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Rocky Mountain HOG Chapter Takes a Trip to Madrid, New Mexico

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By: Susan Dane

Rocky Mountain Harley Davidson HOG Chapter #0421 embarked on a weekend trip to Santa Fe June 4 – 6, 2021.  Bob Cuculich has been the organizer of this overnighter, aptly named Wild HOGS weekend, since its inception.  It also happened to be Bob’s birthday on Friday, June 4th, so of course, we had to sing Happy Birthday to him before we took off.  32 HOG Chapter members rode to Santa Fe this year in 3 groups, taking different scenic routes to the Sage Inn in Santa Fe. 

Bob’s local friend, who owns a charter and sightseeing flying service, provided a sightseeing tour to two lucky winners on Saturday morning, with a group photo taken of the entire Chapter and their motorcycles staged on the airport tarmac.  After the picture, the group headed to Thunderbird Harley Davidson in Albuquerque, then a scenic ride on the Turquoise Trail Scenic Byway.  

The historic Byway encompasses 15,000 square miles in the heart of central New Mexico and is approximately 50 miles along Highway 14.  First, a stop was made to enjoy the breathtaking view from atop Sandia Crest, and then the ride continued through the mining towns of Golden, Madrid, and Cerrillos. 

Riders also enjoyed a stop at the now-infamous Maggie’s Diner in Madrid.  Madrid is about an hour north of Albuquerque and where part of the movie Wild Hogs was filmed.  Maggie’s is now a gift shop with numerous Wild Hogs and Del Fuego T-shirts and souvenirs.  A little know trivia fact is that Maggie’s Diner was never an actual diner, the Wild Hogs movie set team for the movie, and they left it for the town to do with it what they wanted.

It just so happened that this year is the 15th anniversary of the Wild Hogs movie, and several of the Del Fuego Motorcycle Club members who were in the film were in Madrid to celebrate. What an expected fun surprise that was…..we couldn’t have timed our arrival any better.

Madrid was once a historic coal mining town and ghost town; Madrid is now a creative community with over 40 shops and galleries, several restaurants, a spa, and a museum. Madrid is famous for its annual Christmas lighting displays, which began in the 1920s. There are also three quaint but modernized Bed & Breakfasts in Madrid that riders can stay overnight to take in all that this small town offers.  A couple of miles north is the quaint village Cerrillos that includes a state park with hiking paths and horseback riding.

Chapter members headed home on Sunday, taking several different routes—some wanting to take the scenic route home while others took I-25.   This trip was a great weekend getaway and one that I would highly recommend to any rider looking to take a long weekend cruise on the bike with good friends.   Creating memories with friends on a trip like this is what it’s all about…..Life is Good.

1,000 Miles in a day Challenge

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By Stormy

Cool Biker Lunch and Rides Facebook group page hosted a 1K in 1 Day challenge during the 2020 riding season.  It was perfect timing because it gave members something to do during the crazy lockdown of COVID19.  For the ones that do not ride, they might wonder “why would you torture yourself and ride 1,000 miles in one day?”  They would not understand that our self-esteem soars when we have been able to accomplish something like this, and to some who treated the challenge like it was a race to see who can complete it in the best time, the higher the self-esteem will go.  To me, personally, I carried an unaccomplished feeling for a year because the first time I attempted this in 2019, I was hit by a car right when my odometer read 1,001 miles, but I could not verify this accomplishment because I was unconscious in the hospital and my motorcycle was totaled.  In August, my great friend Kristi and I did the 1K in 1 Day and headed to Sturgis and back.  We had time to roam around Main Street and got some cool Sturgis souvenirs.  We did the challenge in less than 18 hours.  When we boasted about that, of course, it now became a challenge to see who can do it in less time.  

First, congratulations to the ones who accomplished it in 2020:

Jason Ennis, Austin Prather, Rachel Renee, Michelle Clemente, Kelli Thomas, Frank Nusser (two times), Stephen Gonzales, James Head, Gary Braley, Kristi Strother, Audrey Paulus, Michael Koller, Ed Collins, Bruce Gorman, Dave Setter, Rick Way, and Wildman Wilson.

Below are their experiences of this challenge:

Jason Ennis

My experience with the 1K was one of enjoyment and pure torture.  I have never done something like that before and was determined to be the first one to do it.  As my whole life, I love to be the first to do anything.  It took me almost the full 24 hours, but I accomplished it.  

Austin Prather

I had been seeing the 1K 1Day Challenge on the Cool Biker page on FB.  I was interested right away, but I noticed that no one was chomping at the bit which made it much more attractive to me.  It really meant that it was not an easy or truly desirable mission, which made me want to do it even more.  It was a fun day, and I cannot wait to do it again this year.

Kelli Thomas

It was an extraordinarily rich experience. The whole scene on the trip was all breathtaking.  This group works well together which made it smoother.  I am deaf, and we got through it with good communication.  I would like to thank them all.  It was well worth it to accomplish the 24-hour challenge.  I will remember this ride for a very long time.

Frank Nusser

I did my first 1k earlier in the year with Austin and the gang.  It was not your normal 1k route.  Lots of mountain passes and slower roads.  It took around 21 hours. I wanted to beat that time and attempted another 1k in the fall.  We had a good group, good route, and great weather.  We had a couple issues but still got it done around 14 hours.  It was a great feeling to be able to complete this challenge twice in the same year.  The only one!

Rachel Renee

Boy was this a challenge.  We communicated well and made decisions together as a group.  There were a lot of firsts for everyone, and this ride would not be the same without this exact group of people.  I am so glad I went along.  Met new friends.  Seen old places with fresh new eyes.  Ride free!

Michelle Clemente

I am glad to make a decision to join the 1k for one day challenger because I was not sure if I could do it as I’m a new rider.  It is a BIG challenge for me with routes and mountains.  So glad that we made it!  Our group is so wonderful to cooperate, communicate well, and enjoy our times with no drama.  

James Head

My 1k ride is not only my first try, but also the first time I have left the state by myself on a bike, and only the second time I have done any real distance.  I have years of riding, but just never rode anywhere far.  My route was down to Durango and then on to Albuquerque and back to Denver.  This experience was exhausting, and eventually filled with the shadowy hallucinations, but when I opened Facebook and read all the encouragement from Cool Biker Lunch & Rides members, it made me jump right back on the bike after the fill up and keep on keeping!!

Rick Way

I rode more than two 1K rides in 2020.  2021 who knows?  At least  once a year,  maybe more, is always my goal.  I love it.  That is why I keep doing it.  For me, the destination always changes.  It is all about the journey….  Ride safe, ride on.

Stephen Gonzales

Thanks everyone.  All in all, it was a fantastic day!    I stopped and visited with friends and family along the way to Las Vegas.   Some of them I have not seen in 10 years.  Part of my route took me though my hometown and places I camped and hunted when I was young.  I even got to spend some time remembering good times while riding.  So yes, this was a fantastic day!

Kristi Strother

I met Audrey right off I-25 and exit 136, at a Maverick gas station right off the freeway.  She was all smiles.  We both were.  I had made some funny Bat and Shark signs to help us tease each other about our bikes.  We took photos of our mileage and held silly signs.  Off we went!  The road in front of us, the cold morning wind whipping at our faces, music cranked high, our hair blowing, two friends embarked on our amazing, Sturgis 1k Challenge. 

Michael Koller

I really only went on this ride to beat someone’s record after friendly banter on Facebook, so I hooked up with Ed Collins to accomplish this.  The route was chosen specifically for that reason, straight and easy!  I would have liked a more scenic route, but this one served its purpose.  The trip was not difficult at all, and I would do it again, especially when our record is broken.

Ed Collins

It was the first week of October when Michael Koller and I did our 1K challenge to Kansas and back.  We had a few snafus in the morning that held us back timewise, but we made up for it on the long stretches going 100 mph.  Once we passed the state line back into Colorado, ears ringing from the wind noise, the sun hanging low in the sky, temperature slowly dropping, we have 990 miles under our belts.  The next cut off is only a minute away.  We turned off into a fuel station and the mileage read that we were 1,003 miles up and 13.5 hours.  We filled them up, fought our way through rush hour traffic, found a cold drink, a good cigar, and took some time for reflection, 1,000 miles under 24 hours!

Dave Setter

Our 1k/1Day “race” started with a boasting challenge on September 28, by the leader of our riding group (Audrey Paulus with Cool Bikers) posting that the fastest time for the year to date was set by Audrey and her pal, Kristi Strother, at slightly under 18 hours.  Bruce Gorman wanted to make the run anyhow with the thought that we could catch a great lunch at a famous Mexican restaurant down in Albuquerque and ride back easily under 18 hours.  We picked a date a few weeks out that worked for the group, Saturday, October 10.  However, a few days before our ride, two other riders (Ed Collins and Michael Koller) completed their 1k in a record setting 13.5 hours. They threw down a gauntlet that Frank Nusser dared us to beat.  So much for a relaxing lunch ride down and back to Albuquerque, as the race was now on.

THE RIDERS: Frank Nusser, Craig Harlan, Bruce Gorman, and Dave Setter. As a group, we had been on several longer rides together.  It helped that we knew each rider’s skills and road savvy, especially, if we were going to beat that damn 13.5 hours.

We finally made it to 1,000 miles, right at 14 hours.  We celebrated as Frank passed out candy cigars, as our salute to those who had set the 13.5-hour record.  Until next time, cigar dudes!

Bruce Gorman

I kissed my wife, ‘See you later’, and I stepped out into the darkness.  Ready for whatever the road has waiting for me.

Steve “Wildman” Wilson

Chronicles of the Wildman and the Thousand Mile Ride

On 5 November 2020, I embarked on a 1000-mile ride on my 2003 Honda Goldwing.  I pack more than I need, but I just wanted to make sure I am prepared for a variety of possibilities and eventualities.  I get to bed early for an early start.  I wake up at 0200 and finish my packing and checklists and get on the road.  I get my start receipt at 0255 and off we go.   I ride to complete this trek.  I ride to get a sense of accomplishment.  I ride to finish what I started.  I get to the last gas station to get my final receipt.  I am tired and dirty, but after 21-1/2 hours and about 1,057 miles, I am accomplished.  I go around the corner home and I have a celebratory drink, shower, and go to bed.

Gary Braley

My 1K 1D ride was for me: it had been an unusually rough year, and it was about time for me to get my head on right.   I went through Wyoming, Utah, and Colorado.   Got off the highway and took a few backwoods mountain roads where I grew up.   My plan was to use all the time I had to just cruise and enjoy,  enjoy my bike, enjoy the scenery,  and enjoy me again.  It turned out to be a fantastic day, over 23 hours of time, just me and my bike.  I believe I traveled 1,141 miles taking in the beauty and smiling that I had missed all the rain…lol.  I cannot wait to take the similar trip this summer, only this time, my daughter will be riding her bike with me.  My bike truly is my happy place.

Todd McLaughlin and his friend Bruce Leipold attempted this challenge on October 11th.  Their route was Denver to Provo to Green River and back.  After they hit Laramie, they decided to opt out of the challenge for they ran into some dangerous weather, 60 mph winds and rain with snow in the forecast!  They will be back in 2021 to finish this accomplishment.

Anyone else want to do this challenge this year?!!  There are some rumors that the above will be back this year to beat their time.  I am looking forward to hearing about their journeys.  

6th Annual Hornbuckle Foundation

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Hornbuckle Foundation and the Sober Souls Motorcycle Club teamed up, once again, for their 6th Annual Poker Run. Over 200 bikes and another 200 people showed up in force for the cause. Hornbuckle Foundation is a 501(c)3 non-profit with a Sober Living Placement and Recovery Coaching Program that helps those struggling with substance abuse find their recovery path to long-term recovery.

The run started at Renegade Classics and ended at Dirty Dogs Roadhouse in Golden, CO. Kai Turner from 103.5 The Fox was the MC, a custom Michael Hornbuckle, Delaney guitar was live auctioned, and nearly $20,000 was raised for their program. It was an amazing turn out and for many, a great escape for a great cause!  

Loco4Noco Rides

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By Audrey Paulus – Stormy

LoCo4NoCo Rides is a Facebook biker group page that focuses on Northern Colorado residents.  It is the only active one that organizes and hosts rides.  I met the founder, Coy Wylie, back in May when he and some riders and the Cool Biker Lunch and Rides group stopped at the Mishawaka Amphitheatre along Poudre Canyon.  We introduced each other and instantly became great friends.  He told me now he has time to ride, “COVID started it all. The COVID-19 pandemic has brought global suffering but has also brought some unexpected benefits.”  He is a professional real estate agent and when the Colorado Real Estate Commission virtually shut down his industry, from late March to early May, right at the peak of the buying and selling season, he needed something to fill his time.  He wanted to find some new people who were as enthusiastic about motorcycles as he was and make some new friends.  He posted in a biker Facebook group and invited people to join him on a ride out of Fort Collins for that same Sunday afternoon.  I then encouraged him to start up his own group page where he can control it, post rides, and meet new people in his area.  We also talked about how this is a good way to network and that it helps you become more visible to the right people and you can gradually become that one person that “knows everyone”.  I jokingly call him the King of the North.

Coy had just begun to use the brand “LOCO4NOCO” (crazy for Northern Colorado) with his real estate business, so he called the group LOCO4NOCO Rides.  Within a few days, the group began to grow.  From the start, the focus has been on group rides and community.  He stated, “In three months, we’ve grown to over 350 members with regular group rides and a weekly bike night at various venues around Northern Colorado.  It has become evident that this is more than just riding, it’s about finding like-minded people who love the motorcycle culture.”

Over these months, since COVID-19 has impacted the world in such a negative way, LoCo4NoCo Rides has become a positive force for motorcycle lovers in Northern Colorado. They have covered a lot of miles, drank a lot of beer, and built a community that has helped them weather these trying times.

I brought some members from Cool Biker Lunch & Rides with me to join LoCo4NoCo Rides on a ride to Cameron Pass and Snowy Range one sunny afternoon.  Coy led us up Cameron Pass to a small-town Riverside in Wyoming where we had lunch at Bear Trap Bar and Cafe.  Riverside has a population of 50.  It is a quaint town; I always believed tiny towns have so much character that may otherwise get a little lost in the bigger towns.  After lunch, we proceeded to Centennial via Snowy Range Scenic Byway.  It was more scenic than any of us could have imagined!  If you get tired of the Peak to Peak route, you need to head over to Wyoming and explore the beauty of Snowy Range. If you live in Northern Colorado or if you want to ride some different roads from time to time, I highly recommend joining Loco4NoCo Rides on Facebook and get all the info about their next ride, bike night, or event.

Bikers for Justice: April is child abuse awareness month

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A person commits child abuse in Colorado when he/she harms a child under the age of 16 or places the child in a potentially harmful situation. Penalties for child abuse range from (3) months in jail to life in prison, depending on 1) whether the child was injured or died, and 2) The severity and frequency of the abuse.

Children are suffering from a hidden epidemic of child abuse and neglect. It’s the widespread war against our children that we have the power to stop, and understanding the issue is the first step. Just how bad is the issue of child abuse in the United States?

Here is some statistics that One might find shocking:

  • Every year more than 3.6 million referrals are made to child protection agency involving more than 6.6 million children (A referral can include multiple children).
  • The United States has one of the worst records among industrialized nations-losing on average between four and seven children every day to child abuse and neglect.
  • A report of child abuse is made every 10 seconds.
  • Yearly, referrals to state child protection services involved 6.6 million children, and around 3.2 million of those children are subject to an investigative report.
  • In 2014 alone, state agencies found over 702,000 victims of child maltreatment,

But that only tells part of the story. This would Pac-10 Modern football stadiums x10.

We must learn to recognize early signs of abuse in order to help save the five children that die every day from child abuse and neglect.

Bikers for Justice Is a group of riders who come together. The one thing that bonds them together is preventing one more child from being abused.

It is difficult to know the scope of how much child abuse and neglect really affect one of our most vulnerable members of our community. Abused children are often isolated, especially when the trauma involves a caregiver they depend on every day. The harm that many

children face is not recognized or reported by adults.

Bikers For Justice

Our mission is simple every child has the right to feel safe in their environment. We look to give a child it’s power back. They will know that we got their back’s, and they need not be afraid. We assist them in expressing themselves and to protect them to get their voice back to testify.

The healing journey for the children that have experienced child abuse and neglect can be extremely painful. With the help of BIKERS FOR JUSTICE the healing process can start. We work closely with the family, state and local agencies to protect children.

Bikers for Justice focus is to eliminate further abuse to a child with our physical presence and we will provide a 360 protection to prevent further abuse to this child and we will immediately respond to a child in need.

Bikers for Justice started in 2016. Our mission is going strong in the fight against child abuse and helping abused children get there voice back so they can testify.

REMEMBER: IF YOU SEE SOMETHING… SAY SOMETHING!! It might just save a child’s Life.

Please contact our helpline at 303-725-3159 or email us at bikersforjustice@yahoo.com or our website@bikersforjustice.org

If you would like to get involved in the fight against child abuse come join us. Our meeting is the first Sunday of every month at 11:00 AM until 12 noon The Board Room 51 W. Dry Creek Ct. Littleton Colorado. 80120

Riding Club – Sentinels, MC

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By Stormy

Audrey Paulus
Stormy

It was interesting talking to Bigs, the mother chapter president of the Sentinels MC here in Denver and learning about the MC and how they started.  With the name “Bigs”, you would think he’s this big, mean burly dude, but, he’s a sweet teddy bear.  The type that you know will have your back, no matter what.  He gave me a sense of trust and security that made me comfortable, and I was myself during the interview.  

According to Bigs, in January 2006 approximately fifteen law enforcement officers from various Colorado law enforcement jurisdiction and from other law enforcement motorcycle clubs, decided that they wanted to start a club of their own which became the Sentinels Motorcycle Club.  They wanted a club where active and retired law enforcement officers, who liked riding motorcycles in their spare time, could come together and share their enjoyment of the open road.  In order to be a law enforcement MC, the membership must have at least 80% active or retired law enforcement officers.  These officers are from Weld County all the way down to Douglas County.

There are a few civilians in the club, and they are very proud of them.  Bigs articulated, “It takes a lot to understand a police officer’s mentality, much less want to be around them for an extended period of time.  Just like us, their determination and perseverance has made them part of this club.  We trust them to have our backs when and if the time comes.”

Bigs said, “Many of us felt a loss of camaraderie on the job with some fellow officers.  To us the words Honor, Loyalty, Duty and Brotherhood had lost much of their meaning.  Since we were having a hard time finding it at work, we came together in this club to get back what we had lost.”

He said that the officers of this club, while at work, serve their communities with determination and perseverance as well as risk their lives every day to make our cities a better and safer place to live.  After hearing that statement, it made me feel more secure and safe in my city.  He goes on to say that when they are off the job, the officers of this club hold themselves to the same standard by helping in their communities and with charities as bikers.  Their major charity, The Thin Blue Line ride is coming up June 7 at 9 a.m. at the Colorado Law Enforcement Memorial (CLEM) is located in a small grove of trees at the State Patrol Academy, located at 15055 South Golden Road, Golden.  With registration, you will receive a t-shirt, roasted pig, coleslaw, and beans.  The proceeds go to the CLEM to keep it upgraded and maintained so family members can visit loved ones.

Bigs boasted, “We are Law Enforcement Officers/Bikers, and we don’t apologize for what we are or love!  We wear our colors proudly and respect all other colors, as long as they respect ours.”

After hearing that, I asked Bigs his thoughts on establishments that have a No Colors Policy, and he said proudly, ”like I said earlier, we represent law enforcement, and we are proud of wearing our colors.”  He continued that his club will never take off their colors and will not patronize a business that will not welcome him or his club. 

Like all clubs, the Sentinels Motorcycle Club has had its share of internal conflict.  What hasn’t destroyed them has made them stronger.  He stressed, “we are a Law Enforcement Club; it is both what and who we are.  We want Law Enforcement Officers who are proud to wear the BADGE on duty, and proud to wear our PATCH off duty.  We want Law Enforcement Officers who are just as comfortable wearing their uniform on the street, as they are wearing our colors and riding their motorcycles into a biker rally.”

Beyond the camaraderie, Bigs said his club offers to its members and potential prospects a unique opportunity for members to balance being law enforcement in a MC world.  The club focuses on the circle of trust within the club and on their families.  They also strive to give respect to all clubs and to co-exist amicably.  

With the change in generational attitudes, I asked him where he sees the future of clubs going.  Bigs replied, “I hope it goes down the same path as it is currently.  I truly understand that there is a delay in the generation gap, but I am confident that honoring the brotherhood will continue beyond the infinite and the powerful commitment to the club will remain stronger than ever.”

The Sentinels are big on family, their ladies and children.  Since they work all day and have the club to attend to, they look forward to spending time with their families whenever possible.  The ladies diligently assist with the events and charities.  These events are family friendly, and all the kids are super tight and are raised by aunts and uncles that are around all the time.

Like me, Bigs was also hit by a vehicle on a major highway.  Back in 2017, Bigs was on Highway 36 in the express lane going about 60/65 MPH and a van veered abruptly into Bigs’ lane.  Bigs’ hand went right through the van’s windshield!  He also fractured his pelvis and broke his elbow.  Although the accidents were pretty depressing, we had a good time sharing battle scars and talking about our experiences.

Bigs wanted to give a shoutout to his club, “Together we stand, there is strength in unity.  When there is Honor, Loyalty and Brotherhood.  Wonderful things can be accomplished.  This doesn’t work without all my Brothers, Ladies, and Minions together.  Thank you all!”

Bigs’ slogan “You only live once, but if you live right, once is enough”.

Windsisters of Colorado

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By Stormy

If you live in the Denver area and ride a motorcycle, there are just a handful of women groups to join and meet other like-minded riders that share the same passion for motorcycles.  Three ladies, Sparkle, Khaos, and Xeva started Windsisters of Colorado with the desire to create a positive, warm, and welcoming group of both lady riders and honey huggers. Sparkle emphasized, “Having tried previously to be a part of a formal ladies riding group helped me see that there were not enough networking platforms in Colorado for ladies to connect.”   They originally started with a handful of lady riders and have been blessed over the last four years, as it has grown to almost 400 followers!

Finding Windsisters  

Windsisters was whispered in other ladies’ groups and soon on social media because of the fun quarterly socials and rides they were hosting and posting.  That is how I discovered Windsisters. I know Khaos pretty well for we went on a spectacular motorcycle road trip to Seattle and down the Pacific Coast back to Colorado several years ago.  She hosted a social at the Glenn Bar, and I met some awesome lady riders. It’s cool to learn that there are women riders out there from all walks of life and to hear their story on how they got into riding.  What I like about Windsisters is that they open their arms to anyone regardless of what they ride, of all makes and models of two and three-wheel motorcycles and all ability levels.

Positive Female Presence

Sparkle boasted about the Windsisters of Colorado Facebook social group page.  She continued, “This allows ladies to share experiences in the wind, tips on maintenance or riding gear and allows members to share meet-up opportunities. The goal of the group is to encourage a strong POSITIVE  female presence in the Colorado riding community.”

Although started in the Denver metro, Windsisters has now spanned across Colorado.  They encourage ladies to share events to help others know what is going on in their areas.  

Sparkle articulated, “TOGETHER we can create a beautiful environment promoting lady riders.  We are thankful for the people who have helped create the group that we have, as it takes each person to show up, be engaged, and be open to new friendships for it to continue to grow.”

Connect

They are always looking for ladies to partner and host a meetup in their area.  Their next social event will be January 18, 2020 Holiday After-Party.

If you or any lady friends you know are interested in joining, please request to join Windsisters of Colorado on Facebook. 

Women: No Longer Just Back Seat Riders

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The number of women motorcycle riders is on the rise and the manufacturers are beginning to pay attention. According to the latest national survey by the Motorcycle Industry Counsel (MIC) they found that among the age group of women now make up 19% of motorcycle owners compared to 10% ten years ago.

Nearly one in five United States motorcycle owners are now female, compared with one in 10 less than a decade ago, and the data suggests that American women could soon make up one quarter of owners, which would be a major shift in motorcycling demographics, according to the latest national survey by the USA Motorcycle Industry Council.

The survey also found that women owners among younger generations is growing with 26% of motorcycle owners being women. As the number of mature motorcyclists shrink, they are being replaced by new riders and increased number of women.

The surveys also concluded that women are riding the following:

  • 34% of female riders
  • 33% scooters
  • 10% sport bike riders.

Data from this survey also concluded that:

  • The median age for female motorcyclists is 39 versus 48 for males.
  • More than 49 percent of women motorcyclists do their own maintenance or have a friend or relative do it, instead of taking their bikes to a shop.
  • New motorcycles are preferred over used by 57 percent of female riders.
  • 49 percent of female motorcyclists are married.
  • 47 percent of female motorcyclists have a college or post-graduate degree.

“Today more women are getting off the fender and into the driver’s seat.  For many years motorcycle riding has been a male dominated culture.  But our brothers on the asphalt are making a lane for us ladies. I didn’t start riding until I was 47.  I feel free and incredible joy behind those handle bars.  The days of catty behavior being in style are gone. Women need to stand shoulder to shoulder and support one another. Each one bring one. I can’t imagine my life now without a motorcycle.”

– Dazzlin, President, Bling Devas, MC

The riding community is also seeing a greater number of women motorcycle clubs such as the Bling Devas, MC and Rebel Queenz. There are women riding groups such as Women in the Wind and Sin City Moto Girls, are expanding and involving their groups in ALL THINGS MOTORCYCLE.  

Here in Colorado, a group of ladies have organized a ride on August 24th to attempt to break the world record for the largest number of women riders on a ride. If you are a woman rider and available that day, come out and support this World Record Attempt. The event starts at High Country Harley Davidson at 8am.

August 24 Womens World Record FACTS

If you would like to apart of Colorado history, please join us!  All you need to do is pre-register at https://www.eventbrite.com/e/colorado-women-ride-world-recordparade-attempt-tickets-57664702678 and meet at High Country Harley Davidson, 3761 Monarch St, Frederick, CO 80516 at 8 a.m.

  • If you want to be in a section with your posse, please ride in together because you will immediately be assigned to a section.  You can meet each other some where before riding in.
  • When you ride in, a traffic coordinator will direct you to where to park and a section lead will inform you of what to do next.
  • The parade will start approximately 10 a.m. and once you return, the festivities will begin.
  • Angry Steve will be performing on stage from 12 – 3 p.m.
  • Team Wildlyfe is a unique group of local fire and LED performers sure to entertain.
  • Special Guest:  Helen Tornquist, Rolling with Ronda, DJ Jones, Paty Juarez, and Kimberly Chavez
  • Trophies will be awarded for Farthest Distance Traveled, Eldest Woman Biker, Youngest Woman Biker, best looking trike, and Most Women Club Members locally and out of state.
  • Prayer:  Robert Espinosa will be honoring Wind Brother Bret Kerr
  • The Unofficial Party will be at Jerry D’s, 604 8th St, Dacono, CO 80514.

More information at www.missbubblesproductions.com.

What Does It Mean to be Part of the American Legion?

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I had the distinct pleasure to meet with the State Chair “Poncho” Serrano, Mike “Chaplain” Smith and Joe Calabro all American Legion members and American Legion Riders last month to talk about What does it mean to be a part of the American Legion in 2019.

As a daughter of a Vietnam veteran, I had only heard negative about the Legion and the VFW, my dad still carries today bad memories of what those organizations stood for when he returned from war and doesn’t want to entertain the idea of coming to the New 2019 American Legion.

I have to say that I was extremely impressed when I have visited Post 178 (Lakewood) and Post 22 in (Northglenn) each time the members were inviting and greeting and the stigma that I was expecting was no-where to found. In April of this year, I have also attended and event at ALR Post 35 in Chandler Arizona what I saw was a young, organized group of veterans ready to help any and all veterans in need, no matter what war you came from.

The ALRs is a program within The American Legion. We are Legionaries who ride motorcycles. Each ALR program is sponsored by an American Legion Post. A person can be a member of the ALR if they are a member of the American Legion, Sons of the American Legion or Auxiliary. We commonly refer to this as our Post family. So, if you’re not a veteran, don’t think you can’t join us. If you have a relative that served, such as a parent or grandparent, then there’s a chance you may still qualify to join our family. Check with your local post and learn more. We love signing up new members. The ALR is the fastest growing part of the American Legion and has had a great effect on Legion membership. We currently have about 35 ALR charters in the state of Colorado and growing.

What do we do? Well we ride for military veteran causes and do great things for our community and youth. We raise funds for all kinds of causes such as youth scholarship funds, veteran’s assistance funds, food pantry’s, homeless transition programs, veteran therapy programs. The list is huge, and we keep finding great things to support and promote. So many great things are happening in the Legion as well as outside the Legion. If it helps our veterans, we’re usually there to offer support.

We also take part in motorcycle escorts and honors for our fallen as well as participate in parades throughout the state. Most of us served in the military ourselves or have lived within the military family unit. We know the cost and it’s important that we remember the warriors and families that paid the ultimate price. We also support those that came home wounded with scars seen and unseen. We do our best to offer a network of support to those who are among us still fighting the battle in their minds.

Every year our riders raise money for the Legacy Scholarship Fund that helps pay for college for military families who lost a parent after 9/11 or who’s veteran parent has a 50% disabled rating or more. We do through what we call the Pony Express. Riders go across the state from post to post collecting funds with the Pony Express satchel. This all takes place in one fun weekend and we’ve had great success with it and have collected record amounts every year.

The new face of the Legion are veterans from more recent wars, and they aren’t in the shadows, they are involved, engaged and ready to be involved. They have a home now away from home, where they can hang with their own and get thru those moments that flashback to them and feel a part of something.

I ask any veteran who is looking for somewhere to call home, to give the American Legion a try and come to a few meetings. If you like to ride, the American Legion Riders are involved and regularly meet and go for rides to help other veterans and local charities.

To find out more information, please contact the

American Legion Department of Colorado, 7465 E 1st Ave D, Denver, CO 80230 — (303) 366-5201

Please take a moment to read about what these veterans have found being part of the American Legion.

Joe Calabro (Road Captain) – American Legion Post 178, Lakewood Colorado

I didn’t even know the American Legion Riders existed. As a veteran of the first Gulf War, I was interested in veteran’s issues. So, in 2004 when I got a letter from the American Legion, I thought that would be a good way to support veterans. At my very first Legion meeting someone noticed that I had ridden my motorcycle to the meeting and told me that American Legion Post 178 had a Riders Chapter. I went to their meeting the next Saturday and have been a member ever since. What drew me to the American Legion Riders was that it is a volunteer organization that does a lot in the community to support veterans and their families. Between raising money for charities, standing in flag lines at funerals to honor our departed brothers and sisters and their families, or bringing food to disabled veterans, the Am. Legion Riders gave me a feeling of purpose and a way to help other veterans and their families. There is no better feeling than when the family member of a fallen veteran gives you heartfelt “Thank You” for standing in a flag line, in boots that were not made for standing, to honor their family member. It is a small price to pay. As a long time, motorcycle rider, I also enjoy the charity poker runs, the parades, and the brotherhood that only riders understand. No matter if you served, or if it was your Father or Grandfather, the American Legion Riders is a great place to support our veterans and their families.

Michael Wilson – American Legion Post 22, Northglenn, Colorado

When I was 6 my uncle came over to the house in his dress blues, he was a full bird Colonial. The instant I saw him I told my dad that I would one day proudly wear that uniform. At age 19 I entered boot camp to become that proud Marine. My intent was to make it a 20-year career. After 6 years I decided against it, a decision that I have regretted to this day. That was back in the day that if you entered the military you were pretty much guaranteed a free trip to Vietnam.

While in Vietnam as a combat radio operator I saw more than my fair share of action. 13 months in country left me a broken man. I left many friends over there. The good lord above saw fit to let me come home and I swore that I would spend my life doing good for others and I would take care of my fellow veterans that were not given all that I was lucky enough to be granted. I knew that I needed to share my experiences in an attempt to self-heal. That is when I found the American Legion. The Legion is a place where we can go to re-bond as brothers and share stories without being judged. Of course, we tease each other about our different branches and that’s OK for us but God help any outsider who would do any one of us harm. I have made many lifelong friends due to my affiliation with the American Legion, if you’re a member of ANY post you are a member of every post around the world and welcome everywhere.

I am a lifelong motorcycle enthusiast but have never had any inclination to join an MC. I have always told anyone who would listen that “I am one of the good guys”, our Legion chapter started an ALR (American Legion Riders) some 4 years ago that I have become intimately involved with it and plan to remain a member for life. We ride for our brothers who cannot, we raise funds for veterans and their families, and we do many motorcycle dignified honors escort services for our departed brothers.

Even if you are not personally a veteran there are various ways you may be eligible. We encourage your interest. There are American Legion posts in just about every city in Colorado. Come on down.

Frank “Poncho” Serrano – Colorado ALR State Committee Chairman

In 2014 my riding buddy and I were looking into joining a riding group and we ran across the American Legion Riders. The more we learned, the more it seemed to be a good fit for us. We are both military veterans and liked the idea of riding for veteran causes. Our local Post didn’t have a Riders program, so we were asked to start one. It began with about 8 of our closest riding friends and in 3 years, it grew to around 70 members. Not only did our rider group grow but our post did as well. From around 60 members to over 260. It has had a positive impact on our Falcon Colorado community since 2014 and we’ve been able to do great things for our local veterans ever since.

Gringo’s MC

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By: Stormy

If you hang out at local biker bars or attend charity rides, you more than likely will notice a group of bikers wearing black and silver cuts that read Gringo’s. Every time I see them, I always wonder why there is an apostrophe in the word ‘Gringo’s’, I am curious if they meant it to be plural or a possession of something. I am a stickler when it comes to grammar, so I asked the president, Mark Sousa during a phone conversation. He tells me the history, “The word Gringo is a Spanish, French, and Portuguese word that existed far before there was ever a country called Mexico.” He thought it was quite interesting that I had asked that question about the apostrophe and continues, “The word itself was used to describe someone who was not from the same village, a foreigner, speaking a different and unknown language ‘gibberish’, someone who is different. Gringo has origins in the Greek language as ‘Griego’. We are Gringo’s because we look different, we speak different, we think different, and we are different. We are not in the mainstream of life, but we do live in its tributaries and tidal pools. The members belong to Gringo; therefore, they are Gringo’s.”

Gringo’s MC was established in 1988 in the town of Terhagen, Belgium. Friends who lived and grew up together, shared a love and idea of all things Americana, motorcycles, and Harley Davidson.

Mark tells me more about the Gringo’s and said that in the mid 90’s, these friends made a pilgrimage to Sturgis Rally. There they met a few kindred spirits from Colorado, international visits soon followed to Belgium and the US, and friendships evolved. In 2005, an opportunity was presented to charter a Denver Chapter, from that point on it has been a rollercoaster of a ride.

Gringo’s MC Denver currently has multiple Denver metro chapters, and in two years, it will celebrate its 15-year anniversary right here in Denver. The Gringo’s MC in Terhagen, Belgium Chapter celebrated its 30-year anniversary in 2018.

Gringo’s MC members are all from different ethnicities, cultures, and race. They welcome those who are honest, trustworthy, of good character, a good friend and brother. No one is perfect, they are not perfect. As with any family, they are functional and at times dysfunctional. Who isn’t, right?

Gringo’s MC is a motorcycle club, and it is structured and organized to ensure it lives and thrives in our local and global MC community. It is also a family club in the sense that they look to become family and take the word “Brother” for what it means. Not just a casual expression as it has come to be. Brother means just what it is, for bad or for worse ‘I am my Brother’s Keeper’.

Mark claims, “Our little bit of difference is that we choose to be part of each other’s day-to-day life and commit to one another’s well-being. We begin this journey by becoming friends and evolve to being brothers, a family. We are family not by blood, but by life and by choice.”

He says proudly, “We follow three simple life priorities: 1. Family (Home), 2. Job, and 3. MC. The goal is to strike a balance between all, but one should never forsake home, nor work. Our life revolves around the motorcycle, it is the centerpiece, it is the primary means of conveyance for everyone. If one’s job permits it, it’s not below freezing, and there is no ice on the road, the motorcycle is choice year-round.”

It was interesting to hear that Gringo’s Denver is active in its community in both charity fundraisers and projects. Everything from helping those in financial need, health, illness, as well as supporting our military veterans. On occasion, Gringo’s MC Denver will partner and host charitable events for these very causes. They also support and advocate for motorcyclist’s rights, they are active in supporting legislative actions that benefit all riders and oppose those who would risk their freedom of choice and the road.

Gringo’s MC simply desire to ride, keep life simple, live vicariously through one another’s experiences, tell a joke, share a story, and help a Brother. There is no magic to this, no Hollywood story, just a friend and brothers’ company.

As an international MC, they get to experience this on global level with friends, families, brothers and sisters. “Riding your Harley in America is great! Riding one in Europe is spectacular as well”, Mark boasts.

When one wears the Gringo’s MC patch, they are an ambassador to all its members worldwide, and their MC community at large. It’s critically important that they have that awareness, responsibility, and accountability.

I had the privilege to be invited to their clubhouse and meet the president and some family members. When talking with Mark and learning about his life and his accomplishments, I realized what a humble, happy guy he is. He tells me, “We must be politically aware and astute of our MC environment and those things that would affect our community at large in addition to all motorcycle riders, however, an MC is about having a fun, riding, and closing out the day with a road story, a cold beer and a brother.” Mark ends our conversation saying, “We are to be the rebels of life’s daily norm and outlaws in spirit. We must never lose sight of our primary goal of coming together. If we are not having “FUN”, then why are we doing it?”

In closing, I found there were many misconceptions about motorcycle clubs in the riding community and was pleased to learn that the club members share the same love and passion for family and riding that independent riders have.  Thank you, Gringo’s MC for allowing us a glimpse inside your world.