American Motorcyclist 04 2013 Dirt Version

EVERYWHERE WEAR

TRANSITION

Armed with the all-season Transition Series 3 jacket, you can take on just about whatever the weather holds in store.

• Serious all-weather three-quarter-length design • Tough 600-denier Carbolex ® and ballistic polyester shell

• Phoslite ® reflective panels and rear triangle increase nighttime visibility • Waterproof and breathable Rainguard ® barrier • Collar anchor snap secures collar flap when open

• Waterproof zippered shoulder, chest, sleeve and rear-exit vents • Pipeline Ventilation System provides cooling airflow

• Durable two-way main zipper closure with dual wind flaps

• Soft microfiber-lined collar and cuffs

• Adjustable sleeve take-up straps • Removable, CE-approved armor at shoulders and elbows

• Articulated triple-density back protector

• Quilted zip-out liner with 100-gram Polyfill insulation

• Two vertical zippered chest map pockets

• Internal media pocket and sleeve key pocket

• Dual-zippered fanny pack

• Adjustable waist belts

• Jacket/pant zipper attachment

NAVIGATION

Navigation Photo

April is “AMA Go Ride! Month” It’s time to Get Ready to Ride and then Go Ride Your Way, Go Ride with Friends, Go Ride for a Cause and Go Ride Safely. For all the info, see page 43.

Photo: Nathan Fender

American Motorcyclist magazine (ISSN 0277-9358) is published monthly by the American Motorcyclist Association, 13515 Yarmouth Dr., Pickerington, OH 43147. Copyright by the American Motorcyclist Association/American Motorcyclist 2013. Printed in USA. Subscription rate: Magazine subscription fee of $10 covered in membership dues; $15 a year for non-members.

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

April 2013

Volume 67, Number 4

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

8.

LETTERS

You write, we read.

10.

ROB DINGMAN

Work the plan.

12. RIGHTS

A federal agency may require separate E10 and E15 fuel pumps at gas stations to avoid misfueling, and an Ohio town is considering a ban on backyard riding.

20. RIDING

It’s not the heart of the season, but there’s plenty of excitement going on in the motorcycling world to entertain and inform riders of all stripes.

38. HALL OF FAME

Dick Burleson’s 1978 Husqvarna 250WR, and Hall of Famer Jeremy McGrath.

43. AMERICA’S BEST RIDES AND RALLIES

April is “AMA Go Ride! Month” so it’s time to enjoy your motorcycle by attending AMA rides and rallies—America’s best.

49. GO RIDE

What to do, where to go.

58.

TIARE HOEGERMAN

Rider in soul, environmentalist at heart.

The new Can-am® Spyder® ST. Grip the road with the confident handling of our exclusive Y-frame design. Then hold it tight with our patented Vehicle Stability System, a semi-automatic transmission, ABS and Brembo† brakes. Add in touring features like a relaxed ergonomic position, wind protection and ample storage, and you’ll discover why it also grips tens of thousands of hearts. Learn more at can-am.brp.com.

EDITORIAL OFFICES

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

James Holter, Managing Editor

Bill Kresnak, Government Affairs Editor

Mark Lapid, Creative Director

Jen Muecke, Designer

Jeff Guciardo, Production Manager/Designer

Kaitlyn Sesco, Marketing/Communications Specialist

ADVERTISING

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

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

All trademarks used herein (unless otherwise noted) are owned by the AMA and may only be used with the express, written permission of the AMA. American Motorcyclist is the monthly publication of the American Motorcyclist Association, which represents motorcyclists nationwide. For information on AMA membership benefits, call (800) AMA-JOIN or visit AmericanMotorcyclist.com. Manuscripts, photos, drawings and other editorial contributions must be accompanied by return postage. No responsibility is assumed for loss or damage to unsolicited material. Copyright© American Motorcyclist Association, 2013.

AMA STAFF

EXECUTIVE

Rob Dingman, President/CEO

Rhonda Hixon, Administrative Asst./Litigation Manager

Bruce Moffat, Chief Financial Officer

Sen. Wayne Allard, Vice President, Government Relations

Bob Chaddock, Vice President, Administration

Jeff Massey, Vice President, Operations

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

Grant Parsons, Director of Communications & Marketing

Rob Rasor, Director of International Affairs

ACCOUNTING

Dawn Becker, Accounting Manager

Melanie Hise, HR Assistant/Payroll Coordinator

ADMINISTRATIVE SERVICES

Sean Maher, Director

AMHF/MOTORCYCLE HALL OF FAME

Renee Bock, Management Assistant

Connie Fleming, Manager of Events and AMHF Operations

Beth Myers, Donor Relations Specialist

Paula Schremser, Program Specialist

Katy Wood, Collections Manager

AMA RACING/ORGANIZER SERVICES

Kip Bigelow, Amateur MX Manager

Joe Bromley, District Relations Manager

Jacki Burris, Organizer Services Coordinator

Jane Caston, Racing Coordinator

Lana Cox, Administrative Assistant/Switchboard Operator

Kevin Crowther, Director SX & Pro Racing Relations

Bill Cumbow, Director of Special Projects

Sandi Dunphy, Coordinator/Switchboard Operator

Dave Hembroff, Road Riding Manager

Alex Hunter, MX Operational Coordinator

Tamra Jones, Racing Coordinator

AMA BOARD OF DIRECTORS

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

Stan Simpson, Chairman Cibolo, Texas

Maggie McNally, Vice Chairwoman Albany, N.Y.

Ken Ford, Assistant Treasurer Bartow, Fla.

Perry King, Assistant Secretary Northern California

John Ulrich, Executive Committee Member

Lake Elsinore, Calif.

Russ Brenan, Irvine, Calif.

Sean Hilbert, Hillsdale, Mich.

Scott Miller, Milwaukee, Wis.

Art More, Sun City West, Ariz.

Jim Viverito, Chicago, Ill.

(800) AMA-JOIN (262-5646)

AMA RACING/ORGANIZER SERVICES (continued)

Ken Saillant, Track Racing Manager

Cherie Schlatter, Organizer Services Manager

D’Andra Schwabel, Organizer Services Coordinator

Serena Van Dyke, Organizer Services Coordinator

Chuck Weir, Off Road Racing Manager

Conrad Young, Timing & Scoring Manager

DISTRIBUTION/FACILITIES SERVICES

John Bricker, Mailroom Manager

Heida Drake, Copy Center Operator/Switchboard Operator

Bill Frasch, Mailroom Clerk

GOVERNMENT RELATIONS

Marie Esselstein, Government Affairs Assistant

Danielle Fowles, Grassroots Coordinator

Nick Haris, Western States Representative

Sean Hutson, Legislative Assistant

Sharon Long, Legislative Coordinator

Rick Podliska, Deputy Director

Imre Szauter, Government Affairs Manager - On-Highway

INFORMATION TECHNOLOGY

Rob Baughman, Network Administrator

John Boker, Developer

Dave Coleman, Network Architect

Amy Hyman, Senior Programmer/Analyst

Ed Madden, Managed Services Manager

Bill Miller, Web Architect

Peg Tuvell, Operations Manager

MEMBER SERVICES/DATA ENTRY

Lori Cavucci, Member Services Representative

Deb D’Andrea, Member Services Representative

Linda Hembroff, Member Services Representative

Darcel Higgins, Member Services Manager

Kimberly Jude, Member Services Representative

Angie Miller, Member Services Representative

Tiffany Pound, Member Services Representative

Jessica Robinson, Member Services Representative

BikeBandit.com.

Whether you’re looking for an OEM part or an after-market solution, we can get it to you faster than anyone. And we offer live support, via chat or phone, from people who know bikes. That’s why 1.5 million riders have chosen BikeBandit.com for parts and accessories. Shouldn’t you?

or

solution, we can get it to you faster than anyone.”

– Bandit, Director of Rapid Retrieval

MEMBER LETTERS

LETTER OF THE MONTH ONE OF US

In response to the article by Mary Leo [“Becoming A Biker,” March issue]: You go, girl!

Ron Hanks Hotchkiss, Colo.

START SMALL

Oh, how I can relate to you, Mary! (See “Becoming A Biker,” March.) It didn’t take me long to become a “biker” after I started dating my now-husband. He grew up on bikes and, when I met him, he had a dual-sport. One year later, I was taking the safety course, got my license and learned on his dual-sport. (Do you know how high those are!?) It was perfect, and he was extremely patient with me. I thought it was a huge accomplishment when I went from second to third gear!

I am now going into my fourth season of riding and have moved up from my retro Suzuki TU250 to my Honda NC700X. I would not have done it any other way and encourage all female riders to start off small if they have never ridden before. It also helps to have an encouraging mate!

Susan Ottie Schrein Via email

BALANCING ACT

I am a member of other organizations, both motorcycle and non-motorcycle, who send magazines. I would like to say the AMA magazine is the best-balanced one I receive. There is something for everyone. Example: I am not much into racing now, but I do like to read about the “old timers” like Gary Nixon (his parents were neighbors of my close friend) and others. I tour a lot, and you have touring stories along with product information, technical section, safety and other areas. Anyone who rides can find something of interest and value. Thanks.

Jerry Stevens Flower Mound, Texas

HEADY ARGUMENT

In the February issue, Jessie McDugald wrote [in a letter to the editor] that in 47 years New York has little to show for its helmet law. I beg to differ.

In 1968, I was a new rider with one year of experience when I broadsided a car that had

Send your letters (and a high-resolution photo) to submissions@ama-cycle.org; or mail to 13515 Yarmouth Drive, Pickerington, OH 43147.

NAILED IT

I’m in my second year of AMA membership, and I couldn’t be happier that I joined. I only wish that I would have done it years ago.

Each month, a lucky AMA member wins a Bike Bandit gift card worth $100. Didn’t win? No worries. You can still take advantage of your 10% AMA member discount at BikeBandit.com.

run two red lights in midtown Manhattan. I was going about 40 mph and went over the car and landed on my head. When I awoke, I could walk to the ambulance.

The doctor who treated me showed me the x-rays of a minor skull fracture and explained the potential effects of a concussion. He said he was glad that I was wearing a helmet and I asked how he knew that I was wearing one. His reply was, “because you would have died without one.”

As a young person, the only reason I was wearing a helmet was the law. It saved my life, which is more than “little to show for it,” in my opinion. [I also disagree] that one must choose between safer crashing and safer riding. We can choose both: safer riding always, safer crashing if we are unfortunate [enough] to be in an accident. I know that I am in the minority of members on this subject, but I have and will continue to support helmet laws.

Andy Balaschak

Santa Clara, Calif.

DETAILS, DETAILS

Folks, first, a big thanks to all concerned for an ever-improving publication! In that spirit, allow me to offer an observation to the details expressed on page 30 regarding the 1982 Ducati 900SS (Super Sport).

In the third paragraph, “GT750” is mentioned. To be accurate, there never was a “Ducati GT750.” The bikes were [designated] “750 GT.”. Yes, I know, such details are nit-picks. It’s a small point, but such specifics correctly stated make for a better publication, in my opinion.

I am a Ducatisti and bevel-drive bike restorer (1974 750 GT and a 1980 900SS, black and gold livery as current efforts). Again, I have much appreciation for your efforts and certainly for the AMA’s overall!

Dexter Kelliher Los Angeles

I don’t want to beat a dead horse in regard to helmet laws, but I want to tell you that I really appreciate the AMA’s stance on the matter—encouraging helmet use but opposing mandatory helmet legislation.

I’m a Marine veteran of Operation Iraqi Freedom, and I highly value my personal freedoms. I wear a helmet (most of the time) when I ride my motorcycle, but the fact that so many of my fellow motorcyclists would like to deprive me of the freedom to make my own choice on the matter really saddens me. I expect the non-motorcycling public to sometimes be antagonistic toward motorcyclists and our lifestyle, but I’m shocked at the number of motorcyclists who feel that they need to forcibly impose their beliefs on other motorcyclists.

I often hear it said, “It’s not about freedom; it’s about safety.” This argument doesn’t make any sense. Personal freedom is not null and void when it goes against what is deemed “safe.”

Furthermore, this same argument could be used to justify laws making nearly anything mandatory in the name of safety. It could also be used to justify outlawing motorcycles altogether. Safety is a relative and subjective idea.

Thank you, AMA, on your reasonable, responsible and diplomatic stance on helmet laws. I wouldn’t be a member if you didn’t stand up for all freedom as it pertains to motorcycling.

Eli Slaminko Deland, Ill.

JUST BETWEEN US

Imagine my fear and disappointment when I saw “Touring The Pacific Northwest” on the front cover of the latest issue. I panicked that the already crowded two-lane roads that I love would become even more clogged with fair-weather bikers on garage queens gawking at the scenery.

Then I saw the story was about a trip on the drier side of the region. Hurray! I can keep those long rides in the rain and the sun during the off-season while folks ride far on the other side of the Cascades!

Please, help me keep our great roads on the wet side of the mountains a secret. And yes, it rains all day every (darn) day here.

Dan Jacobs Washougal, Wash.

Don’t worry, Dan. We won’t tell a soul.

HIGHER FINES, HIGHER VISIBILITY

I believe that if the financial responsibility for the medical costs caused by the individual who “fails to yield” the right of way were placed on the guilty party, the punishment would fit the crime and serve to make motorcyclists more visible.

Consider that the fine for failure to yield can be as little as $25 and the medical costs to the motorcyclist can be thousands or tens of thousands, or even death. Shouldn’t the fine to the guilty party be dictated by the injury caused?

The only way to make people pay attention to their driving is to attack their wallet. If it’s going to cost you $10,000, $20,000, $50,000 or $100,000 if you pull in front of someone and hurt them, you will be a bit more cautious in your driving.

How can I help to really make a difference? My limited understanding tells me that if I have two or three beers and cause an accident, the laws are going to come down on me hard. Why can’t we apply some of that mentality to people who maim or kill motorcyclists?

Barry

Gehosky Johnstown, Pa.

In our judicial system, damages beyond criminal penalties are adjudicated in civil court. For info on getting involved to effect change in any area affecting motorcyclists, see www.americanmotorcyclist.com > Rights > Get Involved.

GET INVOLVED

Many of us have had bad experiences with the Bureau of Land Management, but some BLM employees are on our side. Others don’t see a place for mechanized off-road travel on America’s public lands. Some of them pursue antiaccess agendas within the law. Some pursue that agenda despite the law. Know the law. Insist they follow it.

Participating in agency planning from the start is more effective than reacting to decisions a long time in the making after they’ve been made. Be part of the solution. Attend meetings showing a willingness to consider the ideas of, and to work with, others. Be seen as a partner in preserving natural values.

Many of the issues we blame on the land management agencies result from complaints by anti-access groups. As an example, at a U.S. Forest Services Motor Vehicle Use Map reassessment meeting, an anti-access group challenged a popular cherry stem route as being unsustainable. Off-roaders attending offered to work with the agencies and

the group presenting the complaint. It turned out that not maintaining the route for standard highway vehicles does not constitute it being unsustainable. What could have turned into a protracted contentious fight and possible closure was quickly dismissed. The route remains open at least another five years.

A partnership requires participation. When land management agency personnel call you when issues arise, you have

achieved a partnership, and you are making a difference.

Robert Adams Pahrump, Nev.

CORRECTION

In “Speed Demons,” March issue, the location given for Perewitz Cycle Fab was incorrect. The shop is in Bridgewater, Mass.

FROM THE PRESIDENT

WORKING THE PLAN

Goal Focused, Strategically Minded

By Rob Dingman

As one member of the AMA Board of Directors likes to point out, “Hope is not a strategic plan.”

An organization’s strategic plan is only as good as its ability to follow it. Fortunately, the AMA is guided by a robust plan that we have followed closely for several years.

In a recent presentation to the AMA Board of Directors, I explained how the strategic plan has helped us accomplish our goals. Every good strategic plan starts with a vision and a mission. The vision of the AMA is to be the premier advocate of the motorcycle lifestyle. Our mission is to promote the motorcycle lifestyle and protect the future of motorcycling.

Our plan also identifies the following simple-but-significant goals.

1. Grow a sustainable membership base by better connecting with member needs.

In 2008, we brought back our popular logo in a modern style and completely revitalized American Motorcyclist magazine to focus on our members. We added AMA Racer in 2010 and beginning this month, custom content is targeted to both street and off-road riders.

Our AMA websites were integrated with one another for ease of use and we introduced affinity programs for KTM and Kawasaki owners and women riders. A military affinity card and others are in the works.

Member outreach was improved through enhancements to our call center. Our new association management system (AMS) allows us to target member communications and better monitor our programs. A new direct marketing agency is helping us more effectively appeal to prospective AMA members and improve current member retention.

The quality of member benefits has increased, including the addition of an industry-leading roadside assistance program. We also added smart phone applications for AMA Supercross and an AMA Motorcycle Value Guide developed by Black Book.

The “plain vanilla” member kit you received every year has been replaced with an appealing fulfillment kit that is packed with useful information. (It also costs less to mail.) The membership renewal mail

and email series have been completely overhauled as well.

A new Affiliate Program (with 140 organizations) was launched to better engage website affiliates and promoters and incentivize them to sign up more members.

Electronic voting for AMA Board Members and Congress Delegates was implemented. Terms for board members were increased from two to three years and term limits were imposed. A board member nominating process and nominating committee were created and there are now more individual member seats than business member seats (8 to 4), which more accurately reflects our membership.

The AMA Motorcycle Hall of Fame was expanded and relocated to the main exhibit hall, and the annual Hall of Fame Induction Ceremony was significantly elevated and enhanced. We also created a $1 million endowment to support the mission of the Hall of Fame.

2. Change the emphasis of the AMA’s infrastructure to support member advocacy.

When a 2007 forensic audit revealed a troubling lack of fiscal control throughout the organization, appropriate controls were implemented, along with a modern financial accounting system. External offices were consolidated and AMA staff was reduced by 30 percent while improving overall efficiency. The result: nearly $2 million in permanent savings to the Association. Additionally, an investment policy was created and implemented to manage the ample reserves of AMA.

The AMA transitioned from an outdated computer system to our modern day AMS, which better enables us to determine and serve the needs of our members.

A state chapter program designed to better engage non-competition riders and strengthen grassroots advocacy is now being piloted in three states and will expand soon.

Also of significance, the AMA and Hall of Fame brands are being aggressively protected.

3. Strengthen the efficacy of the government relations function.

The number of our Washington, D.C.based government relations staff doubled, and some Ohio-based government relations positions have been moved to the Washington, D.C., office. Former U.S. Sen. Wayne Allard now heads up the AMA Government Relations Department.

The Association’s issue alert and notification capability was significantly improved. Communications efforts have been greatly enhanced along with greater mainstream media exposure.

The AMA Vote Like a Motorcyclist Program and AMA Voter Guide were implemented to provide a valuable resource at election time.

Our efforts bore fruit with the victory over the “lead law” in 2011, and we were recognized by the Public Affairs Council (Grassroots Innovation Award for Social Media Innovation), MotorcycleUSA.com (Industry Leader, Best of 2011 Awards) and PowerSportsBusiness.com (Powersports Executive of the Year).

We created a $1 million endowment to support government relations activities, underscoring our ongoing commitment to be the premier advocate for the motorcycle lifestyle.

4. Improve the image of the AMA’s brand by redefining the role of professional racing.

The assets of Paradama, the unprofitable subsidiary that managed AMA professional racing, were sold in 2008. We continue to work with the Daytona Motorsports Group, dba AMA Pro Racing, because of its impact on the AMA brand. The AMA continues to manage and sanction AMA Supercross.

In addition to my role as AMA president and CEO, I also currently serve as president of FIM North America and sits on the FIM Board of Directors.

The Association’s focus has shifted to improving all aspects of amateur competition. A new insurance broker and carrier was announced for 2013, along with a new improved rate structure for amateur racing organizers.

A limited One-Event Race Pass is being pilot tested with select promoters and a Family Membership is under development that will tie AMA members in the same household to a master membership. Also, a Youth Membership is being piloted later this year. Finally, a Racing License complete with a racing credential is being developed.

Efforts to encourage non-AMA events and promoters to sanction with the AMA are ongoing. For example, the well-known Mammoth Mountain and the Road to Mammoth events will, for the first time, be AMA sanctioned.

A $1 million endowment was created to support amateur racing activities.

In summary, the AMA’s strategic plan provides a framework to advance the Association’s mission and goals. We are well on our way, but the forces that seek to restrain our motorcycling freedoms never rest. As we move forward together, your support is greatly appreciated—now more than ever.

Rob Dingman is the AMA president and CEO.

MOST BIKERS ARE ALSO SOMETHING ELSE. GOOD THING WE COVER ALL KINDS.

Nobody insures more bikes than Progressive. So nobody knows bikers, or what they need, better. Ready to ride with America’s #1 motorcycle insurer? Visit progressive.com, call 1-800-PROGRESSIVE or a local agent today.

FEDERAL AGENCY MAY REQUIRE E10 ALTERNATIVE AT STATIONS WITH E15 PUMPS Action

Is To Prevent Misfueling

In response to concerns expressed by the AMA and power equipment makers, the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency has issued new guidelines to help ensure that motorcyclists and others don’t inadvertently use E15 fuel.

E15 is a new fuel blend of 15 percent ethanol (by volume) and 85 percent gasoline that the EPA has approved for use in 2001-and-newer passenger vehicles. The blend isn’t approved for use in motorcycles, all-terrain vehicles, boats, lawn mowers and other engines, and may even damage them and void warranties.

E10, which is commonly found at gas stations, contains 10 percent ethanol. Ethanol is grain alcohol produced from crops such as corn that is mixed with gasoline to produce an ethanol-gasoline blend motor fuel.

Last year, Wayne Allard, AMA vice president for government relations, told the EPA that with E15 now coming into the market, AMA members who make a concerted effort to fuel their motorcycles or ATVs with E10-or-less fuel may unknowingly refuel with residual E15 left in a blender-pump hose. A blender pump dispenses different fuel blends through the same hose, such as E10 and E15. When a customer buys E15, as much as a third of a gallon of residual E15 is left in the hose, which can inadvertently get into the next customer’s vehicle while fueling with E10.

“In an effort to address this potential misfueling issue, EPA approved an industry-submitted [approach] that requires a minimum purchase of four gallons from blender pumps that dispense both E10 and E15 from the same hose and nozzle,” the EPA said. “Such an approach would prevent misfueling by diluting any residual E15 left in the hose from the previous sale of E15.

“However, groups representing motorcycle owners and lawn mower

manufacturers objected to this [approach] because their products have gas tanks that are normally two gallons or smaller,” the EPA said.

So, on Feb. 7, the EPA posted a new option for retailers on its website’s “E15: Misfueling Mitigation Plans” page to try to avoid misfueling by consumers.

Under the new option, retailers who use a blender pump to sell E15 and E10 fuel through the same hose must also have a separate E10/E0 fuel pump. Those retailers would be required to have a label on the blender pump that reads: “Passenger Vehicles Only. Use in Other Vehicles, Engines and Equipment May Violate Federal Law.” Retailers would also be required to have signs indicating the location of the dedicated E10-or-lower fuel pump. There would be no minimum-fuelpurchase requirement at that pump.

Retailers who want to sell E15 also have the option of having a dedicated E15 pump or hose, or a pump that dispenses E15 and higher ethanol blends through a single hose. If a blender pump dispenses multiple fuels that include E15 and higher ethanol blends, the EPA may require a minimum purchase.

The AMA has repeatedly expressed concerns to government officials and federal lawmakers about possible damage to motorcycle and ATV engines caused by the inadvertent use of E15 when the new fuel becomes widely available. The AMA also has asked that motorcycles and ATVs be part of any scientific study into the effects of E15 to ensure that the new fuel blend won’t damage those engines.

In October 2010, the EPA approved the use of E15 in model year 2007 and newer light-duty vehicles (cars, light-duty trucks and medium-duty passenger vehicles). Then, in January 2011, the EPA added model year 2001-06 light-duty vehicles to the approved list.

NEW RESEARCH SHOWS E15 DAMAGES VEHICLES

Gasoline Trade Association

Wants End To E15

New research released by the Coordinating Research Council found that E15—gasoline blended with 15 percent ethanol—would damage millions of post2001 model year vehicles even though the federal government has approved the use of E15 in those vehicles.

The government hasn’t approved E15 for use in any motorcycles or all-terrain vehicles. The AMA believes E15 could damage motorcycle and ATV engines so it wants independent research conducted to determine the effects of E15 on those engines before approval is granted.

The CRC study, released Jan. 29, concluded that E15 would result in fuel system failures in cars and other approved vehicles. The CRC is a non-profit organization that directs engineering and environmental studies on the interaction between automotive/other mobility equipment and petroleum products.

“This latest research is further evidence that E15 is not just an abstract public policy gone wrong; it’s likely to harm everyday consumers,” says Charlie Drevna, president of the American Fuel & Petrochemical Manufacturers trade association.

Drevna says the CRC engine durability study and newly released fuel pump study provide compelling evidence that the federal Environmental Protection Agency’s approval of E15 was premature.

Drevna says the Renewable Fuel Standard biofuel requirements first set by Congress in 2007 have become increasingly unworkable as fuel efficiency gains mean there is less gasoline to blend ethanol into without causing major issues for millions of cars, motorcycles, and small engines such as lawnmowers, snow blowers and chainsaws.

The RFS is a mandate put forth by the federal administration to increase vehicles’ average miles per gallon beginning in 2015. Supporters have often said ethanol blends are required to use less gasoline in the future.

“Unfortunately, despite warnings from AAA, small engine manufacturers and automakers that increasing ethanol concentration in gasoline could void vehicle warranties and jeopardize consumer safety, EPA has stood by its E15 decision,” Drevna says. “While Congress could not have anticipated that the Renewable Fuel Standard would backfire as badly as it has, increasing ethanol concentration in gasoline is not the appropriate response.”

NEW GAME PROMOTES MOTORCYCLE AWARENESS

There’s a new game that the creators hope will get motorists and their passengers to see motorcycles.

Called “Count Motorcycles,” the game and its website premiered at the New York Progressive International Motorcycle Show in late January.

Encourages Motorists To Look For Motorcycles

“I commute by motorcycle in and around New York. I saw a need for something more effective in promoting motorcycle awareness. I drew upon my experience in advertising and public service announcements to devise a new approach,” says Dave Accetta, creator of the game.

“My philosophy is different. Motorists look at you on your motorcycle as the one with the most to lose. They aren’t going to give you any special consideration just because you are on a bike. They feel your choice is your problem. They don’t want to hit you, but they aren’t going to work harder for you either. Any extra effort will be for themselves,” Accetta says.

“We at Count Motorcycles believe it has already been proven that you can’t go head to head with that kind of logic, so we go around it. Once you don’t care why someone looks for

CALIFORNIA AGENCY FINES VANCE & HINES $500,000

V&H Now Educating Consumers About Legal Exhaust Systems

The California Air Resources Board has fined Vance & Hines $500,000 for selling exhaust systems that didn’t have the proper CARB approval.

The case was settled in January.

CARB is part of the California Environmental Protection Agency and is responsible for promoting and protecting public health, welfare and ecological resources through the effective and efficient reduction of air pollutants while recognizing and considering the effects on the economy of the state.

CARB says that last year it found that Vance & Hines “sold, offered for sale, and/ or advertised, in California, aftermarket critical emission control parts. These parts were intended for use with, or as a part of, a required motor vehicle pollution control device or system that alters or modifies the original design or performance of the motor vehicle pollution control device or system.

“However, the parts were not issued ARB Executive

motorcycles you can actually get them to start,” he says.

Count Motorcycles, the game, accomplishes this by making a simple competition out of looking for motorcycles. It plays on people’s natural inclination to be competitive and play games to make people aware of motorcycles. The website—www. countmotorcycles.com— simply provides the game’s rules, point structure and a few “hints.”

Very little is said about motorcycle safety or statistics. Instead, the focus is on a quick set of rules and how points are awarded with suggestions to play “Punch-Buggy” style or to tally points at the end of a drive. By arranging the website this way, counting motorcycles is seen as fun and not a passive safety message, Accetta says.

“When people play the game they are finally actually looking for motorcycles,” Accetta says.

“My dream,” he says, “is that somewhere in future there is a mini-van full of kids or a carload of teens playing the Count Motorcycles game, pointing out motorcycles to the driver and competing to be the first to do it.”

Orders that exempt them from California’s anti-tampering laws,” CARB says.

“The Executive Orders ensure that the aftermarket critical emission control parts comply with the applicable aftermarket part regulations, and thus do not reduce the effectiveness of any vehicle pollution control system or cause the vehicle emissions to exceed applicable emission standards,” the agency says.

CARB notes Vance & Hines cooperated fully with the CARB investigation and has implemented a compliance plan to inform its distributors, dealers and customers about the types of motorcycle exhaust systems that are legal for sale in California.

In addition, Vance & Hines is working with CARB to ensure that all of its aftermarket critical emission control parts that are sold, offered for sale or advertised in California obtain the necessary approvals from CARB.

Vance & Hines notes: “Vance & Hines exhaust systems for non-catalyst equipped motorcycles as well as slipfit mufflers that mount downstream of catalysts are considered legal replacement parts in California.

“California does not, however, permit the use of aftermarket exhaust systems that remove original equipment catalysts unless a California Air

Resources Board (CARB) Executive Order has been issued. Please refer to CARB EO K-006 for Vance & Hines catalyzed exhaust systems that have received exemption from CARB. Exhaust systems that have not been granted an EO and remove original equipment catalysts are legal in California for racing use only.”

CARB rules put aftermarket parts in three sale and use categories:

1. Replacement Parts: CARB considers these parts to be equivalent to the stock parts they replace so they are legal to be sold and used.

2. Executive Order Parts: These are aftermarket parts that CARB has determined don’t adversely impact emissions. CARB grants these parts an executive order, which allows them to be sold and used. Vance & Hines notes: “Any aftermarket exhaust system that replaces or otherwise impacts emission control equipment, including catalytic converters, requires an EO to be sold and used on a motorcycle used on or off a public highway.”

3. Competition-Use Only Parts: These are aftermarket parts that replace or otherwise interfere with the operation of an emission control device, such as a catalytic converter or oxygen sensor, and may be sold and used only on a motorcycle that is used exclusively for closed-course competition.

MOTORCYCLE SAFETY FOUNDATION CELEBRATES 40 YEARS

Main Mission Is Safety Training

This year, the Motorcycle Safety Foundation celebrates 40 years of providing motorcyclists with rider training and education.

The MSF also initiates programs in public information and education, as well as public policy, with a goal of creating a safer riding environment.

Established in 1973 when few formal, research-based motorcyclist training programs existed, the not-for-profit MSF created an education training program that has evolved from a single learn-to-ride program into a comprehensive training system with the breadth and depth to address a variety of riders’ needs and interests and promote lifelong learning.

Since its inception, MSF curricula have been used to train approximately 6.5

million motorcyclists. The MSF says an increased training pace can be partially attributed to its relatively recent emphasis on adult learning principles, the practice of placing greater responsibility on the student, and overall learner-centered facilitation as opposed to instructorcentered instruction.

“So much has been learned about safety and learning methods over the last four decades,” says Ray Ochs, MSF vice president of training systems and lead developer of the groundbreaking MSF Basic RiderCourse.

“MSF looks at recent research and contemporary literature to ensure the best outcomes for riders. Program success results from being firmly rooted in substantive underpinnings, which include motorcyclerelated research and experience, general and traffic-related safety principles, a focus on adult and accelerated learning principles, and motor skills development principles.”

For safety information or to enroll in a RiderCourse, visit www.msf-usa.org or call (800) 446-9227.

NEW AMA FREEDOM FIGHTER

Legislative Assistant Hired In Washington, D.C.

Sean Hutson has joined the AMA Government Relations Department as legislative assistant in the Washington, D.C., office.

A native of Ohio, Hutson has managed volunteers and served as a legislative aide in the U.S. Senate.

Besides monitoring federal legislation and helping push the AMA agenda on Capitol Hill, Hutson will be heavily involved in federal agency rules and regulations.

He holds a master’s degree in political science from Ohio University in Athens, Ohio, as well as a bachelor’s degree in political science from Heidelberg College in Tiffin, Ohio.

He joined the AMA Government Relations Department on Feb. 1.

by location. An additional daily surcharge may apply for renters under 25 years old. Fuel charges are extra. Rental must begin by 12/31/12.

STATEWATCH

CONNECTICUT

The Department of Energy and Environmental Protection would be required to create and maintain off-highway vehicle trails, assist in OHV law enforcement and fund grants and related activities for people who operate all-terrain vehicles as well as to buy land for use by OHVs, under House Bill 5803, sponsored by Rep. Steve Mikutel (D-Griswold).

KENTUCKY

House Bill 137, sponsored by Rep. Kelly Flood (D-Lexington), would prohibit the operation of a motor vehicle in a manner that causes a collision and serious physical injury or death to a “vulnerable user of a public roadway.” The bill cites motorcyclists, among other types of users, as “vulnerable users of a public roadway.” It would also provide for enhanced penalties ranging from a fine of between $6,500 to $12,500, a jail term of up to a year, or both, for anyone convicted of, or pleading guilty to, a collision resulting in serious injury or death to a vulnerable roadway user.

A community labor program of not fewer than 100 hours and not more than 200 hours, plus successful completion of a traffic safety course, may be substituted if approved by the court. In addition, the

offender’s operating privilege or operator’s license would be suspended for no fewer than 30 days and no more than six months.

MISSOURI

Senate Bill 130, sponsored by Sen. Kurt Schaefer (R-Columbia), would provide for substantially enhanced penalties for anyone pleading guilty to, or convicted of, a right-ofway violation that results in physical injury, serious physical injury, or death to another roadway user.

NEBRASKA

No motorcycle passengers under the age of 8 would be allowed under Legislative Bill 181, sponsored by Sen. Bill Avery (NPAvery).

NEW JERSEY

Law enforcement agencies would be barred from conducting a roadside checkpoint or other systematic inspection of vehicles along public roads, streets, and highways if the checkpoint or inspection is established for the sole purpose of inspecting motorcycles, under Senate Bill 1685, sponsored by Sen. Jeff Van Drew (D-Dennis). A companion bill, Assembly Bill 508, was sponsored by Assemblyman Nelson Albano (D-Vineland).

PENNSYLVANIA

Rep. Frank Burns (D-Johnstown) has introduced two bills to curb motorcycle-only checkpoints.

Under House Bill 172, any commonwealth agency or political subdivision would be barred from accepting federal funds to establish a systematic vehicle inspection program based on stopping only a particular type of vehicle, such as a passenger car, truck or motorcycle. Federal funding could be accepted if a program stops only commercial motor vehicles.

House Bill 173 would prohibit a systematic vehicle inspection program based on stopping only a particular type of vehicle, such as a passenger car, truck or motorcycle. Commercial motor vehicles would continue to be subject to roadside stops under this bill.

RHODE ISLAND

House Bill 5061, sponsored by state Rep. Arthur Corvese (D-North Providence), would provide for enhanced penalties for motor vehicle violations at intersections and rightof-way violations that result in serious bodily injury or death.

CALIFORNIA POLICE ISSUE LANE-SHARING RULES

First-Time Rules For Popular California Practice

For the first time, the California Highway Patrol has released rules governing the longstanding practice of lane-sharing to aid in the safety of motorcyclists.

“Lane splitting in a safe and prudent manner is not illegal in the state of California,” the CHP said in releasing the rules in January. “The term lane splitting, sometimes known as lane sharing, filtering or white-lining, refers to the process of a motorcyclist riding between lanes of stopped or slower moving traffic or moving between lanes to the front of traffic.”

No other state allows lane sharing.

The CHP says motorcyclists should follow these guidelines:

1. Travel at a speed that is no more than 10 mph faster than other traffic.

2. It’s not advisable to lane split when the traffic flow is at 30 mph or faster.

3. Typically it’s better to split between the fast lane and the lane to the right of that lane than between other lanes.

4. Consider the total environment in which you are splitting, including the width of the lanes, size of surrounding vehicles, as well as roadway, weather and lighting conditions.

5. Be alert and anticipate possible movements by other road users.

The Four Rs or “Be-Attitudes” of lane-sharing, the CHP says, are: Be Reasonable, be Responsible, be Respectful, be aware of all Roadway and traffic conditions.

“Every rider has ultimate responsibility for his or her own decision-making and safety,” the CHP says.

OHIO TOWN CONSIDERS BAN ON BACKYARD RIDING

Riding Only Allowed Under Strict Conditions

The Stow, Ohio, City Council is considering a proposal to ban the riding of dirtbikes and all-terrain vehicles on private property except under certain conditions.

A rider could only ride legally if the property is larger than four acres in size and the rider has written permission from the property owner.

The CHP also has some messages for drivers:

1. Lane splitting by motorcycles isn’t illegal in California when done in a safe and prudent manner.

2. Motorists shouldn’t take it upon themselves to discourage motorcyclists from lane splitting.

3. Intentionally blocking or impeding a motorcyclist in a way that could cause harm to the rider is illegal, as is opening a vehicle door to impede a motorcycle.

To see the full guidelines, go to www. chp.ca.gov/programs/lanesplitguide.html.

The rider also would be barred from riding within 150 feet of any building, street or boundary line of an adjoining property.

Council members considered the proposal in committee in February and sent it to the full Council for further consideration.

Under the proposal, a first-time offender would face a fine of up to $150. Repeat offenders would face fines of up to $250 and up to 30 days in jail.

Nick Haris, AMA Western states representative who is a specialist in offhighway issues, says he sees a variety of problems with the proposal, ranging from banning people from plowing snow from their own driveways with ATVs to virtually banning all riding because it could be that once a rider measures 150 feet to a property line and 150 feet to a road or house there is no space left to ride on the property.

ADAM ENTICKNAP: AMA SUPERCROSS RACER

Behind Superstars Are Privateers Who Provide The Backbone Of The Premier Sport Story And Photos By Jeff Kardas

Motorcycle racing’s premier level is a tough nut to crack, and no one knows that better than the hundreds of privately funded individuals who make a run at the sport’s top riders every Saturday night in the AMA Supercross Series.

Known collectively as privateers, these professional racers chase the dream of making their mark on the sport the oldfashioned way: by earning it (and paying for it out of their own pockets).

That each rider has the opportunity to earn a spot on the line is one of the reasons AMA Supercross is unique in the world of professional motorsports. Compared to, say, NASCAR or Formula 1 racing—or even regional four-wheel racing series—AMA Supercross is a relative bargain. But that doesn’t mean it’s cheap—far from it—and the physical toll in what remains one of the world’s most demanding athletic pursuits is substantial.

Case in point: Central California’s 22-year-old Adam Enticknap Jr. A privateer in every sense of the word, Enticknap and his No. 722 Honda CRF450R have been a staple on the AMA Supercross circuit for the last couple of seasons.

Racing locally since he was 9 years old, Enticknap moved up the ladder through the amateur ranks by traveling the country with his family to make a name for himself.

As many others before him, hitting top national and regional motocross races— such as Loretta Lynn’s, Lake Whitney, Oak Hill and Mammoth—for a few seasons taught Adam the speed and commitment necessary to go pro.

With his father, Adam Sr., at the helm, the two decided that solid results at the top amateur level left them with a decision—either quit while they were ahead or double down and make a run for pro glory. They chose the latter.

The first step was to tackle the AMA Pro-Am circuit and earn enough points for an AMA Supercross license. One path to this goal is to race the AMA Arenacross Series, which Adam and his father did, driving as far east as Ohio, earning the necessary points after seven rounds.

Just earning an AMA Supercross license is a significant accomplishment, and simply competing at the Pro-Am level is beyond most riders’ abilities. Only those who are at the top of the sport can do well

enough once there to earn the necessary points for a pro license.

Adam reached his goal, and in January 2012 found himself on the starting line of AMA Supercross. We caught up with the pro privateer almost exactly one year later to chronicle his AMA Supercross experience.

jRacing at this level doesn’t come cheaply. Not only are there the transportation costs for the bike and tools, but there’s the bike itself as well as the maintenance, modifications, tires, etc.

To make professional racing viable for the average person, it’s necessary to get creative with financial or logistical backing.

The Enticknaps have joined a program put together by Teddy Parks Sr., who’s at the helm of a group known collectively as Privateer Journey (www.privateerjourney. com). Parks offers a few riders at Adam’s level (for a nominal fee) bike and rider transportation to all 17 rounds of the AMA Supercross Series, as well as a motorcoach to call home at the track and a professional pit area.

Along for the ride are a variety of sponsors that support each rider, performance parts and other supporting products that unify the riders and promote the team concept. Between Parks and the others, including Pro Circuit Racing, Jake

Humphries, Fly Racing, Moto Tasinari and more, Adam makes it work.

The rest is squarely on Adam’s shoulders. For many privateers, just finding a decent Supercross track to practice on is a key factor limiting their rise to the top.

The Enticknap family is located only a stone’s throw from the popular Castillo Ranch, owned by longtime family friend Jim Castillo. The track features not only world-class moto and freeriding opportunities, but also a Supercross track worthy of the likes of Chad Reed, who practices there regularly.

Of course, the more Adam rides, the more he wears out his practice bike, as well as the various parts that are swapped between the practice and race chassis. Physical fitness is also a priority. Adam has to focus on eating right and training properly. It’s easily a 40-hour workweek— one that ends with the office moving to a stadium packed with upward of 60,000 people to witness the success, or failure, of Adam’s efforts.

The measure of those efforts is clear: to make main events. Of nearly 80 entries each weekend, only half make it to the night show and of those 40, only half make it to a main event. Those 20 are collectively referred to as the fastest Supercross racers in the world, and Adam is still trying to be considered among that elite group. Last year, the No. 722 managed to qualify for the night show at 14 of 17 rounds but never quite made it to a main event (missing by just one spot at the Las Vegas final). This year has not been as kind, as a pre-season knee injury kept Adam off the bike until just a month or so before the season started—not enough time to prepare for racing what’s considered the deepest talent field in the sport’s history.

The motivation for making night shows

or even main events is twofold. Not only will it mean cementing Adam as one of the best, but there’s also money at stake. The difference between making a night show and not making it is roughly $1,000 in promoter and other payouts. To make a main event will land, at a minimum, around $4,500 in combined cash earnings.

Adam and his dad are the perfect example of a privateer team making a run at the sport’s highest level. Their lifelong love of motocross and Supercross knows no bounds. The family has another rider in the wings. Adam’s younger brother, Tyler, who his dad says is equally driven and committed as Adam (and maybe even a little faster). No question, the Enticknaps are in deep and will do everything they can to be racing for AMA Supercross excellence for years to come.

It is not unusual to travel to the back of the pit area at an AMA Supercross race, out past the 18-wheelers of the factorysupported teams, to find the cargo vans and occasional pickup trucks hauling the bikes and riders that make up the bulk of the racers. While this gives nonfactory-supported riders an opportunity to compete against the best, the promoter and sanctioning body must make sure that hungry young riders and smaller teams don’t compromise safety on the track.

One method to control the madness is to make sure each bike lining up for qualifying adheres to the same rules, governing everything from sound emissions to number legibility to safety standards. The playing field must be safe before it can be open for business.

We followed the Enticknaps through a typical Saturday morning AMA technical inspection process at the Oakland Supercross to see just what’s involved.

kFirst things first, and that means checking each exhaust on each bike to see that it complies with the AMA rulebook for sound output levels. Currently, the FIM-mandated limit for sound, which the AMA has adopted, is 115 decibels tested using the 2-MeterMax method. Each rider/mechanic must take the bike to be checked at a predetermined spot. Legal exhausts are marked to deter tampering. After qualifying, and purely at random, a few exhausts are re-evaluated as they leave the track. Sound check begins Friday afternoon and can happen as late as 11

a.m. Saturday, just prior to track walk.

lAt tech inspection, AMA workers check a bike’s legitimacy and compliance with the 2013 AMA Supercross Rulebook. Here, Adam Sr. and Adam Jr. escort the No. 722 Honda to the tech line.

Upon arrival, it’s clear which class has the most entries. The 250SX lineup for tech is usually quite a bit longer than that for the 450SX class. The Enticknaps head straight into the tech area and start the process with a smile, as Oakland’s O.co Coliseum looms in the background.

Continued on page 24.

GX SPORT SERIES 3 JACKET

GX Sport Series 3 Jacket by Cortech: The high-tech riding jacket built to perform

+ Performance-cut 600-denier Carbolex® shell incorporates 1680-denier Ballistic Polyester material in the elbows and shoulders + Rainguard® waterproof and breathable barrier + Soft microfiber-lined mandarin-style collar + Waterproof zippered chest vents combine with sleeve vents and rear exhaust vents for flow-through ventilation + Pre-curved and rotated sleeves increase riding comfort + Adjustable take-up strap at the biceps + Phoslite® reflective piping and rear triangle increase nighttime visibility + Removable, CE-approved armor at the elbows and shoulders + Articulated triple-density back protector + Quilted zip-out liner with 100-gram Polyfill insulation + Hand-warmer pockets

KEVIN WINDHAM RETIRES

Popular AMA Supercross Rider Calls It A Career

Kevin Windham has decided that 19 years is enough. The 34-year-old AMA Supercross star announced his retirement at Anaheim II, round three of the 2013 AMA Supercross season.

The GEICO Honda rider has 19 AMA Supercross main event wins, more than 200 Supercross starts and two Supercross regional titles. He finished second in points for the premier class three times in his career.

“I would love nothing more than to ride forever,” says Windham, who made his official announcement during rider introductions. “The choice (to retire) was going to be hard no matter when I did it.”

Windham’s team manager at

check out the AMA District 37 Big 6 Grand Prix Series.”

The Big 6 is an AMA District 37 organization that sponsors eight race events each year. The races attract more than 1,000 entrants at each round.

“This series is one of the most accessible in the region,” says Mike Garvin, series media relations officer. “There are classes for all ages and abilities, and with all the recent rains, epic

GEICO Honda, Mike LaRocco, is the only rider with more Supercross starts than Windham. LaRocco says he understands Windham’s decision.

“When you are comfortable with what you’ve done and what you have, it’s hard taking that risk [to keep racing],” he says.

Windham, who has become a true fan favorite, says he’ll miss the sport’s loyal fan following the most.

“The fans of Supercross have been amazing to me,” Windham says. “Those trophies aren’t made of anything, and they’ll just sit there and collect dust. When you have people who come up and share their favorite moments that you gave them, it’s a huge part of why I stuck around as long as I did. It means something to them, and in turn those memories mean something to me.”

conditions are inevitable.”

For details, see www.big6racing.com. The schedule is on page 54.

- Designed to increase horsepower and acceleration - Pleated media provides a large surface area for long service intervals

Washable high-flow cotton media - Fits directly into your OE air box

JOHN PENTON MOVIE CAMPAIGN EXCEEDS FUNDING

The 60-day crowd-sourcing pledge campaign to fund the production of a film about motorcycle off-road and innovation pioneer and AMA Motorcycle Hall of Famer John Penton on Kickstarter.com, ended successfully with $160,315.50 raised, eclipsing the goal of $150,000. The 562 backers of the film pledged between $1 and $10,000 to help the filmmakers, Pipeline Digital Media, reach their goal.

Production begins in March.

“We are so thankful to all the companies and individuals who believe in this project and made it happen,” says Todd Huffman, the films’ producer and director at Pipeline Digital Media. “Getting to start on this important story about the Pentons is truly special.”

John Penton is an American icon and motorcycle racing and innovation pioneer. He was a championship off-road rider and record setter of the motorcycle transcontinental speed record in 1959, aboard a BMW. In the late 1960’s he developed his own Penton motorcycle brand, which was manufactured by KTM in Austria. The Penton brand became an international championship brand in both off-road and motocross before being taken over in 1978 by KTM.

AMERICAN MOTORCYCLIST OFFERS STREET, DIRT VERSIONS

Welcome to the latest evolution of American Motorcyclist magazine.

Starting with this issue, we are producing two versions—a “dirt” version that includes more off-highway and competition content and a “street” version that includes more stories for road riders.

One of the AMA’s strengths is the diversity of our membership—enduro racers, motocross families, cruiser riders, sportbikers, long-distance touring riders and more. That’s cool because we’re all united for the common goal of protecting and promoting motorcycling. What’s not always cool is that a magazine can print only so many pages each month. Inevitably, a lot content you’d like to read doesn’t make it past the editor’s desk.

For this first run, we are sending the dirt version to members who have already opted to receive this content—those who subscribed to the quarterly AMA Racer insert. If you were placed into the wrong camp, no problem! Just call us at (800) 262-5646 and tell us which version you want going forward.

Of course, members can access both versions online for free at www.americanmotorcyclist.com.

More Of What You Want

We hope you enjoy your new and improved magazine. Please share any feedback at submissions@ama-cycle.org.

FAQ

Who gets the dirt version and who gets the street version?

For the first split, we are sending the dirt version to the roughly 60,000 subscribers to the quarterly AMA Racer insert. Everyone else gets the street version. What happens to AMA Racer?

That content moves to the dirt version of the magazine, except it’s now monthly instead of quarterly.

Did I get the street or dirt version?

Look at the cover. If you see a photo of Mike Doerner getting ready to ride his GSX-R, you have the street version. If you see the smiling faces of AMA Supercross privateer Adam Enticknap Jr. and his dad, you have the dirt version.

How do I switch versions?

Call AMA Member Services at (800) 262-5646 and ask to switch. Tell them you want the “street” version or the “dirt” version of the magazine.

Can I get both versions?

Online, yes. AMA members can access both versions of the magazine online at www.americanmotorcyclist.com.

OFF-ROAD’S BEST TO RACE AT MONTANA’S BIG SKY

No. 1 Plates On The Line

For more than four decades, the AMA has recognized the best amateur motorcycle racers in America at AMA Amateur National and Grand Championship events. In 2013, hare scrambles, enduro, cross-country and grand prix racers will face off at a national championship event of their own: the AMA Kenda Big Sky Amateur National Off-Road Championship, presented by KLIM, on

Aug. 24-25 at Montana’s Big Sky Resort.

“In the same way the AMA Dirt Track Grand Championships and the AMA Amateur National Motocross Championship at Loretta Lynn’s award national titles, the AMA Kenda Big Sky Amateur National Off-Road Championship, presented by KLIM, will recognize the best off-road riders in the country,” says AMA Off-Road Racing Manager Chuck Weir. “Riders will come from a range of backgrounds—enduro, hare scrambles, EnduroCross, cross country, desert racing—to battle for bragging rights.”

Sky qualifiers, a top-10 finish in final 2012 points in one of 13 premier off-road racing series in the United States and Canada, or being in the top 10 in points as of July 15, 2013, in those same series.

The national also will allow a limited number of open positions, available on July 15. Details: www.bigskyxc.com.

Qualifying Events

Top-10 class finish required

• March 24: AMA National Enduro Championship, Blackwell, Texas

• April 6-7: AMA Pipestone XC, Whitehall, Mont.

• April 13-14: AMA MACC, Monster Mountain XC, Madison, Ind.

• April 14: AMA East Hare Scrambles Championship, Arrington, Va.

First-place finishers in every class will receive an AMA national No. 1 plate. The top-three riders in each class will be invited to the annual AMA Championship Banquet. Classes cover a range of skill-, age- and motorcycle-defined categories.

The Big Sky XC has been one of the most popular off-road events in the country in recent years.

• April 20 (Youth), April 28 (Amateur): AMA SERA Enduro, Westpoint, Tenn.

• May 5: AMA WNYOA Dream Riders, Van Etten, N.Y.

• May 12: AMA D23, Millville, Minn.

• July 6-7: AMA West Hare Scrambles Championship, Elkton, Ore.

• July 6-7: Shale Shaker XC, Blairmore, AB, Canada

“Off-road racing is what we do best, and Big Sky XC is ready to step up and provide a national-caliber experience to riders in all classes at the AMA Kenda Big Sky Amateur National OffRoad Championship, presented by KLIM,” says event promoter Joe Miller. “One way we will do that is to continue to enhance our pro class, offering a $10,000 purse, and showcasing the amazing talents of these world-class riders.”

Qualifying credentials include a top-10 finish at one of 12 regional Climb to Big

Qualifying Series

Must have finished in the top 10 in class in 2012 or be in the top 10 in class points as of July 15, 2013: AMA West or East Hare Scrambles Championship Series, AMA National Enduro Series, AMA Mid-America Cross Country National Championship Series, AMA National Hare & Hound Series, AMA EnduroCross Series, AMA Western Checkpoint Enduro Series, AMA District 37 Big 6 Grand Prix Series, AMA Virginia Championship Hare Scrambles Series, AMA Mid-South Winter Championship Cross Country Series, AMA NETRA, AMA SETRA, AMA WNYOA, Western Canada Cross Country Series.

AMA DIRT TRACK GRAND CHAMPIONSHIPS: MAY 28-31, SPRINGFIELD, ILL.

Includes TT, Short-Track, Half-Mile And Mile Competition

The 2013 AMA Dirt Track Grand Championships will take place at the Illinois State Fairgrounds in Springfield, Ill., May 28-31, bringing the fastest amateur dirt-track racers on the planet to one of the sport’s most historic venues.

“For 39 years, the AMA Dirt Track Grand Championships have crowned the country’s top amateur dirt trackers, making this one of the oldest and most prestigious amateur motorsports events in America,” says AMA Track Racing Manager Ken Saillant. “The world-famous Springfield Mile has been the location of many storied dirt-track races, and we’re excited to add to that legacy with what will be an incredible week of racing.”

Longtime dirt-track promoter Steve Nace of Steve Nace Racing will promote the event.

“The AMA Dirt Track Grand Championships represent the top rung of amateur dirt-track racing,” Nace says. “We are excited to once again work on this premier event, and we’re looking forward to delivering a well-run program.”

The AMA Dirt Track Grand Championships crown amateur and youth champions in individual dirt-track disciplines, including half-mile, TT and short-track events. Amateur racers also compete in mile events.

Tuesday, May 28 will feature amateur and vintage competition on the Springfield Mile. On Wednesday, May 29, youth and amateur classes will compete on the TT course. On Thursday, May 30, youth and amateur classes will race on the short track. Then, on Friday, May 31, the event will close out with youth and amateur racing on the half mile. June 1 will serve as a rain date, if needed.

Online entry will be available soon at www.stevenaceracing.com.

In addition to individual discipline championships, Grand Championships are awarded to riders in each class who have the highest point totals across all four types of dirt-track racing. The fastest riders in premier classes also compete for the AMA Dirt Track Horizon Award, which honors the amateur racer poised for success on the pro level.

1978 HUSQVARNA 250WR

Dick Burleson’s ISDT Winner

From 1974 to 1981, AMA Motorcycle Hall of Famer Dick Burleson won eight consecutive AMA National Enduro championships. Burleson’s total domination of the sport earned him the nickname “King Richard.”

In addition to his incredible domestic record, Burleson also won eight consecutive gold medals in the International Six Days Trials (now called the International Six Days Enduro). He won his fifth gold medal, in Sweden, aboard this bike: a 1978 Husqvarna 250WR.

Photos Jeff Guciardo

“It was an extremely rocky and tough race,” Burleson says. “That’s what I remember—gnarly. The bike was designed in Sweden and ridden a lot there, so it held up well.”

Today this Husqvarna, with its sixspeed transmission and its 245cc, twostroke engine, still looks just as it did 35 years ago.

“Back in those days, we thought stock was best and this bike represents more of a production race bike,” Burleson says. “Today, my favorite aspect is that it is frozen in time. This bike is in exactly

the same state as when I finished the race, other than being washed—same tires and all.”

Among American off-road racers, Burleson is one of the all-time greats. And this 1978 Husqvarna 250WR helped him achieve legendary status.

Burleson announced his retirement from national competition at the end of 1981. He was inducted into the AMA Motorcycle Hall of Fame in 1998.

For more information on historic bikes and the AMA Motorcycle Hall of Fame, go to www.motorcyclemuseum.org.

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

Hall of Famer

JEREMY MCGRATH

Jeremy McGrath, a seven-time AMA Supercross champion, was easily the most popular U.S. motorcycle racer of the 1990s.

He starred in television ads for a popular long-distance telephone service, appeared on network television shows and was featured in countless newspaper and magazine articles during his reign as the “King of Supercross.”

AMA Supercross grew rapidly during what became known as the “McGrath Era.” He dominated AMA Supercross like no other rider before him and rewrote the record books. His riding tricks while leaping the high jumps of Supercross—the most famous called the “Nac Nac”—helped spawn freestyle motocross.

In addition to his seven AMA Supercross and one AMA motocross championships, McGrath twice represented the United States in the prestigious Motocross des Nations competition—the 1993 and 1996 winning teams.

The King Of Supercross

Born in San Francisco in 1971, McGrath honed his early racing skills on the BMX (bicycle motocross) circuit. By age 15, while one of the leading BMX racers in the nation, he switched to motocross.

After riding only three years as an amateur, McGrath made his AMA debut in 1989. He finished his first Supercross season ranked eighth in the 125 West Region Series.

Riding for Kawasaki’s support squad in 1990, McGrath began to make his first impact on the sport. That year, he won his first 125

West Region Supercross race in Las Vegas and finished the season ranked second in the series. McGrath won the 125 West Supercross title in 1991 and 1992.

After winning his first AMA Supercross race in Anaheim, Calif., in January 1993, the floodgates were opened. McGrath went on to dominate the 1993 AMA Supercross Series, winning 10 races and earning the championship.

McGrath’s amazing 1993 season proved to be just the tip of the iceberg. From 1993 until his retirement from full-time Supercross racing after the 2002 season, McGrath obliterated every record in AMA Supercross racing. He won the AMA Supercross Championship seven times—1993, ’94, ’95, ’96, ’98, ’99 and 2000— and usually in dominating fashion.

The stats McGrath compiled in AMA Supercross are simply astounding. A recordshattering 72 career AMA Supercross victories, seven AMA Supercross championships, a single-season record of 14 Supercross wins, the longest winning streak in series history at 13, and the most consecutive seasons with an AMA Supercross win at nine. At the time of his retirement, he also held the coveted record of the most combined AMA Supercross and motocross victories with 89 career wins. McGrath was inducted into the AMA Motorcycle Hall of Fame in 2003.

For more, go to www.motorcyclemuseum.org.

Put yourself in the AMA Motorcycle Hall of Fame Museum

The AMA Motorcycle Hall of Fame is YOUR hall of fame—we couldn’t exist without the generous support of our donors. Now there’s a new way for you to show that support in a very visible way: My Hall of Fame. The idea is simple: A $20 donation gets you a 3-inch-square space on the wall in the Hall of Fame entrance foyer that hangs during the campaign year. Want a bigger space? A 6-inch square is an $80 donation, and a 9-inch square is a $180 donation. You also get an official certificate noting that your picture is on display in the AMA Motorcycle Hall of Fame.

Hang your picture, your kid’s picture, your company logo, almost anything. It’s up to you! Get in the AMA Motorcycle Hall of Fame today!

JOIN OR RENEW your AMA membership in 2013 and you could

As the proud sponsor of the AMA Yamaha Super Tenere National Adventure Touring Series, Yamaha is awarding one lucky member a new 2013 Super Tenere! Riders participating in the series will also be automatically entered.

TUCKER ROCKY CUSTOM ROAD GLIDE

One lucky winner will take home this Tucker Rocky Custom Road Glide with high-end components from S&S, Progressive Suspension, Arlen Ness, PIAA and many other Tucker Rocky partner companies.

The best part? You’re automatically entered when you join or renew between Jan. 30, 2013 and Dec. 31, 2013.

GO RIDE!

AMA Rides And Rallies Include America’s Best

America is a big country, and the best way to experience it is on your motorcycle.

AMA-sanctioned recreational events offer a great way to plan the riding season. The AMA Premier Touring Series includes a long list of destination rallies that represent the nation’s best, whether you’re looking to experience mega gatherings or the more intimate scene you find at smaller, local meets.

You’ll also find a number of organized rides, ranging from those with designated routes—down to a turn—

to those that suggest a general theme and leave the details up to you.

Here’s a guide to several of the exciting events that the AMA and its promoting partners have scheduled for 2013. You can find many more in the calendar section of this magazine and online at www.americanmotorcyclist.com.

Of course, not every ride or destination has to involve an organized event, and we encourage you to get out on your bike—often. Need some help filling out your year’s to-ride list? We asked our members and Facebook fans the one ride they would suggest to someone for 2013. Those suggestions are scattered throughout this story.

There’s a lot of road out there. Now go ride it!

AMA PREMIER TOURING SERIES

America’s Best

Road Events

AMA-chartered clubs and promoters organize the greatest road-riding events on the planet. Whether you want to join tens of thousands of fellow riders at a mega-rally, or take part in a local charity ride, there’s something for you on the AMA-sanctioned event calendar.

Events on the AMA Premier Touring Series calendar include AMA Gypsy Tours, AMA Touring Rallies, AMA Signature

Events and AMA Grand Tours. Each category offers activities to appeal to a range of riders, making these events the best road-riding happenings anywhere. In addition to these national events, the AMA sanctions numerous District rallies and tours that are smaller and are great places to meet other riders from your area. For local events this month, see the calendar of AMA-sanctioned events that begins on page 49. For events throughout the year, check out the searchable database at www.americanmotorcyclist.com.

AMA National Rally

AMA National Rallies are AMAproduced and promoted events that include a range of activities, including seminars, bike shows, organized rides, swap meets, racing, field meets, demo rides, vendor displays and more. Featuring significant AMA presence and support, AMA National Rallies further the AMA’s goals of protecting and promoting the motorcycling lifestyle. This year’s calendar

includes one national rally, AMA Vintage Motorcycle Days.

AMA Vintage Motorcycle Days: July 1921, Lexington, Ohio

AMA Vintage Motorcycle Days at Mid-Ohio Sports Car Course in Lexington, Ohio, is bursting with vintage coolness. It features North America’s largest motorcycle-related swap meet, vintage racing, new bike demo rides and much, much more.

AMA Vintage Motorcycle Days includes anything you could ever want from a vintage motorcycle event, from old Indian motorcycles to 1980s motocrossers to café racers, national championship racing and heroes of yesteryear.

The event also is the largest annual fund-raising campaign for the AMA Motorcycle Hall of Fame, which is located on the AMA campus in Pickerington, Ohio. That means numerous Hall of Fame members are always on location to meet and greet, as well as enjoy all the historic motorcycles, world-class speakers and entertaining displays that are all part of the

WHERE WOULD YOU RIDE?

“Take the ferry from St. John in New Brunswick, Canada, to Digby in Nova Scotia. Tour on up via Halifax to the Cabot Trail for stunning views of mountains on one side and the ocean on the other. Also, the locals are the darn friendliest folks I have ever met! (Must be an island community thing.) And have the Tim Horton’s coffee.—Brenda Jean

excitement.

As a special bonus this year, AMA members can save $10 off a weekend pass and $5 off a daily pass by buying their ticket early directly from the AMA. Just call (800) 262-5646. Best of all, there are no annoying convenience or processing charges when you buy directly from the AMA. Offer ends May 27.

Oh yeah, and kids under 12 get in free! Find out more at www.amavintagemotorcycledays.com.

AMA National Conventions

AMA National Conventions are the top tier of AMA-sanctioned rides and rallies. Put on by the AMA’s promoting clubs and organizers, these rides are the best of the best, where you’ll find thousands of like-minded riders in some of the most beautiful places in the country. Want to go big? Go here.

Americade, AMA National Convention: June 1-8, Lake George, N.Y.

What It Is: One of the largest roadriding rallies on the planet, Americade is held in picturesque Lake George, N.Y., and features legendary roads in the 6-millionacre Adirondack National Park. It’s billed as a great motorcycle vacation, which it certainly is.

Why It’s Cool: Americade is a laidback, road-riding touring destination with a family friendly atmosphere. Besides the great riding and camaraderie, the event offers a variety of activities including ghost tours, boat cruises, poker runs, fireworks,

WHERE WOULD YOU RIDE?

“Ohio’s Triple Nickel. OH-555. Smooth roads, great scenery, awesome twisties and fast sweepers. Getcha some!”— Daniel Dano Soha

horseback riding, whitewater rafting, bike judging, a light parade and much more.

What You Wouldn’t Expect: Americade attracts thousands of motorcyclists, but the sound level is low—quiet bikes and responsible riding are the norm.

Bonus: Americade has a long history of focusing on rider advocacy, activism and education, offering classes and seminars that benefit motorcyclists during the entire riding season.

Info: www.americade.com

Golden Aspen Motorcycle Rally, AMA National Convention: Sept. 18-23, Ruidoso, N.M.

What It Is: The Golden Aspen Motorcycle Rally is a huge event in the town of Ruidoso, high in the Rocky Mountains of southeastern New Mexico.

Why It’s Cool: The great fall temperatures, roads twisting up into the mountains and shaded pines all combine to make this rally an almost spiritual experience. Plus, there will be a massive trade show, and multiple poker runs.

Unexpected: Any self-respecting alien hunter should make the 70-mile jaunt from Ruidoso to Roswell, N.M., to check out its rich history of extraterrestrials, and maybe catch a glimpse of who-knows-what!

Info: www.motorcyclerally.com

APRIL IS AMA GO RIDE! MONTH

It’s Time To Enjoy Your Motorcycle

For most of the country, motorcyclists don’t get much riding in over the winter months. If this doesn’t apply to you due to your latitude or your hardiness, great! If you’re like the rest of us, then you’re probably beyond ready to go ride.

This is the idea behind AMA Go Ride! Month. Every April, we remind ourselves about all the cool stuff we

can do on our motorcycles, and then we encourage each other to go out and do it.

Regardless of your passion, whether it’s road touring or motocross, it’s time to strap on your helmet and go! For more inspiration—and some great contests where you can win cool stuff—see www.americanmotorcyclist. com as well as our Facebook page at www.facebook.com/americanmotorcyclist.

SHARE THE RIDE ONLINE

AMA Member Gallery

Like the photos you see on these pages? They’re some of the best that AMA members have to offer. And the best place for you to share your pix is online at American Motorcyclist’s new online gallery for member-submitted photos.

Located at www.gallery. americanmotorcyclist.com, the gallery includes more than 1,000 images of member rides and AMA events, with more added daily. What’s missing here? It might be you. If you haven’t yet sent your best photo, or best two or six, to submissions@ ama-cycle.org, what are you waiting for?

AMA National Touring Rallies

AMA Touring Rallies take the Gypsy Tour concept and mix in more options for riding during the event. Often built around guided local tours and organized riding events, AMA Touring Rallies are open to riders of all stripes but generally attract those who can’t stay off the bike. Below are national-level events.

Aspencash Rally: May 16-23, Ruidoso, N.M.

What it is: The sister rally to an AMA National Convention, the Golden Aspen Rally, AspenCash is the West’s biggest National Touring Rally set in New Mexico’s scenic Sierra Blanca mountains and offers

a great way to kick off the rally season in the Southwest.

Why It’s Cool: How does a rally with great riding, a huge trade show, great food and outstanding entertainment sound to you? Perfect? That’s why AspenCash has been a must-do on the season calendar of thousands of riders. Riders from as far away as Alaska and Florida make the journey year-in and year-out to this motorcycling mecca.

Unexpected: The roads are magnificent. They run to the top of Sierra Blanca Peak, which, as the highest point in southern New Mexico at 12,000 feet, is a must-do ride.

Bonus: $10,000 Poker Run—’nuff said.

Info: www.motorcyclerally.com

STAR 2013, AMA National Touring Rally: June 23-26, Lexington, Ky.

What it is: The Motorcycle Sport Touring Association has brought one of the best “riding rallies” back east to Kentucky for 2013. Enjoy outstanding riding, seminars, vendors and camaraderie in the Bluegrass State.

Why It’s Cool: Outstanding road, scenic landscape, and some of the friendliest folks you’d ever want to meet.

Bonus: A free tour of the Buffalo Trace Distillery. Need we say more?

Info: www.ridemsta.com

2013 RoadRUNNER Motorcycle Touring & Travel Annual Touring Weekend: July 11-14, Maggie Valley, N.C.

What it is: The event is held in memory

FIND RIDES ONLINE

Explore The Great Roads Database

We all need a little help from our friends sometimes, and that’s where the AMA Great Roads database comes in.

Available online exclusively to members, it includes routes tested and suggested by AMA members, organized by state.

To access the AMA Great Roads database, go to www.americanmotorcyclist.com/asp/membersonly/ roads/ama_roads_database_home.asp. You will need to log in to the Members Area. If you don’t have an account, it’s easy to set one up. Best of all, it’s free to members.

WHERE WOULD YOU RIDE?

“The Springfield Mile is the best show on dirt. If you have not seen this in person yet, it is a great show and all the riders are very accessible and happy to see fans! Plan a ride there and stay all weekend.”—Jerry Farmer

of RoadRUNNER magazine’s founder Christian Neuhauser. Each year in mid-July like-minded motorcyclists meet for a long weekend of riding, seminars, and making new friends. The event attracts the serious touring enthusiasts. Participants usually choose one of the guided tours led by the editors of the magazine, but unguided tours are also an option as everybody gets the signature tank bag maps and GPS files ahead of time.

Why It’s Cool: This year will be the biggest Touring Weekend yet, with more tours, the addition of an off-road guided tour, select vendors, seminars by RoadRUNNER editors and vendors, outdoor live music, door prizes, great food, and even vintage motorcycles! The North Carolina mountains are one of the best areas to ride with endless curves and scenic views.

Info: www.roadrunner.travel/events/ touring-weekend/

Rally In The Gorge, AMA National Touring Rally: July 31-Aug. 4, Stephenson, Wash.

What it is: Back and better than ever, the 2013 Rally In the Gorge celebrates diversity in riding with rides, poker runs, seminars, vendors and on-site camping at

Continued on page 46

the Skamania Fair Grounds.

Why It’s Cool: Set in the national scenic area of the Columbia River Gorge. Combine sportbikes, sport-tourers, maxi-scooters, adventure bikes and dualsports, and you get the biggest little rally in America.

Bonus: It’s four rallies in one!

Info: www.soundrider.com/rally

AMA Gypsy Tours

One of the oldest touring experiences in all of motorcycling, AMA Gypsy Tours began as one-day events held around the country where riders would travel to a specific site and enjoy the company of like-minded riders. Field-meet games like Bite the Weenie and Ride the Plank were popularized at AMA Gypsy Tours, and

picnics evolved into big gatherings. Below are national-level events. For information on Regional and Local events, see www. americanmotorcyclist.com/Riding/Street/ PremierTouringSeries.aspx.

Laughlin River Run, April 24-28, Laughlin, Nev.

This is one of the largest motorcycle events on the west coast. It will feature the historic U.S. Route 66 the way it was meant to be seen. Turn back time as you ride the hills from Kingman to Oatman, Ariz. Cool off in the Colorado River or test lady luck at any one of the casinos located on the strip.

Info: www.laughlinriverrun.com

AMA SIGNATURE EVENTS

Ride For A Cause

These events showcase motorcycle riders giving back to communities. They include fund-raising charity rides, poker runs and more.

One high-profile example is the Pediatric Brain Tumor Foundation’s national Ride For Kids program, which has become one of the most successful fund-raising efforts among motorcyclists in the nation. Held in cities throughout the country, Ride for Kids events feature phenomenal planning, great

scenery, wonderful camaraderie and the opportunity to fund research to find a cure and help families struggling with the diagnosis and treatment of a child’s brain tumor. Find out more at www.rideforkids. org.

Another high-profile charity ride is Twisted Sister front man Dee Snider’s annual Bikers for Babies event, which supports the March of Dimes and conveys the seriousness of premature birth defects. You can get more information at www.bikersforbabies.org.

Republic of Texas (R.O.T.) Rally, June 13-16, Austin, Texas

The rally, one of the biggest in the country, is held at the Travis County Exposition Center in Northeast Austin Texas and is known for its high-caliber music acts. Enthusiasts come enjoy the amazing motorcycles, the Austin nightlife and to ride some fine roads in Texas.

Info: www.rotrally.com

Laconia Motorcycle Week, June 8-16, Laconia, N.H.

This year marks the 89th anniversary of one of the country’s premier motorcycling events, and you can expect Laconia

WHERE WOULD YOU RIDE?

“If you like the twisties, go to Shady Valley. Highway 421 from Bristol, Tenn., to Boone, N.C. is 489 turns, 33 miles, three mountains, one valley, low traffic.”—Bob Weymouth

WHERE WOULD YOU RIDE?

“Pack up the bike. Pick a direction. Plan nothing. The less you plan, the more open you are to the opportunities you come across.”—John Kuntz

Motorcycle Week to offer all of your favorite events as well as some new ones. The week is jam-packed with action, motorcycle racing and motorcycling activities. See the website for lodging options as well as the downloadable Laconia Rally News, which covers the event in detail.

Info: www.laconiamcweek.com

Thunder in the Valley, June 20-23, Johnstown, Pa.

Rally planners make every effort to provide a wide variety of events and activities so everyone, including area residents who roll out the welcome mat for visiting bikers, enjoys the rally. Maps of scenic rides, the official program book, visitors guides and attraction brochures are available at the welcome tent. Vendors will be located in four downtown areas. There will also be live musical entertainment with bands playing rock, oldies, blues, country and jazz.

Info: www.visitjohnstownpa.com/ thunderinthevalley/

36th Annual National Bikers Roundup, July 31-Aug. 4, Tunica, Miss.

Billed as the “largest camping rally,” the NBR is truly a Gypsy event, changing location each year and hosted by a different member club. Started in 1977 in Kansas City, Kan., this event is aimed at all makes and types of riders, with as diverse a following as any major rally in the United States.

Sturgis, Aug. 5-11, Sturgis, S.D.

For many cruiser and touring riders, the annual Sturgis Motorcycle Rally is the must-do rally of the year. Complete with concerts, parties, poker runs, short-track racing, bike shows and more, Sturgis is non-stop fun. What’s more, it’s located in the Black Hills Region, which includes hundreds of miles of great riding and some of the best scenery you can find anywhere. To start planning your trek to Sturgis this summer, see the website. Info: www.sturgismotorcyclerally.com

Killington Classic, Aug. 30-Sept. 3, Killington, Vt.

Located in New England, this rally includes covered bridges, an amazing poker run, the Green Mountain Scavenger Hunt, a vendor village, bike demo rides and a long list of entertainment. Info: www.killingtonclassic.com

Big Bike Weekend, Oct. 11-13, Redding, Calif.

Meet up with several thousand of your friends and ride some of the best roads in the country, enjoy great entertainment, and shop top vendors in Redding this October. Also, check out the Oakland Police Drill Team, back from a two-year hiatus, and watch the Redding Police Dept. Invitational Motor Competition, or try your hand at the Civilian Motor Competition patterns.

Info: www.bigbikeweekend.com

AMA National Grand Tours

AMA National Grand Tours, presented by Shinko Tires and Fly Street Gear, are a comfortable alternative to an organized tour. The idea is to take pictures of yourself at key locations that fit a tour theme set by organizers. The riders who log the most (or best) locations within the time constraints can qualify to win prizes.

Polar Bear Grand Tour: Jan. 1 - Dec. 31. AMA District 2 of New Jersey; www. polarbeargrandtour.com; bear1733@ comcast.net; (609) 894-2941.

Big Money Rally Grand Tour: Jan. 1 - May 25. Big Money Rally; www. bigmoneyrally.com; bigmoneyrally@ hotmail.com.

Tour Of Honor Grand Tour: April 1-Oct. 31. Tour Of Honor; www.tourofhonor.com; regis@tourofhonor.com.

Smoke Chasing Grand Tour: March 25-Oct. 1. Team Strange Airheads; www.smokechasing.com; smokechasing@hotmail.com.

WHERE WOULD YOU RIDE?

“For those of you who have never gone to the annual Sturgis Motorcycle Rally because you felt you didn’t fit the stereotype… I encourage you to experience it once in your lifetime. It’s a big melting pot and you can choose what sort of experience you want to have.”—Drew Mobley

AMA ROADSIDE ASSISTANCE

Never Ride Alone

No matter where you ride this season, you can carry with you the peace of mind that only comes with AMA Roadside Assistance.

For no additional cost when you elect to set up your membership to auto-renew with a valid credit card, you can ride knowing that free, bike-friendly roadside assistance is only a phone call away. Also covered are your cars, your trailers, your RVs and more.

To sign up, call (800) 262-5646.

AMA National Extreme Grand Tours

These are high-mileage challenges for serious riders. For details on each tour, see the websites.

USA Four Corners Grand Tour: Jan. 1-Dec. 31. Southern California Motorcycle Association (SCMA); www.sc-ma.com/ rides/usa-four-corners-tour-site.

SCMA Three Flags Classic Grand Tour: Aug. 30 - Sept. 2. SCMA; www.scma.com/rides/three-flags-classic-tour.

AMA Flash Tours On Facebook

AMA Flash Tours on Facebook challenge you to get on the road to interesting destinations—many off the beaten path—and document the challenge for others. To participate, just email your photos that correspond to the active Flash Tour. We’ll add your photo to our AMA Flash Tours photo gallery on Facebook, and at the end of each Flash Tour, we’ll select a winner. As the name implies, these tours come and go quickly, so keep an eye on the AMA Facebook page at www.facebook.com/ americanmotorcyclist for the operative tour and prizes.

AMA REWARDS

Watch this space for updates about your valuable benefits as an AMA member.

NEW! Save with Race Tech

Get 15 percent off your order at www.racetech.com by calling Race Tech directly at 951-279-6655 and providing your AMA number.

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

STAYING INFORMED

American Motorcyclist

Each month, you receive the best magazine covering the motorcycle lifestyle with two versions to choose from: street or dirt.

THE ESSENTIALS

AMA Roadside Assistance

The Best Deal In Towing

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

AMA Lodging

Save At Choice Hotels

AMA members save 15 percent off the best available rates at participating Comfort Inn®, Comfort Suites®, Quality Inn®, Sleep Inn®, Clarion®, MainStay Suites®, Suburban Extended Stay®, Rodeway Inn® and Econo Lodge® hotels. Reserve online at ChoiceHotels.com and use discount code #00947556.

Motorcycle Rentals

Arrive And Ride

EagleRider offers a 10 percent discount on Harley-Davidson, Honda, BMW and Polaris rentals and tours. Call (888) 900-9901.

Motorcycle Shipping

Ride Where You Want

In the United States, call Federal Companies, an agent for Allied Van

Parts And Gear

Save With BikeBandit.com

Get 10 percent off your order at BikeBandit.com by entering your AMA number at checkout.

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

Lines, at (877) 518-7376 for at least $60 off standard rates. For international shipments, call Motorcycle Express at (800) 245-8726. To get your discount, be sure to have your AMA number handy. Motorcycle Express also offers temporary international insurance.

Car Rentals

Save Money When You Drive

Get up to 25 percent off prevailing rates at any Avis or Budget car rental agency. For Avis, enter discount code: D388100. For Budget, enter code: Z942000.

AMA Gear

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

PRODUCT DISCOUNTS

ActionStation/Bohn Body Armor

Save 10 percent. Go to www. actionstation.com/ama/ and use coupon code AMAB4U at checkout.

AMA Motorcycle Hall Of Fame

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

AMA/Sprocketlist Online

Classifieds

AMA members can place free ads in the AMA member classifieds at AMA.Sprocketlist.com or AmericanMotorcyclist.com > Shop >

AMA ROADSIDE ASSISTANCE

The Best Deal In Towing For All Your Vehicles

Maximize your riding time and minimize the inconvenience of a mechanical breakdown with AMA Roadside Assistance, which offers peace of mind for you and all your family members.

AMA Roadside Assistance Offers:

At No

if you choose to automatically renew your AMA (800)membership—call AMA-JOIN today to add it to membership!your

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

• Coverage in all 50 states and Canada.

• Towing up to 35 miles, with all dispatch and hook-up fees.

• Flat tire, lockout, battery and minor-mechanical assistance.

• Emergency fuel, oil, water, fluid delivery.

• No exclusions for older motorcycles.

• Toll-free assistance available 24/7/365.

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

Classifieds.

AMA Supercross And AMA Arenacross Tickets

Save on advanced tickets; AMA members can get $5 off. Call (800) AMA-JOIN for details.Biker Rain Chaps

Save 25 percent. Visit www. bikerrainchaps.com/ama/.

Ezy-Lift Products

Save 10 percent by calling (800) 9743032. Ezylift.com.

Flash2Pass Garage Door Openers

Save 10 percent. Enter code AMA2011 at checkout from F2PTechnologies. com.

GiFOR USA/GOLDfren

Save 15 percent on brake pads and 10 percent on brake discs at GiForUSA. com.

LifeLock Identity Theft Protection

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

MAD Maps

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

Race Tech

Get 15 percent off your order at www. racetech.com by calling Race Tech directly at 951-279-6655 and providing your AMA number.

Red Roof Inn

Get a 20 percent discount off available

rates. Call (800) RED-ROOF and use the code VP+ 503343 or go to www. redroof.com and enter the code in the field labeled “VP+/ID#” when making reservations.

RoadRUNNER Motorcycle Touring & Travel magazine

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

Sam’s Club

AMA members save $10 or $25 on Sam’s Club membership. Visit AmericanMotorcyclist.com > Membership > Benefits for more info.

Schampa Cold-Weather Gear

Save 15 percent. Enter SCHAMA during checkout at Schampa.com.

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

1

The battle for AMA Supercross supremacy continues this month with the stars of AMA Supercross banging handlebars in stadiums April 6 in Houston, April 13 in Minneapolis, April 20 in Seattle and April 27 in Salt Lake City. For more info, go online to www.amasupercross.com.

2

The Pediatric Brain Tumor Foundation will host the Northeast Florida Ride for Kids event on Sunday, April 21, in a new location in Jacksonville, Fla. For information about all of the 2013 Ride for Kids events, go to www.rideforkids.org.

4

Enjoy a good mix of fire service roads and twisty rural blacktop that begins in east Tennessee and goes into western North Carolina as part of the Slate Creek 500 Adventure Ride in Bybee, Tenn., April 13-14. The Slate Creek 500 Adventure Ride is part of the AMA Yamaha Super Tenere National Adventure Riding Series. For the full schedule, see page 55.

5

Catch some exciting amateur roadracing action by heading over to the Carolina Motorsport Park in Kershaw, S.C., April 14-15. It’s all part of the USGPRU National Championship Series. For the full schedule, see page 54.

6

The Reading Motorcycle Club is hosting a road poker run on April 20 in Oley, Pa. Information: www.readingmc.com.

3

Join up with a bunch of your riding pals and head off to prison as part of the Yuma Prison Run rally, April 19-20, at the Yuma County Fairgrounds in Arizona. Hosted by the Norwalk Centaurs Motorcycle Club, the annual event is a fundraiser for needy children. Information: www.yumaprisonrun.com.

7

COMING UP

Start planning your riding routes now for the 2013 AMA Vintage Motorcycle Days July 19-21 at MidOhio Sports Car Course in Lexington, Ohio. Get together with tens of thousands of your newest friends for a rockin’ good time. More information is available online at www. amavintagemotorcycledays. com.

The pace is fast and furious in the AMA Rekluse National Enduro Championship Series. Catch the action April 14 in Forest Hill, La., and April 28 in West Point, Tenn. For the full schedule, see page 52.

ALABAMA

High Adventure. No Hassle. The best routes, roads and twotrack, mapped by local experts. A  great challenge with like-minded  riders. A full weekend’s activities, with  camping, campfires, food and prizes.  For more information visit  AmericanMotorcyclist.com/Riding.

THE ADVENTURE is out there

Get comeit

COMPETITION

MOTOCROSS

APR 6: PELL CITY: RPM SPORTS, (205) 699-8857, RPMSPORTSONLINE.COM

APR 7: PELL CITY: RPM SPORTS, (205) 699-8857, RPMSPORTSONLINE.COM ARIZONA

RECREATIONAL

ROAD RUN

APR 19-20: YUMA: 2-DAY EVENT, NORWALK MOTORCYCLE CLUB, (661) 245-3932, YUMAPRISONRUN.COM

COMPETITION

ENDURO

APR 14: ARIZONA TRAIL RIDERS, (602) 692-9382, ARIZONATRAILRIDERS.ORG

CALIFORNIA

RECREATIONAL

DUAL SPORT-OFF ROAD

APR 14: SAN BERNARDINO: PEDIATRIC BRAIN TUMOR FOUNDATION OF THE UNITED STATES, (800) 253-6530, RIDEFORKIDS.ORG

ROAD RUN

APR 20: SACRAMENTO: CAPITAL CITY MOTORCYCLE CLUB, (916) 442-8242, CAPITALCITYMC.COM

COMPETITION

ENDURO

APR 6-7: LAKEPORT: 2-DAY EVENT, NORTH BAY MOTORCYCLE CLUB, (707) 568-6321, BLM.GOV

APR 21: (Includes ATVs) RED MOUNTAIN: TRAINING WHEELS MC, (760) 949-9221, TRAININGWHEELSMC.COM

HARE & HOUND

APR 13-14: (Includes ATVs) JOHNSON VALLEY: 2-DAY EVENT, SOUTHERN CALIFORNIA MOTORCYCLE CLUB, (949) 981-6776

APR 27: (Includes ATVs) LUCERNE VALLEY: 2 DAY EVENT, VIKINGS MOTORCYCLE CLUB, (310) 490-4575, VIKINGSMC.COM

OBSERVED TRIALS

APR 6-7: 2-DAY EVENT, SOUTHERN CALIFORNIA TRIALS ASSOCIATION, (805) 368-0996, SCTATRIALS.COM

SHORT TRACK

APR 6: SAN JOSE : P & D PROMOTIONS INC, (408) 2494336, SANJOSEINDOOR.COM

COLORADO

COMPETITION

MOTOCROSS

APR 21: STERLING: MILE HIGH MX, (303) 748-9417, PAWNEECYCLECLUB.COM

APR 28: MILLIKEN: TWO RIVERS RACING LLC, (970) 587-5770

DELAWARE

COMPETITION

MOTOCROSS

APR 27-28: NEW CASTLE: 2-DAY EVENT, MIDDLE ATLANTIC MOTOCROSS ASSOCIATION, (410) 375-1059, MAMAMX.COM

RECREATIONAL POKER RUN

GEORGIA

COMPETITION

MOTOCROSS

APR 13: WASHINGTON: AONIA PASS M.X., (706) 678-3737

APR 14: WASHINGTON: AONIA PASS M.X., (706) 678-3737

ILLINOIS

RECREATIONAL

DUAL SPORT-OFF ROAD

APR 7: LEAF RIVER: FOREST CITY RIDERS M/C, (815) 624-6535, FORESTCITYRIDERS.COM

COMPETITION

HARE SCRAMBLES

APR 27-28: (Includes ATVs) PLAINVIEW: 2-DAY EVENT, WFO PROMOTIONS, (309) 314-3343

MOTOCROSS

APR 6: CASEY: LINCOLN TRAIL MOTOSPORTS, (217) 932-2041, LINCOLNTRAILMOTOSPORTS.COM

APR 7: CASEY: LINCOLN TRAIL MOTOSPORTS, (217) 932-2041, LINCOLNTRAILMOTOSPORTS.COM

APR 27: WALNUT: 4P PROMOTIONS INC, (815) 379-9534, SUNSETRIDGEMX.COM

APR 28: WALNUT: 4P PROMOTIONS INC, (815) 379-9534, SUNSETRIDGEMX.COM

SHORT TRACK

APR 14: (Includes ATVs) BELLEVILLE: SEAT TIME MOTORCYCLE CLUB, (618) 233-1318, BELLEVILLEHONDA.COM

INDIANA

COMPETITION

ENDURO

APR 21: ROSELAWN: GRAND KANKAKEE TRAIL RIDERS, (708) 946-0999, GKTRAILRIDERS.COM

HARE SCRAMBLES

APR 27: COLUMBUS: STONEY LONESOME M/C, (812) 342-4411, WW.STONEYLONESOMEMC.COM

MOTOCROSS

APR 13: (Includes ATVs) CAYUGA: PLEASURE RIDERS MC, (309) 838-5062, PLEASURERIDERS.NET

APR 14: CAYUGA: PLEASURE RIDERS MC, (309) 838-5062, PLEASURERIDERS.NET

APR 27: CROTHERSVILLE: LET’S GO RACING LLC, (812) 374-8228, HIGHFLYMX.COM

APR 28: CROTHERSVILLE: LET’S GO RACING LLC, (812) 374-8228, HIGHFLYMX.COM

OBSERVED TRIALS

APR 20: LIGONIER: MICHIGAN ONTARIO TRIALS ASSOCIATION, (574) 386-4061, MOTATRIALS.COM

APR 21: LIGONIER: MICHIGAN ONTARIO TRIALS ASSOCIATION, (574) 386-4061, MOTATRIALS.COM

COMPETITION

MOTOCROSS

FLORIDA

APR 7: FT. WALTON BEACH: SAND DOLLAR MC, INC., (850) 244-0376, SANDDOLLARMOTORCYCLECLUB.COM

ROAD RUN

APR 14: DEERFIELD BEACH: PEDIATRIC BRAIN TUMOR FOUNDATION OF THE UNITED STATES, (800) 253-6530, RIDEFORKIDS.ORG

APR 21: JACKSONVILLE: PEDIATRIC BRAIN TUMOR FOUNDATION OF THE UNITED STATES, (800) 253-6530, RIDEFORKIDS.ORG

IOWA

APR 20: (Includes ATVs) SHELLROCK: NEW HARTFORD RACING INC, (319) 885-6469, NEWHARTFORDRACING.COM

APR 21: (Includes ATVs) SHELLROCK: NEW HARTFORD RACING INC, (319) 885-6469, NEWHARTFORDRACING.COM

KENTUCKY

COMPETITION

MOTOCROSS

APR 20: (Includes ATVs) OAKLAND: VICTORY SPORTS INC, (423) 323-5497, VICTORY-SPORTS.COM

APR 21: (Includes ATVs) OAKLAND : VICTORY SPORTS INC, (423) 323-5497, VICTORY-SPORTS.COM

APR 27-28: (ATV only) OAKLAND: 2-DAY EVENT, VICTORY SPORTS INC, (423) 323-5497, VICTORY-SPORTS.COM

April 13, Youth; April 14, Amateur: Lucerne Valley, Calif.: Justin Shultz, SoCal Motorcycle Club; (949) 981-6776; SoCalMC.com

April 27, Youth; April 28, Amateur: Lucerne Valley, Calif.: Steve Williams, Vikings Motorcycle Club; (310) 490-4575; VikingsMC.com

May 4, Amateur and Youth: Jericho, Utah: Talisa Flitton, Sage Riders; (435) 660-0430; SageRidersMC.com

May 18, Amateur and Youth: Jericho, Utah: KC Bogue, Sugarloafers Motorcycle Club; (435) 864-8305; SugarLoafersMC. com

July 13, Amateur: McCarran, Nev.: No ATVs. Erek Kudla, Get-Xtr-Eme; (805) 2365866; Get-Xtr-Eme.com

Aug. 24, Amateur and Youth: Panaca, Nev.: Zach Livreri, Silver State Trailriders; (702) 645-2506; desertracer24p@gmail. com

Oct. 12, Youth; Oct. 13, Amateur: Lucerne Valley, Calif.: Ryan Sanders, 100’s Motorcycle Club; (949) 584-9395; 100sMC.org

AMA NATIONAL MID AMERICA CROSS COUNTRY SERIES

WWW.THEMAXC.COM

April 13: Canaan, Ind: Monster Mountain

May 11: Bloomfield, Ind: River Run

June 9: Springville, Ind: Riley Hospital Miracle Trail Race

June 28-30: Nashville, Ind: Big Nasty

July 27: Burnettsville, Ind: Peaceful Valley

Aug. 10: Martinsville,, Ind: Copperhead Row

Sept. 7: Monrovia, Ind: The Bulldog

Sept. 28: Plymouth, Ind: The Blackhawk

Oct. 19: Gosport, Ind: Rally in the Valley Nov. 2: TBD

AMA ATV MOTOCROSS ATVMOTOCROSS.COM

March 23-24: Washington, Ga.: Aonia Pass MX

April 13-14: Blountville, Tenn.: Muddy Creek Raceway

April 27-28: Bowling Green, Ky.: Ballance MX

May 11-12: Rossville, Ind.: Wildcat Creek MX

May 25-26: Walnut, Ill.: Sunset Ridge

June 8-9: Danville, Va.: Birch Creek Motorsports

July 6-7: Delmont, Pa.: Steel City

July 13-14: New Berlin, N.Y.: Unadilla

July 27-28: Buchanan, Mich.: RedBud

Aug. 10-11: Hurricane Mills, Tenn.: Loretta Lynn’s Ranch

AMA ATV EXTREME DIRT TRACK EDTRACING.COM

May 4: Kinston, N.C.: Ironclad Motorsports, Lenoir County Fairgrounds; (252) 624-9808; ironcladmotorsports@ gmail.com

May 25: Oktaha, Okla.: Outlaw Motor Speedway; (918) 687-9200; outlawmotorspeedway.com

June 14: Sioux Falls, S.D.: Sioux Valley Cycle Club; (605) 977-3866; siouxvalleycycleclub.com

June 15: Sioux Falls, S.D.: Sioux Valley Cycle Club; (605) 977-3866; siouxvalleycycleclub.com

2013 EVENTS

July 13: Goldsboro, N.C.: Busco Beach; (919) 222-9614; buscobeach.com

July 28: Ashtabula, Ohio: Bud Fischer, Pine Lake Off-Road Facility; (440) 9974166; williamfischer07@yahoo.com

Aug. 23: Batavia, N.Y.: Keith Dawydko, Batavia Motor Speedway; bataviamotorspeedway.com

Aug. 24: Batavia, N.Y.: Keith Dawydko, Batavia Motor Speedway; bataviamotorspeedway.com

AMA ATV HARE SCRAMBLES AMARACING.COM

March 24: Berwick, Pa.: Duane Fisher, Evansville MX Park; (570) 759-2841; EvansvilleMXPark.com

April 28: Plainview, Ill.: Ron Whipple, WFO Promotions; (309) 314-3343; WFOPromotions.com

May 19: Valley View, Pa.: Amateur and Youth, Tiffany Tobias, Rausch Creek Powersports; (570) 682-4600; RauschCreekRacing.com

June 9: Virgil, N.Y.: Amateur and Youth, Ken Rose, Greek Peak Trail Riders; (585) 297-2742; GreekPeak.com

AMA SPEEDWAY AMARACING.COM

TBA

AMA SWM NATC MOTOTRIALS AMARACING.COM

June 15-16, Rounds 1 and 2: Cayuta, N.Y.: David Reed, District 4 Trials Committee; (607) 796-9558; district4trials. org

June 22-23, Rounds 3 and 4: Swanton, Vt.: Denver Wilson, Green Mountain Plonkers Trials Club; (802) 236-7338; greenmountainplonkers.org

July 27-28, Rounds 5 and 6: Kingman, Ariz.: Mike Carlton, Central Arizona Trials Inc.; (928) 681-5700; mcparks.com

Aug. 3-4, Rounds 7 and 8: Sipapu, N.M.: Lance Butler, New Mexico Trials Association; (505) 332-3172; nmtrials.org

Aug. 24-25, Rounds 9 and 10: Duluth, Minn.: Steve Ahleri, Northland MC Riders Association; (218) 349-9578; dam@cpinternet.com

AMA NATC EAST YOUTH TRIALS AMARACING.COM

July 5-7: Sequatchie, Tenn.: Ashley Jackson, South Eastern Trials Riders Association; (423) 942-8688; trailstrainingcenter.com

AMA NATC WEST YOUTH TRIALS AMARACING.COM

TBA

AMA FEATURED SERIES

AMA MID-SOUTH CROSS COUNTRY WINTER CHAMPIONSHIP SERIES MSXC.COM

Feb. 17: Bucksnort, Tenn.: Foxhollow

March 3: Gardendale, Ala.: Cornerstone Ranch

March 23-24: McEwen, Tenn.: Tumbling Creek

AMA WESTERN CHECKPOINT ENDURO CHAMPIONSHIP RIDECHEC.COM

March 16-17: Anza, Calif.

April 6-7: Lake Port, Calif.

April 13-14: Camp Wood, Ariz.

April 20-21: Red Mountain, Calif.

May 18-19: Gorman, Calif.: Two-day qualifier

June 1-2: Boise, Idaho: Two-day qualifier

Sept. 13-14: Johnson Valley, Calif.: Two-day qualifier

Sept. 28-29: Toulon, Nev.

Oct. 26-27: Elkins Flat, Calif.

Nov. 9-10: Stoneyford, Calif.

VIRGINA CHAMPIONSHIP HARE SCRAMBLES SERIES VCHSS.ORG

March 24: Dillwyn, Va.

April 14: Arrington, Va.: AMA National

April 28: Bristol, Va.

May 5: Martinsville, Va.

May 26: Surry, Va.

June 9: Ivor, Va.

June 23: Rural Retreat, Va.

July 28: Bristol, Va.

Aug. 11: Martinsville, Va.

Aug. 25: Penhook, Va.

Sept. 8: Sutherlin, Va.

Sept. 22: Spring Grove, Va.

Sept. 29: Chatham, Va.

Oct. 13: Rural Retreat, Va.

Oct. 27: Dillwyn, Va.

Nov. 10: Spring Grove, Va.

AMA ALL-STAR FLAT TRACK AMARACING.COM

March 8: Savannah, Ga.: Half-mile, Oglethorpe Speedway; Steve Nace, Steve Nace Racing; (270) 442-7532; stevenaceracing.com

March 9: Savannah, Ga.: Half-mile, Oglethorpe Speedway; Steve Nace, Steve Nace Racing; (270) 442-7532; stevenaceracing.com

March 10: Barberville, Fla.: Half-mile, Volusia County Speedway; Steve Nace, Steve Nace Racing; (270) 442-7532; stevenaceracing.com

March 10: Daytona Beach, Fla.: ST, Daytona Flat Track; Dave Joiner, Fast Fridays; (530) 878-7223; fastfridays.com

March 11: Barberville, Fla.: Half-mile, Volusia County Speedway; Steve Nace, Steve Nace Racing; (270) 442-7532; stevenaceracing.com

March 12: Barberville, Fla.: ST, Volusia County Speedway; Steve Nace, Steve Nace Racing; (270) 442-7532; stevenaceracing. com

AMA HEARTLAND CHALLENGE HEARTLANDCHALLENGE.COM

Aug. 15-17: Carlisle, Iowa

BIG 6 AMA WEST COAST GRAND PRIX SERIES BIG6RACING.COM

April 6-7: Twentynine Palms, Calif.: Rodeo and Motoplex, Hilltoppers MC

May 4-5: Primm, Nev.: Buffalo Bills Casino, Shamrocks MC

June 1-2: Anza, Calif.: The Ranch, So Cal MC

Oct. 5-6: Ridgecrest, Calif.: Ridgecrest Fairgrounds, Viewfinders MC

Nov. 2-3: Gorman, Calif.: Quail Valley, Prospectors MC

Dec. 7-8: Pala, Calif.: Pala Raceway, Vikings MC

EAST COAST ENDURO ASSOCIATION ENDURO SERIES ECEA.ORG

March 17: Greenbank, N.J.: Meteor MC, (856) 889-7300; meteormc.com

March 24: Shamong, N.J.: South Jersey Enduro Riders, (609) 268-9272; sjer.org

April 14: Chatsworth, N.J.: Pine Barons Enduro Riders, (609) 654-6300; meteormc.com

April 21: Port Elizabeth, N.J.: TriCounty Sportsmen MC, (888) 274-4469; teamhammer.org

May 5: Delaware City, Del.: Delaware Enduro Riders, (302) 834-4411; delawareenduroriders.com

May 26: St. Clair, Pa.: Reading Off-Road Riders, (610) 921-3592; rorr.org

June 9: Deposit, N.Y.: Ridge Riders MC, (973) 919-4780; ridgeriders.org

June 16: Grier City, Pa.: High Mountain Dirt Riders, (570) 954-7799; hmdr.org

June 23: Blain, Pa.: Susquehanna OffRoad Riders, (717) 533-2242; sorrmc.org

July 14: Gillett, Pa.: Southern Tier Enduro Riders, (607) 382-8534; ster-mc.org

July 28: Cross Fork, Pa.: Brandywine Enduro Riders, (610) 368-7332; www.ber.us

Aug. 11: Three Springs, Pa.: Green Marble Enduro Riders, (410) 638-9367; greenmarbleenduroriders.org

Aug. 18: Berkshire, N.Y.: Ithaca Dirt Riders, (607) 657-8248; ithacadirtriders.com

Aug. 25: Mauricetown, N.J.: Competition Dirt Riders, (609) 319-7496; competitiondirtriders.org

Sept. 8: Shippensburg, Pa.: South Penn Enduro Riders, (717) 265-6055; southpennenduroriders.com

Sept. 15: Brandonville, Pa.: Valley Forge Trail Riders, (484) 948-5361; vftr.org

Oct. 20: New Lisbon, N.J.: Ocean County Competition Riders, (609) 7582747; occr.net

Nov. 10: Warren Grove, N.J.: Motorcycle Competition Inc., (609) 575-7820; ride-mci.com

Nov. 24: New Lisbon, N.J.: Central Jersey Competition Riders, (732) 5586475; cjcrmc.org

EAST COAST ENDURO ASSOCIATION HARE SCRAMBLES SERIES ECEA.ORG

March 2-3: Port Elizabeth, N.J.: 2-Day, Tri-County Sportsmen MC, (888) 274-4469

April 27-28: TBA: 2-Day, Meteor MC, (856) 889-7300

May 11-12: Coal Township, Pa.: 2-Day, Valley Forge Trail riders, (610) 476-3747

May 18-19: Eagleswood, N.J.: 2-Day, Motorcycle Competition Inc., (609) 575-7820

June 1-2: Paxinos, Pa.: 2-Day, South Penn Enduro Riders, (717) 938-0690

June 29-30: Tamaqua, Pa.: 2-Day, Reading Off-Road Riders, (610) 921-3592

July 20-21: Jefferson Township, Pa.: 2-Day, Ridge Riders MC, (973) 919-4780

Aug. 3-4: Moosic, Pa.: 2-Day, High Mountain Dirt Riders, (570) 954-7799

Sept. 21-22: Plymouth Township, Pa.: 2-Day, High Mountain Dirt Riders, (570) 954-7799

Sept. 28-29: Three Springs, Pa.: 2-Day, Green Marble Enduro Riders, (410) 638-9367

Oct. 5-6: Eagleswood, N.J.: 2-Day, Pine Barons Enduro Riders, (609) 654-6300

Oct. 26-27: Millville, N.J.: 2-Day, Competition Dirt Riders, (609) 319-7496

Nov. 16-17: New Castle, Del.: 2-Day, Delaware Enduro Riders, (302) 834-4411

AMA IATVHSS IATVHSS.COM

TBA

AMA ENDURO TRIALS

TRIALSTRAININGCENTER.COM

TBA

ASRA CHAMPIONSHIP SERIES

AMARACING.COM

March 9-10: Bloomingdale, Ga.: Roebling Road Raceway

May 25-27: Summit Point, W.Va.: Summit Point Circuit

June 15-16: Alton, Va.: Virginia International Speedway

July 6-7: Elkhart Lake, Wis.: Road America

July 20-21: Millville, N.J.: New Jersey Motorsport Park

Aug. 17-18: Loudon, N.H.: New Hampshire Motor Speedway

Sept. 21-22: South Beloit, Ill.: Blackhawk Farms

Oct. 19-20: Daytona Beach, Fla.: Daytona International Speedway

ASRA TEAM CHALLENGE SERIES AMARACING.COM

March 9: Bloomingdale, Ga.: Roebling Road Raceway

April 14: Kershaw, S.C.: Carolina Motorsport Park

April 28: Topeka, Kan.: Heartland ParkTopeka

May 18: South Beloit, Ill.: Blackhawk Farms Raceway

June 15: Alton, Va.: Virginia International Speedway

Aug. 25: Summit Point, W.Va.: Summit Point Circuit (3 hours, or 200 miles)

Sept. 8: Millville, N.J.: New Jersey Motorsport Park

Oct. 19: Daytona Beach, Fla.: Daytona International Speedway

USGPRU SERIES AMARACING.COM

March 9-10: Bloomingdale, Ga.: Roebling Road Raceway

April 14-15: Kershaw, S.C.: Carolina Motorsport Park

May 25-27: Summit Point, W.Va.: Summit Point Circuit

June 15-16: Alton, Va.: Virginia International Speedway

July 6-7: Elkhart Lake, Wis.: Road America

July 20-21: Millville, N.J.: New Jersey Motorsport Park

Aug. 17-18: Loudon, N.H.: New Hampsire Motor Speedway

Sept. 21-22: South Beloit, Ill.: Blackhawk Farms

AMA AMATEUR CHAMPIONSHIPS

AMA AMATEUR NATIONAL MOTOCROSS MXSPORTS.COM

NORTHEAST AREA QUALIFIERS

March 9-10: Hedgesville, W.Va.: Tomahawk; (304) 229-6682

March 23-24: Englishtown, N.J.: Englishtown; (732) 446-7800

April 20-21: Binghamton, N.Y.: BroomeTioga Sports Center; (607) 849-4438

April 27-28: Armagh, Pa.: Pleasure Valley Raceway; (814) 695-2453

May 11-12: Mt. Morris, Pa.: High Point; (304) 284-0084

May 18-19: Winchester, N.H.: Winchester Speed Park; (603) 239-6406

May 25-26: Danville, Va.: Birch Creek Motorsports; (434) 836-7629

NORTHEAST REGIONAL CHAMPIONSHIP

June 1-2: New Berlin, N.Y.: Youth, Unadilla Valley Sports Center; (607) 965-8450

June 29-30: Danville, Va.: Amateur, Budds Creek; (304) 284-0084

SOUTHEAST AREA QUALIFIERS

March 16-17: Hamer, S.C.: South of the Border; (423) 323-5497

April 6-7: Pell City, Ala.: Mill Creek MX; (205) 699-8857

April 20-21: Henderson, N.C.: North Carolina Motorsports Park; (252) 438-8192

May 4-5: Gaston, S.C.: Palometto Motorsports Complex; (423) 323-5497

May 11-12: Okeechobee, Fla.: Thundercross MX Park; (321) 689-3461

May 18-19: Chatsworth, Ga.: Lazy River MX; (706) 278-1620

SOUTHEAST REGIONAL CHAMPIONSHIP

June 8-9: Blountville, Tenn.: Amateur, Muddy Creek Raceway; (423) 323-5497

June 22-23: Gainesville, Fla.: Youth, Gatorback; (321) 689-3461

MID-EAST AREA QUALIFIERS

March 23-24: Rossville, Ind.: Wild Cat Creek MX; (765) 379-2482

April 13-14: Coldwater, Mich.: Log Road MX; (419) 636-5430

April 20-21: Bowling Green, Ky.: Ballance MX; (423) 323-5497

April 27-28: Crothersville, Ind.: Highfly MX; (812) 374-8228

May 4-5: Buchanan, Mich.: Red Bud MX; (269) 695-6405

May 11-12: Livingston, Tenn.: Thunder Valley MX; (423) 323-5497

May 11-12: Midland, Mich.: Polka Dots Motorcycle Club; (989) 832-8284

May 18-19: Nelsonville, Ohio: Fast Traxx Motoplex; (740) 767-3740

MID-EAST REGIONAL CHAMPIONSHIP

May 25-26: Millfield, Ohio: Youth, Sunday Creek MX; (304) 284-0084

June 22-23: Millington, Mich.: Amateur, Baja Acres; (989) 871-3356

NORTH CENTRAL AREA QUALIFIERS

March 9-10: Du Quoin, Ill.: Paradise MX; (618) 542-6203

April 6-7: Casey, Ill.: Lincoln Trail Motorsports; (217) 932-2041

April 20-21: Richwood, Mo.: Romp MX; (573) 701-8674

April 27-28: Walnut, Ill.: Sunset Ridge MX; (815) 379-9534

May 4-5: Tigerton, Wis.: Motozone; (920) 419-2863

May 4-5: Montezuma, Iowa: Fun Valley Moto X; (641) 623-3456

May 11-12: Little Falls, Minn.: Little Falls Raceway; (612) 919-3457

May 18-19: Mt. Carroll, Ill.: MC Motopark; (815) 238-1614

NORTH CENTRAL REGIONAL CHAMPIONSHIP

June 15-16: Millville, Minn.: Amateur, Spring Creek MX; (507) 753-2779

June 29-30: Byron, Ill.: Youth, Byron Motosports Park; (815) 234-2271

SOUTH CENTRAL AREA QUALIFIERS

March 9-10: Kemp, Texas: UnderGround MX Park; (903) 498-4659

April 20-21: Edgewood, Texas: Buffalo Creek MX; (214) 939-4321

April 27-28: Carencro, La.: Vay Way Moto Playground; (870) 342-5373

May 4-5: Ponca City, Okla.: Ponca City MX; (580) 762-3635

May 4-5: Lakewood, Colo.: Thunder Valley; (303) 697-1003

May 18-19: Little Rock, Ark.: Tony Wynn MX; (870) 342-5373

SOUTH CENTRAL REGIONAL CHAMPIONSHIP

June 1-2: Wortham, Texas: Amateur, Freestone; (713) 962-3386

June 15-16: Prentiss, Miss.: Youth, Golden Pine; (601) 506-8669

NORTHWEST AREA QUALIFIERS (MORE MAY BE ADDED)

March 16-17: Richland, Wash.: Horn Rapids MX; (509) 496-2958

April 13-14: Milford, Calif.: Honey Lake; (530) 827-2639

May 4-5: Turlock, Calif.: Oatfield Raceway; (740) 297-6686

May 11: Washougal, Wash.: One-day event: Washougal; (360) 601-5347

NORTHWEST REGIONAL CHAMPIONSHIP

June 8-9: Washougal, Wash.: Youth and Amateur, Washougal; (360) 601-5347

SOUTHWEST AREA QUALIFIERS (MORE MAY BE ADDED)

March 9-10: Hesperia, Calif.: Competitive Edge; (760) 947-9054

March 16-17: Haleiwa, Hawaii: Kahuku MX; (808) 668-6276

May 4-5: Turlock, Calif.: Oatfield Raceway

SOUTHWEST REGIONAL CHAMPIONSHIP

May 25-26: Anza, Calif.: Youth and Amateur, The Ranch; (949) 276-5153

NATIONAL CHAMPIONSHIP

July 29-Aug. 3: Hurricane Mills, Tenn.: National Championship, Loretta Lynn’s

Ranch

AMA BIG SKY AMATEUR NATIONAL OFF-ROAD CHAMPIONSHIP

BIGSKYXC.COM

CLIMB TO BIG SKY QUALIFIERS

March 24: Blackwell, Texas: AMA National Enduro Championship

April 6-7: Whitehall, Mont.: AMA Pipestone XC

April 13-14: Madison, Ind.: AMAMACC, Monster Mountain XC

April 14: Arrington, Va.: AMA East Hare Scrambles Championship

April 20, Youth: Westpoint, Tenn.: AMA SERA Enduro

April 28, Amateur: Westpoint, Tenn.: AMA SERA Enduro

May 5: Van Etten, N.Y..: AMA WNYOA Dream Riders

May 12: Millville, Minn.: AMA D23

July 6-7: Elkton, Ore.: AMA West Hare Scrambles Championship

July 6-7: Blairmore, Alberta, Canada: Shale Shaker XC

NATIONAL CHAMPIONSHIP

Aug. 24-25: Big Sky, Mont.: Jamey Kabisch, Lone Peak Racing; (406) 2230478; BigSkyXC.com

AMA DIRT TRACK GRAND CHAMPIONSHIPS AMARACING.COM

May 28-31: Springfield, Ill.: Illinois State Fairgrounds

AMA HILLCLIMB GRAND CHAMPIONSHIPS AMARACING.COM

Aug. 9-11: Monson, Mass.: Jim O’Connell, Quaboag Riders; (413) 267-0332

AMA EXTREME ENDURO GRAND CHAMPIONSHIPS

TENNESSEEKNOCKOUT ENDURO.COM

Aug. 17-18: Sequatchie, Tenn.: KENDA Tennessee Knockout, Trials Training Center

AMA VINTAGE GRAND CHAMPIONSHIPS AMARACING.COM

July 19-21: Lexington, Ohio: Mid-Ohio Sports Car Course

INTERNATIONAL COMPETITION: U.S. ROUNDS/WORLD CHAMPIONSHIPS

FIM ROAD RACING WORLD CHAMPIONSHIP GRAND PRIX FIM-LIVE.COM

April 19-21: Austin, Texas: Circuit of The Americas

July 19-21: Monterey, Calif.: Mazda Raceway Laguna Seca

Aug. 16-18: Indianapolis, Ind.: Indianapolis Motor SpeedwayFIM WORLD SUPERBIKE CHAMPIONSHIP WORLDSBK.COM

Sept. 27-29: Monterey, Calif.: Mazda Raceway Laguna Seca

FIM WORLD TRIALS CHAMPIONSHIP TRIALSTRAININGCENTER.COM

May 25-26: Sequatchie, Tenn.: Trials Training Center

FIM TRIAL DES NATIONS FIM-LIVE.COM

Sept. 8-9: La Chatre, France

FIM MOTOCROSS OF NATIONS FIM-LIVE.COM

2013 EVENTS

Sept. 29: Teutschenthal, Germany

FIM INTERNATIONAL SIX DAYS OF ENDURO FIM-LIVE.COM

May 25-26: Wellston, Ohio, East Qualifier: William Depue Jr.; Appalachian Dirt Riders; (740) 384-6379; ADROhio.org

June 1-2: Idaho City, Idaho, West

Qualifier: Peter Reynolds; Boise Ridge Riders; (208) 384-5141; ADROhio.org

Sept. 30-Oct.5: 2013 ISDE: Sardegna, Italy

BUB MOTORCYCLE SPEED TRIALS BUBENT.COM

Aug. 25-29: Utah: Bonneville Salt Flats

COOK MOTORSPORTS PRIVATE LAND SPEED SHOOTOUT

SEPT. 12-16: Utah: Bonneville Salt Flats

AMA DUAL-SPORT/ADVENTURE SERIES

Aug. 10-11: Columbus, Ind.: Buffaloe 500 D/S Adventure Ride, Stoney Lonesome MC, Nathan Gaskill; (812) 343-9772; www.stoneylonesomemc.com

Aug. 17: Tillamook, Ore.: Rat Dog Dual Sport, NW Tour & Trail, Tom Niemela; (503) 681-8881; www.blackdogdualsport.com

Aug. 17-18: Wolverine, Mich.: Ted’s Chandler Hill Challenge, Great Lakes Dual Sporters, Jeremay Valley; (989) 751-6863; www.gldsmc.org

Sept. 7-8: Golden Pond, Ky.: Land Between The Lakes 200, KT Riders, Jesse Thomas; (270) 522-3703; www.lbl200.com

Sept. 13-15: Reno, Nev.: Ride Reno 200, Dust Devils MC, Gary Lambert; (775) 2240361; www.dustdevilsmc.com

Sept. 21-22: Logan, Ohio: Nutcracker 200, Buckeye Dual Sporters, Bill Kaeppner; (740) 380-3050; www. kaeppnerswoods.com

Sept. 28-29: Buck Meadows, Calif.: Yosemite Dual Sport, Family Off Road Adventures, Lawrence Borgens; (209) 6493633; www.familyoffroadadventures.com

Sept. 28-29: Wabeno, Wis.: Big Woods 200, Wisconsin Dual Sport Riders, John Newton; (920) 350-2030; www.widualsportriders.org

Oct. 12-13: McArthur, Ohio: Baby Burr National Dual Sport, Enduro Riders Assn., Steve Barber; (614) 582-7821; www.enduroriders.com

May 18-19: Tolland, Mass.: Berkshire Big Adventure, Berkshire Trail Riders, Ross Mauri; (845) 729-1715

June 1-2: Mill Hall, Pa.: Durty Dabbers Adventure Ride, Durty Dabbers, Nils Mantzoros; (570) 726-3343; www.durtydabbers.com

June 8-13: Odell, Ore.: Black Dog Adventure Ride, NW Tour & Trail, Tom Niemela; (503) 681-8881; www.blackdogdualsport.com

June 9-13: Atlanta, N.Y.: Thrills in the Hills, Wayne County MC, John Albanese; (315) 946-3082; www.waynecountymc. com

Aug. 10-11: Columbus, Ind.: Buffaloe 500 D/S Adventure Ride, Stoney Lonesome MC, Nathan Gaskill; (812) 343-9772; www.stoneylonesomemc.com

Sept. 6-13: Buena Vista, Colo.: Rocky Mountain Autumn Hot Springs Adventure Tour, Exit Tours, Michael Brown; (281) 6868625; www.coloradodualsport.com

Sept. 21-22: Logan, Ohio: Nutcracker 200, Buckeye Dual Sporters, Bill Kaeppner; (740) 380-3050; www. kaeppnerswoods.com

Oct. 26-27: Prescott Valley, Ariz.: Howlin’ at the Moon, Arizona Trail Riders, Don Hood; (623) 826-1092; www. arizonatrailriders.org

AMA HUSQVARNA NATIONAL DUALSPORT SERIES, PRESENTED BY FMF AMERICANMOTORCYCLIST.COM

March 16-17: Daytona Beach, Fla.: Cross-Florida Adventure Ride, Dixie Dual Sport Inc., Robert Frey; (727) 919-8299; www.dixiedualsport.com

May 18-19: Zaleski, Ohio: Hanging Rock 200, Buckeye Dual Sporters, Bill Kaeppner; (740) 380-3050; www. kaeppnerswoods.com

June 1-2: Mill Hall, Pa.: Durty Dabbers Adventure Ride, Durty Dabbers, Nils Mantzoros; (570) 726-3343; www.durtydabbers.com

June 1-2: Bixby, Mo.: Show Me 200, Midwest Trail Riders Assn., Robert Kaufman; 314) 434-5095; www. ridemtra.com

June 1-2: Custer, Mich.: Whiskey Creek Classic, Great Lakes Dual Sporters, Jeramey Valley; (989) 751-6863; www.gldsmc.org

June 8-9: Wabeno, Wis.: Ride for Research, Wisconsin Dual Sport Riders, John Newton; (920) 350-2030; www.widualsportriders.org

June 8-13: Odell, Ore.: Black Dog Adventure Ride, NW Tour & Trail, Tom Niemela; (503) 681-8881; www.blackdogdualsport.com

June 29-30: Matthews, Ind.: Covered Bridge National Dual Sport, Muddobbers MC, Doug Spense; (765) 998-2236; www.muddobbersmc.org

July 20-27: Gwinn, Mich.: 29th Annual Michael R. Burlingham Memorial Six Days of Michigan, Cycle Conservation Club of Michigan, Lewis Schuler; (517) 416-0126; www.cycleconservationclub.com

July 27-28: Ray, Ohio: Black Bear National Dual Sport, Chillicothe Enduro Riders, Kevin Claytor; (740) 637-2714; www.chillicotheenduro.com

Aug. 1-5: Stevenson, Wash.: Dual Sport Northwest, Sound Rider!, Tom Mehren; (206) 329-7808; www.soundrider.com

Oct. 26-27: Prescott Valley, Ariz.: Howlin’ at the Moon, Arizona Trail Riders, Don Hood; (623) 826-1092; www. arizonatrailriders.org

Nov. 2-3: Port Elizabeth, N.J.: Hammer Run, Tri-County Sportsmen, Eldin Polhaumas; (888) 274-4469 or (856) 7852754; www.teamhammer.org

Nov. 29-30: Palmdale, Calif.: LA-Barstow to Vegas, AMA Dist-37 Dual-Sport, Paul Flanders; (626) 446-7386; www.dist37ama. org

AMA YAMAHA SUPER TÉNÉRÉ NATIONAL ADVENTURE RIDING SERIES AMERICANMOTORCYCLIST.COM

March 16-17: Daytona Beach, Fla.: Cross-Florida Adventure Ride, Dixie Dual Sport Inc., Robert Frey; (727) 919-8299; www.dixiedualsport.com

April 13-14: Bybee, Tenn.: Slate Creek 500, JB Saki Promotions, John Strange; (865) 322-0193; www.volunteerriders.com

April 28: Spring Mills, Pa.: West Pennsylvania Adventure Beginner Ride, XPLOR Int’l, Alain Kaldewaay; (610) 4708897; www.xplor-int.com

May 4-5: Buck Meadows, Calif.: Yosemite Adventure Tour, Family Off Road Adventures, Lawrence Borgens; (209) 6493633; www.familyoffroadadventures.com

May 5: Spring Mills, Pa.: West Pennsylvania Adventure Beginner Ride, XPLOR Int’l, Alain Kaldewaay; (610) 4708897; www.xplor-int.com

May 18-19: Zaleski, Ohio: Hanging Rock 200, Buckeye Dual Sporters, Bill Kaeppner; (740) 380-3050; www. kaeppnerswoods.com

Nov. 2-3: Port Elizabeth, N.J.: Hammer Run, Tri-County Sportsmen, Eldin Polhaumas; (888) 274-4469 or (856) 7852754; www.teamhammer.org

Nov. 16-17: Hammonton, N.J.: Pine Barrens 300, Cross Country Cycles, Jack O’Connor; (732) 714-8874; www.pinebarrens500.org

Nov. 29-30: Palmdale, Calif.: LA-Barstow to Vegas, AMA Dist-37 Dual-Sport, Paul Flanders; (626) 446-7386; www.dist37ama. org

AMA PREMIER TOURING SERIES

AMERICANMOTORCYCLIST.COM

AMA NATIONAL GRAND TOURS, PRESENTED BY SHINKO TIRES AND FLY STREET GEAR

AMERICANMOTORCYCLIST.COM

Through April 14: The Polar Bear Grand Tour: AMA District 2 of New Jersey, www.polarbeargrandtour.com

Jan. 1-May 25: The Big Money Rally: www.bigmoneyrally.com

March 25-Oct. 1: Eddie’s Road and Team Strange Airheads Smoke Chasing Grand Tour: Eddie’s Road and Team Strange Airheads; www.smokechasing. com

April 1-Oct. 31: Tour of Honor Grand Tour: Tour of Honor; www.tourofhonor. com

AMA NATIONAL EXTREME GRAND TOURS

AMERICANMOTORCYCLIST.COM

Jan. 1-Dec. 31: SCMA Four Corners Grand Tour: Southern California Motorcycling Association; www.usa4corners.org.

Aug. 30-Sept. 2: SCMA Three Flags Classic Grand Tour: Southern California Motorcycling Association; www.sc-ma. com.

AMA Trademarks The

Please contact smaher@ama-cycle.org

GUEST COLUMN

RIDER IN SOUL, ENVIRONMENTALIST AT HEART

Enjoying Nature’s Treasures From Two Wheels

By Tiare Hoegerman

Mud splatters my goggles as I crowd the tail of my dad’s KTM. My wrist cranks the throttle, and my tires scramble for traction, spinning up the sludgy grade. In the last few yards of the steep, narrow climb I slam into first, pop over the last slick tree root, and cling to the handlebars with all the gracefulness of a crazed circus monkey.

If the adrenaline rush is not reward enough, the view from the top is. We kill our engines, ease off our mud-caked helmets, and sit perched on our exhausted machines in awe amid perfect silence. Pines and greenery cover the neighboring mountain faces, bending in unison with the fresh, crisp breeze.

The thrill of the climb is why I am a motorcyclist. That moment at the top when the engines shut off and the panorama unfolds is why I am an environmentalist. Over the years, I’ve learned that the two— motorcyclist and environmentalist—are sometimes as congenial as Paul Bunyan and Julia Butterfly. As if being young and female were not enough to set me apart from the crowd that I usually ride with (namely, my dad’s 50-and-over male motorcyclist friends), identifying myself with the “E”-word makes me stick out even more.

“Nothing will appease the extreme environmentalists,” my dad tells me when I ask if the skirmish between motorcyclists and environmentalists will ever be reconciled. “They have a war against off-road motorcyclists. If they had their way, they would bulldoze L.A. and turn it back to its natural state.”

We were lucky enough to ride the off-highway Eden that is Clear Creek—mining-turned-recreation land in San Benito County— before the Bureau of Land Management deadbolted the gates to its 242-miles of off-road trails. Concerns over an Environmental Protection Agency study that found concentrated asbestos in the area spiraled into a lawsuit leading to the region’s 2008 closure.

Presented on its surface, keeping the public out of Clear Creek seems responsible: inhaling toxic asbestos fibers in the name of “fun” seems as intelligent as swapping your morning coffee with race fuel for an extra kick. Yet, there is much more to Clear Creek’s case, and the issue represents a larger rider-versus-environmentalist trend.

Nearly 30 years ago, Clear Creek recreationalists and opposing conservationist environmentalists began a two-decade-long legal showdown over the evening primrose—a little yellow, four-petaled darling native to Clear Creek’s dusty hills. This “officially threatened” flower caused much hullabaloo among environmentalists and subsequent headaches among recreationalists.

The primrose battle failed to blossom into a victory for closureoriented environmentalists, but it’s still a cautionary nightmare for many motorcyclists like my dad.

“They will always try to find something else to complain about,” he warns. “That’s how they work, they have much more money to go to court than motorcyclists. Closure by litigation.”

While the environmentalist on my shoulder tempts me to call out his generalization, I cannot discount his criticism of “extreme environmentalists” as mere pessimists. Evidence suggests some sneakiness on the environmentalist side of the Clear Creek clash.

In a Los Angeles Times article, BlueRibbon Coalition representative Don Amador stated that though Clear Creek’s earth contains asbestos, the study that led to its closure fails to show the presence of carcinogenic asbestos (compared to other, less-serious forms), questioning the very reason for shutting it down. Was the asbestos scare a mere subterfuge?

The groups that initiated the primrose battle, the California Native

Plant Society and the Center for Biological Diversity, remained involved in Clear Creek proceedings following their loss. In a press release after the court’s asbestos decision, CNPS’s executive director commended the EPA for closing the land: “The heavy off-roading has endangered the public and ruined the area for everyone.” From a rider perspective, it’s easy to question whether these groups were genuinely concerned with the safety of motorcyclists.

My dad’s friends argue land-access dramas such as Clear Creek prove that some environmentalists work the system to trample motorcyclists’ rights and lock up newly designated Wilderness land in, as the Sierra Club’s website states, “support for the Wilderness Act’s prohibition of ‘mechanized modes of transport,’ including nonmotorized vehicles, from entry into designated Wilderness.”

The guys I ride with are not the type to pick a fight. They would rather complain about arm pump and getting roosted than talk about the Sierra Club. The issue is close enough to their hearts, however, that my questions on the subject always rile them.

What’s more, environmentalists accomplish their aims by engaging motorcyclists in a game that environmentalists will always be betterequipped to win—litigation.

Every month American Motorcyclist reports on the developments in various land battles, and they rarely seem short of material. In a recent, more upbeat example, December’s issue celebrated the planned reopening of 40,000 acres in the Imperial Sand Dunes Recreation Area, affectionately known as Glamis. This, however, was after years of wrangling with Endangered Species Act watchdogs.

Part of being an environmentalist means protecting the environment, but in places like Glamis, motorcycle tires touch only a fraction of the area allotted them. We trail riders like our tiny singletrack challenges. Such thin trails hardly infringe on any fragile species that share the space. If anything, such trails give motorcyclists a better appreciation for undeveloped land.

Thus, dirtbikers are fighting to maintain their right to ride responsibly on designated public land. However, environmentalists, too, are trying to preserve not only the land we ride on, but also the reason why we ride in these far off places. Places such as Clear Creek foster appreciation for both of these loves: our country’s breathtaking, untouched landscapes, and riding the small winding trails that weave discretely through them.

Tiare Hoegerman is an AMA member in Sebastopol, Calif.

From: L. E. (Lou) Wissenbach

Subject: Years: Six. Miles: 160K.

The subject line is my testimonial. I bought the Bohn Armor Pants in Los Angeles while I was working a project there. They saw their first use in local tours along the Angeles Crest and the wonderfully twisted highways over the California coastal ranges. But it was after the project was completed and I was on my way home that I wore them through Death Valley at 115 degrees (F) one afternoon, then up over the pass to Yosemite in the icy early morning of the following day That's when Bohn "Under" Armor pants were permanently integrated into my touring outfit They just plain worked

With Bohn as the base layer, faded blue jeans or light gray hiking pants as the sunreflective norm, and chaps or riding pants as the wet or chilly day outer layer when needed, there is not a single place I couldn't go with confidence. And looking more like normal than like a space walk refugee at truck stops along the way was a bonus. That worked too for a low profile guy like me.

ve worn that single pair of Bohn p nderarmor" for six years and 160K miles including Alaska (twice), across to the east coast, zigging the zags of Deal's gap (thrice as well), down to Key West one time, and through the canyons and deserts of the

Fortunately, the only "crash" testimony I can offer was on a primitive road deep in the Cascade range by Mt. Adams.

That crash while wearing my fishing/ camping boots instead of my higher motorcycle touring boots left me with new dents and cuts n my shins, but my knees, hips and highs were protected from the roots nd rocks by the Bohn system

west and the Rockies numerous times. After pulling the armor pads, the pants have seen washings in motel sinks and ice-melt rivers and were (usually) completely dry by morning.

No problem The armor did it's job But he bonus you don't advertise is that my ony knees don't take nearly the beating hey once did when I stop to perform outine maintenance tasks like chain ghtening and lubrication while kneeling n the unforgiving concrete of motel r Wal-Mart parking lots.

Oh, yeah. That benefit alone is worth he price of admission boys and girls. hat's functionality I've come to expect rom my touring gear. Bohn has met, no, exceeded, those expectations.

Good work, guys and gals of Bohn. L E (Lou) Wissenbach, Kennewick, WA