Colorado Rider News

Colorado Powersports

 

 

Travel

International Motorcycle Shows Announces 2022 schedule

By

FEBRUARY 14, 2022 BY MOTORCYCLE RIDER NEWS 

Santa Monica California – Progressive IMS Outdoors, the nation’s leading motorcycle tour connecting enthusiasts with a wide array of Powersports brands, today announced the dates and locations of its 2022 tour. Produced with Progressive Insurance as the title sponsor for the 13th consecutive year, the eight-city series will revisit three markets that hosted the indoor version of the International Motorcycle Shows (Colorado, Arizona, and New York) and return to five markets that IMS Outdoors visited last tour (Chicago, Pennsylvania, Atlanta, and Northern and Southern California).Tickets will go on sale on March 24 at www.motorcycleshows.com.  

Heading into the sophomore year, the experience-focused event will bring back the popular two-wheel and four-wheel demo programs, eBikes, shopping, custom and vintage bikes, and music, while also offering more chances for enthusiasts to engage with brands and their riding community, from ride-ins and races to speakers and charitable efforts.

“The launch of IMS Outdoors was an exciting challenge that armed us with learnings we look forward to applying on the 2022 tour, including an expansion of the highly successful demo program, growing our electric footprint, and adding more experience-focused offerings,” said Tracy Harris, SVP of Progressive IMS Outdoors. “The Powersports industry is amid a transformative period in time as new brands emerge, such as bespoke and electric companies, and we welcome an all-new generation of riders. We are so proud to cater our event to the changing needs of the industry and reunite everyone from new riders and kids to life-long enthusiasts.”

2021 Tour Results: 

  • More than 35,000 motorcycle demo rides were taken across the eight-city tour
  • Nearly half, 44%, of attendees were new to riding or prospective riders; IMS is a catalyst for industry-wide growth and is driving new customers for exhibitors and event sponsors
  • The introduction of SxS and eBike demos were well-received and indicated the community’s growing interest in adjacent products
  • Influenced by IMS’ award-winning Discover The Ride program, three different programs put more than 1,600 adults and teens on a motorcycle for the first time
  • Nearly 1,700 kids rode two-wheeled balance and battery-operated bikes with Strider, Harley-Davidson, and Husquvarna

Harris continued: “We could not be more excited to announce this year’s tour schedule, which was built in partnership with the industry’s leading OEMs. Our team is working diligently to produce an even more robust event that brings the love of riding to life and look forward to sharing more details regarding activations and participating brands with our community soon.”

IMS 2022 Schedule: 

  • COLORADO
    The Ranch Events Complex
    June 17-19, 2022
  • CHICAGO
    Goebbert’s Farm
    June 24-26, 2022
  • PENNSYLVANIA
    Carlisle Fairgrounds
    September 16-18, 2022
  • NEW YORK
    The Nassau Veterans Memorial Coliseum
    September 23-25, 2022
  • ATLANTA
    Venue TBA
    September 30 – October 2, 2022
  • NORTHERN CALIFORNIA
    Santa Mateo County Event Center
    October 21-23, 2022
  • ARIZONA
    Westworld of Scottsdale
    October 28-30, 2022
  • SOUTHERN CALIFORNIA  
    OC Fair & Event Center
    November 4-6, 2022

Tickets go on sale on March 24 – save the date on your calendar and visit www.motorcycleshows.com for more information on the 2022 tour.   

Endurance Ride – Cool Biker Lunch and Rides Completes 1.5k Riding Challenge

By Leave a Comment

By Stormy

Cool Biker Lunch and Rides motorcycle group announced another challenge that they are hosting!  You have to ride 1,500 miles in 36 hours.  The ones that completed the 1K last year were invited to inaugurate the 1.5K in 1.5 Days challenge before it opens up to the rest of the group.  The participants were: Dave Setter, Stephen Gonzales, Steve Wilson, Rachel Baldwin, Ed Collins, Jason Ennis, Austin Prather, Kristi Strother, and myself.  Jason Massey and Steve Skalski did their 1K challenge the same day and joined the 1.5K challenge.  The route was from Watkin, CO, to Corpus Christi, TX, to spend the night and head back to Amarillo, TX.  We reached 1,500 miles near Snyder, TX, and pulled over to document it and stop the clock.  We celebrated in Amarillo over steaks and drinks at The Big Texan Steakhouse.

After I did the 1K last year with Krisi Strother to Sturgis and back, I told myself that was the last time I would do that again.  It was exhausting both mentally and physically to the point where I found myself needing to talk out loud to stay awake.  But I am glad I did this 1.5K challenge. It feels great that I can accomplish something only a few people can do.  There is no one way to measure it or weigh it, but feeling accomplished is so closely tied to our needs, desires, ambitions, and drivers that it becomes a personal achievement.  I know a lot will not understand why we, motorcycle enthusiasts, do these kinds of challenges, but we do, which is all that matters.  

Stephen Gonzales

“It sure sounded like fun after completing the 1k in a day last year.  Just like last year, after about 5 hrs. I’m wondering  what I was thinking.   After a few lost items, a check engine light, a small mishap that temporarily put one person on pause, and a couple of fill-ups, all was good.  We had taken our places in line and commenced on our trip.  Great guidance, leadership, and teamwork helped us get through it with two small celebrations of completing another 1k under 24 hrs and then the milestone of 1.5 k in under 36 hrs.  A great trip, can’t wait for another one.”

Jason Massey

“So people going for a 1K or a 1.5K challenge should be experienced riders.  It will challenge you mentally and physically.  Hydration and whatever the individual needs to stay focused are important during the ride.  5-hour energy drinks are beneficial.  Would I do this again?  Yes, absolutely!”

Kristi Strother

“The Limit

I thought I would sleep better the night I got home from a 1.5k challenge motorcycle ride. We traveled over 1,500 miles in a day and a half. My body was tired, exhausted. I tossed and turned all night, thinking about my adventure, our adventure, of pushing it to the limit (that song was stuck in my head too). I should have slept, but the road with all its hidden treasures flashed through my brain. 

Poet T.S. Eliot once wrote: “Only those who risk going too far can possibly find out how far they can go.” 

I am grateful for this trip. I learned I could push through exhaustion. Plus, I made lasting memories with new and old friends, who also took the leap and pushed themselves to conquer the road, the heat, the endless miles.

We left at the crack of dawn, still dark, only the peering eyes of wildlife followed us down the road. We set out on an adventure, none of us precisely sure how we would do…or how our bikes would do. All we knew was that we were leaving Colorado for Corpus Christi, Texas with a full tank of gas and many early morning biker grins. 

We had setbacks, mostly flying off bikes; an ice chest full of sandwiches, bandanas flying off heads, a bungee cord, and even a helmet.

On the outside, we navigated the road like experienced warriors roaring through the Wasteland; on the inside, each of us had our reason for taking part in the challenge. For some, it was to put their feet in the ocean, others to beat a record; I didn’t want to pass up seeing a part of our great country that I have never seen before. Yes, the merciless sun was relentless. Gallons of water drank, too many to count. But the hundreds and hundreds of miles of green hills, golden valleys, peaceful lakes, and unspoiled panoramic views kept me aching for more. Even the long stretches of interstate, staring at the parched land and decaying houses, kept me intrigued. Who lived there? Why did they let the house fall apart?

Colorado. Oklahoma. Texas. We kept moving. Time slowed. 

I enjoyed seeing gallant horses throw their heads up as we thundered by picturesque farms; I loved the wide-eyed looks of wonder from young kids in the back seats of mini-vans, and I was touched by the show of solidarity other bikers gave as we passed through towns and even on the highway. It may seem like a simple ‘biker wave,’ but the symbolism of safety never left me. It’s a good feeling to be home… and that we all got home safe! 

In the end, it doesn’t matter why each of us took on this challenge.  But I have to admit I do feel stronger. Sleepy but stronger. I pushed myself more than I ever have before. I learned a lot. Saw a lot. And I am grateful for my 1.5k friends who helped me find out how far I could go!

So put me on a highway

Show me a sign

Take it to the limit

One more time”

Steve Wilson

“This trip was many months in the making for me.  I’ve been planning to do a 1500 mile trek and tried to find destinations to go to.  My brother’s house, for example, is 1530 miles away from mine.  When Ed started planning this trip to Corpus Christi and back, I was excited.  About a month prior, I decided to bring my son, Gummy Bear, with me.  My wife and I lost him on 4 November 2017.  I brought his urn and made a little bed with his stuffed puppy in one of the fairing compartments.  He was as snug as a bug in a rug.  Having this memory with me made it all worth it.  Sure, I was hot, dirty, stinky, and tired… but I wouldn’t trade it for the world because I got to have an adventure with my first son.”

Steve Skalski

“This soul is more fulfilled after following leader Ed, and riding with the others for 1.5k miles in 1.5 days.  I expected it would be both physically and mentally challenging, and I wasn’t let down.  I couldn’t and wouldn’t have done it if it weren’t for you and my fellow riders. THANKS TO ALL!”

Dave Setter

“What a great team effort by an excellent group on a mission!  Doing this 1.5K in 1.5 days with 11 bikes with folks on a bike for 40 out of 60 hours (with over 2,200 total miles) was just awesome.  Everyone pulled together and got it done.  Ed Collins (a/k/a the great cat herder), thank you for your leadership efforts.  You made it happen smoothly despite a few bumps but most of all, you made it fun.  Thanks again.”

Rachel Baldwin

“This was a fun event; with this many people going, it was a challenge that we had stacked against us.  We rolled through, and the ride was well organized from the start, which was our advantage.  Everyone played an essential part.  I was overwhelmed with joy that morning; everyone was prompt, ready, excited, awake, and passing out goodies to one another for encouragement on this ride.  We were a team!   We were focused.  We paid attention to detail, and I was so impressed we had a way to check codes on our bike, holy cow!  Prepared is the word that comes to mind, even with reminding everyone to add roadside assistance, bring batteries for key fobs, first aid, battery jumper, air compressors, and the like. The stop in Corpus woke my senses with the chirps of the seaside birds and the gorgeous water view from our hotel window.  I was able to run into a childhood classmate at our gas stop in Comfort, named Matt Herrera; I haven’t seen him since 2002. It was all by chance!  I had no idea he worked there, dope!  We kept in great communication with each other.  Leaders took the lead when the dynamics changed, and we all accomplished this great task together!  Thanks for this great opportunity!  What a ride!”

Ed Collins

“Bike is ready, and I am ready; everyone is ready!  And away we go into the dark morning, eleven bikes in formation headed for the Gulf of Mexico.  Twenty-one hours later, we had come through fog, a 100-degree stretch, a few turns, and the best McDonald’s burger I can remember to arrive at our hotel.

After the group congratulated each other on making it to Corpus Christi, we went straight to bed so we could ride 500 more miles in 36 hours.  The following morning I learned the definition of a CBLR member.  We had a member develop mechanical issues the day before; we got them a tow and safe before moving on.  I had set it up to grab parts and let the group move on to accomplish their goal.  They would have none of it – as a group, they decided to wait for me … that act of “selfless group sacrifice” set the tone for my experience.  I was honored and humbled to ride with this group.”

Austin Prather

“I broke down 550 miles into day one.  I got a tow to a motel from some cool rednecks. Then I diagnosed and repaired a broken wire to my electronic throttle body.  I rode back to Amarillo to meet with the rest of the team after they completed their mission.  I rode motorcycles, fixed stuff, met people, ate steak.  It wasn’t the worst experience I’ve had.”

Join Cool Biker Lunch & Rides on Facebook and get the guidelines if anyone wants to try this challenge.  It will be an epic experience that you will remember for a lifetime.

Canada – A Little Bit of Everything (Part 1) – Exploring Northwest Alberta’s Local Eats

By Leave a Comment

Story and Photos by Rumble Alberta Influencers Rheannon Green and Tannis Baker

When you look at Northern Alberta, one thing is for sure – it is massive. A far cry from the metropolitan areas surrounding Calgary and Edmonton, where the next town is only a few minutes outside the city limits, Northern Alberta neighboring communities can sometimes take upwards of one hour to reach.  As we prepared to head out from Calgary to our starting point in Edson, we knew two things to be true:  the days would be long, and we always had better have a full tank of gas (just in case).

As we made our way into Edson, it was clear that the town is heavily focused on drive-through traffic and overnight visitors. Like many of Alberta’s small towns along major highways, there seemed to be an abundance of chain restaurants, gas stations, and hotels aimed at getting you on your way again quickly. 

After a long day of driving, we headed straight to our first stop, the Lakeview Inn & Suites – Edson  Airport West. We had been driving through the rain most of the day, and there were no signs of it letting up, so hitting the hotel to get cleaned up and get situated was the top priority. The hotel is quaint and is a favorite of industrial and oil patch workers, given the lineup of large trucks outside.  Inside, the lobby is lovely, and the staff is very friendly and keen to share information about the town.  After checking in and dropping our bags in the room, we set out to find some dinner at a recommended stop unique to Edson, the Lil’ Igloo. 

Lil’ Igloo is a tiny drive-through restaurant that serves up staples like hearty burgers and poutine, but what they’re known around town for is their ice cream. We went with their dipped soft serve and

are still dreaming about the toasted coconut and the jolly rancher weeks later. There is only a tiny patio, though, so be prepared to eat your treats in the great outdoors or take them back to your hotel with you as we did.

The following day, we prepared to explore more of the route that would pass through many towns throughout the northwest. Typically, the hotel provides a continental breakfast. Still, with covid restrictions in place, they opted to suspend this service, so we grabbed a quick coffee and headed off to our first stop of the day, Rocky Mountain Big Horn Distillery. 

Rocky Mountain Big Horn Distillery is a small, family-run craft distillery located about 10 minutes north  of Edson in Yellowhead County. Beautiful, branded gates frame the entrance, so it is impossible  to miss the entrance. The driveway up to the taproom and distillery is mostly dirt, so if it is a rainy day like we had, it could be challenging for those riding in on two wheels. Their lineup of spirits and liqueurs uses locally sourced ingredients, including grains from a nearby farm and herbs grown right on their own patio. As new as they are, they have already acquired several awards for their lineup, including Best in Class at the 2020 Alberta Beverage Awards for their Alpine  Cream and their Cornshine. Their flagship Big Horn Vodka took home bronze at the 2019 San Francisco World Spirits Competition. Book ahead for a tour of the distillery, and then kick back in the gorgeous taproom with a cocktail or do a tasting to find your new favorite!

The drive to Hinton took just under an hour, and by then, we needed to re-caffeinate. We headed to  The Old Grind, a local favorite with not only great coffee (roasted in Jasper by Rocky Mountain  Roasters) but a fantastic selection of sandwiches, soups, sweets, and more. You can tell it is a great spot to eat, as it had a revolving door of customers coming in for almost everything on the menu. The favorite of our visit was a French tortière, which uses owner Carl Widenmaier’s family recipe. A quick browse of the local art selection (including pieces by some of the staff), and we were on our way again.

Hitting the road towards Grande Cache, we saw almost nothing but green, green, green. Almost the entire drive has you surrounded by deep forests and sprawling hills in every shade of green, from emerald to olive and everything in between. It was a beautiful drive until we managed to find snow. That’s right – snow! In June. 

Our drive into Grande Cache revealed an important note: Mondays are not a great day to visit small-town spots. Unlike in cities like Calgary, where we are used to everything being open seven days a week, small towns tend to have many restaurants and shops closed on Sundays and Mondays. While we could not try it ourselves, Yum Yum’s Café is a local ice cream shop worth mentioning. Their ice cream treats are every child’s (or inner child’s) wildest dreams, from ice cream nachos to mini donut milkshakes to ice cream flights. They even have an adorable patio space so you can enjoy some fresh mountain air while you eat.

After leaving Grande Cache, we headed towards our final destination for the day, Grande Prairie. Again, the two-hour drive was stunning landscapes full of trees, waterways, and even a small mountain climb. There is not much in the way of cell service or stops, so be sure to have a full tank before you leave. We arrived in Grande Prairie in time to grab some delicious barbecue takeout from Red Rock  Urban BBQ before heading over to our hotel. The portions were huge, the meat was cooked to perfection, and we could not have asked for a better way to end the day. If you are not sure what to get,  go for the “Oink, Cackle & Moo,” it includes their pulled pork, quarter dixie chicken, and sliced brisket plus two sides and cornbread. It is definitely enough to feed at least two people, if not more.

While in Grande Prairie, we could not pass up visiting Fourteen 14 Food Co., a fantastic lunch and brunch spot that serves up simple, fast, and delicious sandwiches and more. They are huge proponents of local, working with nearby farms and producers whenever possible.  The “Uncle Joey” is one of their most popular sandwiches, like a Cubano and made to perfection. Paired with the “Loaded Fries,” it was more than enough to share between two people, though it was so good you would not want to. Wash it down with a Grain Bin craft brew, or a Grizzly Paw soda, or with a coffee from local roasters at Mink Hollow Coffee. Be sure to check out their washrooms before you leave – they have some fantastic artwork all over the walls!

Leaving Grande Prairie, we were once again back to rural Alberta. Small towns, open roads, and lots of farmland. The view shifted from greens to golden yellows as we made our way past farms and fields to arrive in High Prairie. Shady Orchard & Winery is outside this tiny town, a small family-owned and operated fruit winery. Their retail store is magnificent, with vintage décor and a stunning display for their wines. It leads into their “Taproom,” a private space that can be booked for tastings and events, complete with a small menu of delicious bites go alongside their selection of fruit wines. The wines are range from the more common varietals like the Strawberry Rhubarb and the Cherry to the more unique like the Chokecherry and the Lemon (which has a touch of pea flower to give it a stunning purple color). You won’t want to miss the Pear, which may be one of the best fruit wines we have had to date. William and Kristie are exceptional hosts and will have you feeling right at home (beware of Dobson, however, he tends to get shaky when visitors are near!). Only  20 minutes from the east end of Lesser Slave Lake, Shady Orchard & Winery also makes a great rainy day excursion!

As we neared the town of Slave Lake and the end of the route, there was just one last spot to hit – the  Slave Lake Grill (or SL Grill). When locals say they order from there up to five times per week, you know it must be good. The Slave Lake Grill is owned and operated by a lovely couple, Aeja and Woojin Park.  They know almost all their customers by name (and by voice, for those who phone in orders). The menu is simple, with about a dozen numbered items, and everything is cooked fresh to order. It makes the perfect quick lunch or dinner and should be enjoyed by a view of the lake.

Food Tourism Strategies Inc. is a Calgary-based consulting and event company that produces Alberta on  the Plate, a platform that highlights and celebrates Alberta food and drink, as well as hosts a province wide dine around festival every August during Alberta Local Food Week. The 2021 Dine Around takes  place August 6-15, 2021 and features over 60 restaurants in over 20 cities and towns throughout the  province.

Learn More: AlbertaOnThePlate.com | FoodTourismStrategies.com

Follow on Instagram & Facebook: @abontheplate | @foodtourismstrategies

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

By Leave a Comment

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.

High Seas Rally Rescheduled to 2022

By Leave a Comment

Unfortunately, despite some encouraging recent news about Royal Caribbean sailing again later this summer, as we hit the final stretch in the lead up to the 21st sailing of High Seas Rally, it is clear there remains too much uncertainty about ship capacity, vaccinations, and social distancing the deliver on our core mission of producing the most unique and entertaining Motorcycle Rally in the world. We felt it is important to make this call now so you have as much advance notice as possible.

The GOOD NEWS is that we have time to create an even BETTER Motorcycle Rally Cruise for 2022. If we have perked your interest in possibly wanting to join us, here is some information that might seal the deal!

1. The Drinks Are on Us – No alcohol expenses while on this cruise, all drinks are all-inclusive which is a huge saving for 2 people on a cruise

2. Great Entertainment – Trace Adkins has a conflict for 2022 dates, but stay tuned for even more amazing entertainment. Here are the bands that we have confirmed: Foghat, Molly Hatchet, Black Smoke Sinners, and Steel Rod.

3. Payment plans available to help you upgrade to better balcony rooms or suites.

BikerDown Foundation and our local retailer BadGirlsBling.com are both scheduled to be vendors on the 2022 High Seas Rally and you can save an extra $100 on your booking if you use these codes below.

Got Motorcycle Towing/Roadside Assistance Coverage?

By Leave a Comment

By Michael Levy (Owner of Rider Rescue Denver) 

In Colorado, Tows Can Cost you a Small Fortune… If you don’t have the right tow coverage.  

(But with the right info, you can get your tows for FREE OR reimbursed in FULL) 

Colorado is one of the most expensive places in the country to have your motorcycle towed.  But if you have the correct type of roadside assistance coverage, you can make towing your motorcycle (when you need it) a whole lot less financially painful. 

But you may also be asking why towing rates are going up… when Munky Mark was able to tow people in town, at really reasonable rates?  Since Munky (God rest his crazy soul) passed away, gas/diesel costs have more than doubled, liability insurance for tow providers has skyrocketed, and traffic in and around Denver has only gotten more atrocious.   

The other reason why motorcycle tows in Colorado are so expensive is those beautiful mountains to the west of us, where we all want to ride.  Unfortunately, if you have a mechanical breakdown or get a flat tire in the mountains, there are very few places in the mountains where you can get that sort of work done.  So unless you have a buddy with a truck or trailer (who is willing to come to get you), you are going to have to call a tow truck to come up the mountain and then haul you and your bike a bunch of miles BACK down the hill. 

Below is the INSIDE SCOOP on how to get most of your motorcycle tows for free or reimbursed in full. 

 
Step 1:  Get a Biker Down Membership 

For $35.00 per year, you can have the BD Roadside membership that gives riders nationwide motorcycle roadside assistance

Why?  Because Biker Down does so much for riders in need when they have accidents and are having difficulty taking care of themselves and their families.  Additionally, your Biker Down membership comes included with 1 or 2 tows with a $150 Benefit Limit.  Generally speaking, a $150 Benefit limit will get you an approximate 15-mile tow in town.  Always know that mileage and prices will vary depending upon a number of factors.  As a general rule, the further away you are from the tow truck driver and the bigger the pain in the ass the tow is, the more the tow could cost.  To join, please click here

Step 2:  Add Roadside Assistance Coverage to Your Insurance Policy! 

Why?:  Trust me, and do it, TODAY.  Do not pass go.  Do not collect $200.  Just add roadside/towing coverage to your insurance policy, NOW.  Depending upon who you are insured by, your insurance company’s roadside assistance coverage could cover most of your tow costs reimbursed to you in full.  This coverage is as low as $7 with Progressive, $14 with Geico and comes included with State Farm motorcycle policies (IF you have “comprehensive” coverage on your policy).  Just add roadside assistance coverage to your policy TODAY.  If your insurance company does not offer roadside coverage, consider switching to a company that does.  If you are going to use your insurance company to get your towing bill reimbursed, remember to call your preferred motorcycle towing specialist first… to make sure that your bike does NOT get jacked up by a towing company (that your insurance company wants you to use) who may not have the proper motorcycle specific equipment or expertise to tow your bike).   

Step 3:  Add at least one more layer of roadside assistance / towing coverage to your MacGyver Rider Emergency Tool Box 

Why?:  Because when you live in Colorado and ride motorcycles, you can easily find yourself getting stuck in the middle of nowhere, where you are more than 100 miles from the closest shop.  And believe me when I tell you that I have towed folks where the round trip was more than 300 miles… where the tow bill was $1,000 or more.  So if you ever find yourself stranded in the middle of nowhere, you will  want to make sure that you have multiple layers of coverage, IF and WHEN you might need it.  Here are some of the additional roadside assistance options you might want to consider adding to your bag of motorcycle tricks: 

AAA:  Not cheap, but they have coverage options that will tow you up to 100 miles 

AMA:  Great industry group that fights for our motorcycle rights.  Towing up to 35 miles 

Factory Roadside Assistance Programs:  Harley’s come with the first tow of up to $100 included with your HOG membership.  New Indian Motorcycles come with at least 50 miles of tow coverage for at least the first year.  And new BMW Motorcycle owners are covered for at least 100 miles of range for the first 3 years of ownership.   

Step 4:  Call your preferred motorcycle towing specialist FIRST! 

Why?:  Because that’s who you should call when you don’t want your bike jacked up by a tow vendor who does NOT know how to secure a motorcycle properly.  When you reach your preferred motorcycle tow specialist first (with the right roadside coverage in place)… you will likely get most or ALL of your tow bills reimbursed in full.  

When using your motorcycle tow specialist, always make sure to get a receipt for your tow bill to present that to your insurance company to have them reimburse you. 

Editors Note: A very special THANK YOU to Michael Levy, from Rider Rescue who wrote this amazing article and still promoted competitors towing businesses. To me, this is about the biker code and Michael is showing that it is more important for a rider to be safe off the road than it is to make the mighty dollars.

World Record Poker Run 2021 Comes to Dirty Dogs Roadhouse On Way to Sturgis Motorcycle Rally

By Leave a Comment

On August 4th, over 140 Registered riders who started in Florida will be making a pit stop in Golden, Colorado, at Dirty Dogs Roadhouse. These riders began their ride to break the World Record Poker Run on July 30th, and on August 3rd, riders will arrive in Durango for their 2nd to last poker card stop.

On August 4th, they will navigate the Million Dollar Highway to Grand Junction, up I70, and ending in beautiful Golden, Colorado, at the infamous Dirty Dogs Roadhouse. 

A Moto Meetup Party and Fundraiser for BikerDown Foundation has been planned for the evening of the 4th at 6:00 pm at Dirty Dogs Roadhouse, 17999 W. Colfax Ave.

These riders voted to re-route their journey to come thru Golden and up thru I-25 to see the #1 Biker Bar in Colorado. So let’s show them a BIG COLORADO WELCOME by coming out to Dirty Dogs on the 4th.  

While riding to break the World Record is a big deal, all these riders are also riding to support the BikerDown Foundation and help this 501c3 organization help more riders nationwide.  Funds raised thru this poker run and sponsors will replenish the national accident fund to enable BikerDown to reach more injured riders.

For 11 years, BikerDown has worked within the state of Colorado, Arizona, and Nevada.  The Biker Badgers have a massive network of riders all over the country, and BikerDown with the assistance of this network is being recognized on a more national stage.

Everyone is invited to come to meet some of their favorite moto vloggers and Facebook personalities. The Moto Meetups along the World Record Poker Run Route are open to anyone who wants to come party. Bikers wishing to join the official riders on their way to Sturgis for the Rally will sign a Guest Book and are encouraged to donate BikerDown.org to participate. 

Bagger Racing League Premiers At Utah Motorsports Complex

By Leave a Comment

For $14.99 you can watch LIVE Racing by clicking here

Following the successful King of the Baggers Race last October, a new race series has is set to have their first event in the books: the Bagger Racing League.

On June 25th thru June 27th Utah Motorsports Complex will hear the roar of motorcycle racing and race fans and riders alike can tune in live to the first-ever Bagger Racing League, featuring five unique races, most of which are the first of their kind. BRL is proud to partner with the premier pay-per-view provider FITE to broadcast the first-ever BRL Sunday, June 27th at 1:00 pm MST and 12:00 pm PST.

Each round was a 3-day event with the final this Sunday, June 27th, featuring the world’s largest V-Twin vendor village at a road racetrack, stunt shows, camping, the Arlen Ness Custom Bike Show and much more. Drag Specialties Battle of the Baggers will broadcast live through FITE and will feature a live audience and announcing.

An action-packed highlight video of what to expect from Bagger Racing League can be viewed here: youtu.be/EsNBJW7dk8I.

Drag Specialties Battle of the Baggers Bagger Racing League™ will feature 5 classes of racing, making this accessible to all riders that have put in track time, not just pro- racers:

  • Class 1 Hooligan GP presented by Icon: Includes American V-twin inspired platforms.
  • Class 2 Big Twin GP presented by NAMZ: Includes any American large-displacement big twin.
  • Class 3 Pro-Stock Bagger GP presented by Metzeler Tires: Includes Harley-Davidson or Indian with fairing and saddlebags to qualify
  • Class 4 Stunt GP presented by Lucas Oil: Invitational. Invited entrants compete in a judged stunt competition Friday night, then take their bike to the track for qualifying on Saturday and the main event on Sunday.
  • Class 5 BRL’s premier Bagger GP presented by Custom Dynamics: Harley-Davidson and Indian touring bikes duke it out in a fight for dominance.

In addition to the excitement around the Harley-Davidson – Indian Motorcycle rivalry, featuring Tyler O’Hara on an Indian and Ben Bostrom on a Harley-Davidson in the Premiere Bagger GP Class, Bagger Racing League history will be made with the first female racer in a Bagger GP, featuring Patricia Fernandez riding for Saddlemen racing.

Bagger Racing League has united Harley-Davidson aftermarket parts companies from across the world, including: 31 State, Beringer Brakes, Bridgestone Tires, Continental Tires Custom Dynamics, CVRD Canopies, Drag Specialities, Dream Rides, Dunlop Tires, Eric Herrmann, Icon, Klock Werks, Kraus Motor Company, LA Choppers, Legends Suspensions, LePera Seats, Lucas Oil, Lucky Speed Shop, Metzeler Tires, Moto United, NAMZ, Optimate, Rider Justice, SMT Wheels, Sturgis Buffalo Chip.

Companies, brands and shops building bikes competing in the premier Bagger Racing League Bagger GP presented by Custom Dynamics include: Alloy Art, Barnett, Bassani, Feuling Parts, Performance Machine, Pistol Pete Custom Cycles, Saddlemen, Slyfox, S&S Cycles, The Speed Merchant and Trask Performance.

Harley-Davidson Dealerships from across the country are fielding teams including from Memphis, Durango, Yuba City, Las Vegas, and more.

Drag Specialities Battle of the Baggers, Bagger Racing League™ Round 1 will take place June 25–27, 2021, in Salt Lake City, Utah, at Utah Motorsports Complex. Get your tickets, hotel packages, camping and VIP experiences and more at www.BaggerRacingLeague.com.

Follow Bagger Racing League online:

Facebook: www.Facebook.com/BaggerRacingLeague

Instagram: @BaggerRacingLeague

Watch the mile-long burnout video that broke Instagram | Bagger Racing League Competitor C-Bear: youtu.be/DRhCxYCDy8Q

For just $14.99, viewers can watch all the action live and be a witness to motorcycle history in the making. With five epic classes and over 50 riders from across the globe the Harley-Davidson and Indian fight for racing dominance will be seen at every level live on FITE. Order here. We will publish the complete schedule when the official racing schedule is out!

Mount Evans OPENS UP today – Reservations are Required

By Leave a Comment

The Mount Evans Road from Echo Lake to the summit of the prominent Front Range fourteener is scheduled to open for the summer today, but there is a glitch: The website that was supposed to begin taking reservations this week hasn’t been cooperating.

“The reservation system failed to launch Wednesday morning,” said Reid Armstrong, public affairs specialist for the Arapaho and Roosevelt National Forests. “A new launch time will be announced this afternoon in advance of the actual relaunch.”

Mount Evans is the closest you can get to the moon on a paved road in North America

Reservations are being required this year at Mount Evans for the first time as a strategy to manage traffic load on the 14-mile road, which climbs more than 3,600 feet in elevation. Recreation.gov is the site where visitors make reservations for Mount Evans, Brainard Lake and Rocky Mountain National Park. Brainard Lake is scheduled to open June 11, weather permitting.

Mount Evans, the highest paved road in North America, is a popular summer tourist destination. CDOT crews began clearing snow May 17, and they had to re-plow this week because the mountain received significant snow over the weekend, but CDOT says the road will open on Friday unless it receives more snow.

Before you venture out on your next road trip that will take thru State and National Parks, be sure to check to see if they require reservations.

These National Parks Will Require Reservations This Summer

While there are more than 400 national park sites (monuments, seashores, recreation areas, and memorials), only 63 of them are designated as national parks and require entrance fees. All of these 63 major parks—think Yellowstone, Acadia, and the Grand Canyon—will continue charging those $20–$35 park entrance fees upon arrival, even if you don’t have to make a timed reservation to access the park. If you’re planning to visit more than one national park this summer, consider purchasing an America the Beautiful pass for $80, which covers a year’s worth of entry fees for a single vehicle (at parks that charge per-car fees), or up to four adults where fees are charged per person.

Here, we’ve rounded up the parks that will require a little extra planning to visit this summer, thanks to new reservation systems, with all the details you need for a seamless visit. 

Rocky Mountain National Park, Colorado

This park about 1.5 hours north of Denver saw 3.3 million visitors last year, despite a two-month-long closure in the spring. To prevent overcrowding, the park is instituting a two-prong reservation system for all visitors this summer, in effect between May 28 and October 11.

Stunning view at lake Odessa with Notchtop peak in Rocky Mountain National Park Colorado, photos by Shutterstock

Here’s how the Rocky Mountain National Park reservations will work: If you’d like to visit the Bear Lake Corridor, one of the most popular spots in the park, you’ll have to make a reservation for a two-hour window between 5 a.m. MT and 6 p.m. MT.

You’ll be able to access Bear Lake and its surrounding trails, as well as the rest of the park, and can continue exploring after of your two-hour entry window. If you’re more interested in other areas at Rocky Mountain and plan to skip Bear Lake and its surrounds, you can get a separate reservation for two-hour timed slots between 9 a.m. MT and 3 p.m. MT. Though you will have to enter during your two-hour window, you can stay in the park beyond when it ends. 

Glacier National Park, Montana

Traversing the 50-mile Going-to-the-Sun Road is one of the most scenic drives in Glacier National Park, with tons of lookout points to spot bighorn sheep, waterfalls, and more, as well as trails and campgrounds. This year, driving the road—which takes about two hours without stopping—will require an advance reservation, though the rest of the park will not.

Logan Pass, Glacier National Park, MT, photos by Shutterstock

Those entering the park at either the West Glacier or St. Mary’s entrances (which bookend the road) between May 28 and September 6 will need $2 day-use tickets, which can be purchased on recreation.gov. Summer tickets will be released up to 60 days in advance starting April 28, with a quarter of the ticket released two days in advance. Those traveling both along this road or through the rest of the park will need to pay the $35 vehicle entrance fee as well. You can find more details about the reservation system and fees on the park’s site. 

Yosemite National Park, California

Last year, Yosemite required reservations ahead of time and capped entry at 50 percent capacity, leaving the park’s usually crowded trails and parking lots surprisingly empty. “We might never get the chance to see Yosemite this way again in our lifetimes,” longtime park ranger Scott Gediman said last September. This summer, the park will still require reservations but you can expect a few more people, since reservations are being offered to between 50 and 90 percent capacity, depending on COVID-19 data, according to Thrillist. 

El Capitan and Merced River, Yosemite National Park, CA, photos by Shutterstock

The $37 vehicle reservations are valid for three consecutive days of entry and go on sale throughout April and May. (Like at Rocky Mountain, if you have an annual pass, you’ll still need a reservation but only have to pay the $2 processing fee.) The first batch of reservations for May 21 to June 30 are available on recreation.gov starting April 21 at 8 a.m. PT. The full calendar of when reservations go live can be found on Yosemite’s site. As the National Park Service notes, “reservations are taken almost immediately,” so be prepared with a recreation.gov account and be logged in ahead of time. If you miss out, note that a very small amount of reservations open on the site at 8 a.m. PT seven days in advance. 

Zion National Park, Utah

Like at Acadia and Glacier, certain parts of Zion require reservations while others do not. This summer, the upper Zion Canyon and the Scenic Drive are both closed to cars and you’ll need a reservation on the park’s socially distanced shuttle service to access sights like the Emerald Pools, West Rim Trail, and Angels Landing. Shuttle tickets are just $1 and are released twice a month, on the 16th and the last day of the month, and you can find the full calendar of when tickets are released on Zion’s site. Like everywhere else, you can purchase tickets on recreation.gov, which will allow you to buy up to eight at a time. Once you’ve snagged a ticket, you can board a shuttle at the main visitor center within your ticket’s one-hour window and then can treat the shuttle like a hop-on, hop-off bus for the rest of the day. 

Subway, Zion national park, Utah, photos provided by Shutterstock

If you can’t get a ticket on the 16th or the last day of the month, you can find tickets online one day in advance at 5 p.m. MT. A limited amount of first come, first served shuttle tickets are also available at the visitor center between 2 p.m. and 4 p.m. daily.

Angels Landing, Zion National Park, Utah, photos provided by Shutterstock

Visitors who aren’t interested in the shuttle stops can rock up to the park to pay the $35 vehicle entry fee upon arrival, and can explore the trails around the visitor center, as well as hikes along the Zion-Mount Carmel Highway and Kolob Terrace Road, for seven consecutive days.