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A THREE-COUNTRY TOUR ON AN ELECTRIC MOTORCYCLE

BECOME AN AMA EAGLE

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AMA REWARDS

HOW YOUR AMA MEMBERSHIP PAYS FOR ITSELF

And Motel Discounts (Choice Hotels, Red Roof Inn)

Gear Discounts (BikeBandit.com, EVS, Heat Demon And More)

*must maintain valid credit card and email address on ﬁle for coverage to continue

**average cost of $100/night stay – 2 nights

***average $750 per year expenses on gear/parts/accessories

THE ESSENTIALS

AMA Roadside Assistance

The Best Deal In Towing Get peace of mind with AMA Roadside Assistance, which covers all your vehicles, as well as those of your family members living with you. Best of all, you can get this coverage at no additional charge. For details, call (800) 262-5646.

Lodging

Save At Choice Hotels, Motel 6, Red Roof Inn At Choice hotels, save 15% oﬀ the best available rates at participating Comfort Inn, Comfort Suites, Quality Inn, Sleep Inn, Clarion, MainStay Suites, Suburban Extended Stay, Rodeway Inn and Econo Lodge hotels. Use the Member Discount code #00947556.

Special discounts at Motel 6 are also available up to 10% oﬀ. Use the Member Discount code CP540176.

Plus, get a 20% discount oﬀ available rates at Red Roof Inn. For discounts, call (800) RED-ROOF and use the code VP+ 503343. You can also make reservations online at www.redroof. com. Just enter the code VP+ 503343 in the ﬁeld labeled “VP+/ID#” when making reservations. The discount will be automatically applied.

EagleRider Motorcycle

Rentals

Arrive And Ride

EagleRider oﬀers an AMA member discount of 10% discount on Harley-Davidson, Honda, BMW and Polaris rentals and tours. Call (888) 900-9901 or book at www.AmericanMotorcyclist.com/ Membership/EagleRider.aspx, using discount code AMA015.

Motorcycle Shipping

Ride Where You Want

In the United States, call Federal Companies, an agent for Specialized Transportation, Inc., at (877) 518-7376 for at least $60 oﬀ standard rates. For international shipments, call Motorcycle Express at (800) 245-8726. To get your discount, be sure to have your AMA number handy. Motorcycle Express also oﬀers temporary international insurance.

Car Rentals

Save Money When You Drive

Get up to 25% oﬀ prevailing rates at any Avis or Budget car rental agency. For Avis, enter discount code: D388100. For Budget, enter code: Z942000. AMA Members save up to 25% on year-round Hertz rentals with discount code CDP# 497193.

AMA Gear Buy AMA Stuﬀ Online Find unique patches, pins, posters, T-shirts and books at AmericanMotorcyclist.com and at the AMA Motorcycle Hall of Fame in Pickerington, Ohio. Details at www. MotorcycleMuseum.org.

Rider Accident Medical Plan

All members of the AMA are eligible to purchase coverage. Beneﬁts are paid when a covered member is injured. See http:// www.americanmotorcyclist.com/ Membership/Members_Only/ DiscountCodes for details.

Insurance, Credit Card, Finance and Banking

The AMA has joined with Nationwide to bring members-only moneysaving oﬀers on insurance, a cash-back AMA-themed credit card, ﬁnance and banking. For more details see, www.nationwide.com/ americanmotorcyclist.

PRODUCT DISCOUNTS

ActionStation/Bohn Body Armor

Save 10% on complete product line—plus bonus. Go to www.actionstation.com/ama/ and use coupon code AMAB4U at checkout.

AMA Members also receive exclusive discounted pricing on the Bohn Bodyguard System at www.bohn-armor-pants.com/ ama/.

ADVMoto

Adventure Motorcycle Magazine oﬀers a 20% discount on all subscriptions through AdventureMotorcycle.com and 20% oﬀ ADVMoto branded items and back issues on ADVMotoShop.com. Enter discount code AMADV20 at checkout.

AMA Motorcycle Hall Of Fame

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

AMA Supercross And AMA Arenacross Tickets

Save on advanced tickets; AMA members can get $5 oﬀ when they buy tickets online at Supercrossonline.com and use password AMASX16. AMA members can get $5 oﬀ when they buy tickets online at Arenacross.com and use password AMA5OFF. Certain restrictions apply, call (800) 262-5646 for details.

Anthony’s Leatherworks

Save 10% on complete motorcycle garment restoration and repair. You can get your motocross boots ﬁxed from MX Boot Resole and Repair. Use code AMADISCOUNT at checkout.

BikeBandit.com

Visit BikeBandit.com for a 10% discounts on motorcycle parts, gear and apparel. Enter your AMA number when checking out to receive your discount. (Discount is not available on tires.)

Biker Rain Chaps

Save 25%. Visit www.bikerrainchaps. com/ama/ and use the code AMA-0116NEWYEAR at checkout to receive your discount.

Black Wolf Mototours

Black Wolf Mototours oﬀers allinclusive dual sport adventure tours in the Northern Rockies. Current AMA members receive 10% oﬀ any guided tour. Visit the Members Only section of AmericanMotorcyclist.com for discount code.

Brooks Leather

AMA members receive a 10% discount oﬀ all jackets, chaps, vests, rain suits, race suits, and gloves. You can shop online at www.brooksleather.com or at any participating Brooks dealer. Just present the code AMABRO when ordering.

Cardo Systems, Inc.

10% discount for AMA members when presenting their membership card on Cardo’s scala rider® motorcycle communication products at participating authorized dealers only.

Colorado Motorcycle

Adventures

Colorado Motorcycle Adventures oﬀers

AMA Members 10% oﬀ all motorcycle rentals and tours! Mention your AMA Membership when reserving your rental or tour. A current AMA Membership card required to receive discount.

Design Engineering, Inc.

DEI is now oﬀering AMA members a 10% discount. Simply enter the discount code AMA10DISCOUNT during checkout.

Dowco Powersports

AMA Members save 20% on Dowco products, an industry leading manufacturer of motorcycle covers and luggage. To take advantage of the discount, use code AMA20 at checkout.

EVS Sports

AMA Members receive 10% oﬀ and free shipping on all orders. Simply use the code AMAEVS16 during checkout at www.EVS-Sports.com.

Gear Brake

GEARBRAKE detects when you decelerate, even in instances of downshifting and engine braking where the brake is not applied, and automatically lights your taillight with a ﬂashing alert! AMA members receive a 15% discount at gearbrake.com with the promo code: AMASAFE.

International Motorcycle Shows

AMA members save on advanced adult one-day general admission. The promo code is “AMA16” when you buy your tickets online from www. motorcycleshows.com.

MAD Maps

The best routes made easy. Save 20%. Use promo code AMATHXU at www. MADmaps.com.

Medjet

Learn More and Enroll – visit www. MedjetAMA.com or call Medjet at 1.800.527.7478 and reference American Motorcyclist Association. Reduced annual Medjet membership rates for AMA members under age 75 start at $225 – a savings of 16%.

MYLAPS

MYLAPS provides a 20% discount oﬀ MSRP or any current sales price on web-orders or orders coordinated by the AMA for all Motorized Products to AMA members. To receive the discount, enter code AMA-789HJK at checkout.

Pagnol Moto

At Pagnol Moto we develop and design extremely high quality gear for riders by riders. Visit www.pagnol-moto.com and use the code 1AMAVIP at checkout to receive your AMA exclusive 10% discount.

Rider Magazine

Members pay only $19.99 for 2 years (24 issues) + 2 extra FREE issues. Visit the Members Only section on www. AmericanMotorcyclist.com for the discount link.

RoadRUNNER Motorcycle

Touring & Travel magazine

RoadRUNNER Motorcycle Touring & Travel magazine oﬀers a 20% subscription discount to AMA members. RoadRUNNER is the touring expert of North America, providing information on the best places to ride. AMA discount code is CRIAMA at www.roadrunner. travel/promo/ama.

Sena The Global Leader in Bluetooth and ‘Audio Action Camera’ Innovation for Powersports, Motorsports and Outdoor Sports – is now oﬀering AMA members an exclusive 15% discount on its product lineup. Log into the ‘Members Only’ section on the AMA website to get the code and #RideConnected.

Shark Kage

A multi-functional ramp which adds the functionality of a bed extender, cargo cover, work table, cargo box and sunshade; all-in-one product! Enter code AMA20 to take advantage of the AMA exclusive 20% discount.

Shock Sox Street ~ Dirt ~ Oﬀ-Road ~ SHOCK SOX, “The 10-Second Removable Fork Seal Protector.” Get 10% oﬀ your order by entering your AMA number during checkout at ShockSox.com. For colors, sizes and model-applications, visit www. ShockSox.com

Spot LLC

AMA Members receive unprecedented and exclusive service credit on SPOT Spot Trace, Gen 3, and Satellite Phone products in addition to existing device promotions. Visit the Members Only section on www.AmericanMotorcyclist. com to view details.

TomTom

TomTom would like to oﬀer you a 10% discount on any TomTom product (excluding accessories). Visit www. tomtom.com to place your order and enter AMA10_TT2016 at check out to receive your discount.

US Chrome

AMA Members save big at US Chrome! We oﬀer a $30.00 discount on cylinder plating and dealer pricing on Wiseco, Wossner, ProX and Vertex piston kits. For more information visit the Members Area of the website.

Warm & Safe

Heated clothing and controllers designed by bikers. To encourage others to join the AMA we oﬀer members an 18% discount. Enter AMA at check out to receive your discount.

NAVIGATION

Rides such as the Baja Rally 3.0 are becoming increasingly popular for those seeking their own Baja adventure.

American Motorcyclist magazine (ISSN 0277-9358) is published monthly by the American Motorcyclist Association, 13515 Yarmouth Dr., Pickerington, OH 43147. Copyright by the American Motorcyclist Association/American Motorcyclist 2016. Printed in USA.

Subscription rate: Magazine subscription fee of $19.95 covered in membership dues.

Postmaster: Mail form 3579 to 13515 Yarmouth Dr., Pickerington, OH 43147. Periodical postage paid at Pickerington, Ohio, and at additional mailing ofﬁces. 8.

February 2016

Volume 70, Number 2

Published by the American Motorcyclist Association 13515 Yarmouth Dr. Pickerington, OH 43147 (800) AMA-JOIN (262-5646) www.americanmotorcyclist.com

DIRT/COMPETITION

To switch the version you receive, call (800) 262-5646, ask for membership services. Want to read both versions? Call the above number to get both delivered to your home for just $10 more a year. Members can read both versions online at www.americanmotorcyclist.com/magazine for free.

PAGE 28. Conquering the open road on an electric motorcycle.

STREET COVER Ben Rich took his electric motorcycle on a three-country tour.

COVER Kevin Elliott promotes some of the top amateur road races in America.

PAGE 28. Promoters do a lot more than just collect entry fees.

Mark Kariya

Innovative reel changing system lets you tailor the throttle rate to riding conditions and rider preference

Unique reel design allows fast reel changes

Simple to install and maintain Designed by Motion Pro

INCLUDES REELS:

• Standard interchangeable reels: 35mm, 40mm, 45mm, 50mm

• Cam reel: Street/Road Race (orange) or MX/Off-Road (gray)

COMMUNICATIONS

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

James Holter, Director of Communications/Managing Editor

Jim Witters, Government Affairs Editor

Heather Wilson, Associate Editor

Mark Lapid, Creative Director

Jeff Guciardo, Production Manager/Designer Halley Immelt, Graphic Designer

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

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

All trademarks used herein (unless otherwise noted) are owned by the AMA and may only be used with the express, written permission of the AMA. American Motorcyclist is the monthly publication of the American Motorcyclist Association, which represents motorcyclists nationwide. For information on AMA membership 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, 2015.

AMA STAFF

EXECUTIVE

Rob Dingman, President/CEO

Jeff Massey, Chief Operations Officer

Bruce Moffat, Chief Financial Officer

Donna Perry, Executive Assistant to President/CEO

Rob Rasor, Director of International Affairs

ACCOUNTING/DATA ENTRY

Dawn Becker, Accounting Manager

Lori Cavucci, Data Entry Representative

Deb D’Andrea, Data Entry Representative

Melanie Hise, HR Assistant/Payroll Coordinator

Ed Madden, System Support Specialist

Nicole Weppler, Member Fulfillment Specialist

AMHF/MOTORCYCLE HALL OF FAME

Connie Fleming, Manager of Events and AMHF

Operations

Jordan Cavallaro, Museum Admissions and Collections

Assistant

Paula Schremser, Program Specialist

Katy Wood, Collections Manager

AMA RACING/ORGANIZER SERVICES

Bill Cumbow, Director of Racing

Rob Baughman, Assistant Road Riding Manager

Kip Bigelow, Motocross Manager

Joe Bromley, Program Development Manager

Jane Caston, Racing Coordinator

Kevin Crowther, Director SX & Pro Racing Relations

Chris Harrison, Road Riding Manager

Alex Hunter, Program Manager

Michael Jolly, Off Road/Track Assistant Manager

Beth Owen, Off-Road Coordinator

Mike Pelletier, Assistant Motocross Manager

Danielle Plessinger, Motocross Coordinator

Jessica Robinson, Track Racing Coordinator

Ken Saillant, Track Racing Manager

Serena Van Dyke, Recreational Riding Coordinator

Chuck Weir, Off Road Racing Manager

Conrad Young, Timing & Scoring Manager

AMA BOARD OF DIRECTORS

Contact any member of the AMA Board of Directors at www.americanmotorcyclist.com/ about/board

Maggie McNally-Bradshaw, Chair

Schenectady, N.Y.

Perry King, Vice Chair, Northern California

Ken Ford, Assistant Treasurer Bartow, Fla.

Paul Puma, Executive Committee Member, Laguna Beach, Calif.

Jeff Skeen, Executive Committee Member, San Diego, Calif.

Jerry Abboud, Thornton, Colo.

Russ Brenan, Irvine, Calif.

David Foley, Milwaukee, Wis.

Tony Moseley, Fort Worth, Texas

Roger Pattison, Taos Ski Valley, N.M.

Robert Pearce, Murrieta, Calif.

Jim Viverito, Chicago, Ill.

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

BUSINESS MEMBER PROGRAMS

Jim Williams, Vice President, Industry Relations & Business Member Programs

DISTRIBUTION/FACILITIES SERVICES

John Bricker, Mailroom Manager

Heida Drake, Copy Center Operator

Bill Frasch, Mailroom Clerk

GOVERNMENT RELATIONS

Sen. Wayne Allard, Vice President, Government Relations

Nick Haris, Western States Representative

Rick Podliska, Deputy Director

Steve Salisbury, Government Affairs Manager, Off-Highway

Elizabeth Starek, Staff Assistant

Casey Wright, Government Affairs Manager, On-Highway

STATE CHAPTERS

Marie Wuelleh, State Chapter Manager

INFORMATION TECHNOLOGY

Jennifer Kirkpatrick, IT Director

Dave Coleman, Network Architect

MARKETING

Amanda Donchess, Membership Marketing Manager

Kaitlyn Sesco, Marketing Manager

MEMBER SERVICES

Christina Dolin, Member Services Representative

Tiffany Pound, Member Services Manager

ANY CARD PICK A CARD,

No matter what or how you ride, the AMA has a special card for you. Want one? Just let us know by renewing early, or telling us when you renew via our online signup form at AmericanMotorcyclist.com, or calling (800) AMA-JOIN (262-5646).

MEMBER LETTERS

Letter of the Month RECOGNIZING

WAYNE

After reading the Viewpoint in the January 2015 American Motorcyclist (“Road Racing’s Champion”), I felt compelled to write and express my appreciation for Rob Dingman.

Mr. Dingman’s article was designed to introduce the welldeserved 2015 AMA Motorcyclist of the Year, Wayne Rainey.

Letters to the editor are the opinions of the AMA members who write them. Inclusion here does not imply they reﬂect the positions of the AMA, its staff or board. Agree? Disagree? Let us know! Send your letters to submissions@ama-cycle.org; or mail to 13515 Yarmouth Drive, Pickerington, OH 43147.

The article did more than that by emphasizing that the primary task of the sanctioning body is to ensure safe and fair competition.

Mr. Dingman also laid out in an easy to follow writing style the transition that road racing has gone through in the last few years.

It’s easy to see why he is at the helm, as he has a ﬁrm grasp of the AMA’s role in riding, rights and racing.

Owen Riess

Rider Recognition Chairperson

AMA District 23, Minnesota

NEW TRICKS

I enjoyed “Become A Better Rider” in the December issue. I’m glad there are so many great training opportunities for every segment of the riding community. I’d like to add one more.

Three years ago, I spent a great weekend riding and learning on some of the best motorcycling roads in Southern California when I participated in the Stayin’ Safe advanced rider training course. Led by an expert instructor (in my case, it was Eric Trow, your 2013 AMA Outstanding Road Rider), the course introduced strategies to heighten situational awareness and ways to promote safer, more enjoyable riding.

One unique aspect of this training was having the instructor provide real-time coaching through an earpiece as we rode and encountered a variety of conditions. I now have an expanded skill set allowing me to be a safer, more conﬁdent rider with the added bonus of one of the most memorable tours in all of my 40-plus years of riding.

Kevin Britt

Boulder City, Nev.

IT’S ALL PHYSICS

I’ve seen a couple descriptions in American Motorcyclist of how to countersteer a motorcycle. But none of them describes exactly how countersteering works. In short, countersteering involves Newtonian physics.

Picture yourself on a motorcycle speeding along at 40 mph. The heavy machine’s mass resists attempts to roll the bike on its front-to-rear axis. The spinning tires and wheels act as gyroscopes further resisting roll. (I use “roll” with its aeronautical meaning.)

Now consider you want to quickly change from the right lane to the left lane to avoid a chicken crossing the road. You can lean to the left, but that won’t get the bike to roll quickly to the left; there’s too much mass. So you have to make the motorcycle do it for you.

You do this by steering slightly to the right for a moment or three. This causes the tires to try to move to the right; when there is sufﬁcient friction between the tires and the surface they are touching (asphalt, gravel, dirt, or ice), the tires (the contact patches, really) actually move to the right. And that motion makes the bike roll (lean) to the left on its front-to-rear axis. And when the bike leans to the left, it moves left. After that moment, you then steer to the left to match the turn.

When you have turned far enough to the left, you force the steering (countersteer) slightly more to the left. That causes the bike to roll on its axis and straighten up. Hold the countersteer a bit longer to make the bike roll into a lean to the right. When you’re fully in the left lane and parallel to it, countersteer a little to the right to straighten up, then steer straight ahead.

You can countersteer even when you are already in a turn if you need to quickly turn harder. Steer out of the turn slightly

and the bike will roll even more.

But be wary about countersteering too much and too fast. If you’ve leaned to the right and apply far too much countersteer to straighten up, the bike will roll to the left much too fast, the motorcycle will become airborne, and you will have no control of the machine. If motorcycles were meant to ﬂy, they’d have wings.

Fortunately, the force needed to countersteer is low; slight movements are all you typically need. In fact, if you ride a motorcycle, you already use countersteering whether or not you are aware of it.

Neal Murphy Salem, Va.

Thanks Neal for the physics lesson. The concept of countersteering often confuses riders, new and experienced alike, even though it is grounded in proven science. The Motorcycle Safety Foundation’s Rider Handbook keeps it simple: “press right handgrip, lean right, go right; press left handgrip, lean left, go left.” See the document www.msf-usa.org/downloads/ BRCHandbook.pdf

RISK ASSESSMENT

Mr. Haykin’s solution of taking the long way home to avoid dangerous trafﬁc conditions is excellent (Letters, January issue). I take exception, however, to his conclusion that lane splitting provides increased risk. Perhaps he should gain some direct experience before passing judgment.

I ﬁnd that lane splitting provides superior line of sight, increased stopping distance, and reduced chance of being rear-ended. Four-wheeled vehicles tend to naturally keep enough lateral gap between themselves to allow for safe passage of a motorcycle between. These factors enhance my riding safety.

David

M. Katinsky Los Gatos, Calif.

RIDING ALONE

Hats off to Mark Harrigan’s column “Solo Touring.” My year to start solo touring after 40 years of going with “the group” was 2015. I had enough debating where to eat, stay and gas up. I thought I was just being an old curmudgeon, until I saw Mark’s column.

What really has made solo touring possible is the dependability of a modern bike and cell phones. The “group” is no longer necessary to lend assistance and support. Twenty years ago, I completed a trip to the Sturgis rally on a Moto Guzzi

that broke down three times along the way. Thank goodness for the other riders to lend support back then. Now going solo and not dealing with the group or being stranded in the middle of South Dakota is truly liberating.

Scott Marek New Prague, Minn.

Sound Off!

A roundup of recent comments on Facebook (www. facebook.com/americanmotorcyclist, www.facebook. com/amasupercrosschampionship). Instagram and Twitter (@AMA_Racing, @AMA_Riding).

In response to news that the EPA raised the renewable fuel standard for 2016…

Robert Jones: This is wrong on so many levels.

In response to Wayne Rainey being named 2015 AMA Motorcyclist of the Year…

Michael C Marino: A phenomenal pick. Mr. Rainey stepped up big time and was a huge part of placing the sport of motorcycle road racing in the hands of an organization that will, over time, ensure that it reaches its potential. He is an exceptional ambassador for the sport: embodying the talent and passion that all of us riders understand. Thank you so much, Mr. Rainey, for everything you have done for professional and amateur road racing in this country. I look forward to seeing

how you and MotoAmerica will continue moving the sport forward.

Vincent Minelli: Awesome. I had the honor of having lunch with him at a dealer meeting in Atlanta a few years ago. Great guy and so down to earth.

@chrisjonnum: Great choice!

From Meg Blackburn, on being nominated for 2015 Female Racer of the Year…

@writer.rider.meg: I am so honored to be one of the nominees for the @ama_racing Female Racer of the Year based on my Overall Woman championship this season. I am also the only West Coast series nominee in the segment. Congratulations to all women nominated!

KNOW YOUR LOCAL GOVERNMENT

Track Laws And Regulations; Attend Meetings; Be Heard

Often, the biggest threats to the enjoyment of your motorcycle or all-terrain vehicle come not from the faceless bureaucrats in the federal government, but from people in your community and the regulations imposed by local governments.

• Zoning laws are used to halt off-road riding or to prevent new tracks and trails from being built.

By Wayne Allard

• Sound and nuisance ordinances place undue restrictions on motorcycle equipment and use.

• Parking garages and homeowners associations ban motorcycles from entry.

• Some laws even prohibit the storage of the trailers you use to transport your motorcycles and ATVs.

Every year, the AMA receives hundreds of calls and emails from members affected by rules and regulations they didn’t know about. They all express the same concern: that new restrictions will hamper their ability to ride with the freedom and enjoyment they are accustomed to.

In one recent example, the city of Aberdeen, S.D., enacted a law that allows police officers to judge whether motor vehicles, including street motorcycles and dirt bikes, are too loud. In his overview of the ordinance, the city manager commented that he didn’t want officers to have to “attempt to enforce a complicated set of measurements.” So if the Aberdeen police officer thinks your bike is too loud, it is.

In Franklin County, Va., Julie Phelps was rejected when she applied for a special use permit to operate a motocross training facility on the 185-acre farm where her family has ridden dirt bikes for years. The county’s elected ofﬁcials ignored expert opinions that the farm could host dozens more riders than she intended without the sound creating a nuisance for the nearest neighbor.

These examples and many more demonstrate the need for riders to stay educated

and attentive to local laws and ordinances, and be prepared to take action. Before moving into a new area, check the zoning, nuisance and sound ordinances. Be sure a gated community, condominium complex or apartment building allows your vehicles on the property and that you understand any existing restrictions on access and parking.

Visit the “State Laws” section of the AMA website (americanmotorcyclist.com/Rights/ State-Laws.aspx) to ﬁnd out how laws differ from state to state.

If you don’t know much about the rules and regulations where you currently live, take some time to get up to speed. Get together with fellow riders, divide the work, and research the local laws, looking for provisions that could cause trouble now, or down the road.

Join a local club that is actively protecting riders’ rights. Learn from the club members, and contribute your time and energy for the cause.

Also, get to know your local ofﬁcials, and educate them on motorcycling issues. Register to vote, and let elected ofﬁcials know that you and your riding buddies regularly visit the polls.

Involve yourself in issues that other riders

support, even if they don’t directly affect you right now. Some issue is going to affect you in the future, and you’ll need those other riders to back you when that happens. So, sign up for AMA alerts and respond when action is needed.

The AMA government relations staff has years of experience at the local, state and federal level and stands ready to help you work through the quagmire of restrictions you may encounter at any level of government. Contact the AMA’s Government Relations Department (grassroots@ama-cycle.org) with questions and concerns. The earlier, the better.

If sound is an issue, the AMA provides grants to clubs for sound meter kits that can ensure members’ vehicles meet local limits and to demonstrate to government ofﬁcials how decibel levels translate into real-life situations.

We can also help by offering advice and direction, alerting other area riders about the issue, writing letters or composing formal comments to ofﬁcials, and providing guidance on dealing with the media.

Working together, we can promote the motorcycle lifestyle, protect the future of motorcycling and provide more riding opportunities.

Wayne Allard is AMA vice president of government relations.

EPA RAISES ETHANOL STANDARDS, INCREASES RISK OF UNSAFE FUELS

Ethanol-Free Fuel Will Become Scarce

The Renewable Fuel Standard volume requirements announced Nov. 30 by the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency will increase the risk of inadvertent misfueling for motorcyclists and all-terrain-vehicle owners by mandating the widespread availability of higher-ethanol fuel blends, such as E15.

Although the EPA Renewable Volume Obligations under the RFS are lower than the requirements set by Congress, the EPA decision still means more ethanol must be blended into the nation’s fuel supply during the coming year. The EPA set the renewable fuel standard for 2014 at 16.28 billion gallons. For 2015, the standard is 16.93 billion gallons. And for 2016, the total increases to 18.11 billion gallons.

E15 fuel is a blend of 85 percent gasoline and 15 percent ethanol and represents a 50 percent increase in ethanol over the common E10 blend most Americans currently use in their vehicles.

None of the estimated 22 million motorcycles and all-terrain vehicles in use in the United States is approved by the EPA to operate on ethanol blends higher than 10 percent. Using higher-ethanol blends in those vehicles is illegal and may cause engine and fuel system damage and void the manufacturer’s warranty.

“Any increase in the amount of ethanol required in our fuel supply, coupled with America’s decreasing demand for gasoline, is going to result in higherethanol blends, such as E15, at more pumps and stations,” says Wayne Allard, AMA vice president of government relations. “And the widespread availability of unsafe E15 and higher-ethanol fuels increases the risk that motorcyclists will inadvertently misfuel their bikes.”

By increasing the amount of ethanol in America’s gasoline, the EPA will severely strain the fuel marketplace by exceeding the blend wall by hundreds of millions of gallons. The blend wall is the point at which no more ethanol can be blended without forcing consumers to use higher blends, such as E15, E30 and E85.

The AMA also is concerned that

forcing higher-ethanol fuel blends into the marketplace will decrease the availability of E10, and that gasoline with no ethanol may become virtually unavailable. The EPA estimates the amount of E0 sold will fall to just 124 million gallons in 2016.

“Owners of vintage motorcycles already have trouble finding E0,” Allard says. “What are they supposed to do if ethanolfree fuel disappears entirely?”

In addition to the RFS mandate, the spread of E15 and higher-ethanol fuels is being augmented by a $100 million matching grant program at the U.S. Department of Agriculture that is funding the purchase and installation of blender pumps at service stations in 21 states. These pumps dispense several blends

of fuel and can retain as much as a quart of fuel in the delivery hose after fueling. That amount of E15 or higher ethanol blends in a motorcycle’s small tank creates a real risk for the vehicle owner.

During the EPA’s comment period on its proposed RFS rule, which ended July 27, the AMA collected 29,379 signatures on an online petition opposing the higher ethanol mandate and asking the EPA to lower, rather than increase, the standard. The AMA forwarded those signatures, along with its comments, to the EPA.

The AMA supports H.R. 704, the RFS Reform Act of 2015, introduced by U.S. Rep. Bob Goodlatte (R-Va.) and urges AMA members to contact their elected officials and ask them to vote for the bill.

AMA TO CANDIDATES: NO MORE E15

Message Delivered At Florida GOP Summit

The AMA told Republican presidential candidates attending the Republican Party of Florida’s Sunshine Summit in November that motorcyclists oppose the increased availability of fuels that contain more than 10 percent ethanol.

Wayne Allard, AMA vice president for government relations, delivered the message as part of a delegation from the Smarter Fuel Future Coalition. Rick Podliska, AMA deputy director of government relations, also attended the event in Orlando.

Allard says the Renewable Fuel Standard is an issue all presidential candidates will have to address.

“This is a key issue to all fuel consumers on the road,” he says.

Presidential candidates attending the summit included former Florida Gov. Jeb Bush, Dr. Ben Carson, New Jersey Gov. Chris Christie, U.S. Sen. Ted Cruz, Carly Fiorina, former Arkansas Gov. Mike Huckabee, Louisiana Gov. Bobby Jindal, Ohio Gov. John Kasich, U.S. Sen. Rand Paul, U.S. Sen. Marco Rubio, former U.S. Sen. Rick Santorum, and Donald Trump.

AMA’s Rick Podliska with former Vice President Dick Cheney

Archer Daniels Midland’s agricultural processing and biofuels plant, in Decatur, Ill.

U.S. Department of Energy

Gerlinde Photography / Michael Hopkins

CONGRESS PASSES FIVE-YEAR HIGHWAY BILL

Checkpoint Funding Ban, RTP Funding Included Congress passed a five-year highway bill on Dec. 3 that includes several big wins for motorcyclists.

The Fixing America’s Surface Transportation Act calls for $305 billion in overall spending. The bill includes:

• Continued funding for the Recreational Trails Program, which provides funding to states for maintaining, improving and expanding off-highway recreational opportunities. The bill moves the program out of the Transportation Alternatives Program, which was eliminated, into a separate standalone fund within the Federal

Highway Administration, providing more long-term stability.

• A prohibition against using federal funds for discriminatory motorcycle-only checkpoints. These checkpoints siphoned money from safety programs that could help prevent crashes and funneled the funding into roadside stops that resulted in numerous citations for violations that did not involve safety issues.

• Reestablishing a Motorcyclist Advisory Council to coordinate with and counsel the U.S. Department of Transportation

administrator on infrastructure concerns of particular interest to motorcyclists. This advisory council provides motorcyclists with a strong voice on important issues that directly affect motorcycle safety and enjoyment of the roads.

• Funding of highway safety grants that include programs to reduce distracted driving, including language that makes it easier for states to successfully qualify for and receive grant money. Previous restrictions on these grants resulted in just one state – Connecticut – qualifying for funding. The new rules mean most, if not all, states can qualify for funding to make our roads safer.

• Measures to ensure privacy and security in vehicle-to-vehicle and vehicle-to-infrastructure technology. This provision will help prevent V2V communications networks from being hacked and will protect the privacy of individuals whose vehicles are connected to other vehicles.

NOVHCC CELEBRATES 25 YEARS

AMA On Hand For California Conference

The National Off-Highway Vehicle Conservation Council celebrated its 25th anniversary in Folsom, Calif., late last year, and the AMA was on hand for the event.

AMA Western States Representative Nick Haris and AMA Government Relations Manager for Off-Highway Issues Steve Salisbury attended the event, which included concurrent meetings with the International OffHighway Vehicle Administrators Association and the California OHV Commission.

AMA member Dale Tallman of Clinton, Miss., received two awards at the convention for his volunteer efforts to reopen the off-highway-vehicle trails at Rattlesnake Bay in the DeSoto National Forest. Tallman worked with both the AMA and NOHVCC to convince the Forest Service that 23 years was long enough for the “temporary” closing of the trails.

Tallman received the NOHVCC Success of the Year award for the Rattlesnake Bay OHV Trail and the NOHVCC Outstanding Volunteer of the Year award.

“None of this would have taken place

happened to be the person that accepted this one on behalf of all of The Friends of Rattlesnake Bay.

without each and every person and entity involved – the AMA, NOHVCC, USFS and numerous volunteers,” Tallman says. “I just

“I’ve read many different stories about what the AMA has done on behalf of enthusiasts, but to get the opportunity to experience it first-hand was incredible! I am very proud to say that I am an AMA member.”

AMA SUPPORTS NEW JERSEY RIDERS

Rally, State Meeting Draw 600

An estimated 600 people attended a forest users rally and a New Jersey Department of Environmental Protection meeting concerning public access to the Wharton State Forest.

Steve Salisbury, AMA government relations manager for off-highway issues, presented the case for allowing dirt bikes to continue using trails and roads in the forest, while reopening areas that were closed without public input.

Members of the East Coast Enduro Association enlisted the AMA’s help in battling the NJDEP’s plans to further reduce access for responsible motorized recreation in the forest.

The AMA also plans to join ECEA representatives in a meeting with top NJDEP officials to negotiate a favorable outcome for New Jersey riders.

Dave Halsey

Mark Speller, of the National Youth Project Using Minibikes, with AMA’s Steve Salsibury.

AMA SOUND TESTING KITS AVAILABLE

Application Deadline Is March 31

The AMA Government Relations Department is giving away sound testing kits to AMA Districts, club members and others who educate riders about sound.

The kits contain a Type 2 sound meter, a tachometer, training materials, a spark-arrestor probe, personal protective equipment and a storage case.

Kits are awarded through a competitive grant process. Nine kits will be awarded in 2016.

Applicants must complete a form and return it to the AMA Government Relations Department by March 31.

Forms and additional information are available from Steve Salisbury, government affairs manager for off-highway issues, at American Motorcyclist Association, 444 North Capitol St. NW, Suite 837, Washington, DC 20001; at (202) 220-1390; or at grassroots@ ama-cycle.org. Applications are considered twice. So, those who submitted applications in 2015, but were not selected, need not submit applications to be considered for the 2016 grants.

FOREST SERVICE SETTLEMENT TO CLOSE COLORADO TRAILS

Deal Could Have Widespread Ramifications

The Nov. 13 settlement of a years-long lawsuit brought by several environmental groups is forcing the U.S. Forest Service to close nearly 150 roads and review hundreds of others in the Pike and San Isabel National Forests.

The U.S. District Court settlement states that 500 miles of roads that cut through endangered species’ habitats must be reassessed.

The Forest Service has until Nov. 16 to completely or partially close 147 roads for motorized vehicles.

The court ordered the agency to conduct an intensive environmental study during the next five years.

The lawsuit claimed the Forest Service failed to conduct environmental studies or hold public meetings before building the

roads and opening them to motorized use.

“I see this as having a huge potential impact on Southern Colorado tourism for at least the next five years,” says Wayne Allard, AMA vice president of government relations and a former U.S. senator from Colorado. “And this settlement has the potential of affecting forest management plans throughout Colorado and the United States.”

Forest administrators will have to implement a fact-gathering process and then formulate a proposal for the public.

“If there is an opportunity to comment on how the facts are gathered, we will be ready, and the AMA will be working with all of the local off-road groups to ensure that access for responsible motorized recreation is protected,” Allard says.

PHILADELPHIA OHV PARK DISCUSSED

Coalition Members Research Options At Outing

The newly formed Philadelphia OHV Recreation Coalition toured the Anthracite Outdoor Adventure Area in Coal Twp., Pa., to learn what it takes to establish, maintain and operate an off-highway-vehicle park.

The coalition is studying the idea of an OHV facility in Philadelphia to provide an attractive option for urban riders and an alternative for the hundreds of city residents who ride dirt bikes and ATVs illegally on the city’s streets and in parks.

Coalition members include city and state government ofﬁcials, representatives from powersports dealerships and manufacturers, the National Youth Project Using Minibikes and AMA District 6.

“This solid group of experienced and knowledgeable people will assess the concept and, we hope, develop a plan for consideration by city ofﬁcials,” says Steve Salisbury, AMA government relations manager for off-road issues.

ARIZONA REP. SEEKS LIMITS ON PRESIDENTIAL AUTHORITY

Bill Would Restrict Monument Designations

U.S. Rep. Paul A. Gosar (R-Ariz.) has introduced the Protecting Local Communities from Executive Overreach Act (H.R. 3946), which would update the Antiquities Act of 1906 and limit presidential authority to designate national monuments.

The Antiquities Act grants the president the right to make national monument designations without the approval of Congress. The designations affect public use of the land, including restrictions on or elimination of motorized off-road recreation.

STATEWATCH

COLORADO

S.B. 15-286, introduced by state Sen. Jerry Sonnenberg (R-Sterling) and state Rep. Lori Saine (R-Firestone), would repeal the Motorcycle Operator Safety Training program and require the state Department of

NEW YORK

President Obama has designated

or expanded 19 national monuments, affecting more than 1.25 million acres of public lands. Gosar’s bill would require written consent from private property owners whose land would be included in the monument; prevent designations from increasing funding appropriations; prohibit designations in counties were “sufﬁ cient local opposition” exists; protect water rights; limit designations to 5,000 acres or less; and require consultation with and concurrence from local stakeholders.

Four bills introduced in the New York State Assembly outline opposing approaches to motorcycles and the state’s no-fault insurance laws. A.B. 3232 and S.B. 4316 would require all vehicle insurance policies to inform the insured that the no-fault provisions do not apply to motorcycles and that supplemental coverage is available. At the same time, S.B. 4614 and A.B. 8420 would add “motorcycles” to the deﬁnition of motor vehicles covered by the no-fault provisions.

Rob Feldman

U.S. Rep. Paul A. Gosar (R-Ariz.)

Lessons Learned

CAROL SIMPSON ON DEFENDING YOUR PASSION

Communication, Cooperation Keys To Advocacy Success

By Jim Witters

Carol Simpson was introduced to motorcycles by her “Fonzie-like cousin” and her high-school sweetheart’s riding family in Danville, Ill., in the 1960s. She even wore a motorcycle helmet while driving her parents’ Ford Falcon station wagon around town in the late 1960s to protest a proposed state helmet law.

Her first motorcycle was a 1970 175cc Bridgestone she received as a gift after the birth of her first son in 1969.

But it wasn’t until the early 1980s –after the loss of her husband to a heart attack – that Simpson truly got involved in motorcycling and became a full-fledged motorcycle rights activist.

“I bought a 1980 Kawasaki 440 LTD as a two-wheeled psychiatrist,” she says. “Fantastic decision. When I moved to Nashville in 1985, I had become the proud owner of a 1982 Harley-Davidson Sturgis — the brown, black and gold special

edition – and had taken many road trips and met a wide range of motorcyclists all throughout the South.

“The first ‘social’ event I attended in Tennessee was a CMT/ABATE meeting, and I signed up,” she says. “My first and ONLY membership in any local motorcycling organization or club.”

Simpson became more involved with the state motorcycle rights group as the years passed, eventually becoming the CMT legislative director and coordinating five annual freedom rallies, which encouraged cooperation and participation from all the Tennessee clubs and riding groups.

“I am most proud of leading our membership in a grassroots effort in 1994, to see that Fred Thompson was elected as the U.S. senator to replace Al Gore’s vacant seat,” she says. “Then I was hired to join the Motorcycle Riders Foundation team in Washington, D.C.,

as their ‘second’ lobbyist and grassroots coordinator during the repeal of the federal mandate on helmet laws (1995). I worked side by side with current AMA President and CEO Rob Dingman for nearly three years.”

Her D.C. experience provided a solid foundation for Simpson’s return to Tennessee, where she became the CMT/ABATE public relations and communications director in 2007. Simpson left that post in September, but remains an integral member of the CMT/ABATE legislative team, serves as assistant state representative to the MRF, and is a 24year member of the AMA.

She also holds down a full-time job as executive assistant to state Rep. Glen Casada, who is chairman of the Republican Caucus.

Simpson says the biggest successes result from cooperation among motorcycling’s disparate groups. That proved true in the fight against the federal helmet mandate when 337 freedom fighters from more than 30 states came to the MRF office in Washington, D.C. “to be a mighty activist army.”

And it has worked in Tennessee for the past 30 years.

Ryan Sweeney

“My biggest success as an activist in Tennessee was in helping to establish the Tennessee Department of Safety administrative duties through legislation in 1987 (for) monitoring and supporting the Motorcycle Rider Education Program,” Simpson says. “Eventually we won the Safety and Awareness grants for the CMT/ ABATE organization.”

AMERICAN MOTORCYCLIST: What ﬁrst piqued your interest in that issue?

CAROL SIMPSON: Standardized rider education sites needed oversight to grow the program and provide consistency. Education saves lives and prevents accidents. Rarely are helmets as effective as education and awareness and adult responsibility.

AM: What prompted you to become involved?

CS: The men in our organization were zealous, but not very well organized. I started as secretary to the legislative team to keep notes, make appointments and organize brainstorming sessions.

AM: What strategies did you employ?

CS: Consistent perseverance. We garnered the assistance of state Sen. Douglas Henry to help us write and pass a huge piece of legislation (TCA 55-51101 through 107). That established a managing and oversight administration for the Motorcycle Rider Education Program. This legislation stands today, and has had only two small legislative modiﬁcations in nearly 40 years. All other changes have been regulatory, and CMT/ABATE has been used repeatedly in an advisory capacity.

AM: What tactics did you ﬁnd most effective?

CS: Dedication, good leadership, loyalty between motorcyclists and sponsors of legislation, building coalitions with other motorcycle-related groups, while retaining leadership of the issue. And, especially, communication, communication, communication.

AM: What advice would you offer AMA members who want to become involved?

CS: Offer the best skills that you have to the effort. Do not wait for someone to ask you. Volunteer, be persistent, and keep up the communications. Learn. Share. Don’t be thin-skinned. In volunteerism, there are many opinions that must be melded into a successful effort. Be speciﬁc about how much time you can offer and what skills you can bring to the table. Honor your commitments.

LOOKING FOR ADVENTURE IN 2016?

Attend A Round Of The Yamaha Super Ténéré Adventure Riding Series

Geared toward riders of all brands of adventure-touring motorcycles, the Yamaha Super Ténéré AMA National Adventure Riding Series includes incredible rides in some of the most scenic riding areas in the country.

The idea is to bring like-minded riders together to ride great routes that are mapped by local experts — whether on asphalt, gravel or dirt,.

Yamaha, the AMA’s longtime partner in the series, continues its support in 2016. The brand’s big-bore adventure touring bike, the Super Ténéré, and its rally-inspired capabilities, make it the perfect motorcycle for covering long miles over varied terrain—just what riders encounter in ample quantities in the national adventure series.

adventurous riders you meet at these events are some of the most interesting motorcyclists in America.”

Yamaha’s support of the series includes a new Super Ténéré sweepstakes bike. All AMA members who join or renew in 2016 will be eligible to win the bike, while entrants in Yamaha Super Ténéré AMA National Adventure Riding Series will get an extra entry for each event they ride.

To ﬁnd a national near you, see www.americanmotorcyclist.com.

“Adventure-touring is one of the fastest-growing segments of motorcycling for good reason,” says AMA Chief Operations Ofﬁcer Jeff Massey. “The bikes are comfortable, the routes are fun and challenging, and the

AMA WELCOMES NEW STAFFERS

Rights, Racing, Marketing Changes

New AMA staff members will strengthen advocacy and membership efforts and make racing operations more efﬁcient.

Casey Wright and Elizabeth Starek have joined the AMA government relations staff in the Washington, D.C., ofﬁce.

An avid motorcyclist, Wright is the government relations manager for onhighway issues. He brings a wealth of political experience to the AMA, including work at The Heritage Foundation, managing political campaigns and serving as government affairs specialist for a trade association. He holds a master’s from Southern Methodist University and rides a Triumph Thruxton.

Starek is the staff assistant for the D.C. ofﬁce. She has worked as a congressional staffer for the House Select Committee on Benghazi and handled grassroots and campaign organizing as a summer intern on the Barbara Comstock for Congress campaign. She holds a bachelor’s in political science from the University of Mary Washington.

Wright and Starek report to Wayne Allard, vice president of government relations.

Marketing

Mandy Donchess is the AMA’s new membership marketing manager.

She comes to the AMA from the Newark Advocate newspaper, where she was the regional key account relationship specialist. She worked with clients to build conversion-focused, audience-driven marketing campaigns. Donchess is a graduate of Ohio University.

Racing

Former motocross racer Mike Pelletier is the AMA’s new assistant motocross manager.

The AMA also has added coordinators for each racing category. Former Member Services Representative Jessica Robinson is the new track operational coordinator, while longtime AMA employee Beth Owen is the new off-road coordinator.

Danielle Plessinger is serving as motocross operational coordinator. She attended Ohio’s Marietta College, where she studied business management.

Alex Hunter, former assistant motocross manager, has been named racing projects manager, assisting Director of Racing Bill Cumbow across all racing disciplines.

DATES

ANNOUNCED FOR AMA VINTAGE MOTORCYCLE DAYS: JULY 8-10

Racing, Swap Meet, Bikes Shows Return To Mid-Ohio Sports Car Course

If you love old motorcycles, and the people and activities that make them great, circle July 8-10 on your calendar. That’s the date for this year’s premier celebration of vintage motorcycling: AMA Vintage Motorcycle Days at Mid-Ohio Sports Car Course in Lexington, Ohio.

“A new generation is realizing the fun of old motorcycles, whether they are barn fresh, pristine show pieces or what we call ‘swap meet specials,’” said AMA Chief Operations Ofﬁcer Jeff Massey.

“AMA Vintage Motorcycle Days, from the vintage racing to the huge swap meet, is witnessing this resurgence ﬁrst hand, and let me be the ﬁrst to invite all vintage motorcycling enthusiasts to this wonderful event.”

A fundraiser for the AMA Motorcycle Hall of Fame, AMA Vintage Motorcycle Days features classic motorcycles of all makes and styles, and honors the riders who made them famous.

Activities include the AMA Vintage Grand Championship, which features road racing, motocross, hare scrambles,

trials and dirt-track racing. The event also includes North America’s largest motorcycle swap meet with parts, bikes and memorabilia from all eras. A premier bike show will feature examples of some of history’s most beloved motorcycles. Stunt shows and demo rides of current production bikes keep attendees entertained, while seminars on numerous topics by noted motorcycling experts keep them informed.

AMA members who buy tickets directly from the AMA before June 6 receive an exclusive price discount. AMA members can call (800) 262-5646 to buy a weekend pass for $45, a $5 savings off the regular advance rate, and a one-day pass for $25 for Friday or Saturday and $20 for Sunday, a $5 savings off the regular advance rate. AMA members pay no service charge on tickets purchased through the AMA.

AMA Vintage Motorcycle Days is a family-friendly event. Children 12 and under are admitted free with paying, supervising adults.

Member Tested

CURB NINJA APP SLICES THROUGH PARKING WOES

Info: www.curbninja.com

MSRP: Free

The smart phone app, Curb Ninja, lets users search and tag a map of motorcycle parking spots. This may seem ridiculous to some since parking a motorcycle in a suburban or country town is as easy as turning on the faucet. But in the fast-paced urban environment of cities like San Francisco and New York, turning a phone into a divining rod for motorcycle parking is as practical as an umbrella in a downpour.

the MSF

NEUTRAL WHEN STOPPED?

Q: When stopped at a trafﬁc signal, should I shift to neutral or leave my bike in gear? Why?

A: This is one of those questions that doesn’t have a one-size-ﬁts-all answer.

By Sam Devine

Commuters to these big cities know their regular spots and how to bee-line for them without a wasted turn or stop light. But running errands or attending meetings across town can still be an undertaking.

The Curb Ninja app offers solutions to these problems, letting users pinpoint good parking spots. It takes about three minutes to tag a spot, filling out necessary fields including number of spots, cost, limitations and a description. Uploading a picture is optional. (Unfortunately, the app can’t let you know if spots are currently filled, but at least it’s a lead.)

And the app has more uses than just parking downtown. Users have the freedom to tag spots anywhere, marking campsites, bars, restaurants and bike shops for easy reference later. In this way, motorcyclists can tag biker-friendly areas and businesses. This lets you ﬁnd not only places you could park a motorcycle, but places you should park your motorcycle.

The effectiveness of Curb Ninja depends on its users because they, after all, are providing its information. (Since the data can be edited by anyone using the app, it may be subject to pranksters, but the app’s creators do provide oversight.)

The bottom line, though, is the app is an effective and useful tool for those who ride in congested, urban environments. Not only is it clean and easy to use, but ample parking information is provided, and the amount of that information is growing daily.

Safety involves weighing many potential risks, and being stopped at an intersection requires riders to think about several hazards. Statistics indicate that roughly 9 percent of motorcycle crashes occur when a motorcyclist is struck directly from behind. In other words, not a major cause of crashes, but something that must be considered.

MSF recommends that novice riders keep their transmission in ﬁrst gear, so they can pull away quickly in an emergency without fumbling with the gearshift lever. This recommendation goes hand-in-hand with the need to routinely glance at rear-view mirrors whenever stopped to assess potential hazards approaching from behind and to have an escape path in mind.

We recognize, however, that some experienced riders may want to shift into neutral, especially if the light has just turned red, to avoid hand fatigue or to free up their hands for a brief task (turning the fuel valve to reserve or adjusting a jacket vent, for example).

neutral at a red light, at a minimum you should first ensure that the vehicles behind you have come to a stop. And if you are at the front of the line, it is important to be ready in first gear when the light changes to green as the vehicles behind you may start moving. Before starting off again, be sure the intersection has cleared, cross-traffic has stopped, and opposing traffic is not trying to turn left across your path.

An experienced rider—one that can shift quickly and with conﬁdence— could consider all the potential risks and decide to wait in neutral, but we believe that leaving the bike in ﬁrst gear is a better default strategy.

STAYING DRY, INSPECTING BIKES, PROTECTING DOCS AND BETTER PICS

Skip Plastic Bags

We’ve all heard the popular suggestion that riders with leaky boots wrap their feet in plastic bags to keep them warm. Well… not so fast or you could freeze. The human skin perspires at every possible point, and regardless whether it’s hot or cold outside, it will perspire at the feet as well. Wrapping your feet in plastic bags causes a sauna effect and in no time your feet will be soaking wet and surrounded in a pool of perspiration, which will quickly transfer body heat away from your feet. Add cold weather riding to the mix and you’ve got a recipe for hypothermia. The solution to a leaky boot is to have it repaired so it doesn’t leak, or invest in a pair of boots lined with Gortex (the only waterprooﬁng fabric I’ve found to be truly waterproof in boots, while simultaneously allowing moisture to escape).

The Doctor’s Soap

By Tom Mehren

25 Points

Base Layer For Every Season

AMA member Lenny Domyan suggests riders touring overnight pack a 1-ounce bottle of Dr. Bronner’s liquid peppermint soap. A little goes a long way, so be sure to dilute it to a level that does not cause irritation. The soap can be used in the shower, taking a quick face bath at a sink, washing clothes and as shaving cream. Since peppermint is a natural antibiotic, it can ease itchy feet. Lenny also carries a 1-ounce bottle of Thayer’s Witch Hazel with Aloe Vera. It soothes the skin after being in the sun, and also works as an aftershave.

From time to time, a dealer may offer a “free 25-point safety inspection.” While this may appear on the surface as a ploy to get your bike into the shop, discovering an issue with your bike early can save you time, hassle and money. You can do your own 25-point safety inspection anytime. Create a checklist that includes the obvious, such as tires, drivetrain, brakes, ﬂuids, cables and so on. (The Motorcycle Safety Foundation’s T-CLOCS is a good resource.) Expand it by reviewing other riders’ suggestions online, looking over your owner’s manual and adding other things you’d like to check regularly.

Base layers are a superior choice to cotton T-shirts and blue jeans. They insulate better when it’s cold, they wick excess heat and moisture away from your body much better when it’s hot, and they dry quickly. You can get them in various grades. A nice winter set is good for colder months and a three-season set is essential in the spring and fall. For summer there are short sleeve and short pants alternatives as well.

memory and the Internet “cloud” all make it possible to scan and store copies of important documents in case we lose the real thing. Take time to scan your driver’s license, insurance information, vehicle registrations, prescriptions, passport, emergency contact information, birth certiﬁcate, credit card company contacts and other legal documents you may need if you get into a jam. Having this information stored in multiple places and updated annually can save you hours of hassle in a worstcase scenario. Don’t forget to password-protect the documents.

Photo Basics Today every rider has a camera. But not all riders can call themselves photographers. There are those who take pictures and those who make images. Understanding the basic principles of photography can take anyone from a photo taker to an image maker. If terms like “the rule of thirds,” “depth of field,” “image composition” and “flash fill” are not in your vocabulary, but you want to take better photos, you may enjoy reading a book or watching a video on photography basics. There are thousands available. Even if you shoot only with a smart phone, it won’t take long before your pictures start getting better and convey a more robust story of your time on the road.

RULE OF THIRDS

The photo is divided by nine boxes. The photo is composed with the subject in one of the intersecting lines.

When the subject of the photo is in focus and the background is blurry. This can be controlled by adjusting aperture.

When the background is brighter than the subject, such as on a sunny day, it can be difﬁcult to get enough lighting in the right places. Using ﬂash can help balance the lighting.

DEPTH OF FIELD FILL FLASH

HOSTING BETTER MOTORCYCLE EVENTS

Thunder Roads Ohio Helping AMA Support Organizers

The AMA will be working with Thunder Roads Ohio Magazine in 2016 to help future and current AMA-chartered organizers host better motorcycle events.

Educational seminars will be held the week of Feb. 20 in Columbus, Ohio, during the Easyriders show taking place that weekend.

Focusing on the fundamentals of event management, presenters will cover basic topics such as organizing volunteers and marketing of events and then address issues such as liability and insurance. Participants may be surprised how easy it is to be covered.

“This will be a great opportunity for local organizers to get advice on being sanctioned through the AMA and properly insured,” says AMA Assistant Road Riding Manager Rob Baughman.

Seminars may be planned for other events based on demand. For more information, email roadriding@amacycle.org.

FOLLOW THE AMA

Multiple Outlets O er Information, Entertainment

The AMA reached more people in 2015 than any previous year, using social media, direct contact with motorcycling advocates, press releases, newsletters and this magazine.

Are you taking advantage of all the AMA offers to stay informed about rights, riding and racing?

Visit www.americanmotorcyclist.com and sign up for AMA alerts about government actions that affect you, as a motorcyclist. Then respond when the call to action is sounded.

And check out all the other ways you can follow—and interact with—the AMA every day:

AMA Facebook pages American Motorcyclist Association: www.facebook.com/ AmericanMotorcyclist

AMA Supercross: www.facebook.com/ AMASupercross Championship

AMA Motorcycle Hall of Fame: www.facebook.com/ AMAHallOfFame

AMA Vintage Motorcycle Days: www.facebook.com/ AMAVintage MotorcycleDays

AMA Women and Motorcycling: www.facebook.com/ AMAWomen AndMotorcycling

AMA CLUB 1924

Connecting With Riders At America’s Biggest Motorcycling Events

Each year, hundreds of thousands of riders ﬂock to America’s biggest motorcycling events—events like Daytona Bike Week, Americade, Laconia, AMA Vintage Motorcycle Days, Sturgis and more. The AMA wants to see you there in 2016.

AMA Club 1924, named in honor of the AMA’s founding year, will be the association’s presence at these iconic events. Here, we’ll celebrate the fun of motorcycling, connect with riders and look back on the history of motorcycling in America. Visitors to AMA Club 1924

also will have a chance to win some great prizes from AMA member beneﬁt partners.

“Getting out among our members and future members is important to spread the AMA message,” says AMA Road Riding Manager Chris Harrison. “That message is simple: We want you to have fun riding your motorcycle. AMA Club 1924 is about promoting that fun in a positive way.”

Schedule

• March 3-13: Daytona Bike Week, Daytona Beach, Fla.

Twitter accounts @ama_riding @ama_racing @ama_rights

Instagram accounts @ama_riding @ama_racing @amasupercross

YouTube channels www.youtube.com/user/ AmericanMotorcyclist www.youtube.com/user/ motorcyclemuseum

Common Hashtags used by the AMA #WhereRidersBelong #AMASX #AMAVMD #AMArights #AMAracing #AMAriding #AMAHoF

• April 27-May 1: Thunder Beach, Panama City, Fla.

• May 27-30: Rolling Thunder, Washington, D.C.

• June 7-11: Americade, Lake George, N.Y.

• June 11-19: Laconia, Laconia, N.H.

• June 23-26: Thunder in the Valley, Johnstown, Pa.

• July 8-10: AMA Vintage Motorcycle Days, Lexington, Ohio

• Aug. 8-14: Sturgis, Sturgis, S.D.

• Sept. 23-25: Ray Price Capital City Bikefest, Raleigh, N.C.

1997 HONDA RC45

John Kocinski’s World Title Bike

In 1997, John Kocinski rode the Honda RC45 to 10 wins and the World Superbike championship, the bike’s crowning world title.

Factory Castrol Honda team member Aaron Slight ﬁnished third in the World Superbike standings that year aboard an RC45.

The previous year, Slight and Carl Fogarty had some success with the RC45, but Kocinski’s 1997 season showed the world the bike’s true potential on the track.

The RC45 was a limited-edition motorcycle, with 200 units being manufactured and 50 being imported to the United States to meet the AMA’s homologation requirements. Honda advertised the bike as being “designed to dominate worldwide Superbike competition in race-kitted form.” And it certainly lived up to its billing.

The RC45 featured a 749cc 90-degree V-4

liquid-cooled engine that produced more than 150 hp. The DOHC engine came with a gear-driven valve train and a side-mounted gear drive that used two gears instead of three to reduce engine size and internal friction. Precision-programmed fuel injection ensured precise fuel delivery, and a seven-liter air box let the engine breathe.

The RC45 came with a close-ratio six-speed transmission, inverted forks and a single-sided cast aluminum swingarm. Stopping power was provided by 310mm front discs with four-piston calipers and 220mm rear discs with twin-piston calipers.

This bike was on display at the 2015 AMA Motorcycle Hall of Fame Induction Ceremony in Orlando, Fla. Following the event, it returned to the AMA Motorcycle Hall of Fame in Pickerington, Ohio, where it is on loan from American Honda.

The AMA Motorcycle Hall of Fame in Pickerington, Ohio, features the people and machines that have deﬁned the sport, lifestyle and business of motorcycling in America. The Hall of Fame is a 501(c)3 non-proﬁt corporation that receives support from the AMA and from the motorcycling community. For info and directions, visit www.motorcyclemuseum.org, or call (614) 856-2222.

Photos Alison Grogan

AMA Motorcycle Hall Of Famer

GEORGE SMITH SR.: S&S CYCLE FOUNDER

George Smith Sr. was a drag racer and the founder of S&S Cycle, a leader in the development and production of high-performance V-twin engines and aftermarket motorcycle parts. Smith’s tuning skills and the products he developed were integral to several speed records at the Bonneville Salt Flats.

Born on Nov. 21, 1921, Smith spent the majority of his youth in the Chicago area. He possessed a talent for mechanical engineering and the ability to communicate complex mechanical ideas and concepts. Smith also had a very strong “need for speed.” In the 1930s, he owned a series of Harley-Davidson motorcycles, including a 1911, a 1928 JD two-cam, a 1934 45 cubic inch (c.i.) and a late-1930s 61 c.i. Knucklehead.

After World War II, during which he trained as a pilot, Smith flirted with auto racing, but motorcycles soon became the focus of his attention. He built a drag bike named “Tramp,” which started life as a 1939 61 c.i. Knucklehead. He increased the size to 80 c.i., made a set of twin-carb heads, and bolted on a pair of Riley carbs. He raced the machine at Half Day Drag Strip in suburban Chicago.

Drag racing was in its formative years

and Smith began to experiment with nitromethane and alcohol fuel mixtures. In 1952, Tramp consistently ran the quarter mile at speeds hovering around 125 mph—a formidable speed considering wheelie-bars and motorcycle drag slicks had yet to be invented.

In 1954, Stanley Stankos and Leo Spindler, friends of Smith’s and fellow

motorcycle drag race enthusiasts, teamed up and decided to build a Bonneville record racer. The Tramp would be the basis for their project. Stripped of everything and fitted with a K model front fork, the stock frame held a virtually hand-built motor that included pistons that were cast at Stankos’ upholstery shop. Smith raced the 92 c.i. machine at Utah’s Bonneville Salt Flats and achieved a top speed of 152.02 mph running on pure alcohol.

Put yourself in the AMA Motorcycle Hall of Fame Museum

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By 1958, Smith and Stankos’ tuning knowledge was in demand. Other HarleyDavidson riders and racers were asking them to build high performance parts. They formed S&S Cycle that year and offered lightweight aluminum pushrods with solid lifter conversion units.

Stankos was also busy with his upholstery shop, and he sold his share of the engine parts company to Smith. With the help of his wife, Marge, who took over secretarial and bookkeeping duties, Smith pressed ahead. Marge’s maiden name was also Smith, so they retained the S&S

RAY PRICE PASSES AWAY Drag Racing Master

AMA Motorcycle Hall of Famer Ray Price passed away on Dec. 16 at the age of 78.

Price was the father of drag racing’s “Funnybike,” designer of the motorcycle wheelie bar and developer of the two-speed automatic racing transmission.

Price started his drag racing career in 1967, at the age of 30, with a 1966 Harley-Davidson Sportster. He and his Ray Price Harley-Davidson drag racing team attained multiple race victories, records and championships in AMA Dragbike, the All Harley Drag Racing Association and the International Hot Rod Association.

Ray Price Harley-Davidson in Raleigh, N.C., remains one of the largest dealerships in the southeastern United States and hosts several annual charity events, including the Capital City Bikefest in downtown Raleigh.

name. Throughout the 1960s, S&S Cycle’s performance product line continued to grow and the company invested in more precision manufacturing equipment.

In 1969, S&S set up shop in Viola, Wis. They returned to the Bonneville Salt Flats in 1970 with racers Leo Payne and Warner Riley. When Payne, an AMA Motorcycle Hall of Famer, reached 202.379 mph, Smith’s machine became the ﬁrst nonstreamliner to go more than 200 mph.

The late 1970s found S&S Cycle reﬁning and developing new parts for its evergrowing product lineup.

On Aug. 1, 1980, George Sr. died of heart failure. The Smith family persevered, and the 1980s continued as a time of growth for S&S Cycle. The popularity of V-twin motorcycles was increasing and the company found ample opportunities for new performance products.

Marge Smith’s strong will and leadership kept the company on track and growing well into the 1990s. When she died in the summer of 1992 after a long illness, the second generation of the S&S family assumed responsibility for the company.

RAFFLE BIKE

HIGH-VOLTAGE

TOUR

Seeing North America On An Electric Motorcycle

By Ben Rich

Riding the open road is a treasure and a mystery waiting to be experienced. This epiphany came to me in the summer of 2013 during my first long-distance ride on an electric motorcycle.

I spent the summer riding across the country as part of what we called the Ride the Future Tour. We visited 44 towns while traveling from Charleston, S.C., to Google’s headquarters in Mountain View, Calif.

Before that trip, my inclination was not to travel more than a 100 miles or so a day, but spending days riding along Route 66 hooked me on longdistance riding. After that experience, I acquired a fast-charging system and made my own 6,000-mile trip in 2014.

On that journey, I rode parts of Skyline Drive in the Shenandoah Mountains, part of the Blue Ridge Parkway and the Tail of the Dragon six times. It was an incredible journey, but I was limited by the range of my 2012 Zero S that had a 9kWh battery. I could go about 80 miles on the highway at a time. For the summer of 2015, I decided to raise the bar with a three-country tour of North America. On June 12, I set out on my 2014 Zero SR electric motorcycle for the journey of a lifetime. I packed as much gear as I could fit in a 46-liter Givi top box, bolted on my charging system and headed out to ride the open road.

After staying with a college friend near Washington, D.C., I came to my first challenge: Ride all of Skyline Drive on a single charge. Skyline drive is 105 miles of beautiful riding. It is a fantastic motorcycle road, and the views get better as you ride farther south. I’ve hiked many of the paths that start alongside Skyline Drive and take you to waterfalls and streams, and the road holds a special place in my heart. Along the way I had the chance to chat with some firefighters riding sport bikes who noticed I didn’t make any noise while pulling off the road.

Because the speed limit is 35 mph on Skyline Drive, I had plenty of range to travel the 130 miles between opportunities to charge. Initially, my concern was losing range due to the mountainous terrain, but I arrived with enough power to travel another 20 miles, giving me a total of 150 miles of real-world range.

After the Skyline Drive, I headed straight down the Blue Ridge Parkway. Each section of the Blue Ridge Parkway has its own personality. The northern section from Waynesboro, Va., to Roanoke, Va., is natural and mountainous like Skyline Drive. From Roanoke to Boone, N.C., it is mostly rolling hills and farmland, which also makes for enjoyable riding. Then from Boone, N.C., all the way past Asheville to Cherokee, N.C., is another mountainous, tree-lined adventure through the woods, especially once you get into the Pisgah National Forest where the twisties and mountains add vigor to the ride.

Once I reached the end of the Blue Ridge Parkway, the next two weeks were spent on I-95 and I-10 visiting friends and family along the way. Because range is a consideration in my planning, I had to stick to about 60 mph, even though the bike has a top speed of 95 mph and I regularly ride on highways in the mid-70s. In any case, my bike is designed for shorter trips and has an upright sitting position with a small windscreen, so it isn’t particularly comfortable riding at high speeds all day.

From Asheville, I went to Charleston, S.C., but ran into some difficulty getting there. My motorcycle has two main batteries, and after a day of charging without balancing the cells, I got stuck at a Chevrolet dealership in Orangeburg, S.C. Fortunately, all it took was a full charge to balance the cells and get the bike back on the road again. Upon arriving in Charleston, I went to Prohibition Charleston

America is a great country to see from the seat of a motorcycle.

for some swing dancing.

Next up was Titusville, Fla., for a short family visit, then westward along I-10 to see friends in Baton Rouge, La., and San Antonio, Texas, then onward into Mexico. It was at this point in the journey that the idea of riding into Mexico was becoming more and more real, and the warnings from the U.S. government were concerning. The towns in Mexico along the U.S. border have been reportedly unsafe since 2011, and everyone was telling me not to go there. The Mexican drug cartel turf war was making me a bit concerned.

But I went anyway. Arriving in Del Rio around noon gave me time to charge up at Hidden Valley RV Park. The owner had intended to charge me money to charge my motorcycle, but she was so tickled about an electric motorcycle that she said I could keep the $1.50 it would have cost. Crossing the border was easier than expected, they didn’t even ask for my ID on the way in. After riding around town for a bit, I took some photos, shot a video, and then headed back to San Antonio to hang out with friends. At the U.S. border, they did need my passport, but the officers asked about the electric motorcycle more than they asked about what I was doing in Mexico! Nice guys.

The next fun part of the ride was up the Natchez Trace Parkway. Starting in Natchez, Miss., on a cool and foggy morning was a welcome break in the 90-degree temperatures I endured from South Carolina to Texas. The Trace is an enjoyable winding road with almost no traffic with sights of woods, farms and more woods along the way. It’s pretty flat on the southern section, and only gets hilly as you approach Nashville.

One moment on this part of the ride, the benefit of riding an electric motorcycle hit home. I stopped along the side of the

road to look at my directions to the next charging station. It was absolutely quiet, and so were the woods surrounding me. There were two or three birds calling to each other, and that was all that could be heard. I took a moment to appreciate the silence. It was something to cherish.

After partying in Nashville for a couple days it was off to Columbus, Ohio, but there were thunderstorms. Fortunately, they didn’t last long, but one of the storms soaked me and all my equipment. Most of it worked fine, but one of my three chargers went on the fritz and wouldn’t charge. So traveling that day took longer than anticipated and I arrived at my destination at 1 a.m. instead of 9 p.m.

That was the only time rain put a damper on my trip. Everything worked normally the next day. All the other times it rained, and there were several, everything worked fine. I just put some extra duct tape around the connections to give them a bit more waterproofing.

My journey then took me to Cleveland, all the way across Pennsylvania, and down into New Jersey. That was the longest day of my trip, about 475 miles. I was charging up at RV parks all along the way because there were no charging stations along I-80.

The final stop in this three-country tour was Montreal, Canada. I mapped out my travel up route 287, and headed north. It was a beautiful, sunny day to ride

Visiting friends in Nashville, Tenn. L-R: Michael Beatty, Lauren Vandermar, Kelly Dennen, Chuck Pfaff and Ben Rich.

While it still takes planning to ensure you’ll be able to stay charged, electric motorcycles are now viable modes of transportation.

through the Adirondacks north of Lake George. Everything went according to plan. I made it to Montreal in time for an afternoon dance in Verdun Serres, a park near the St. Lawrence River. Riding home was equally beautiful, and it felt more like a victory lap riding through the mountains of upstate New York after having gone to three countries on my Zero SR. Of course, there had to be a little drama on the last day, and I barely made it to the Lake George charging station because it was such a long stretch from the State University of New York at Plattsburgh, and it was uphill, which ate up a little bit of range. I made it to the charging stop with a small percentage of battery remaining.

It is getting easier to travel by electric motorcycle, but it is still challenging. Much of the challenge is eliminated with the ability to charge at fast charging stations equipped with CHAdeMO or SAE Combo chargers. I averaged 310 miles per day with my longest day being a 475-mile journey from Cleveland to New Jersey taking 17 hours. Since I stayed with friends almost every day, this trip cost very little. In all, I spent only $249.06 on lodging and $52.69 on charging fees.

Riding all this way using the existing charging infrastructure makes me very hopeful for the future of electric motorcycle road trips. And there will be more powerful ways to charge soon. But meeting so many friendly people at RV parks and car dealerships really made this adventure truly enjoyable. After all, it’s the people you meet and the friendships you make that you remember.

Be Prepared

To prepare for a long-distance journey on an electric motorcycle, some aftermarket equipment is needed. To recharge in a reasonable amount of time, extra chargers need to be carried on the bike. Hollywood Electrics has made some fast chargers for Zero Motorcycles that can be carried on the bike using side racks. This is the key to unlocking the potential for taking road trips on electric motorcycles in the future.

Here is the setup I use that utilizes all components available to purchase, with no electrical engineering degree required.

Motorcycle: 2014 Zero SR with Power Tank: The fastest motorcycle in Zero Motorcycle’s lineup, it can accelerate from zero to 60 in 3.3 seconds. It comes with an 11.4kWh (kilowatt hours) battery, plus I upgraded by installing a power tank, which is essentially another battery. This brings the total battery size up to 14.2kWh and gives me a range of 100 miles at 60 mph. I also have a windscreen on my bike that helps keep the wind off my chest and makes highway riding a bit more comfortable.

Racks and Case: I used Zero Motorcycles’ Side and Top Case Rack Kits. The top rack is meant for a small Givi top box, but I needed more storage because my journey lasted a month. I ﬁtted the top rack with an E251 Givi Universal Adapter Plate so I could use my 46-liter E460 Givi top case to carry my gear, as well as hex key wrenches, extra bolts, some duct tape and some other gear to patch things up on the road.

Charging System:

With these two chargers, plus the onboard 1.3kW charger that comes with the bike, I had a total of 6.3kW of charging power to recharge the batteries. On the road, I usually needed to recharge about 9-10kWh per battery, which takes about 1.5 hours. Which means, when riding on the highway, I get about 1.5 hours of riding to 1.5 hours of charging. This is an improvement over my previous setup on my 2012 Zero S, which only had a 9kWh battery and charged more slowly. With that bike I had to charge slightly longer than I got to ride.

This is a special setup for road trips only. I normally charge using a 110volt outlet in my garage overnight, so it doesn’t matter how long it takes the bike to charge. I also don’t usually go more than 60 miles in a day, and only use about 50 percent of the battery. So this road trip pushes the stock technology well past normal usage standards.

Two 2,500 Watt Elcon Chargers. improvement

In some ways, riding across the northern border feels like a trip to Europe.

Fly High With AMA EAGLES, State Chapter Programs

Jim Witters

Training, Volunteer Opportunities Abound by

The AMA is reviving its EAGLES advocacy and leadership program and announcing a state chapter plan that will provide more opportunities for AMA members to interact with each other, promote the association and its events, and provide a basis for local action on important issues.

“These programs will increase the AMA’s grassroots advocacy at the state and local levels,” says Rob Dingman, AMA president and CEO. “And the State Chapter program also will create more opportunities for recreational riding, both on-road and off.

“We are conﬁdent that these programs will help the AMA grow stronger by providing closer ties among its members and connecting them more directly to the national organization.”

Coordinating the two programs is AMA State Chapter Manager Marie Wuelleh.

“I am looking forward to helping AMA members complete the EAGLES training and working with members in every state to form a strong and active State Chapter program,” Wuelleh says.

EAGLES Training

Each letter of the EAGLES acronym stands for an important element of advocacy: Education, Activism, Growth, Leadership, Expertise, Skills.

Through AMA EAGLES, members learn about the AMA and become better public relations representatives, grassroots activists and membership advocates.

AMA EAGLES empowers members with knowledge, tools and resources tailored to their interests and provides a ﬁrm foundation for helping to promote the motorcycle lifestyle and protect the future of motorcycling.

The AMA initiated the EAGLES training program in 1989, but it later fell dormant.

“The AMA Congress wanted the program revived to help train volunteers,” Wuelleh says.

Wuelleh updated the EAGLES training materials, gave the AMA Congress an overview, made a few more tweaks and began recruiting activists for the program.

“The current program has been updated to reﬂect what is relevant in today’s motorcycling world.” Wuelleh says. “It has evolved and is still evolving.”

Already, three individuals have completed the new program—AMA Congress members John “Byrd” Levy of Scarsdale, N.Y., and Dennis Deeter of Miamisburg, Ohio, and AMA member services representative Christina Dolin, who works in the Pickerington, Ohio, headquarters.

Levy was one of the AMA members who lobbied for reinstatement of the EAGLES training.

“New technology has allowed a much

more in-depth program, and we can spend much more time absorbing the information,” Levy says. “The major change to the program, in my mind, is the depth of information about the different disciplines of competition and the government relations aspect,” he explains. “When I ﬁrst joined the AMA, we didn’t have a government relations department!”

Levy says the EAGLES program provides volunteers with the information they need to emphasize motorcycling’s “positive effects on trafﬁc and society in general.”

“Part of the EAGLES program is devoted to activism and, as a grassroots organization, we need to take an active role in forming the agenda moving forward,” he says. “The EAGLES can be a positive force for growth in the AMA.”

Deeter agrees, saying the EAGLES

training provides a path for involvement for all AMA members, but especially the younger ones.

“Paul Uhlman was an AMA rep in the early 2000s, going to motorcycle road rides promoting the AMA,” Deeter says. “I thought that was cool back then and wanted to be able to do it. By becoming an EAGLE, I now have the opportunity to do just that.”

Deeter, who joined the AMA in 1983 and became a member of the AMA Congress in 2008, is “happy to serve the AMA and District 11 any way I can.”

“The EAGLES program is a great way for young AMA members to become more involved,” Deeter says. “I am glad to see it come back. I have already encouraged four of my brother riders to go through the training. They will understand the AMA and why they should stay members. Getting

John “Byrd” Levy

involved is the only way to get the most out of any organization you belong to.”

It’s equally important for AMA staff members to understand the history of the association and the functions of its departments, whether to better assist members over the phone or to effectively communicate the AMA position to a friend or an elected ofﬁcial.

“I learned about government affairs, how to write letters to my government if I have an issue and how to address my congressman,” Dolin says. “I learned the difference between the different racing disciplines, also, which was so helpful with my job. I also took the referee training test, which I passed.”

EAGLES training consists of two levels, the “EAG” and the “LES.”

Level One is the core program that provides background about the organization and skills for effective activism.

Those continuing to Level Two make a commitment to 24 hours of volunteer service during a 24-month period.

“The intention is for EAGLES leaders to be able to train others,” Wuelleh says. “Outside the AMA staff, our goal is to train 100 people a year. We are going to look to you to be a volunteer in your area.”

EAGLES graduates will serve as wellinformed volunteers at AMA events and sanctioned races, providing participants with accurate information about the racing program, the AMA Motorcycle Hall of Fame, American Motorcyclist Political Action Committee, AMA Congress and position statements on important issues.

“We are going to ﬁt your interests with the AMA’s needs,” Wuelleh says. “We want you to help the AMA in an area that excites you.”

State Chapters

Every AMA member belongs to a state chapter, just by virtue of their AMA membership, Wuelleh says.

“The State Chapter program provides a way for people to come together locally,” she says. “In such a large national organization, too often people get the idea that we are not interested in what’s going on at the state or local level. That has never been true.”

The program represents an increased commitment to recreational and commuting road riders, while continuing the AMA’s strong support for off-road enthusiasts, Wuelleh says.

The three keys to the program are Advocacy, Altruism and Activities.

Each chapter will start with a volunteer state coordinator, who will work with AMA

clubs and individuals to determine what their goals and interests are. Then, the coordinator will work with the members to determine the best way their interests can be served by the AMA.

All state coordinators must complete EAGLES training.

The state coordinator will be asking which advocacy messages are needed, which charity events are supported and how far members are willing to travel to participate in events.

“We want to help the efforts that are already under way, and we want to help them get new ideas off the ground,” Wuelleh says.

“We are looking for state coordinators who will make the AMA presence known and felt.”

The AMA can help clubs by sanctioning events, arranging insurance and assisting with publicity and communications.

“Eventually, we would like to have more AMA activities, more AMA rides,” Wuelleh says. “We want to keep the passion alive.”

But the help will ﬂow in the other direction, too.

“When we need people at meetings, writing letters and making phone calls about important local issues, we’ll be looking to the state chapters,” Wuelleh says. “Local voices carry more weight with elected and appointed ofﬁcials.”

The revitalized program remains “in its early stages,” she says.

“The State Chapter program will grow over the years with a great deal of patience and nurturing,” Wuelleh says. “We are not going to have all the answers right away.”

The AMA currently is recruiting and training state chapter coordinators.

Get Connected

Those interested in becoming state coordinators or pursuing the AMA EAGLES training for themselves or their group should contact Marie Wuelleh at (614) 856-1900, ext. 1224, or grassroots@ama-cycle.org.

Individuals may complete the EAGLES program at home or online. Wuelleh is available to train groups of 12 to 24 in person.

Cost: The complete online program is free to AMA members. Website: www.americanmotorcyclist.com

Dennis Deeter

Maddie McGarvey

2016 AMA SWEEPSTAKESMEMBER

Members who join or renew their AMA membership from Jan. 1, 2016, through Dec. 31, 2016, are automatically entered to win one of these

GO RIDE

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

The Prescott Trail Riders in Kirkland, Ariz., are hosting Round 6 of the Arizona Motorcycle Riders Association Off-Road Championship Series. The hare scrambles race takes place on Feb. 20. Info: www.amraracing.com

On Feb. 7, the ﬁrst round of the AMA National Enduro Championship Series kicks off in Wedgeﬁeld, S.C. The Sumter Enduro Riders Motorcycle Association will host the event. Info: www.nationalenduro.com

COMING UP

3Jeremy Prach Promotions is hosting a TT dirt track race on Feb. 19 in Milwaukee. Info: www.ﬂatoutfriday.com

2Unlimited Sports MX Inc. in Orlando, Fla., will host the ﬁnal motocross round of the Florida Winter AM Series on Feb. 7. Info: www. unlimitedsportsmx.com

Yes, it’s prep time again! The annual Daytona Beach Bike Week will be March 4-14 in Daytona Beach, Fla. The 75th Bike Week will be the unofﬁcial kickoff of the 2016 riding season with bike shows, racing, rallies and more. The AMA will be on location with an all-new display—AMA Club 1924—that celebrates our heritage and invites motorcyclists to support the world’s largest motorcycling advocacy group. Info: www.americanmotorcyclist.com and www.daytonabikeweek.

FEBRUARY EVENTS

ALABAMA

COMPETITION

ARENACROSS

FEB 13: BIRMINGHAM: 2 DAY EVENT, FELD MOTOR SPORTS, (800) 216-7482, ARENACROSS.COM ARIZONA

COMPETITION

HARE SCRAMBLES

FEB 20: KIRKLAND: PRESCOTT TRAIL RIDERS, (928) 380-6901, AMRARACING.COM

COMPETITION

CALIFORNIA

HARE SCRAMBLES

FEB 13: SALINAS: 2 DAY EVENT, SALINAS RAMBLERS M/C, (831) 261-6085, SALINASRAMBLERS.ORG

COMPETITION

ARENACROSS

FEB 4: COLORADO SPRINGS: FELD MOTOR SPORTS, (800) 216-7482, ARENACROSS.COM

FEB 5: COLORADO SPRINGS: FELD MOTOR SPORTS, (800) 216-7482, ARENACROSS.COM

FEB 6: COLORADO SPRINGS: 2 DAY EVENT, FELD MOTOR SPORTS, (800) 216-7482, ARENACROSS.COM

CLUB1924

FEB 20: TAMPA: 2 DAY EVENT, FELD MOTOR SPORTS, (800) 216-7482, ARENACROSS.COM

MOTOCROSS

FEB 7: ORLANDO: UNLIMITED SPORTS MX INC., UNLIMITEDSPORTSMX.COM

MOTOCROSS

FEB 6: NORMAN: 2 DAY EVENT, OKLAHOMA MOTORSPORTS COMPLEX, (405) 579-2777, OKLAHOMAMOTORSPORTSCOMPLEX.COM

COMPETITION

ENDURO

FEB 7: WEDGEFIELD: SUMTER ENDURO RIDERS MOTORCYCLE ASSOCIATION, (803) 481-5169, SERMACLUB.COM

MOTOCROSS

FEB 27: WORTHAM: 2 DAY EVENT, FREESTONE COUNTY RACEWAY, LLC, (713) 962-3386, FREESTONEMX.COM WISCONSIN COMPETITION

TTS

FEB 19: MILWAUKEE: JEREMY PRACH PROMOTIONS, (414) 899-9130, FLATOUTFRIDAY.COM

Daytona Bike Week March 4-13

Thunder Beach Motorcycle Rally April 27-May 1

Rolling Thunder Run May 27-30

Americade Motorcycle Rally June 7-11

Laconia Motorcycle Week June 11-19

Thunder in the Valley Motorcycle Rally June 23-26

AMA Vintage Motorcycle Days July 8-10

Bu alo Chip Sturgis August 8-14

Ray Price Bikefest September 23-25 Sponsored by

The AMA Beta National Dual-Sport Series features the country’s best organized dual-sport rides. Events include miles of well marked, challenging trail connected by scenic backcountry roads. The challenging, national caliber terrain is designed to bring out the best in each rider.

UPCOMING EVENTS

MOTOCROSS

FIM MOTOCROSS OF NATIONS FIM-LIVE.COM

Sept. 25: Maggiora, Italy

FIM JUNIOR MOTOCROSS WORLD CHAMPIONSHIP

FIM-LIVE.COM

Aug. 21: Orlyonok, Russia

LUCAS OIL AMA PRO MOTOCROSS PROMOTOCROSS.COM

AmericanMotorcyclist.com a Riding a Dual Sport

May 21: Sacramento, Calif.: Hangtown Motocross Classic

AMA ATV MOTOCROSS NATIONAL CHAMPIONSHIP

March 8: Daytona Beach, Fla.: Daytona International Speedway (Pro points only)

April 9-10: Kemp, Texas: Underground MX Park

April 23-24: Blountville, Tenn.: Muddy Creek Raceway

May 7-8: Crawfordsville, Ind.: Ironman Raceway

May 21-22: Mount Morris, Pa.: High Point Raceway

June 4-5: Tallassee, Ala. Monster Mountain

June 18-19: Walnut, Ill.: Sunset Ridge MX

July 2-3: Millville, Minn.: Spring Creek MX Park

May 28: San Bernardino, Calif.: Glen Helen National

June 4: Laktewood, Colo.: Thunder Valley National

June 18: Mount Morris, Pa.: High Point National

June 25: Blountville, Tenn.: Tennessee National

July 2: Buchanan, Mich.: RedBud National

July 9: Southwick, Mass.: Southwick National

July 16: Millville, Minn.: Spring Creek National

July 23: Washougal, Wash.: Washougal National

Aug. 13: New Berlin, N.Y.: Unadilla National

Aug. 20: Mechanicsville, Md.: Budds Creek National

Aug. 27: Crawfordsville, Ind.: Ironman National

July 16-17: New Berlin, N.Y.: Unadilla MX

July 30-31: Buchanan, Mich.: Redbud MX

Aug. 13-14: Hurricane Mills, Tenn.: Loretta Lynn Ranch

Jan. 23: Anaheim, Calif.: Angel Stadium

Jan. 30: Oakland, Calif.: O.Co Coliseum

Feb. 6: Glendale, Ariz.: University of Phoenix Stadium

Feb. 13: San Diego, Calif.: Petco Park

Feb. 20: Arlington, Texas: AT&T Stadium

Feb. 27: Atlanta, Ga.: Georgia Dome

March 5: Daytona Beach, Fla.: Daytona International Speedway (note: not a Feld Motor Sports produced race)

March 12: Toronto, Canada: Rogers Centre

March 19: Detroit, Mich.: Ford Field

UPCOMING EVENTS

April 2: Santa Clara, Calif.: Levi’s Stadium

April 9: Indianapolis, Ind.: Lucas Oil Stadium

April 16: St. Louis, Mo.: Edward Jones Dome

April 23: Foxboro, Mass.: Gillette Stadium

April 30: East Rutherford, N.J.: MetLife Stadium

May 7: Las Vegas, Nev.: Sam Boyd Stadium

Jan. 22-24: Allentown, Pa.: PPL Center

Jan. 30-31: Greensboro, N.C.: Greensboro Coliseum

Feb. 4-7: Colorado Springs, Colo.: Broadmoor World Arena

Feb. 13-14: Birmingham, Ala.: Legacy Center

Feb. 20-21: Tampa, Fla.: Amalie Arena

March 5-6: Omaha, Neb.: CenturyLink Center

March 12-13: Lafayette, La.: Cajondome

April 1-3: Ontario, Calif.: Citizens Business Bank Arena

April 9-10: Salinas, Calif.: Salinas Sports Complex

April 16-17: Tacoma, Wash.: Tacoma Dome

April 22-24: Nampa, Idaho: Ford Idaho Center

May 6-8: Las Vegas, Nev.: Orleans Arena (Amateur National Championship)

NORTHEAST AREA QUALIFIERS

March 5-6: Elizabeth City, N.C.: Elizabeth City MX

March 12-13: Hedgesville, W.V.: Tomahawk MX

April 9-10: Englishtown, N.J.: Englishtown

April 16-17: Dillwyn, Va.: Actiontown MX Park

April 23-24: Fredericksburg, Pa.: Sleepy Hollow MX

May 7-8: Seward, Pa.: Pleasure Valley

May 14-15: Winchester, N.H.: Winchester Speedpark

May 21-22: New Berlin, N.Y.: Unadilla MX

NORTHEAST REGIONAL CHAMPIONSHIPS

June 4-5: Mount Morris, Pa.: High Point Raceway (Amateur)

June 11-12: Shippensburg, Pa.: Doublin Gap MX Park (Youth)

SOUTHEAST AREA QUALIFIERS

Feb. 27-28: Jacksonville, Fla.: WW Ranch MX Park

March 19-20: Sutherlin, Va.: Birch Creek Motorsports Park

April 2-3: Okeechobee, Fla.: Florida Cycle Park

April 9-10: Hamer, S.C.: South of the Border MX Park

April 16-17: Tallassee, Ala.: Monster Mountain MX Park

April 23-24: Reynolds, Ga.: Silver Dollar Raceway

April 30-May 1: Wytheville, Va.: Pro Sport Motocross

Aug. 1-6: Hurricane Mills, Tenn.: Loretta Lynn Ranch

May 14-15: Dalton, Ga.: Lazy River MX

UPCOMING EVENTS

SOUTHEAST REGIONAL CHAMPIONSHIPS

May 28-29: Blountville, Tenn.: Muddy Creek Raceway (Amateur)

June 18-19: Henderson, N.C.: North Carolina Motorsports Park (Youth)

MID-EAST AREA QUALIFIERS

March 19-20: Altamont, Tenn.: Fast Farms MX Park

April 2-3: Waynesburg, Ohio: Malvern Motocross Park

April 16-17: Rossville, Ind.: Wildcat Creek MX

April 23-24: Chillicothe, Ohio: ChilliTown MX

April 30-May 1: Bronson, Mich.: Log Road MX

May 7-8: Nashport, Ohio: Briarcliff Motocross

May 14-15: Bloomingdale, Mich.: Dutch Sport Park

May 21-22: Livingston, Tenn.: Thunder Valley MX

MID-EAST REGIONAL CHAMPIONSHIPS

June 4-5: Buchanan, Mich.: RedBud MX (Youth)

June 25-26: Millington, Mich.: Baja Acres (Amateur)

NORTH CENTRAL AREA QUALIFIERS

March 12-13: Richwoods, Mo.: Romp MX

April 2-3: Casey, Ill.: Lincoln Trail Motorsports

April 9-10: Garwin, Iowa: Oak Ridge MX

April 23-24: Walnut, Ill.: Sunset Ridge MX

April 30-May 1: Maize, Kan.: Bar 2 Bar MX Park

May 14-15: Little Falls, Minn.: Little Falls Raceway

May 21-22: Mount Carroll, Ill.: McMotopark

May 28-29: Athelstane, Wis.: Pine Ridge Raceway

NORTH CENTRAL REGIONAL CHAMPIONSHIPS

June 11-12: Byron, Ill.: Byron Motorsports Park (Amateur)

June 18-19: Tigerton, Wis.: Motozone (Youth)

SOUTH CENTRAL AREA QUALIFIERS

March 5-6: Conroe, Texas: 3 Palms Action Sports Park

April 2-3: Fulton, Miss.: Veterans MX Park

April 9-10: Grand Cane, La.: Desoto Motorsports Park

April 16-17: Wellston, Okla.: Reynard Raceway

April 23-24: Wortham, Texas: Freestone Raceway

April 30-May 1: Amarillo, Texas: Bowers MX

May 21-22: Yantis, Texas: Johnsonville MX Farm

May 29-30: Brush, Colo.: Sweney Cycle Park (Sunday / Monday races)

SOUTH CENTRAL REGIONAL CHAMPIONSHIPS

June 11-12: Lakewood, Colo.: Thunder Valley Motocross Park (Amateur)

June 25-26: Alvord, Texas: Oak Hill Raceway (Youth)

NORTHWEST AREA QUALIFIERS

Feb. 13-14: Marysville, Calif.: MMX Racing

March 19-20: West Richland, Wash.: Horn Rapids Motorsports Complex

May 7-8: Junction City, Ore.: Eugene MX Park

May 14: Billings, Mont.: Billings MX

NORTHWEST REGIONAL CHAMPIONSHIP

May 28-29: Washougal, Wash.: Washougal MX Park (Youth/Amateur)

MID-WEST AREA QUALIFIERS

Feb. 13-14: Marysville, Calif.: MMX Racing

Feb. 20-21: St. George, Utah: Saint George MX

April 2-3: Turlock, Calif.: Oatfield Raceway

April 16-17: California City, Calif.: Cal City MX Park

May 14-15: Hollister, Calif.: Hollister Hills SVRA

May 21-22: Rocksprings, Wyo.: Rock Springs MX

MID-WEST REGIONAL CHAMPIONSHIP

June 4-5: Rancho Cordova, Calif.: Prairie City OHV (Youth/Amateur)

SOUTHWEST AREA QUALIFIERS

March 5-6: Buckeye, Ariz.: Arizona Cycle Park

March 12-13: Bakersfield, Calif.: Kern County Raceway Park

March 19-20: Haleiwa, Hawaii: Kahuku Motocross

April 2-3: Anza, Calif.: Cahuilla Creek MX

April 9-10: Moriarty, N.M.: Sandia MX at Moriarty

April 16-17: California City, Calif.: Cal City MX Park

SOUTHWEST REGIONAL CHAMPIONSHIP

June 11-12: Pala, Calif.: Pala Raceway (Youth/Amateur)

FEATURED SERIES 16TH ANNUAL FMF AMA TEXAS WINTER SERIES (PROAM) FREESTONEMX.COM

Jan. 30-31: Alvord, Texas: Oakhill Raceway

Feb. 13-14: Fort Worth, Texas: Village Creek MX Park

Feb. 27-28: Wortham, Texas: Freestone Raceway

EVENT RICKY CARMICHAEL DAYTONA AMATEUR SUPERCROSS

March 6-8: Daytona Beach, Fla: MX Sports

ROAD RACE

FIM MOTOGP MOTOGP.COM

April 8-10: Circuit of the Americas FIM SUPERBIKE WORLD CHAMPIONSHIP WORLDSBK.COM

July 8-10: Monterey, Calif.: Mazda Raceway Laguna Seca

AMA ROAD RACE GRAND CHAMPIONSHIP

July 1-3: Plymouth, Wis.: Road America

MOTOAMERICA ROAD RACING SERIES MOTOAMERICA.COM

April 8-10: Austin, Texas: Circuit of the Americas

April 15-17: Braselton, Ga.: Road Atlanta

UPDATED: April 29-May 1: Millville, N.J.: New Jersey Motorsports Park

May 13-15: Alton, Va.: Virginia International Raceway

June 3-5: Elkhart Lake, Wis.: Road America

June 10-12: Birmingham, Ala.: Barber Motorsports Park

UPDATED: June 23-25: Tooele, Utah: Utah Motorsports Park

UPDATED: July 8-10: Monterey, Calif.: Mazda Raceway Laguna Seca

Sept. 9-11: Millville, N.J.: New Jersey Motorsports Park

OFF-ROAD

AMSOIL AMA GRAND NATIONAL CROSS COUNTRY SERIES PRESENTED BY MAXXIS

March 5-6: Palatka, Fla.: Rodman Plantation

March 12-13: Sparta, Ga.: Hill Family Farm

April 2-3: Morganton, N.C.: Steele Creek Campground

April 16-17: Union, S.C.: Big Buck Farm

April 30-May 1: Society Hills, S.C.: Moree’s Hunting Preserve

May 14-15: Springville, Ind.: Lawrence Co. Recreational Park

May 28-29: Millfield, Ohio: Sunday Creek Raceway

June 11-12: Odessa, N.Y.: Seneca Highland

June 25-26: Snowshoe, W. Va.: Snowshoe Mountain Resort

Sept. 10-11: New Berlin, N.Y.: Unadilla MX

Sept. 24-25: Masontown, W. Va.: Marvin’s Mountain Top

Oct. 1-2: St. Clairsville, Ohio: Powerline Park

Oct. 29-30: Crawfordsville, Ind.: Ironman Raceway

KENDA

Feb. 7: Wedgefield, S.C.: SERMA

April 10: Forest Hill, La.: Acadiana Dirt Riders

UPCOMING EVENTS

May 22: Greensboro, Ga.: Cherokee Cycle Club

June 19: Huntersville, Minn.: River Valley Enduro Riders

July 24: Cross Fork, Pa.: Brandywine Enduro Riders

Aug. 28: Chandlersville, Ohio: Ohio Woods Riders

Sept. 18: Park Hills, Mo.: Missouri Mudders

Oct. 23: Skiatook, Okla.: Oklahoma Trail Riders

KENDA SRT AMA HARE AND HOUND NATIONAL CHAMPIONSHIP SERIES NATIONALHAREANDHOUND.COM

Jan. 23 (Youth) | 24 (Amateur): Lucerne Valley, Calif.: Desert Motorcycle Club

April 2 (Youth) | 3 (Amateur) No ATVs: Murphy, Idaho: Dirt Inc.

May 14 (ATV/Youth) | 15 (Amateur): Delta, Utah: Sage Riders Motorcycle Club

June 11: TBA

Aug. 27 (Amateur/Youth) No ATVs: Panaca, Nev.: Silver State Trailblazers

Sept. 3-4: TBA

Sept. 24 (No ATVs): Yerington, Nev.: GetXtr-Eme

Oct. 22 (Youth) | 23 (Amateur): Lucerne Valley, Calif: 100’s MC

AIRES AMA/NATC MOTOTRIALS NATIONAL CHAMPIONSHIP SERIES MOTOTRIALS.COM

May 21-22: Ocala, Fla.: Florida Trials Association

May 28-29: Sequatchie, Tenn.: Southeastern Trials Riders Association

June 18-19: Tillamook, Ore.: Columbia Observed Trials Association

June 25-26: Canon City, Colo.: Rocky Mountain Trials Association

UPCOMING EVENTS

AMA/NATC YOUTH MOTOTRIALS NATIONAL CHAMPIONSHIP MOTOTRIALS.COM

June 30-July 2: Sequatchie, Tenn.: Southeastern Trials Riders Association

TENNESSEE KNOCKOUT EXTREME ENDURO TENNESSEEKNOCKOUTENDURO.COM

Aug. 20-21: Sequatchie, Tenn.: Trials Training Center

KENDA SRT AMA WEST HARE SCRAMBLE CHAMPIONSHIP SERIES WESTHARESCRAMBLE.COM

Feb. 13 (Youth) | 14 (Amateur): Salinas, Calif.: Salinas Ramblers

March 19 (ATV/Youth) | 20 (Amateur): Gorman, Calif: Prospectors MC

April 9 (Amateur) | 10 (Youth): Shasta Lake City, Calif.: Redding Dirt Riders

April 23 (Youth) | 24 (Amateur): Lucerne Valley, Calif.: Vikings Motorcycle Club

May 21 (Amateur/Youth): Caliente, Nev.: Silver State Trailblazers

Sept. 17 (ATV/Youth) | 18 (Amateur): Lucerne Valley, Calif.: Desert Motorcycle Club

Oct. 1 (Amateur/ATV/Youth): El Centro, Calif.: RoadRunners Motorcycle Club

Nov. 5 (Youth) | 6 (Amateur): Longdale, Nev.: Darkside Motorcycle Club

FEATURED SERIES

APPALACHIAN CHAMPIONSHIP ENDURO SERIES ACES-RACES.COM

March 13: Ray, Ohio: Chillicothe Enduro Riders Association

April 3: New Straitsville, Ohio: New Straitsville Enduro Riders

April 10: Shade, Ohio: Lodi Township Enduro

June 5: Wellston, Ohio: Appalachian Dirt Riders

July 17: McArthur, Ohio: Enduro Riders Association

Aug. 7: Three Springs, Pa.: Green Marble Enduro Riders

Aug. 14: Logan, Ohio: Hocking Valley Motorcycle Club

Aug. 28: Chandlersville, Ohio: Ohio Woods Riders (In conjunction with National Enduro)

Sept. 4: Athens, Ohio: Athens Motorcycle Club

Sept. 25: Bergholz, Ohio: Ohio Valley Trail Riders

Oct. 9: Matthews, Ind.: Muddobbers Motorcycle Club

Nov. 13: Treaty City, Ohio: Treaty City Motorcycle Club

FEATURED SERIES

EAST COAST ENDURO ASSOCIATION (ENDUROS)

ECEA.ORG

March 13: Port Elizabeth, N.J.: Tri-County Sportsmen Motorcycle Club

March 20: Shamong, N.J.: South Jersey Enduro Riders

April 3: Greenbank, N.J.: Meteor Motorcycle Club

April 10: Chatsworth, N.J.: Pine Barons Enduro Riders

May 1: Delaware City, Del.: Delaware Enduro Riders

May 29: Heckscherville, Pa.: Reading Off-Road Riders

June 12: Deposit, N.Y.: Ridge Riders Motorcycle Club

June 26: Blain, Pa.: Susquehanna Off Road Riders

July 10: Gillett, Pa.: Southern Tier Enduro Riders

July 24: Cross Fork, Pa.: Brandywine Enduro Riders

Aug. 7: Three Springs, Pa.: Green Marble Enduro Riders

Aug. 14: Berkshire, N.Y.: Ithaca Dirt Riders

Aug. 28: Mauricetown, N.J.: Competition Dirt Riders

Sept. 11: Shippensburg, Pa.: South Penn Enduro Riders

Sept. 25: Mahanoy City, Pa.: High Mountain Dirt Riders / Valley Forge Trail Riders

Oct. 16: Warren Grove, N.J.: Motorcycle Competition Inc.

Oct. 30: New Lisbon, N.J.: Ocean City Competition Riders

Nov. 20: New Lisbon, N.J.: Central Jersey Competition Riders

FEATURED SERIES

EAST COAST ENDURO ASSOCIATION (HARE SCRAMBLES)

ECEA.ORG

April 16-17: Port Elizabeth, N.J.: TriCounty Sportsmen Motorcycle Club

April 23-24: Millville, N.J.: Competition Dirt Riders

May 14-15: Sahara Sands, N.J.: Motorcycle Competition Inc.

May 22-23: Berwick, Pa.: South Penn Enduro Riders

UPDATED: June 4-5: Three Springs, Pa.: Rocket Raceway

June 18-19: Tamaqua, Pa.: Reading Off Road Riders

July 16-17: Mahoney City, Pa.: Valley Forge Trail Riders

July 30-31: Catawissa, Pa.: High Mountain Dirt Riders

Aug. 20-21: Clifford, Pa.: Meteor Motorcycle Club

Sept. 17-18: Mount Cobb, Pa.: Ridge Riders Motorcycle Club

Oct. 1-2: Wellsboro, Pa.: Southern Tier Enduro Riders

Oct. 22-23: Sahara Sands, N.J.: Pine Barrons Enduro Riders

Nov. 12-13: New Castle, Del.: Delaware Enduro Riders

Jan. 31: Port Crane, N.Y.: Square Deal Riders

Feb. 14: Port Crane, N.Y.: Square Deal Riders

Feb. 28: Port Crane, N.Y.: Square Deal Riders

FEATURED SERIES TRIALS

April 16-17: Fly, Ohio: Trail Run Trial (17th is Vintage Cup Series Round)

April 23-24: Southington, Ohio: Cleveland

May 14-15: Tippecanoe, Ohio: Tippecanoe

June 4-5: Sidell, Ill.: Illinois

June 18-19: Toronto, Ohio: Toronto (19th is Vintage Cup Series Round)

July 23-24: Canﬁeld, Ohio: Canﬁeld

Aug. 20-21: Little Hocking, Ohio: Wildwood

Sept. 3-4: Newark, Ohio: Newark (4th is Vintage Cup Series Round)

UPCOMING EVENTS

Sept. 17-18: Columbus, Ind.: Stoney (18th is Vintage Cup Series Round)

Oct. 1-2: Bedford, Ky.: Saddleback (2nd is Vintage Cup Series Round)

Oct. 15-16: Taylorsville, Ky.: Vintage Cup Finals

FEATURED SERIES

VIRGINIA CHAMPIONSHIP HARE SCRAMBLE SERIES VCHSS.ORG

March 20: Sandy Level, Va.: River’s Edge

April 3: Dillwyn, Va.: CVTR

April 17: Arrington, Va.: April Fools

May 1: Martinsville, Va.: Blue Ridge 1

May 15: Bristol, Va.: Harleywood

May 29: Dendron, Va.: Reddy Hole

UPCOMING EVENTS

June 12: Spring Grove, Va.: TDR, Eastover

June 26: Rural Retreat, Va.: Hillbilly

Aug. 7: Martinsville, Va.: Blue Ridge 2

Aug. 21: Penhook, Va.: Sandy Bottom

Sept. 4: Rural Retreat, Va.: Coyote Run

Sept. 11: Spring Grove, Va.: Peninsula

Sept. 25: Rural Retreat, Va.: Iron Mountain

Oct. 9: Rural Retreat, Va.: Rattlesnake

Oct. 30: Spring Grove, Va.: Pipsico

SPECIALTY

AMA ICE RACE GRAND CHAMPIONSHIP

Feb. 13-14: Waterford, Mich.: Pontiac Lake Recreation Area

RECREATION

AMA NATIONAL GRAND TOURS

Jan. 1-Dec. 31: Southern California Motorcycle Association 15 Best Roads: sc-ma.com, scmariskmanager@gmail.com, (602) 705-4902

Jan. 1-Dec. 31: Southern California Motorcycle Association USA Four Corners Tour: sc-ma.com, scmariskmanager@gmail.com, (602) 7054902

July 3-24: Sister’s Centennial Motorcycle Ride: SistersMotorcycleRide.com, alisa@ motoadventuregal.com, (562) 395-3830

Sept. 2-6: Southern California Motorcycle Association Three Flags Classic: sc-ma.com, scmariskmanager@ gmail.com, (602) 705-4902

SIGNATURE EVENTS

March of Dimes - Bikers for Babies (events nationwide): BikerForBabies.org

Pediatric Brain Tumor Foundation - Ride for Kids (events nationwide): RideForKids.org

HALL OF FAME EXHIBITS AND EVENTS

AMA MOTORCYCLE HALL OF FAME MOTORCYCLEMUSEUM.ORG

The AMA Motorcycle Hall of Fame is on the AMA campus in Pickerington, Ohio, and is open 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. seven days a week. Closed: Easter, Thanksgiving, Christmas Eve, Christmas Day and New Year’s Day.

Main Hall: AMA Motorcycle Hall of Fame: The main ﬂoor of the Motorcycle Hall of Fame celebrates Hall of Fame inductees, the heroes of the track, road, trails and halls of government who have elevated the sport to new heights. Now featuring the 2015 inductees.

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

The Birth of a Hurricane: How AMA Motorcycle Hall of Famer Craig Vetter reimagined BSA for an American market.

Sam Swope: Philanthropist, Motorcyclist: Motorcycles that represent the generous, charitable giving of Sam Swope.

Motorcycle Toys and Collectibles Exhibit: A collection of more than 1,000 motorcycle-inspired toys.

RIDING FOR HEALTH

Group Fights Stereotypes, Touts Benefits of Riding

The Motorcycling Doctors Association was founded in 1977 to contribute to the welfare and safety of motorcyclists through educating members and non-members about issues related to motorcycling, and to keep members and others up to date on subjects related to motorcycling and the healing arts.

The MDA was the brainchild of A. Ranold MacKenzi, a urologist from Point Lookout, Long Island, N.Y. He and several other riders gathered for their first meeting in Independence, Mo.

The membership consists of those holding doctorates in medicine, dentistry, podiatry and veterinary. Those in ancillary medical fields and “friends” may become associate members by a vote of the MDA board.

At our meetings, our topics generally focus on delivering what’s good for our health while enjoying the sport of motorcycling.

The MDA is an organization where there is a warmth and camaraderie that goes beyond the enjoyment of the sport and melds our basic love and caring for people, helping us to relate to each other and to create longstanding bonds.

The group meets annually, usually in June, at a site selected by the volunteer host. The 2016 gathering is slated for June 13-16 in Annapolis, Md.

These meetings are structured around a business meeting and seminar. The seminars can run the gamut from medical/ scientific topics to new motorcycles and accessories. They are presented by doctors and professionals from motorcycle manufacturers and other organizations.

After the seminars, or the following day, a couple of interesting rides take place. Riders explore local communities and have a hearty lunch and a vigorous jam session. The conference culminates with a semi-formal banquet.

For many doctors, this event provides their only opportunity to escape an overcrowded schedule, socialize in a low-stress environment, hang out with friends who share common interests, avoid medical shop-talk, drink in a little high-octane fire water and enjoy a few fine cigars.

Rally participants go out of their way to put the best possible face on bikes and bikers and feel we are a credit to motorcycling, helping the image.

One hot button for us is the notion that bikers are just a bunch of baby boomers going through a collective mid-life crisis. Most of us have been riding for many,

many years—me, for more than 65 years. We all ride for fun and to escape the stress of our jobs.

I’ll end with these thoughts: How many times has some do-gooder warned you against riding your motorcycle in the interest of your health? Do you politely listen while someone regales you with horror stories of someone who went down two days after he or she bought a bike?

I no longer go head-to-head with sufferers of moto-phobia. I just tell them that, from a doctor’s point of view, motorcycling is conducive to a long and healthy life.

Along with my life experiences, I use the points made in a Motorcycle Consumer News article titled “One More Reason

by Dr. Edward N. Szerlip

to Bike: It’s Good for Your Health!” The magazine enlisted students from King’s College of London University Hospital to research aging riders and their love for the sport. They found that motorcycling is good for the brain, the lungs, the heart, circulation, the back and the leg muscles. Motorcycling also burns fat.

So, there you have the medical basis for riding! Don’t forget to ride your motorcycle at least one hour a day. It’s good for your health.

Dr. Szerlip is an AMA Life Member from Plantation, Fla. He has been a member of the Motorcycling Doctors Association since 1979. Contact him at docsnarpets28@bellsouth.net.