Born To Ride News

My name is Major Edward Pulido, U.S Army, (Ret.). I spent 19 years of my life serving the greatest nation in the world. Like many service members my story begins while serving a combat tour in Baquoba, Iraq. It was 17 August 2004. On that fateful day I hit an Improvised Explosive Device (I.E.D.). This particular road side bomb’s wrath would lead to the amputation of my left leg and would change my life and my family’s life forever.

As I struggled to breathe and as my faith in God was tested, I remember a comment that my father once made that had a powerful impact on my life. He told me that when I take the oath to serve my nation, as an officer in the United States Army, I have a duty and responsibility to God, my country, my family and to those men and women who serve under my command. In addition, he explained to me the importance of making sure that as a nation we must always understand that we never leave anyone behind on the field of battle . On that day my Non- Commissioned Officers honored my father’s vision.

Finally, my father concluded by telling me that as a citizen of this great country we have a patriotic duty and responsibility to honor our fallen and take care of our wounded. It is with this vision that I am proud to say that I am a part of one of the country’s most prestigious foundations.

The Folds of Honor Foundation, in collaboration with the PGA, the USGA and so many others, not only fulfills my father’s vision of not leaving anyone behind but supports a vision by its founder, F-16 fighter pilot Dan Rooney, to ensure that families of the fallen and wounded have the right educational foundation. I am proud and honored to say that my family is a recipient of the Folds of Honor Foundation Scholarship. This gift is an investment in the education of my beautiful children, Kaitlin and Kinsley.

In conclusion, I want to thank my good friend and personal hero, Captain Dan Rooney. I also want to thank our patriotic partners and donors of this great nation who are making an investment in so many children’s futures. Together we are making a difference in the lives of the families of our fallen and our wounded. They deserve it and the Folds of Honor Foundation is ready to provide it. Thank you for the wonderful gift and investment.

General Peter Pace once told me at Brooke Army Medical Center, “Always remember that on that day you did not lose a leg. On that day you sacrificed it for your country and for all in this nation to be free.” This was a poignant statement by a passionate leader.

I thank God and my country for the Folds of Honor Foundation.

For more information about Folds of Honor visit www.foldsofhonor.com/

PICKERINGTON, Ohio — One afternoon in the mid-1960s, a man walked into a Southern California motorcycle shop looking for someone to race an unproven motorcycle with a foreign-sounding name. Lucky for that man, he walked into the right shop and found the right racer. Malcolm Smith took Edison Dye’s offer, and their partnership would help establish the Husqvarna motorcycle brand as a force in American off-road.

In recognition of Malcolm Smith’s contributions to the success of Husqvarna, the American Motorcyclist Association (AMA) and Husqvarna Motorcycles North America are pleased to announce that Smith will serve as Grand Marshal at the 19th annual AMA Vintage Motorcycle Days this July 9-11 in Lexington, Ohio. Husqvarna is the Marque of the Year for 2010 AMA Vintage Motorcycle Days.

“Even today, decades after Malcolm Smith’s racing prime, his fan base rivals some of the top names in the sport,” said AMA President and CEO Rob Dingman. “To anyone who has met him, the reason for that is clear: Malcolm Smith is synonymous with everything positive about motorcycling — fun, sportsmanship, and excitement. He will serve as an exceptional Grand Marshal at this year’s AMA Vintage Motorcycle Days as we celebrate the brand on which he became famous: Husqvarna.”

Added Husqvarna National Sales and Marketing Manager Scot Harden: “When it came to honoring a Grand Marshal at AMA Vintage Motorcycle Days, Malcolm Smith was the obvious choice. We look forward to celebrating the storied history of Husqvarna with Malcolm, as well as a large number of other past Husqvarna legends and champions on July 9-11.”

Smith says he’s looking forward to meeting fans and enjoying the activities himself at AMA Vintage Motorcycle Days.

“I was last at AMA Vintage Motorcycle Days three years ago and had a wonderful time,” Smith said. “I particularly liked walking around the large field where they sell all the old bike parts, buying a truckload and then figuring out how to get it all back to California. I’m spoiled. I like to ride new bikes, but I really enjoy working on old motorcycles. I work on them every day.”

Smith said that he remembers the day he was introduced to Husqvarna motorcycles like it was yesterday.

“When Edison Dye brought me the bike, we laid out a track and some trail that went up into the hills,” Smith said. “When I came back from that ride, I said, ‘Mr. Dye, you have yourself a rider.’ The bike was so far ahead of anything else available at the time, and so reliable.”

Following his encounter with Dye, Smith’s success and influence wasn’t limited to the track. Smith’s positive evaluation of those first Husqvarnas also persuaded Dye to become the U.S. Husqvarna importer in 1966. That decision paved the way for Dye to bring in reigning Swedish world motocross champion Torsten Hallman to race the bikes in the United States. Not only did that move further advertise the quality and speed of Husqvarnas and help Dye sell a lot of motorcycles, but it also established the sport of motocross on American soil.

In his role as grand marshal, Smith will participate in numerous fan-friendly activities, from autograph signings to discussions of his history with Husqvarna. This will be a rare and unique opportunity for Smith’s thousands of fans to meet and greet the off-road legend.

As a racer, Smith gained fame for his accomplishments in the Baja 1000 and for his gold-medal-winning rides in the International Six Day Enduro competitions, but his notoriety reached well beyond the motorcycling community as the star of the influential 1970s motorcycle movie, “On Any Sunday.” The scenes of Smith play-riding with his buddies, which included popular actor Steve McQueen, showed people across the country just how fun motorcycling could be. The movie helped launch an explosion in the popularity of off-road motorcycling in America.

Held at the world-class Mid-Ohio Sports Car Course, AMA Vintage Motorcycle Days features vintage and post-vintage competition in motocross, trials, hare scrambles, roadracing and dirt track, AMA Vintage Motorcycle Days features North America’s largest motorcycle swap meet. Also on tap: educational seminars, bike shows, demo rides of current production bikes, motorcycling seminars, stunt shows, the new product Manufacturers’ Midway, and club corrals featuring marque and regional clubs.

Proceeds from AMA Vintage Motorcycle Days benefit the AMA Motorcycle Hall of Fame Museum. The goal of the AMA Hall of Fame, located on the campus of the American Motorcyclist Association in Pickerington, Ohio, is to honor the distinguished men and women whose competitive spirit, passion, vision and entrepreneurship have played a vital role in shaping the sport, lifestyle and business of motorcycling. For more information, call (614) 856-2222, or visit the Museum’s website at MotorcycleMuseum.org.

For more information about AMA Vintage Motorcycle Days 2009, visit AMAVintageMotorcycleDays.com. For tickets to the event, see MidOhio.com.

About the American Motorcyclist Association

Since 1924, the AMA has protected the future of motorcycling and promoted the motorcycle lifestyle. AMA members come from all walks of life, and they navigate many different routes on their journey to the same destination: freedom on two wheels. As the world’s largest motorcycling rights organization, the AMA advocates for motorcyclists’ interests in the halls of local, state and federal government, the committees of international governing organizations, and the court of public opinion. Through member clubs, promoters and partners, the AMA sanctions more motorsports competition and motorcycle recreational events than any other organization in the world. AMA members receive money-saving discounts from dozens of well-known suppliers of motorcycle services, gear and apparel, bike rental, transport, hotel stays and more. Through its Motorcycle Hall of Fame Museum, the AMA preserves the heritage of motorcycling for future generations.

Bubba Blackwell Planning to Break Bike Jump Record

Legendary daredevil Bubba Blackwell has announced he will recreate his infamous attempt to break his own record for most cars jumped aboard a Harley-Davidson XR750 on June 12, 2010 at New Hampshire’s Rockingham Park. Back in 2001, Blackwell spectacularly failed to clear 22 cars in an attempt to surpass his long-standing 20-car jump record from 1998. Blackwell hopes this year’s attempt to clear 22 Ford Focus cars will end in less spectacular fashion than seen in these photos from 2001.

Harley Salutes the Military Contest Winner Announced

First Lieutenant Stephan Cady, 24, of Colorado Springs, Colo., has been announced as the winner of Harley-Davidson’s Harley Salutes the Military contest. Currently deployed with the U.S. Army in Afghanistan, Cady will be presented with his prize, a Harley-Davidson motorcycle of his choice, by supermodel Marissa Miller upon his return to the United States this summer. Cady will also receive free Rider’s Edge motorcycle training and an all-expenses-paid trip for himself and three friends to attend an Ultimate Fighting Championship (UFC) event later this year.

Created in partnership with Maxim magazine, the Harley Salutes the Military Contest asked active military service men and women and veterans to answer five multiple choice questions and one fill-in-the-blank question asking, “What has been your proudest moment when serving your country?”

“My proudest moment was, after enduring a 12‐hour siege by 400 militants at our outpost in Kamdesh, Afghanistan, looking around me and seeing the brave heroes that I served with that day,” Cady responded.

Competitive Bike Exchange Extended Through March 31

Harley-Davidson’s Competitive Bike Exchange program has been extended through March 31, 2010. The offer has been increased to $1,000 over the negotiated trade-in value of eligible competitive brand motorcycles towards the purchase of qualified new, untitled 2008 and 2009 Harley-Davidson motorcycles and remains at $500 for 2010 Harley-Davidson motorcycles. Customers who purchased a 2008 or 2009 motorcycle that qualified for the Competitive Bike Exchange prior to February 8, 2010 will receive a $500 Harley-Davidson gift card in the mail as a thank you for their purchase. For complete details, see h-d.com/trade-in.

H-D Pink Label Collection Website Goes Live in Time for Valentine’s Day

Launched in January, Harley-Davidson’s new line of Pink Label Collection is taking off just in time for Valentine’s Day with the online debut of a dedicated website, www.h-d.com/pinklabel.

Inspired by women who have been affected by breast cancer and designed to provide them support during their difficult ride, a portion of the proceeds from the sale of every Pink Label Collection item will help fund the YourShoes^™ 24/7 Support Center, which is administered by the national non-profit Breast Cancer Network of Strength^®. The YourShoes center, which helped nearly 50,000 people in 2008 alone, is staffed by breast cancer survivors who provide immediate emotional relief, at any time of day, to people affected by breast cancer.

The Pink Label Collection is comprised of 12 of the most popular women’s MotorClothes silhouettes – each featuring a tasteful touch of pink – including jackets, pants, eyewear, gloves, helmet, shirts and more.

Limited Edition Shriner Trikes Available from Harley-Davidson

Harley-Davidson Motor Company is excited to announce a limited-production addition of the 2010 FLHTCUTG Tri-Glide® Ultra Classic® motorcycle to its Shrine model offerings.

The Harley-Davidson Shrine Tri Glide® is offered for members in Arctic White with Red & Gold pinstripes or for Jester members in Concord Purple with Violet & Burgundy pinstripes. The ordering window is from Wednesday, January 27 to Friday, March 5, 2010 through Harley-Davidson dealers. Since this is a limited quantity, the order window could be closed sooner if the production is sold out.  This offer is valid for the model year 2010 only and may not be offered again in the 2011 model year. 

Any Shrine member whose membership is in good standing is eligible to purchase a Harley-Davidson Motorcycle through the Shrine Purchase Program.  This is a limited time offer and can only be ordered through Friday, March 5, 2010.  For more information, visit www.harley-davidson.com/, click on Motorcycles, Special Editions, Shrine and see your Harley-Davidson dealer to order one.

Oshkosh Defense’s ‘Rumble’ Sweepstakes Supports the Armed Forces Foundation

Oshkosh Corporation’s Oshkosh Defense division will be participating in a jam-packed month of events planned across the country as it continues its support of the Armed Forces Foundation (AFF) Rumble With a Cause sweepstakes. The campaign has a goal of raising $150,000 for AFF while providing the opportunity to win one of two custom-painted motorcycles. The AFF provides a wide range of assistance and services to active and retired military members and their families, including counseling, living expenses, funeral arrangements, housing improvements, and career counseling.

One recipient of the organization’s services is retired U.S. Army Captain Mark Little, who lost both of his legs below the knees following an improvised explosive device (IED) attack in Iraq in 2007. While recovering in the U.S., Little and other wounded veterans were taken on a getaway vacation to Las Vegas as part of the AFF’s Morale, Welfare & Recreation Program. The program provides moral support and diversionary programs for service members and their families to help cope with the stress of deployment and injury or loss of a loved one.

“The AFF works through a holistic approach that touches on a number of issues affecting military members and their families. My experience with the organization as a wounded veteran lead to my personal support for the organization following my full recovery,” Little said. “The Rumble With a Cause sweepstakes is an excellent opportunity to support the wonderful work of the AFF and have a chance to win a custom-painted motorcycle.”

With the support of Oshkosh, the AFF launched the Rumble With a Cause sweepstakes in October 2009. AFF employees will be on site at events listed below to collect donations and sweepstakes entries. The sweepstakes, which closes on April 15, will have two winners, each receiving a custom-painted Harley-Davidson^® Fat Boy^® motorcycle, donated to the AFF by Oshkosh Defense. Those not able to attend the events may enter online at http://www.rumblewithacause.org/.

“The men and women serving in our Armed Forces put everything on the line for their country, and the AFF offers much-needed programs to help them and their family members deal with the effects of war and the transition back to civilian life,” said Andy Hove, Oshkosh Corporation executive vice president and president, Defense. “This sweepstakes allows Oshkosh to support these tremendous efforts while giving away two bikes that honor the U.S. Army and Marine Corps.”

No donation or purchase is necessary to enter. Individuals will receive one entry for each $10 donation made up to a total of $200 or 20 entries. All rules, including instructions for entry without donation and eligibility requirements, are on the sweepstakes Web site. Oshkosh will promote the sweepstakes at these upcoming events:

Feb. 6–14                    Daytona 500 Race Week, Daytona Beach, FL

Feb. 12–21                  Chicago Auto Show, Chicago, IL

Feb. 24–27                  AUSA Winter, Fort Lauderdale, FL

Feb. 26–28                  Tennessee State National Guard Conference

Feb. 27–March 7         Daytona Bike Week, Daytona Beach, FL

March 3                       Armed Forces Foundation Gala, Washington, D.C.

March 26–28               Texas National Guard State Conference, Austin, TX

April 8–10                    California National Guard Conference

Staff presenters highlight initiatives designed to preserve and protect motorcycling and support dealers/retailers

IRVINE, Calif., Feb. 12, 2010 – The Motorcycle Industry Council conducted its members-only annual meeting in Indianapolis today in conjunction with the 2010 Dealernews International Powersports Dealer Expo.

“The MIC best serves its membership by serving the marketplace,” said MIC President Tim Buche. “And right now that means promoting initiatives that focus on current and prospective motorcyclists, implementing programs like Revive Your Ride! to drive traffic to dealers, and leading aggressive grassroots campaigns for overturning the CPSIA ban on youth motorcycles and ATVs.”

Guest speakers at the MIC’s annual meeting included:

·        Martin Regalia, Senior Economist for the United States Chamber of Commerce, who is considered one of the top ten economists in the nation;

·        Andre Lacy, Chairman of the Board for LDI, Ltd, and Chairman Emeritus of FinishMaster and Tucker Rocker Distributing, Inc.;

·        Jade West, Senior Vice President of Government Relations for the National Association of Wholesaler-Distributors (NAW) and Executive Director of NAW’s Wholesaler-Distributor Political Action Committee, who spoke on the broad regulatory challenges facing small business.

Additional presenters included MIC Board Chairman Larry Little, Senior Vice President and Chief Brand Officer at Cycle World Magazine, MIC General Counsel Paul Vitrano, MIC Vice President, Communications Cam Arnold, and MIC President Tim Buche.

“Now is the time to push for a Congressional solution to permanently end the ban on youth motorcycles and ATVs,” said Vitrano. His call-to-action is echoed in a video accessible via http://bit.ly/aXpkyu.

At this year’s Dealernews International Powersports Dealer Expo, the MIC is encouraging members, exhibitors and dealers to stop by the MIC Business Center (Booth # 4508) and take advantage of a variety of multi-media tools and activities – texting, e-mail, Skype, letters, and video – to voice their concerns, show their support, and urge Congress to take action to permanently end the ban on youth vehicles.

Additionally, signage will be posted throughout the Expo encouraging attendees to show their support for the Stop the Ban effort with their cell phone by sending the text message “StoptheBan” or “STB” to 30101. A feature on www.stopthebannow.com/ allows the public to join the campaign directly from the website by entering their cell phone number.

Ramping up the industry’s Revive Your Ride! campaign was another key theme of the annual meeting.

Launched by the MIC Board of Directors in November of 2009, Revive Your Ride! is the first industry-wide promotional campaign designed to help raise consumer awareness about special dealership sales, incentives and activities across the nation to help increase dealership traffic. Dealerships can download logos, advertising templates and other promotional items, all for free at www.mic.org/reviveyourride.

In his industry overview, MIC Chairman Larry Little said, “In order for the Revive Your Ride! messages to reach consumers and create a tsunami of floor traffic and boost sales, it’s going to take the support of the entire industry. Its ultimate success will determine our collective success.”

The Motorcycle Industry Council exists to preserve, protect and promote motorcycling through government relations, communications and media relations, statistics and research, aftermarket programs, development of data communications standards, and activities surrounding technical and regulatory issues. It is a not-for-profit, national industry association representing manufacturers and distributors of motorcycles, scooters, motorcycle/ATV/ROV parts and accessories, and members of allied trades such as insurance, finance and investment companies, media companies and consultants. The MIC is headquartered in Irvine, Calif., with a government relations office adjacent to Washington, D.C. First called the MIC in 1970, the organization has been in operation since 1914. Visit the MIC at http://www.mic.org/.

Story by Steve Atlas
MotorcycleUSA.com

Editorial: World Superbike or MotoGP?

Ahh, the subject all we racing nuts love to debate until blue in the face. Which series is supreme: World Superbike or MotoGP? Talk about a loaded question, right? Not an easy subject to tackle, but with MotoGP moving back to 1000cc machines and the use of possible semi-production-based engines for 2012 to attract more teams, the two series are slowly becoming closer and closer. Thus, the debate arises: Will there be room for both? Let’s have a look at the pros and cons of each and see where the chips fall.

Rossi has been quite outspoken in his dislike of 800cc MotoGP engines and too much electronic intervention.

Starting with MotoGP, which is still considered by most as the ‘premiere’ series in the world – it does have the top riders on the most expensive and technologically-advanced machines. But with the grid at a lowly 17 riders for 2010 and electronics taking much of the wild, sideways antics out of the sport, how much viewer excitement is left? It seems to be that once the order of the race is set, by lap five or so, little overtaking takes place. Furthermore, with the immense grip available from these bikes today the riders must remain on line to achieve this, thus using a different line to pass becomes almost impossible. Even the GOAT (Greatest Of All Time) Valentino Rossi has commented that he would like to see away with traction control and 800cc engines, and soon. It seems he may be getting at least part of his wish.

"Everybody has got it. Traction control, anti-wheelie control, frickin’ scratch-your-ass-while-you’re-racing control; whatever control it is, there’s always some new thing they’re coming out with. Our cornering speeds right now are so just astronomical that if you didn’t have traction control, man, you would be in orbit every other frickin’ race.” –Edwards

These comments come directly from the mouth of the most dominate modern road racer on the planet, saying he’d both abolish TC and go back to 1K machines at the drop of the hat. Hard to discredit a man with credentials like that. It also raises a good point at the same time: Is it even possible to limit electronics, be it through a spec ECU or full wiring harness, or would teams just find clever ways around it? Like they say, in racing it isn’t cheating if you don’t get caught.

Colin Edwards had a great quote about traction control awhile back, really putting things in to perspective, be it a brash Texas one: “Everybody has got it. Traction control, anti-wheelie control, frickin’ scratch-your-ass-while-you’re-racing control; whatever control it is, there’s always some new thing they’re coming out with. Our cornering speeds right now are so just astronomical that if you didn’t have traction control, man, you would be in orbit every other frickin’ race.”

This then spawns the question, how much safer is traction control? Yeah, without it less highsides will take place, but as is they still happen – Jorge Lorenzo during Laguna Seca qualifying instantly comes to mind. And with all the electronics, the corner speeds are so high that when riders lose the front, which inevitably will happen trying to find that “astronomical” limit, they will be going much faster and thus slide further and tumble harder when hitting gravel traps.

Melandri mores back to the Gresini Honda team for 2010, but was slotted to ride for the ill-fated Kawasaki team last year. With Kawi totally pulling out it reduces the GP grid by another two riders and reduces the manufacturer count to four.

Not to mention, racing is about excitement. Every rider on the grid knows exactly what they are signing up for and have for years to get to that point. This isn’t BINGO people, it’s ‘frickin’ motorcycle racing. But MotoGP has seemingly become the Formula 1 of yesteryear – awesome machines and amazing riders but limited on-track action.

Though despite the somewhat unentertaining racing as of recent, from a rider’s perspective MotoGP is still top dog. Take our own Ben Spies for example. He did the unthinkable and won the World Superbike title in his rookie season and while he was slated to stay and defend it, he used some pull at Yamaha to immediately jump up to MotoGP for this year. That shows quite a lot about what the top riders in the world think of each series.

The level of talent in MotoGP is also undisputable. The so-called “four aliens” (Rossi, Jorge Lorenzo, Casey Stoner and Dani Pedrosa) are considered by most to be the best riders on the plant. And when one series has them all, it’s hard to argue against it. Even Spies, who was instantly winning World Superbike races, says his goal is merely to be in the top-10 to start the season in MotoGP, pronouncing that finishing anywhere within that group would be equivalent to a win in WSBK. Yet another solid point in the defense of Grand Prix racing’s superiority.

Dani Pedrosa: One of the "four aliens" as they are now called.

And while GP is F-1 on two wheels, F-1 has actually done a lot recently to improve racing. And with far more teams involved in 2010, it will be the series’ largest grid in several years. They have done this by limiting testing and leveling the playing field for support teams, among a load of other rule changes. Can MotoGP do the same? That’s the aim with going back to 1000cc displacement for ’12 and the rumored allowance for of semi-production-based engines for factory-backed and privateer teams, which WSBK has outwardly expressed serious discontent with. Be interesting to see if this rejuvenates the grid, as a total of 17 riders is on the small side.

To summarize GPs: Amazing talent, awesome machines, but small grids and sometimes lackluster on-track action.

On to World Superbike, then… With a very solid 24-confirmered-rider grid this year – not including wildcards at various rounds – and evenly matched machines among the top factory teams, there’s no question the racing in Superbike is more exciting to watch. The bigger and heavier bikes are less electronically controlled, thus the machines are more rear-end unstable and exciting to watch, as well as taking far more muscle to ride. They also punish the spec Pirellis quite extensively, making tire management an exciting feature throughout the race.

Do they have the best riders in the world? Maybe not the best, but it’s no slouch of a field. With several ex-GP men like Max Biaggi and Carlos Checa filling the grid, as well as past WSBK champions and a host of fast up-and-coming young talent, there’s no disputing that – MotoGP aside – it’s the top series in the world. And while it may not produce the same level of speed from the top four “aliens”, the depth of field is far deeper, with the grids typically separated by less than a second in qualifying all the way down, and sometime outside the top-20. Not to mention the first 14 or so riders are on factory or factory-backed bikes.

World Superbike: No question the racing it top notch!

Speaking of factory or factory-back bikes, where MotoGP has four manufacturers taking place (Honda, Suzuki, Yamaha and Ducati), World Superbike has a whopping seven, which could soon be eight if KTM joins in 2011 like they say. Now that’s saying something. With the likes of BMW, Aprilia and Ducati mixed in with all four Japanese brands, it really is amazing what they have been able achieve. Especially considering just about every factory team, sans Ducati, pulled out in 2004 when WSBK announced they were going to a Pirelli spec tire, becoming the first major motorcycle series to do so. While controversial at the time, today just about every big organization has followed suit (MotoGP, BSB, AMA, etc), as it goes a long way to level the playing field and increase close racing. Once again they were ahead of their time and as such paving the way for all others to follow.

Johnny Rea is one of the young guns to look out for as a WSBK title contender in 2010. But he'll have some serious competition to get the crown.

I had a chance to ride all the World Superbike machines in Portugal following the final race of the season recently and came away extremely impressed with the level of all the bikes, as the rules allows modifications that not only keep the playing field even but make for some seriously trick motorcycles. That said, instead of technology being the forefront, Infront Sports (company in change of running WSBK) has aimed to produce the best racing on the planet, and judging by the varying levels of tune on some bikes, we wouldn’t be surprised if some rule bending was allowed to even things up. But is this really a bad thing?

Just take a quick glance at the rules: 1200cc and 370-lb minimum for twins, plus 50mm air restrictors, while the four-cylinder machines get a reduced weight of 356-lbs but a max of only 1000cc with no air restriction. The rules also state that “…the weight limit and the intake-restrictor size of twin machines would be updated, if needed, during the Championship, by a system analyzing the race points obtained…” thus giving Infront Sports the ability to tailor the rules as needed to keep competition close. Did someone say air restrictors? Think of it as the NASCAR of bike racing.

Motorcycle racing is entertainment, first and foremost. Win on Sunday, sell on Monday. It’s still the reason manufacturers pump millions of dollars into our beloved sport. And without multi-bike battles throughout the pack, especially at the front, people aren’t going to watch or attend the races. Just look at the release NASCAR recently put out about changes it’s making to the series to up the excitement level for 2010. The cars will now get bigger restrictor plates for faster Super Speedway racing plus the removal of the big rear wing that fans didn’t like the look of, while they also eliminated regulations on bump drafting (where one car hits another from behind) and reduced fines for verbal and physical bouts as well as directly encouraged drivers to speak their minds freely. This will surely bring back some of that good ol’ redneck excitement!

Haga as been the World Superbike Championship’s bride's mate for more times than most can remember, though he's aiming to change that in 2010. He's without a doubt a title favorite going into the season.

NASCAR may not have the world’s best drivers, but cars bouncing off each other at 180mph and 10-deep pileups sure keep people tuning in week after week. A lot more so in America than the precession that was F-1. And much like NASCAR, putting fans in the seats and turning on the TV is priority No. 1 for WSBK. This is where the true strength of WSBK lays, with its edge-of-the-seat excitement and great commentators, both a direct result of the incredibly close competition. Not to mention its connection to everyday riders, as the machines are fully production based and look like racing versions of what any consumer can buy off the showroom floor. Just don’t look under the bodywork…

As for the final verdict, it breaks down like this: Deeper fields and better racing in World Superbike but the world’s best riders and the trickest machines on the planet in MotoGP, albeit only 17 of them. So which is king of the racing world? Like Rossi said, “As for the level of spectacle of the two disciplines, I leave it to the people who watch the races to comment.” Well put Doctor.

World Superbike has a massive fan following. Haga shown here signing autographs. The same can be said for MotoGP. Both series are huge in Europe, with live TV and spectator numbers well over 100,000 at some rounds.

No matter how you look at it, motorcycle racing in all forms is an awesome sport and I’ll be tuned into each and every race of both series, just for very different reasons – one to see bar-bashing action and the other to witness the greatest riders in the world on the pinnacle of prototype machinery. But getting back to the original point, as long as MotoGP holds on to its unobtainium-equipped machines and top-tier riders while World Superbike produces close racing every week, I’d say there is ample room for both series’ to strive. As long as the economy allows it, that is.

To quote Ernest Hemingway: “There are only three sports: bullfighting, motor racing, and mountaineering; all the rest are merely games.” And one can never have enough motor racing…

Retrieved February 11, 2010: from http://www.motorcycle-usa.com/749/5703/Motorcycle-Article/World-Superbike-vs–MotoGP-Editorial.aspx

From a press release issued by the NHHA…

Off Road Support fuelled by Mona Vie Emv has stepped up again for round two to provide a Prize to AMA/Kenda Tires National Hare and Hound Racers. For Round Two, In addition to the abundance of sponsor provided contingencies, racers in many of the support classes will have a shot of winning some Off Road Support Dealer Coupons as well.

“We know that this racing isn’t just about the pro riders. They will be here either way, and many of them are already earning contingencies from their respective manufacturers. The decision was made for Round Two to give back to those who support this entire organization in an effort to show that the other riders are important to!” Steve Argubright of Off Road Support.

The coupons are legal to all classes by AMA standards, and allow for contingencies to be brought to the hands of “non-A” racers. The introduction of the amateur class dealer coupons comes just three days before the banner will drop on the Four Aces MC’s round of the AMA/Kenda National Hare and Hound Championship. As the pro riders make their way off of the podium, the crowd will have another reason to stick around as many of their friends and local riders will have a shot at earning some return on their entry.

“I believe Steve hit it right on the nose when he mentioned the idea of giving back to the other classes,” John Morros Explained, “We agreed to mix things up and try to give the everyday local riders a chance to win something too. With five different Racers having the opportunity to win the coupons, the National Hare and Hound Series is now a whole new ballgame.”

ADDITIONALLY, Travis from TBT racing has stepped up to provide a Free Suspension Service ($225 Value) to each of the below mentioned “Bike Classes.” “This is an awesome series, and I am happy with the direction that the NHHA has taken. I hope to do more of these in the future, but for now I have stepped on board for Round Two. Many of the top riders in these series are running my setup, and I am happy to extend that service over to anyone who needs it.” Travis, or Tuner as his friends call him, is a racer himself who competes in the 30+ “B” class. “Desert racing it what it is all about, and this series is Desert Racing at its Roots!”

An overall victory in any of the below mentioned classes will earn you big bucks as the purse will be paid out to riders regardless of their individual classes. Round two purse payouts are as follows:

■1st Overall 3 loop “B” Racer – $200 Off Road Support Coupon + TBT Suspension Service ($225 Value)

■1st Overall 2 loop “C” Racer – $200 Off Road Support Coupon + TBT Suspension Service ($225 Value)

■1st Overall “1 Loop” Racer – $200 Off Road Support Coupon + TBT Suspension Service ($225 Value)

■1st Overall “A/B Woman” Racer -$200 Off Road Support Coupon + TBT Suspension Service ($225 Value)

■1st Overall “ATV/Quad” Racer – $200 Off Road Support Coupon

That means that any of the above mentioned classes are eligible for an additional $425 (in certificates) on top of the already existent NHHA contingency setup. The NHHA is only two races old, but its commitment to giving back to the riders is top priority underneath the NHHA organizational system. For more information on the National Hare and Hound Series visit www.nationalhareandhound.com/

For more on TBT racing and “Tuner” go to www.tbtracing.com/

Riders of all classes within the STATED SKILL LEVELS will be eligible for the coupon contingencies. Contingencies will be awarded after the results have been deemed “Official” by both the NHHA and Four Aces Scoring Teams.

Retrieved February 11, 2010; from http://www.amadirectlink.com/news/story.asp?id=1751

Kevin Stroughter is an all-star athlete who has lettered in football, basketball, track and baseball from his high school in Citrus Heights, Calif. But that’s not the only reason he is considered an inspiration by his peers. 

When Stroughter was 8 years old, he and a group of friends were playing in a field near his house in Rodeo, Calif., when they discovered a can of gasoline. They lit a tree stake they found in the grass and tossed gasoline on it to fuel the fire. The wind shifted and Kevin’s clothing became engulfed in flames.

Hours later, Kevin arrived by ambulance at Shriners Hospitals for Children® — Northern California in critical condition with burns over 70 percent of his body. He was given a 50 percent chance of survival and spent the next eight months in the hospital’s pediatric burn unit.

“I think they saved my baby’s life,” says Kevin’s mother Audra Sipp, who spent long days and nights at her son’s bedside.

Kevin endured several surgeries for skin grafts, dressing changes and many hours of physical therapy during his stay in the hospital. “It was hard,” Kevin recalls. “But I learned not to give up.”

Though he was often in pain, Kevin tried to make the best of the situation. While in the hospital, he trick-or-treated at the Halloween party, cast a line at the Shriners Kids Fishing Derby, celebrated his birthday and met NBA star Matt Barnes when he was playing for the Sacramento Kings.

By the time Kevin left the hospital, his family had relocated to Sacramento to be closer to Shriners Hospitals for Children®.

When he started third grade, his mother followed him from the hospital to the school and sat in the classroom until the teachers convinced her Kevin would be fine.

“Kevin is an example of why we work so hard to care for these critically ill children,” says David Greenhalgh, M.D., Chief of Burn Surgery at Shriners Hospitals for Children® — Northern California. “They can get through it and do extremely well.” 

Kevin returns to the hospital regularly for check-ups and surgeries to ensure he retains movement in his arms and other parts of his body that were scarred by the burns.

As a high school athlete, he has shown himself to be fast and flexible. Kevin plays running back on the football team, center on the basketball team and broke a league record for the fastest 100-yard dash in track. Georgetown University and the University of Oregon have expressed interest in him.

“We are delighted to see him do so well,” says Dr. Greenhalgh. “He has always had an excellent attitude and that has contributed to a great outcome for him.”

Every day in the Sunshine State hundreds, if not thousands of people are riding their motorcycles enjoying the breeze in their face and the feeling of freedom.  Florida offers hundreds of miles of great roadways and almost 12 full months of beautiful weather for our residents and visitors to get on a bike and cruise for hours.
It may sound harsh saying some motorcyclists take too much for granted, but many will say it’s true: 

·         Most don’t give a thought of what penalties a car/truck driver will face if they are involved in an accident with a motorcycle.  When it happens to someone the motorcyclists know, they are outraged at the slap on the wrist the offending driver receives, if anything at all.

·         Most never considered if their health care plan would cover them if they got hurt while on their bike, yet many are shocked when the health insurance they’ve been paying into for years shows them the “fine print” saying that injuries sustained while on a motorcycle may not be a covered event. 

·         Most enjoy the freedom of choice they are allowed in Florida every time they hop on their scoot… “Do I want to wear a helmet today?”  There are still thousands of bikers that don’t give it a second thought that just a decade ago they didn’t have that choice.

·         Most have heard the 2008 HB137 and the stricter sanctions it applied to overly excessive speeding and other motor vehicle infractions.  Many still don’t realize that originally this Bill only applied to motorcycles.  Freedom Fighters got involved and what became final law was not the original 30+ MPH over the limit, but now 50+ MPH.  The over thousands of dollars of fines related to vertical license plates was stricken from this Bill.  CONFISCATION OF YOUR MOTORCYCLES WAS STRICKEN FROM THE ORIGINAL LANGUAGE.  These changes didn’t happen on their own.

·         Many may think it’s a great thing for car drivers to see the “Look Twice, Save A Life” ABATE of Florida, Inc. billboard when they ride into Florida along I95 or drive through Pensacola, but some never give it a thought of how it was paid for.  Those involved know that ABATE of Florida, Inc, a 501 C(4) non-profit organization, has been awarded a million dollars over the past few years to help teach and remind drivers to always look out for motorcycles.

I know for a fact that at least 7,500+ bikers think of these issues.  They are the largest group of Freedom Fighters in Florida, fighting for motorcyclists’ rights.  Yes, there are others that “walk the line” as well, but the members of ABATE of Florida, Inc. have put together the largest Motorcycle Rights Organization in Florida’s history.  We’re the ones that offer you the opportunity to ride your motorcycle right up to the front steps of the Governor’s office to tell your elected officials what you want them to fight for and against.  No, not up to a parking lot nearby, but right onto the grounds, up the sidewalks, and park your scoot next to the Florida Capitol’s steps.

What I’m talking about is ABATE of Florida’s 15th Annual Freedom Rights Rally April 19, 2010.  Sure the local Tea Parties have been letting your legislators know that the general citizenry is unhappy with the way things are going, but if you ride, if you used to ride, and even if you don’t, why not join us in helping make sure all motorcyclists’ rights are being constantly fought for here in Florida?   There’s nothing like seeing the public’s faces as hundreds and hundreds of motorcycles rumble up the hill on Apalachee Pkwy and drive right up onto the Florida Capitol Grounds.  Make your plans now.  Be there with us.

Dave “Lockdown” Rich

State Public Relations Trustee,

ABATE of Florida, Inc.

PO Box 990584, Naples, FL 34116 

386.490.4821      386.490.4482 FAX

statepr@abateflorida.com    www.abateflorida.com/

PICKERINGTON, Ohio — The American Motorcyclist Association (AMA) is pleased to welcome John Willoughby to the Association’s staff. Willoughby will serve as the development director of the AMA, and will be responsible for raising funds and cultivating relationships with donors and supporters. One of Willoughby’s primary responsibilities will be raising funds for the AMA Motorcycle Hall of Fame Museum.
“This is an exciting time for the AMA and the AMA Motorcycle Hall of Fame Museum,” said AMA President and CEO Rob Dingman. “We are currently working on bringing the AMA Hall of Fame exhibit to the main floor and, ultimately, this new exhibit will elevate these amazing motorcyclists and their accomplishments to a level never before seen. John’s efforts in raising funds and communicating our goals to supporters of the AMA Hall of Fame and the AMA itself will be critical to the success of this project, and he couldn’t be on board at a better time.”

Willoughby, who currently lives near Orlando, Fla., is re-locating to Ohio to take the position.

“There are many motorcycle museums, but there is only one AMA Motorcycle Hall of Fame,” Willoughby said. “The AMA Motorcycle Hall of Fame, and the museum that it calls home, occupies a unique position in the motorcycling community. I’m looking forward to fostering support for the Association as well as working with the American Motorcycle Heritage Foundation to raise funds and develop relationships that support the mission of the AMA Hall of Fame.”

An avid motorcyclist, Willoughby is a 25-year veteran who has worked with foundations, corporations, churches and major donors to raise funds and foster relationships. His background includes developing strategic initiatives, implementing tactical business plans and operational experience. He is also a Golden Gloves Boxing Champion.

Willoughby can be reached at (614) 856-1900, ext. 1266, or jwilloughby@ama-cycle.org.

About the American Motorcyclist Association
Since 1924, the AMA has protected the future of motorcycling and promoted the motorcycle lifestyle. AMA members come from all walks of life, and they navigate many different routes on their journey to the same destination: freedom on two wheels. As the world’s largest motorcycling rights organization, the AMA advocates for motorcyclists’ interests in the halls of local, state and federal government, the committees of international governing organizations, and the court of public opinion. Through member clubs, promoters and partners, the AMA sanctions more motorsports competition and motorcycle recreational events than any other organization in the world. AMA members receive money-saving discounts from dozens of well-known suppliers of motorcycle services, gear and apparel, bike rental, transport, hotel stays and more. Through its Motorcycle Hall of Fame Museum, the AMA preserves the heritage of motorcycling for future generations.

Burn Awareness Week is a kick-off to a year-long educational campaign from Shriners Hospitals for Children. In the menu across the top of each page, viewers will find information about burn prevention and educational materials for download or order. If you have any questions, please e-mail us at shrinepr@shrinenet.org.