Tag: sarah moreau

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Media Press Day at Progressive International Motorcycle Show (IMS) in Long Beach, California

The Progressive International Motorcycle Show (IMS) kicks off in Long Beach, California before traveling across the United States to New York, Dallas, Cleveland, Minneapolis, Washington, D.C and Chicago http://www.motorcycleshows.com/.

IMS is the perfect place to see, listen, touch and test ride the various motorcycle brands, to purchase products and obtain resourceful information for motorcycle riders, passengers and future motorcycle riders.

Electric was the common theme throughout IMS this year. The future of personal mobility is driven by electrification. The industry is introducing newbies to motorcycles with no clutch and no gears.

The United States of America will need to get ready to build an infrastructure for electric bicycles and electric motorcycles.

DISCOVER THE RIDE and NEW TO 2

Robert Pandya and his team took the motorcycle industry back to basics by introducing Discover the Ride and New to 2 for children and adults.

The purpose of Discover the Ride is to put people on motorcycles for the first time at IMS with STACYC, Yamaha Power Assist Bicycles and Zero Motorcycles. The goal is to widen the funnel and encourage people of all ages to become motorcycle riders.

STACYC is the first powered balance bike to inspire children who has been walking for a short time. STACYC offers different models for ages 3-7 years of age. The goal is to engage young children with using a throttle and fall in love with motorcycle riding before the age of seven (7).

Individuals with no motorcycle riding experience were required to ride a Yamaha Power Assist Electric Bicycle to demonstrate their ability to balance before test riding a Zero Motorcycle. Total Control Training partnered with Robert’s team to provide safety instructors to shepherd new riders at IMS.

I had the pleasure of witnessing Discover the Ride at IMS with a first time motorcycle rider and it works!

Zero Motorcycles provides a sense of effortlessness just by a simple twist of the throttle without a clutch, gears and low maintenance. The zero motorcycle is speed limited for test riding to about 12 mph for safety reasons and to allow instructors to have a conversation with riders during the test ride on a test track inside the building at IMS.

New to 2 is a video and stage series designed to answer questions for new riders from visiting a local dealer to making a choice of the type of motorcycle to purchase.

Yamaha has been making electric bicycles in Japan for more than 25 years. Yamaha is the first pedal assist bicycle manufacturer. The electric bicycle is huge in Europe and starting to grow in the United States of America. Yamaha is starting out with four (4) models from mountain bike, drop bar, road bike and fitness commuting bike. The Yamaha Power Assist Electric Bicycle serves as the step in between STACYC and Zero. There is a cross over from the motorcycle culture to power assist electric bicycles and motorcycles. If it wasn’t for the bicycle, there would not be motorcycles!

      TRIUMP MOTORCYCLES

Triumph Motorcycles introduced Scrambler 1200 XE and Scrambler 1200 XC. The Scrambler 1200 XC is good for on and off road riding and the 1200 XE the “E” is for extreme. These adventure motorcycles have rider modes rain, road, sport and off road. Cruise control is standard. The 1200 XE is the first Scrambler with a 21 inch front wheel. Bluetooth accessory to communicate directly with GoPro camera to take picture and video and collaboration with Google to allow turn by turn navigation on display. The price of the Scrambler 1200 will be introduced to the United States in December 2018.

Triumph Motorcycles received the 2018 Motorcycle.com Standard Motorcycle of the Year for the Triumph Street Triple 765.

HARLEY DAVIDSON MOTORCYCLES

Harley Davidson announced they are celebrating 115 years of motorcycling and the celebration of 28 new dealerships across the globe in 2018. 4.9% growth in Europe and unprecedented growth in Thailand, China and Asia. Harley-Davidson is focusing on growing the number of riders in the United States to 2 million riders by 2027. On July 30, 2018, more roads to Harley Davidson was established more roads to access of the information to the media about the bikes about to be sold. Harley Davidson is investing $800 million into the strategy to help the United States grow 2 million riders in nine (9) more years.

Harley Davidson is starting an electric vehicle portfolio and continue to innovate their touring and soft-tail motorcycles. They will add a low cc motorcycle segment. They will expand their visibility and marketing to capture new riders. They will work with their dealerships across the globe to ensure their dealerships are an inviting place to capture new and current riders.
The Milwaukee-Eight 117 engine will be included on touring CVO Street Glide, Road Glide and Limited. These will always get the biggest engine instead of the Milwaukee-Eight 114 engine.

Harley Davidson also upgraded their infotainment system on the touring models. The new version is called the Boom! Box GTS Infotainment system include a touch screen with faster download and processing time and it has Apple Car Play compatible for iPhone users, but does not include Android Auto.

On display for presentation on the Softail side was the Harley Davidson FXDR 114. This is the 10th Softail motorcycle in just 15 months with the focus on weight reduction starting with cast aluminum swing arm, which provides a 43% reduction in weight.

The first Harley Davidson electric motorcycle the LiveWire was not on display. LiveWire specifications will be available in January 2019 and on sale in August 2019.

URAL MOTORCYCLES

Ural Motorcycles is now in the 20th century with modernized power plant, redesigned thermal group from cylinders and pistons to combat the air cooled function of the motor, increased fin size fins were added and increased the fins size, new oil pick up design to give another ½ liter of oil due to deeper oil pan, fuel injection system, the spare hub and wheels all match with larger spokes, on the motorcycle for simple plug and ride. Ural has been working very hard to keep the look and the opportunity for big kids to feel like little kids.

Ural also has its first electric motorcycle concept not, yet a production prototype established in Moscow in 2016. The goal is to collect feedback, to understand what the market wants and how the market reacts to it and if Ural should continue to move forward with the project. Zero Motorcycles is providing engineering support to Ural. The battery is inside the seat in the sidecar, which feels like there is always a rider in the sidecar for balance, comfort, safety and confidence. There are two batteries one located on the bike and one on the sidecar. The motorcycle will not operate if the sidecar is removed due to the battery under the seat. The production date is not available.

BMW

BMW is on tract for another year of record growth, which is driven by a lot of the new products such as the G 310 R and G 310 GS. The focus overtime in making sure they bring on products for the market and customers and focus on adding more standard equipment and improving the packages to their motorcycles and features their customers are asking for.

The BMW 700 products helped bring a lot of new riders to the sport with 37% of the product sales to women.

BMW unveiled the 2019 R 1250 GS with shift cam technology to give more increase power, increase torque and balance delivery for every situation.

BMW unveiled the 2019 S 1000 RR. The engine is 9lbs lighter and the overall bike is 25lbs lighter with increased horsepower. The new S 2019 S 1000 R superbike with M package was also unveiled with a weight decrease of 7lbs and motorsports paint.

INDIAN MOTORCYCLE

Indian Motorcycle decided to talk about something different than new products after mentioning the FTR 1200 was unveiled in Germany this year. The FTR 1200 won 17 of the 18 American Flat Track races in 2018. Jared Mees captured grand national championships and Indian Motorcycle capturing manufacturers championships in both seasons. Racing has a significance importance to the Indian Motorcycle brand because it started in racing in 1901. The 2019 Indian Motorcycle Wrecking Crew was introduced Jared Mees and brothers Briar and Bronson Bauman.

MV AGUSTA

MV Agusta introduced the 2019 Brutale 1000 and the 2019 Turisom Veloce RC SCS.

The Brutale was first introduced to the market in 2002. It is the most powerful superbike. The main principle in Brutale is power. 212 horsepower on a naked bike weighing about 409lbs. All of the body work except for the fuel tank is carbon fiber. The Brutale is an emotional motorcycle with a lot of power and street legal.

MV Agusta was one of the first companies to provide unique technology to the motorcycle world. For example, MV Agusta is the first company to put an electronic upshift on a production motorcycle, the first company to put an upshift and downshift on a production motorcycle, the first company to have Full Ride By Wire on a mid-weight super sport motorcycle. They have a new first, the first production motorcycle with a Smart Clutch System (SCS) on the 2019 Turismo Veloce RC SCS to allow riders to use either manual or automatic clutch operation. Riders never have to touch the clutch lever. Riders don’t have to worry up using the clutch lever while moving through traffic. The bike weight is 435lbs with 110 horse power and goes from 0 to 60mph in 3.1 seconds. MV Agusta is about performance not touring.

YAMAHA

Yamaha introduced nine (9) new models for 2019 in the three (3) main categories of dirt, road and tour. The focus is to continue to offer a wide range of new and exciting motorcycles with the latest in performance and technology for riders of all ages and skill levels.

Niken and Niken GT multiple wheel motorcycle handles like a two (2) wheel motorcycle offers motorcycle riders a lot more confidence while cornering to make riding less stressful and fun.

Yamaha sold out of Niken motorcycles after opening an online reservation program in September 2018.

The Niken GT is open for online reservations with a retail price of $17,2999 for delivery in March 2019.

PIAGGIO

The 2019 Moto Guzzi V85 TT was introduced and it will be available from Italy in the 2nd Quarter of 2019.

The world superbike was also on display 2019 Aprilla RSV4 RR Factory 1000. This motorcycle has won multiple world championships and work superbike.
Piaggio is the only manufacturer that is up for scooters sales.

KAWASAKI

Kawakaki introduced their super charged hyper sports bike Ninja H2, H2R and H2 Carbon. The new H2R is the most powerful super charged engine Kawasaki has made to date. Also on display was the ZX-10R with new engine design and maximum performance. The Kawasaki Ninja ZX-10 RR is a race ready limited model with only 500 available in the world.

2019 Kawasaki Versys 1000 SE LT Plus was unveiled with cruise control, traction control, intelligent braking system, sport, road, rain and manual modes. There will be a Rideology app available in 2019 to allow riders to make adjustments from the palm of their hands on their Android or iPhones devices to check fuel gage, service intervals and riding module to identify routes taken and for planning.

HONDA

Honda shared one of the best historical videos about their founder and the brand for more than 60 years. The video started with a picture of the first American Honda Motor building on Pico Blvd in Los Angeles, California from June 1959 and a quote from the founder Soichiro Honda “A company is most clearly defined not by its people or its history, but by its products.”

The Honda Monkey is selling out like hotcakes because it’s a fun motorcycle to ride for 1,200 miles on land, through water and mud just ask Ari Herring and Zack Courts. Ari and Zack rode Honda Monkeys from Ensenada to La Paz Mexico to trace some of the Baja 1000 course. Motorcycle enthusiast can check out their show at Motorcycles on Motor Trend: Throttle Out http://bit.ly/2FmWUEq on November 21, 2018.

PROGRESSIVE

Progressive is number one in motorcycle insurance due to customer service with policies starting off at just $75.00 per year. Progressive partnered up with Indian Motorcycle to give away an all expense paid trip to Sturgis with two loaner Indian motorcycles for winners to ride. 

Flo’s Chop Shop offered relaxation break in massage chairs while listening to an interactive music play list created by guest, beard trims, line ups and hair designs for free.

ENERGICA

Engergica approach motorcycles in 2009 and decided later to go green. In 2014, Energica created an electric motorcycle as an opportunity to attract the younger generation. Today, the Energica Ego is known to the world for the first street legal electric Italian sport motorcycle. Engergica’s focus is on style performance and quality and they are living up to it with the ability to charge an electric motorcycle within 20-22 minutes!

SUZUKI

Industry gearhead and living legend Kevin Cameron provided history of Suzuki. Mr. Cameron has decades of experience in the motorcycle industry from racing to technology, product development and product evaluation.

Mr. Cameron shared his knowledge and history about Katana motorcycles, 2 stroke engines, 4 stroke engines, horsepower, crankshaft seizure, piston seizure problem in 2 stroke engines, connecting rod, combustion, cylinder plating and oil consumption. Mr. Cameron expressed the greatest problem facing product development is the internal friction of large human groups, engineers wasting times on committees and in meetings. It’s important for the motorcycle industry to allow engineers to devote their time to designs and test prototypes.

LUNCH

Black Girls Ride Magazine Porsche Taylor, Founder and Editor-In-Chief and Sarah Moreau, Staff Writer enjoyed lunch sponsored by Suzuki with Serena Bleeker, Digital Campaign Manager, Bonner Motorcycle Group and Julian Eger, Communications, http://Motorcycles.org aka Discover Today’s Motorcycling.

DUCATI

Ducati delivered the highest level of market share, which demonstrates taking the brand into new worlds with cruiser and off road motorcycles.

The Scrambler Café Racer is one of the most popular motorcycles with LED light and fuel gage for first time motorcycle riders at a reasonable Ducati price.

ALLSTATE

Allstate Insurance offered guest to Float In and Fill Up on a Free Root Beer Float and the opportunity for current, new and future rides to enjoy an interactive virtual reality motorcycle ride on an Indian Scout.

IMS is a one stop shop for motorcycle riders and passengers and a great place to network, catch up with old friends and plan a future ride within or outside the country.


 

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THE BROAD MUSEUM

Motorcycle Ride to the Broad Museum was worth splitting lanes through downtown Los Angeles rush hour traffic.

The Broad Museum is one of the most popular FREE museums in Los Angeles. That’s right it’s FREE to enter the Broad Museum so make sure to request tickets in advance because sometimes there is a long line wrapped around the corner to get in. It’s the perfect place to capture an Instagram moment in every gallery thanks to self-made billionaire Eli Broad.

On August 23, 2010, Eli Broad announced he will build a museum in downtown Los Angeles to house contemporary art he and his wife Edythe collected over the years. The amount financed for the Broad Museum was $140 million.

The Broad Museum is home to more than 2,000 pieces of art inside a three-story building surrounded by a unique honeycomb square that allows natural sunlight to shine throughout the gallery. The contemporary art consists of pictures and paintings coveted by other museums. The goal of the Broad Museum is to make contemporary art accessible to visitors. There is a thick viewing glass window for visitors to get a sneak peak of the warehouse full of art not on display in the art gallery showrooms, which I hope to see in the near future.

My favorite piece of art at the Broad Museum was the Seated Woman by Ron Mueck because the detail made the miniature woman look real. I was stuck. I did not want to move my feet. I could not stop staring at this amazing sculpture.

Infinity Mirrored Room – The Souls of Millions of Light Years Away by Yayoi Kusama is very popular among visitors. Each visitor is given 45 seconds behind a closed door to spend time inside the Infinity Mirrored Room. Have your camera ready to strike a pose and take a selfie!

Under the Table by Robert Therrien – Grab a seat and let’s enjoy a very small bite to eat in the Giant’s den…

The eyes are creepy on the porcelain sculpture of Michael Jackson and his chimpanzee Bubbles by Jeff Koons…

Roe v. Wade 1973 Supreme Court decision was addressed in a powerful and political art statement (Untitled) Your Body is a Battleground by artist, activist and feminist Barbara Kruger.

It was really cool to see Jean-Michel Basquiat’s paintings on display. This one is titled Melting Point of Ice. Unfortunately, Jean-Michel Basquiat committed suicide at the young age of 27.
If you decide to visit the Broad Museum, download the Broad mobile app available for iPhone and Android to serve as an audio guide.

A huge thank you to Rick Mitchell for a private tour of the Broad Museum.

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SAGUARO CACTUS HUG ON THE OPEN ROAD IN ARIZONA

I feel like I’m receiving hugs from the beautiful Saguaro cacti every time I ride my motorcycle through the Arizona desert.

The Saguaro Cactus is the largest cactus in the United States of America. In Arizona, the Saguaro Cactus is protected by the Native Plant Protection Act . If you are smart, do not touch cactus in Arizona to avoid a class four (4) felony.  You could pay a fine, go to jail or serve time in prison for cutting, vandalizing, shooting, digging up, ramming with vehicle, illegally purchasing or poaching the protected Arizona symbol.

The Saguaro Cactus develops slowly. It takes 3 to 10 days for Saguaro Cactus seeds to germinate. It can take approximately 10 years to grow 1.5 inches before it reaches its full height of 50 feet and weigh more than 4,000 lbs. It usually takes 75 years for a Saguaro Cactus to grow a branch often referred to as an arm. The Saguaro Cactus can live for up to 200 years.

Do your research before you purchase a Saguaro Cactus because it may have microchip to identify a stolen plant.  Make sure you purchase a Saguaro Cactus from an approved supplier. The cost of a Saguaro Cactus depends on the size. Some saguaro cactus can be sold for $100.00 per foot. The Saguaro Cactus are usually sold by approved garden centers or online distributors from $5.00 to $2,500.00.

ARIZONA REVISED STATUTE 3-932

A.   A person commits theft of protected native plants if, without the express consent of the landowner, the person knowingly removes or destroys any protected native plants from private or state land. Theft of protected native plants with a value of:

       1. One thousand five hundred dollars or more is a class 4 felony.

      2. At least seven hundred fifty dollars but less than one thousand five                         hundred dollars is a class 5 felony.

      3. At least five hundred dollars but less than seven hundred fifty dollars is a           class 6 felony.

      4.  Less than five hundred dollars is a class 1 misdemeanor.

B.   A knowing violation of this chapter involving either the misuse of permits, tags, seals, or receipts, or the collection, salvage, harvest, transportation or possession of protected plants without any required permits, tags, seals or receipts is a class 1 misdemeanor. A subsequent conviction for a violation of this subsection is a class 6 felony.

C.  All other violations of this chapter are class 3 misdemeanors except that if a prior conviction is a class 3 misdemeanor, a subsequent conviction is a class 2 misdemeanor, and if a prior conviction is a class 2 misdemeanor, a subsequent conviction is a class 1 misdemeanor.

D.  From and after June 30, 1990, on conviction of any violation of this chapter the director may request of the court that the convicted person, or a responsible person from a convicted entity, be ordered to attend educational classes or programs pursuant to section 3-911, subsection C.

E.  On conviction of a violation of this chapter, the director may also request of the court as a provision of the sentence, the revocation of all permits issued to the person convicted and the permittee shall be required to surrender any unused tags or seals or receipts to the division, and the division shall not issue new or additional permits to the permittee for a period of one year from the date of conviction. The director may further request of the court that the sentence include a provision prohibiting a person convicted of a violation of this chapter from engaging in the salvage of protected native plants or acting as agent for any other permittee for a period of up to one year. In considering any such request to revoke or deny permits or prohibit work in salvage or with another permittee the court shall consider:

1.   The nature of the offense.

2.  The nature of any prior convictions

3. The overall performance record by the convicted party in terms of its                      violations of this chapter compared to its efforts to salvage native plants            as intended by this chapter.

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MOTORCYCLE HELMET WITH PINLOCK VISOR FOR CLEAR VISION IN THE RAIN

MOTORCYCLE RIDERS it is worth it to INVEST IN A PINLOCK VISOR FOR YOUR HELMET TO SEE CLEARLY WHILE RIDING IN THE RAIN.  It is dangerous to ride a motorcycle when your helmet shield fogs.

In 1994, Derek Arnold created the Pinlock system for motorcycle riders to see clearly. The Pinlock system uses a silicon bead sealant when the Pinlock visor is attached to the helmet visor to absorb moisture on the inside to allow clear visibility.  The Pinlock inserts integrate with different helmet brand visors.

There are three different types of Pinlocks:

1. Push Pin – used with Pinlock ready helmets by inserting lens into the face shield
2. Three Component Pin – provides extra grip to a helmet that has an expanded version of the Push Pin system with integrated screws
3. Tear Off Pin – uses Pinlock insert lenses and tear-off strips for motorcycle racers. The Pinlock Tear Off Pins are only compatible with 2D visors.

There are three Pinlock levels for fog protection:

1. Pinlock 30 – universal fit for Pinlock ready helmet brands
2. Pinlock 70 – custom fit for specific helmet brands
3. Pinlock 120 – specific helmet brands for motorcycle racing or adventure riding

Visit https://pinlock.com to see if there is a Pinlock visor available for your helmet.

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CHECK THE WEATHER BEFORE YOUR MOTORCYCLE RIDE

It’s highly suggested to check the weather along the route you plan to take on your journey to your destination outside your local riding area.

My go to website to obtain weather forecast on Interstates are https://www.theweathernetwork.com/us/maps/us-highway-forecast/ and https://www.accuweather.com/en/driving-directions-weather.  My favorite app to monitor weather conditions is MyRadar http://myradar.com.

The more you ride your motorcycle across state lines, you will LEARN HOW TO READ THE SKY. Is the sky clear? Are the clouds white or dark ready to release rain?

PAY ATTENTION TO THE ANIMALS. I’ve witness for myself during my cross country motorcycle rides the old wives’ tale is true if COWS ARE LYING DOWN IN A PASTURE A RAINSTORM IS COMING…lol

ALWAYS PACK YOUR RAIN GEAR!!! It rains winter, spring, summer and fall.

ONLY YOU ARE RESPONSIBLE FOR MAKING SURE YOU DRINK PLENTY OF WATER AND LIQUIDS WITH ELECTROLYTES TO HYDRATE to prevent dehydration and heat exhaustion, which can lead to more serious health conditions, such as heat stroke.
Ride Safe and Ride Smart,

SeCCRet the Cross Country Rider

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MOTORCYCLE RIDE TO THE FOUR CORNERS MONUMENT IN THE USA

It’s a great feeling to visit four different states at the same time without figuring out how to clone yourself.

I rode my motorcycle on gravel with a beautiful view of seven (7) flags representing three nations Navajo, Ute and United States of America and four states Arizona, Colorado, New Mexico and Utah. The Navajo Nation owns these remote areas of Arizona, New Mexico and Utah. The Ute Nation owns the southwest corner of Colorado.

On February 2, 1848, the United States acquired the remote area currently known as the four corners from Mexico under the Treaty of Guadalupe Hidalgo for $15 million. The people living in the area had the choice to relocate within the new borders of Mexico or receive full civil rights as an American citizen. It is worth noting the land was initially owned by Native Americans before it was claimed by Spain and before Mexico gained independence from Spain in 1821.

In 1912, the cement pad was built on site to officially mark the only place in the Unites States of America where four states meet at one point Arizona, Colorado, New Mexico and Utah. In 1931, the cement pad was replaced with a brass disc marker. In 1962, the Bureau of Indian Affairs and the Bureau of Land Management poured an elevated cement pad around the 1931 brass marker. The monument was rebuilt in 1992 replacing the 1931 brass marker with a disc shaped plate.  In 2010, the monument was rebuilt again with the same 1992 disc shaped plate.

The monument is located miles away from gas, food, and lodging. There are several campgrounds nearby the monument. Visitors are encouraged to bring water and hand sanitizer since there is no running water. There are booths surrounding the four corners monument to purchase jewelry, crafts and food directly from the Navajo and Ute.

You will have to wait patiently in line for your turn to stand or lay down in the middle of the four states or figure out creative ways to touch all four states with your arms and legs. Don’t forget to get a picture!

If you plan to ride your motorcycle to the Four Corners Monument, bring your kickstand pad.

 

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Motorcycle Helmet May Save Your Life

The most common fatal injuries sustained by motorcycle riders are injuries to the head. The purpose of the motorcycle helmet is to help reduce fatalities and injuries resulting from motorcycle accidents.  It was a pleasure hosting a motorcycle helmet clinic to educate motorcycle riders and passengers in the community.

Motorcycle riders adopted the use of helmets from the military, football, auto racing and space industries.

In 1918, the American National Standards Institute (ANSI) was established to oversee the development of voluntary consensus standards for products, services, processes, systems and personnel in the United States. The first American Standard Safety Code was approved in 1921 and covered the protection of the heads and eyes of industrial workers. Many standards produced by ANSI in the 1930s promoted safety in work and home environments. ANSI based standards is essentially for auto race driving helmets adopted or endorsed for use by motorcycle riders. ANSI formerly adopted its present name after numerous reorganizations and name changes in 1969.

Motorcycle riders wore leather caps made of sheepskin or gabardine leather until T.E. Lawrence (aka Lawrence Arabia suffered a fatal motorcycle crash and Hugh Carins lead the development of the motorcycle crash helmet in 1935.

In 1953, Professor C.F. Red Lombard submitted the first patent for a motorcycle helmet.

Snell Memorial Foundation has independently tested manufacturer’s helmets since 1957. Once a helmet is Snell certified, the manufacturer cannot make any design changes. Any structural modification made by a motorcycle rider such as drilling holes, paint, glue, adhesive stickers or solvents not approved by the manufacturer may make the helmet ineffective and automatically invalidate existing Snell certification because it could affect the performance quality of the helmet. Snell Standards are the toughest testing and performance standards in the world. Snell examines, revises, updates and republishes many of its standards about every five years.

In 1966, the National Highway Safety Act (NHSA) required states to pass mandatory helmet laws in order to receive Federal highway funding.
In 1967, the U.S. Department of Transportation was established to help maintain and develop the nation’s transportation system and infrastructure.

In 1970, Congress amended the Vehicle Safety Act to expand the definition of motor vehicle equipment to include “any device, article or apparel…to safeguard motor vehicles, drivers, passengers, and other highway users from the risk of accident, injury or death and the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) was established to help reduce the number of deaths, injuries, and economic losses resulting from motorcycle vehicle crashes on the Nation’s highways.

On January 4, 1974, the U.S. Department of Transportation declared Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standard No. 218 (FMVSS-218) for motorcycle helmets.

In 1975, Congress withdrew the requirements of the NHSA and many states repealed mandatory helmet laws.

On July 6, 2012, President Barack Obama signed into law a new two year transportation reauthorization bill, the Moving Ahead for Progress in the 21st Century Act (MAP-21), which modified the definition of “motor vehicle equipment adding the term “motorcycle helmet” to the description of regulated items.

Motorcycle helmets sold in the United States must meet Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standard FMVSS 218. It is a violation of some state laws for motorcycle riders and passengers to wear unsafe novelty helmets with affix stickers perpetrating manufacturers certification labels that do not meet FMVS 218.

The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration requires motorcycle helmets manufactured after May 13, 2013 to include the phrase “FMVSS No. 128 on the certification decal with the manufacturers name or brand name and the word certified to make easy for riders and law enforcement to identify non-compliant helmets. Prior to May 13, 2013, the label requirements of FMVSS No. 218 consist of the letters “DOT” on the rear of the helmet. As of this date, there are no regulatory limits on the age of motorcycle helmets that may be used to comply with a state motorcycle helmet use law. Motorcycle riders and passengers can wear helmets with “DOT” made prior to the May 2013 label change requirements.

If you are planning a motorcycle ride crossing state lines, check the current helmet laws.

As of 2018, there is no helmet law in Illinois, Iowa and New Hampshire. Alabama, California, District of Columbia, Georgia, Louisiana, Maryland, Massachusetts, Mississippi, Missouri, Nebraska, New Jersey, New York, Nevada, North Carolina, Oregon, Tennessee, Vermont, Virginia and Washington require all motorcyclist and passengers to wear a helmet under universal helmet laws. Partial helmet laws states of Alaska, Arkansas, Arizona, Colorado, Connecticut, Delaware, Florida, Hawaii, Idaho, Indiana, Kansas, Kentucky, Maine, Michigan, Minnesota, Montana, New Mexico, North Dakota, Oklahoma, Ohio, Pennsylvania, Rhode Island, South Carolina, South Dakota, Texas, Utah, Wisconsin and Wyoming requires motorcycle riders to have medical insurance coverage.

Higher insurance premiums for motorcycle riders that wear helmets in states that do not require protection because helmetless motorcyclist in most cases are uninsured at the time of serious injury or fatal accident. For example, the state of Michigan requires motorcycle riders to have at least $20,000 of medical benefit coverage on their motorcycle insurance if they plan to ride without a helmet which would likely raise insurance cost. If a motorcycle rider is uninsured or under insured, their treatment cost is often funded by state public health programs.

A high number of motorcycle crash fatalities has shown motorcyclist wearing sub-standard motorcycle helmets not intended for highway use providing little or no head protection resulting in high cost to tax payers.

When shopping for a motorcycle helmet check for the following labels to certify the helmet meets or exceeds FMVSS 218.
• DOT prior to May 13, 2013
• FMVSS No. 128 after May 13, 2013
• Snell inside the helmet.
• American National Standards Institute (ANSI) inside the helmet
• Manufacturers name on or inside the helmet stating model, size, month and year of manufacture, construction materials and owners information.
Make sure your helmet is a good snug fit and it can stay on your head after fasting the chin strap when you shake your head from side to side and up and down.

If your helmet takes a hit or drop on the ground, it should be replaced immediately because the expanded polystyrene (EPS) inside the helmet absorbs the energy of an impact spreading the forces throughout the helmet material, which is used to protect your head and brain. Although the helmet may appear normal, the inner EPS foam may have lost absorbing capability and may provide little or no protection during a motorcycle accident. You may consider contacting the manufacturer to request having your motorcycle helmet x-rayed by a professional to confirm if the inner layers of the helmet are still in good condition.

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Motorcycle Dealerships Recognized for Outstanding Customer Service by Indian Motorcycle Owners

I enjoy riding motorcycles cross country and I prefer to patronize motorcycle dealerships that enjoy interacting with people to produce a positive and safe outcome on the open road. I asked Indian Motorcycle owners in a Facebook group “What dealership in your area provides outstanding customer service?”

Below is the list of dealerships recognized for outstanding customer service by Indian Motorcycle owners:

State/CountryDealershipWebsite
AlabamaBig #1 Motorsportshttps://www.bignumber1.com/
ArizonaDouble D’s Performance Ihttps://www.double-ds-performance.com/
ArkansasHeritage Indian of Northwest Arkansashttp://www.heritageindiannwa.com/
ArkansasGregory Polarishttps://www.gregorypolaris.com/
AustraliaIndian Motorcycle Perthhttps://victorymotorcyclesperth.sitedynamic.com.au/
AustraliaIndian Motorcycles Brisbanehttps://victorymotorcyclesbrisbane.sitedynamic.com.au/
AustraliaAdelaide Motorcycle Centrehttps://adelaidemc.com.au/
CaliforniaIndian Motorcycle of El Cajonhttps://indianmotorcycleelcajon.com/
California Hollister Powersportshttps://hollisterpowersports.com/
CaliforniaHerwaldt Motorsportshttps://www.herwaldt.com/
California C & E Auburn V-Twinhttps://www.auburnvtwin.com/
CaliforniaNorth County Indian Motorcyclehttps://www.northcountyindian.com/
California Indian Motorcycle of Orange Countyhttps://www.indianmotorcycleorangecounty.com/
ColoradoIndian Motorcycle of Denverhttps://www.gforcepowersports.com/
ColoradoIndian of Fort Collins Coloradohttps://www.indianmotorcycleoffortcollins.com/
DubaiIndian Motorcycle United Arab Emirateshttps://www.indianmotorcycle.ae/
FloridaIndian Motorcycle of Miamihttps://www.indianmotorcycleofmiami.com/
FloridaIndian Motorcycle of Panama City Beachhttps://indianofpcb.com/
FloridaIndian Motorcycle Treasure Coasthttps://www.treasurecoastindianmotorcycle.com/
FloridaAdventure Motorsports of NWFhttps://www.adventuremotorsportsofnwf.com/
FloridaIndian Motorcycle of Melbournehttp://www.indianmotorcycleofmelbournefl.com/
GeorgiaIndian Motorcycle of Mariettahttps://indianmotorcyclemarietta.com/
GeorgiaMall of Georgia Indian Motorcycleshttps://mallofgeorgiaindianmotorcycle.com/
IdahoSawtooth Indian Motorcyclehttps://www.sawtoothindianmotorcycle.com/
IndianaIndian Motorcycle of Elkharthttps://elkhartindianmotorcycle.com/
IndianaIndian Motorcycle of Clarksvillehttps://www.sawtoothindianmotorcycle.com/
KansasIndian Motorcycle Kansas Cityhttps://www.ridenowkansascity.com/--indian-motorcycles
IllinoisRoute 66 Indian Motorcyclehttps://www.rt66indianmotorcycle.com/--Million-Mile-Warranty
Illinois Indian Motorcycle of Libertyvillehttps://www.indianmotorcycleoflibertyville.com/
IllinoisiMotorsportshttps://www.imotorsportsinc.com/
LouisianaIndian Motorcycle of New Orleanshttps://indianofneworleans.com/
LouisianaShreveport Cycleshttps://www.shreveportcycles.com/
MainePaul Blouin Performance in Augustahttps://www.blouinperformance.com/
MarylandTwigg Indian Motorcyclehttps://www.twiggindianmotorcycle.com/
MarylandIndian Motorcycle - Chesapeake Cycleshttps://chesapeakecycles.com/indian-of-annapolis/
MassachusettsMOMS of Bostonhttps://www.momsboston.com/
MassachusettsMOMS Foxborohttps://www.momsouth.com/
MassachusettsIndian Motorcycle of Springfieldhttps://indianofspringfield.com/
MichiganLakeside Indian Motorcycle https://www.lakesideindian.com/
MichiganMotor City Motorcycleshttps://www.motorcitymotorcycles.com/
Michigan
MinnesotaBison Thunder Motors in St. Michael and St. Paulhttps://bisonthundermotorcycle.com/
New HampshireMOMS of Manchesterhttps://www.momsnh.com/
New MexicoIndian Motorcycle of Albuquerquehttps://www.indianmotorcycleabq.com/
New JerseyIndian Motorcycle of Monmouthhttps://indianofmonmouth.com/
New JerseyIndian Motorcycle of Waynehttps://indianmotorcyclewayne.com/
New YorkGotham Motorcycleshttps://gothamsi.com/
New YorkIndian Motorcycle of Mineolahttps://indianmotorcycleofmineola.com/
NorwayIndian Motorcycle VBSMC Verdalhttps://www.indianmotorcycle.no/
North CarolinaIndian Motorcycle Charlottehttps://indianmotorcyclecharlotte.com/
North CarolinaGarcia Indian Motorcyclehttps://www.garciaindianmotorcycle.com/
North CarolinaBaker American Cycleshttps://www.bakeramericancycle.com/
North CarolinaIndian Motorcycle Greensborohttps://indianmotorcyclegreensboro.com/
North DakotaWheels Inc. http://www.wheels-inc.com/
OhioJohnny K’s Indian Motorcyclehttps://www.johnnykspowersports.com/
OklahomaIndian Motorcycle of Oklahomahttp://www.indianmotorcyclesofoklahoma.com/
PennsylvaniaCosmo’s Indian Motorcyclehttps://www.cosmosindian.com/
PennsylvaniaIndian of Muncy & State Collegehttps://www.indianmotorcycleofcentralpa.com/
ScotlandAlba Customshttps://www.albacustoms.com/
South CarolinaCoastal Indian Motorcycle of Myrtle Beachhttps://coastalindian.com/
South DakotaIndian Motorcycle of Sturgishttps://www.indianmotorcyclesturgis.com/
South DakotaVern Eide Motoplexhttps://www.verneidemotoplex.com/
TennesseeMusic City Indianhttps://www.musiccityindianmotorcycle.com/
TennesseeSloan’s Murfreesborohttps://sloansmotorcycle.com/
TennesseePowersports Crockett Chattanoogahttps://www.crockettpowersports.com/
TexasIndian Motorcycle of El Pasohttp://www.indianmotorcycleofelpaso.com/
VirginiaIndian Motorcycle of Fredericksburghttps://indianbikesva.com/
VirginiaFriendship Motorsportshttps://friendshipmotorsports.com/
VirginiaIndian Motorcycle of Southeastern Virginiahttps://indianmotorcycleofseva.com/
WashingtonIndian Motorcycle of Auburnhttps://indianmotorcycleofauburn.com/
WashingtonNorth Sound Indian http://www.northsoundindianmotorcycle.net/
WisconsinIndian Motorcycle of Madisonhttps://www.indianmotorcycleofmadison.com/
WisconsinIndian Motorcycle of Metro Milwaukeehttps://indianmotorcycleofmetromilwaukee.com/
WisconsinIndian Motorcycle of Racinehttps://rideracine.com/

 

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APPLE PIE MOTORCYCLE RIDE IN JULIAN, CALIFORNIA

I’m excited to see California State Route 79 after exiting Interstate 8 because it is the gateway to the historic mountain town Julian, formerly attracting people from all over the country searching for gold during the short-lived Gold Rush era 1869-1870.

Today, most people visit Julian for Apple pie!  Mom’s Pie House is a popular choice to stop for an apple pie. Abby the Bear is standing next to the welcome sign waiting for the opportunity to take a selfie to post on Instagram using hashtag #abbythebearjulian.

There are so many flavor pies made from scratch to choose from and a small ice cream selection as a topping. I chose the traditional apple pie with vanilla ice cream.  APPLE PIE A LA MODE YUMMY!!!!
Apples were introduced to Julian in the 1870s. Apples in Julian are in short supply due to the drought. A lot of orchards are closed for visitors to pick apples in late August during the ripening season. Some of the pie makers in Julian have their own orchards, which are not open to the public. The tourist market pressure for Julian Apple Pies requires pie makers to purchase applies from orchards within and outside California.

Miner’s Diner is another popular spot known for the display of old toys, candy and soda bottles or to grab a burger and old fashioned milkshake.

Julian is a great place to visit for individuals that enjoy history, nature and outdoor activities such as walking, hiking, horseback riding. Perhaps a visit to a few places not too far off the beaten path such as the Oasis Camel Dairy to purchase camel milk soap or a visit to the California Wolf Center to increase awareness of this endangered species or spend the night to stargaze and make a wish on a shooting star.

As I ride my motorcycle on California State Routes 79 and 78, I can’t help but notice dry land and CAL FIRE signage warning of fire danger. Residents of Julian are currently divided about preserving the last historic volunteer fire department in San Diego County. San Diego County cut funding and pulled a paramedic and fire engine after the Julian-Cuyamaca Fire Protection District voted to stay independent. Fire prevention and safety is the responsibility of residents and visitors to preserve the history and culture of Julian during this divisive era.
If you decide to visit Julian, stop by the Chamber of Commerce inside Julian Town Hall for information on apple orchards, historic sites, dining, hiking, camping, wineries, breweries, activities and events.

 

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GAS AND GO ON YOUR MOTORCYCE MAY COME WITH A HEFTY PRICE

The convenience of GAS AND GO on a motorcycle may come with a hefty price if you plan to pay with a debit or credit card.

There is usually a very small sign on the gas pump informing customers your debit or credit card may be pre-authorized for an amount more than the purchase price.


Paying directly at the pump can cost you an additional $1.00 to $150.00 plus hold for days after paying for gas to fill up the tank.

It’s not only embarrassing to hear the cashier say “YOUR CARD IS DECLINED” while standing in a long line to make a purchase, it is also frustrating when YOUR MONEY IS ON HOLD!

Let’s not also forget the scam artist that create skimmers to capture your transaction data from the magnetic strip on the back of your credit or debit card after entering your secret pin numbers at the pump to empty your bank account. Lost or stolen debit and credit cards with a chip are easy to use without proof of identity.

Budget smart for your motorcycle ride:

1. Call your bank before you ride to provide dates, states and countries you plan to travel.
2. Pay for your gas inside to avoid a hold on your money.
3. Have cash on hand.
4. Cash is still King.
5. Pay Inside, Gas and Go!