley, (814) 695-2453 May 5-6: Bloomingdale, Mich.: Mid-East area qualifier, Dutch Sports Park, (269) 521-7800 May 5-6: Tigerton, Wis.: North Central area qualifier, Motozone, (920) 419-2863 May 5-6: Lakewood, Colo.: South Central area qualifier, Thunder Valley, (303) 697-1003 May 12-13: Winchester, N.H.: Northeast area qualifier, Winchester Speed Park, (603) 2396406 May 12-13: Little Falls, Minn.: North Central area qualifier, Little Falls Raceway, (612) 9193457 May 12-13: Beaumont, Texas: South Central area qualifier, Cowboy Bad Lands MX, (409) 794-1985 May 19-20: New Berlin, N.Y.: Northeast area qualifier, Unadilla Valley Sports Center, (607) 965-8450 May 19-20: Danville, Va.: Southeast area qualifier, Birch Creek, (434) 836-7629 May 19-20: Nelsonville, Ohio: Mid-East area qualifier, Fast Traxx Motoplex, (740) 767-3740 May 19-20: Mason, Ill.: North Central area qualifier, Cross Roads MX, (618) 686-2769 May 19-20: Little Rock, Ark.: South Central

June 2-3: Buchanan, Mich.: Mid-East regional (Amateur), Red Bud, (269) 695-6405

June 23-24: Shippensburg, Pa.: Northeast regional (Youth), Doublin Gap, (717) 249-6036 June 23-24: Mt Carroll, Ill.: North Central regional (Amateur), MC Motopark, (815) 2381614 AMA RACING VINTAGE GRAND CHAMPIONSHIPS AMAVINTAGEMOTORCYCLEDAYS.COM July 20-22: Lexington, Ohio: AMA Racing Vintage Grand Championships, Mid-Ohio Sports Car Course AMA RACING HILLCLIMB GRAND CHAMPIONSHIPS AMARACING.COM Aug. 17-19: Bay City, Wis.: AMA Racing Hillclimb Grand Championships AMA ICE RACE GRAND CHAMPIONSHIPS BAJAMX.COM Feb. 4-5: Davison, Mich.: AMA Ice Race Grand Championships AMA RACING ISDE QUALIFIERS AMA RACING ISDE QUALIFERS AMARACING.COM June 2-3: (Round 1) Idaho City, Idaho: Peter Reynolds, Boise Ridge Riders; (208) 384-5141, BoiseRidgeRiders.org June 9-10: (Round 2) Wellston, Ohio: William Defue Jr., Appalachian Dirt Riders; (740) 3846379, ADROhio.org Sept. 24-29: 2012 ISDE: Sachsenring Circuit, Saxony, Germany

February 2012

47

GOT NUMB & TINGLY HANDS? 速

CRUISING GLOVES ARE THE CURE ERGONOMICALLY MOLDS HAND TO GRIP PATENTED DESIGN ABSORBS VIBRATION & SHIELDS NERVES

MEMORY FOAM

PALM SWELL速

714-379-9413 WWW.MOTO.GRIPSWELL.COM

KINEKT GEAR RING

moving gears you can wear watch the video

www.kinektdesign.com 888-600-8494

GET INVOLVED AMERICANMOTORCYCLIST.COM/RIGHTS

Now

A

va Ame Zazzle ilable... .c r (new icanMotoom/ rcy logo gear clist too!

)

OFFICIAL MOTORCYCLE AND POWERSPORTS VALUE GUIDE

Trading Bikes?

Get the most Timely, Independent & Accurate™ market values for ATVs, Motorcycles, Snowmobiles, and Personal Watercraft.

officially licensed product

800•554•1026 www.BlackBookUSA.com

ADVERTISER INDEX Allstate ................................................... 51

Discount Ramps .................................... 27

AMA Capital One ................................... 52

Draggin Jeans ....................................... 48

AMA Hall of Fame Breakfast at Daytona . 5

Fed-Co .................................................. 19

AMA Hall of Fame Raffle Bike ............... 32

Gerbings ................................................ 13

AMA KTM DS Series ............................. 25

GRIPSWELL Gloves .............................. 48

AMA Renew Now .................................. 14

JC Motors .............................................. 23

AMA Women’s Conference ..................... 2

Kawasaki ............................................. 6, 7

AMA Yamaha Super Ténére NARS........ 28

Kinekt .................................................... 48

Americade ............................................. 22

Manic Salamander ................................ 49

Avis/Budget ........................................... 21

Metro Racing ......................................... 33

Best Rest Products ............................... 49

Motion Pro ............................................. 29

Black Book ............................................ 49

Port-A-Chopper..................................... 49

Bohn ...................................................... 48

Progressive ............................................ 11

Capital One............................................ 15

Sound Rider .......................................... 49

Daytona ................................................. 20

Yuasa ..................................................... 17

GUEST COLUMN

A DAY AT THE TRACK… The last couple years have been really nice since I bought a motorcycle again. There have been many casual and organized rides, a 1,000-mile day, some Motorcycle Safety Foundation and other training courses, and then my first track day. Outside of just the sheer fun of it all, I can honestly say that my time on the track was more beneficial to my street riding than I could have ever imagined. To be clear, I have been on the track once— that’s it. I do not have the knowledge and experience that the longtime track guys do, but at least I can share why I did it and what I learned.

I have been a timid rider for many years with an unfounded fear of left turns, rain and having my tires slide out from under me in a turn. Everyone I ride with highly suggested a track day to work out some of

By Phil Stearns these bugs. This would enable me to get with great instructors, on a safe course, away from cars, signs, fences and other things that can impale you, and really work on techniques to overcome the issues that were holding me back on the street.

This wasn’t just about having a better time on a motorcycle.

Quite frankly, my fears were preventing me from being as safe as I could—in addition to robbing me of the true enjoyment of riding.

The day started off on a bad note—constant rain the night before and most of the morning, but we went out anyway. I had great tires on the bike that would handle far beyond what I could dish out, so I needed to trust those tires, and the instructors showed me how. We rode the track several times in the rain, learning the lines and drilling in the importance of staying in those lines for all the riders’ safety, as it kept the riding predictable for everyone else. This is a great strategy for the street as well. I was stiff as a board just waiting for those tires to wash out—but they held great, just like they were supposed to!

We then moved to riding around, focusing on using the brakes less. We were practicing smooth throttle control and keeping the suspension in the sweet spot—where the bike “wants” to be, the instructors explained. If I learned nothing else that day, I learned that smooth is safer and faster.

We then covered body positioning. I’ve read about all the

50

AmericanMotorcyclist.com

physics of this subject for years. I knew about center of gravity (COG) and composite COG, front-end loading, and all that—but the facts meant nothing until I experienced it on the bike and in the turns. I asked one of the instructors “at what speed do you need to use these skills?” He responded, “Practice everything at slow speeds just like you’re going to use them going fast.”

This is where it all came together. If I was going to learn anything that day, I was going to have to bite the bullet and get over the fear. I chose to trust that I could put my body in the right position at the slow speeds, despite my fear that I would fall off. I chose to trust my tires, even in the rain. I started seeing how once I stopped fighting the bike, it made the turns so much smoother. The tires tracked in the rain and on dry pavement, just as designed. Even on the rough turns, the tires and my well-tuned suspension worked like a charm. I got to the point where I was laughing inside my helmet while in the turns, just wanting to pushpush-push and lean more.

High speeds meant very little that day. But smooth throttle control, correct body positioning, picking safe and repeatable lines, and enjoying the bike the way it was designed meant everything.

Finally, the bond with the other riders and track workers was priceless. To see the guys cheering you on at the end of the day as they saw a transformed rider was a great confidence booster. For me, the track was the place to get the high-speed riding out of my system, but allowed me to take the high-performance riding safely back to the street.

I learned more about safe street riding on one day at the track with great instructors than I had in years of everyday street riding.

Quite possibly, this was the best day ever on my bike—of course, until I do it again!

Phil Stearns is a motorcyclist, pilot and musician who works in corporate aviation. He rides whenever possible whether alone, in groups or with wife Lisa.

Photos Open Image Studio

…A Lifetime Of Improvement

ACC CIDENT FORGIVENESS | TR I P I NTE R RU P TIO N | AF TE R-M M A R K E T P R OT E C T I O N

RIDER PROTECTION PACKAGE EXCLUSIVELY FROM ALLSTATE. SM

PROTECTION FOR YOUR BIKE’S MOST IMPORTANT PART: YOU. QUOTE TODAY

|

A LOCAL AGENT

|

888-361-BIKE

|

ALLSTATE.COM

M O T O R C Y C L E

COMBINE

& SAVE * Allstate Indemnity Company, Allstate Insurance Company, Allstate Property and Casualty Insurance Company, Northbrook, IL and Allstate New Jersey Property and Casualty Insurance Company, Bridgewater, NJ. © 2012 Allstate Insurance Company

UP TO

30

0/0

AUTO + MOTO

Show your support for the American Motorcyclist Association and

GET 1.25 MILES FOR EVERY $1 SPENT!

REV UP YOUR REWARDS The American Motorcyclist Association has partnered with Capital One® to offer you three credit card options to fit your needs. Choose a card that earns you great rewards, one with a low introductory APR or another to help build your credit. Plus, you can choose an image for your card that highlights your support for the AMA. Apply today!

www.AMAVisa.com Credit approval required. Terms and conditions apply. Offered by CapitalOne, N.A.. © 2012 Capital One.