While many motorcycle enthusiasts enjoy a leisurely Sunday ride, most people agree that some of the best action movies include motorcycle stunts that are aimed to thrill and excite the viewer. This video is an excellent montage of some of the best and most thrilling motorcycle rides and stunts ever made.
Summary of Posts: May 12th 2013
During this cycle of Legendary USA, we talked about Mother’s Day and motorcycles, including what to get your motorcycle mom as a gift, and why being a mom doesn’t mean you have to give up your ride.
- We talked about an article in the Herald Review, which discussed the fact that motorcycle riders are everyday people from all walks of life. We highlighted one such person, a mom and a nurse who loves to ride with her husband now that she’s an empty nester.
- Next we talked about some unique gifts for mom on Mother’s Day, like a new motorcycle. Flowers and chocolate are great, but for motorcycle moms, they may appreciate a bike that is specifically geared to women.
- We went on to highlight one mom’s plight of explaining to others why she loves to ride. It took some convincing for others to understand her love of the open road.
- Then we discussed some other great gifts for your motorcycle mom, particularly if you’re on a budget. There were some great suggestions for gifts under $50 from Bella Online.
- There has been a definite increase in the number of female motorcyclists, as May 3rd saw the first International women’s only bike ride, as part of the She Shore Riders.
- Then we discussed the fact that becoming a mom doesn’t mean giving up your bike for good. We talked about women who become moms and enjoy both their kids and their bikes.
Events This Month & Last Month
As spring makes itself known around the northern hemisphere, motorcycle enthusiasts gear up their bikes for the coming season. It is around this time that many are planning rides, vacations, and trips to events all over the United States. For those who are seeking out events, there has been plenty of action to go around, and the fun events continue throughout the summer. Many motorcycle enthusiasts venture into Canada or Mexico, or even travel further to take part in once a year festivals and events across the globe. For those staying within the United States this year, here are some of the amazing events that have taken place and are set to take place in the upcoming months.
Boston’s 3rd Annual Wounded Vet Ride
Each year in Massachusetts, motorcycle enthusiasts gather together to raise money for wounded vets. This year, the event took place in Everett, on April 27th. The ride along began at Boston Harley Davidson, and stretched all the way down to the Suffolk Downs Race Track. It was well attended, and participants especially enjoyed the concert afterwards at 2:30PM. Food and beverages were sold onsite at the event as well.
Connecticut Miracle Ride 2013
The Connecticut Miracle Ride takes place each year at the end of April; this year, the event occurred on April 28th. It is easily the biggest charity motorcycle ride that takes place within this area of the United States, with as many as 1,000 motorcyclists attending on most years. This year’s event was well attended, although exact numbers have yet to be released. Mothers, fathers, sons, daughters and friends enjoyed this wonderful event for the Connecticut Children’s Center greatly. A barbecue lunch was served at the end of the event, allowing participants to unwind and socialize.
ABATE of Colorado Expo
The ABATE of Colorado Expo was another well-attended event that took place in Aurora on April 28th. The expo is a great learning opportunity for seasoned riders as well as newbies, and any motorcycle enthusiast of any age is welcome. The event featured a huge range of workshops, games, talks, demonstrations, and even a children’s play area. Motorcycle awareness activists also ran several safety classes, and the food was delicious throughout the Expo.
Myrtle Beach Bike Week – May 10, 2013 through May 19 2013
Get prepared for a full week of fun around Myrtle Beach with this great weeklong celebration. Motorcycle enthusiasts all over the world express their love for their bikes and their camaraderie with each other in this great biker festival. This festival takes the form of a week-long poker run, starting in Shallotte, NC, and ending in Georgetown, SC. 80 miles of beautiful coastline await the adventurous, and all you need to attend is yourself, your bike, and a solid love of motorcycles.
AspenCash Motorcycle Rally – May 16, 2013, through May 19, 2013
The AspenCash Motorcycle Rally takes place each year during the month of May, in the city of Ruidoso, NM. With over 33,000 feet of vendors attending this event, there is truly a little something for everyone. Several poker runs are completed each year, with prizes as high as $5,000. The rally also has a four day long trade show that visitors can attend, giving them a chance to see the most beautifully built bikes and gear available.
31st Annual Red River Memorial Day Motorcycle Rally – May 22, 2013, through May 27th, 2013
An estimated 20,000 bikers attend this fabulous, well known motorcycle rally in Red River, NM. Set just before Memorial Day, the whole town of Red River lights up with excitement during this rally. Live music events are held at various locations all around the town, and vendors park themselves and offer everything from brand new motorcycles through jewelry and women’s clothing. One of the best known events to occur during this rally is the Monday morning Memorial Day ride out to Vietnam Veteran’s Memorial in Angel Fire; bikers ride out to pay their respects and this closes out the rally.
Mississippi Gulf Coast Memorial Day Blowout – May 24, 2013 - Monday, May 27, 2013
All types of motorcycles and motorcyclists are welcome at this three day event in Gulfport, Mississippi. From vendors through amazing food and plenty of drink, this event has literally everything. A free bike show is presented for both locals and visitors, and things get spicy during the weekend with a bikini and wet tshirt contest. National Motorcycle Magazine is present during the event, and camping is available both for tenters and those who are bringing their camper trailer or RV. Just about the only friends not welcome are dogs; those with dogs should be sure to make other arrangements for their furry companions.
Ohio Bike Week – May 31, 2013 - June 9, 2013
As the name suggests, Ohio Bike Week takes place in Ohio; more specifically, the event is held along the edge of Lake Erie. Several rides are enjoyed by attendees each year, and the standard vendors selling everything from bike accessories and parts to clothing and souvenirs will be present. This is a particularly long event that takes place over the course of 10 days; the dates are perfectly aligned with the AHDRA Ohio Bike Week Nationals to allow people to attend both if they so desire.
Mother’s Day – May 12, 2013
Of course, mother’s day is coming up soon, on May 19. In biker culture, a mother is to be respected and loved, and so this day is quite important to most bikers. Several states around the country have events, and one of the largest events is Vermont’s Green Mountain Harley, Super Swap Meet and Mother’s Day Demo event. This event is perfect for moms who ride only occasionally, or moms who ride all the time. The event takes place from 9AM to 5PM during the day, and even mothers who don’t ride can take an escorted demo ride.
Motorcycle lovers with moms who happen to love motorcycles, too, can also simply take their moms out on a more personal ride, perhaps pairing this with a picnic in a quiet location or a dinner out to wrap up a wonderful day. Gifts for moms who happen to love motorcycles and the biker lifestyle are numerous; new gear or jewelry is nearly always a good, safe choice. Of course, if it is within your budget, a brand new motorcycle is certainly one of the best gifts you can buy for a motorcycle mama.
Armed Forces Day – May 18th, 2013
Armed Forces Day sees many motorcycle events around the country themed around supporting our troops; most states have some iteration of these events. Notably, the Myrtle Beach event falls around this time, and it often has at least one specific event aimed towards this purpose. Many bikers represent their patriotism and their love for the troops and military members of this great country by wearing an American flag on their backpack or motorcycle, and this can be a simple way to show your support if you aren’t able to go all out and attend a convention or rally.
Children at Spring Rallies
Most of the events listed above have at least some available events that allow children to be present, if not all. This can be a wonderful way to bring the family together by doing something they love; however, it is important to be sure that the environment you bring the rugrats to is safe and age appropriate. Demo rides are an excellent choice for this, as are events that offer lessons and workshops for young riders. For newly interested rugrats, consider making this year’s grading or birthday present a first dirt bike or small motorcycle; this will result in a gift they are sure to remember for a long time to come.
Children can also be an active part of getting motorcycles ready for events; many children love when their parents include them in their hobbies, and shining up the hog is no different. This can be a valuable way to spend quality time with your children, all while teaching them the importance of caring for our belongings so that we can enjoy them for a long time to come.
As you can see above, there is a virtual plethora of excitement for any biker or motorcycle enthusiast within the United States in the springtime. The onset of warm, beautiful weather brings bikers out in droves, each hoping for a little pre-emptive taste of the hot summer and long drives with just the road and a bike between them and nature. That freedom is often what draws bikers to the biker lifestyle in the first place, and no better seasons than spring and summer stand for that same ideal. Many bikers consider the lifestyle to be their way of escaping from everyday life; it is an excellent way to get back to basics. When it comes to treating the motorcycle mama in your life or celebrating spring and Mother’s Day, there’s no better choice than a peaceful Mother’s Day bike trip or rally.
Biker Clothes, Patches, and Attitude: Biker Culture in America
The concept of true biker culture is hard to pin down in America today. Motorcycles are becoming more widely used by average, everyday people; all from an incredibly diverse cross-section of society. There was a time when biker culture was once considered to be something directly tied in with rebellion and anarchy. While that is still true occasionally, biker culture has opened up a great deal and diversified over the last decade. Today, we can see many influences of biker culture in our society; television shows like ‘Sons of Anarchy’ dramatize the lifestyle thought to be lived by bikers, and motorcycle gear is again gaining popularity in fashion. But what makes someone a true biker can be just as difficult to pin down as those who live their entire lives on the open road.
Rebellion on the Road
Once, rebellion by those who were a part of biker culture was thought to be negative; this has certainly changed, and may be due to the fact that society better understands that not all rebellion is bad. Rebellion can come in many forms, including the desire to do what’s right, no matter what society thinks. In some cases, this has led to biker groups hosting charity events and helping out in their communities. Bikers are really just like any other cross-section of society; there may be a few bad apples in the bunch, but most are good, honest, loyal people.
A Question of Loyalty
One of the primary features of biker culture in America today is loyalty, and this is showcased in many of the television shows that support the culture. Often, motorcycle groups form special bonds that last for a lifetime; they tend to see other motorcycle enthusiasts as their families. Just as is to be expected with any family, bikers will defend and protect their families from harm whenever necessary. This is really no different than any other family in America today, and often, it simply reflects the high level of family values found within biker culture.
Clothing in Biker Culture
Many people wear biker clothes with elements found in biker culture, which has always had a direct influence on popular culture as well. Biker clothes and accessories like sunglasses, bandanas, and jackets are all found frequently throughout popular culture. However, this influence hasn’t really always gone both ways. Simply due to the fact that motorcycling requires leather for protection when on the road has meant that much of the styles have remained the same over time, with trends and changes in the fashion being crafted of the same basic fabrics. To this day, denim or leather clothing and protective biker accessories are still the most widely preferred and well-represented items in motorcycle culture, and this is because they tend to be better at protecting riders when on the road.
A Way To Connect
Biker clothing, patches, signs, and other cultural representations have usually served a second purpose as well; they serve as a way for those who enjoy the lifestyle to find one another and connect. Part of life on the open road is the understanding that people may come and go in life, and new friends can always be found when traveling. By wearing cultural representation in the form of clothing, bikers never feel too far from their families because they know more “family members” will be just past the next turn. It is this unspoken bond between riders that has been the source of fascination and attraction for many.
The lifestyle of a biker can be just as varied as the lifestyle of those who don’t partake and enjoy it. However, the basic biker values come in a standard list; they include a fierce loyalty to loved ones and friends, the desire to be a supportive part of a community, and the understanding that nothing in life is ever permanent. Rather than making these people outsiders, it has allowed bikers to carefully craft their own culture, complete with supportive friends and loved ones, fashion, and values that are often handed down to their children. The biker culture has much to teach about freedom through the open road, and is considered by many to be a true philosophy.
Summary of Posts: May 12th 2013
This cycle of LegendaryUSA had us talking about how to choose the best leather jacket for both men and women. We also talked about buying gear on a budget and the importance of following safety tips, especially for new riders.
- First, we discussed the best way to choose a men’s leather jacket. This is one of the more important pieces of your motorcycle apparel, as it not only makes you look good, it will protect you from the elements.
- Next, we talked about how to choose a lady’s leather jacket. This can be one of the most important fashion statements a woman can have, and choosing the right motorcycle apparel is paramount.
- Getting a motorcycle is only the first phase of a great ride; you also need a selection of motorcycle accessories that will make your ride even better. The Yahoo Voices article offered some great tips on which ones to start with.
- Then we went on to discuss how to buy quality motorcycle apparel when you’re on a budget. You don’t have to spend top dollar for everything, but knowing what not to skimp on will go a long way towards saving money in the long run.
- Next we talked about how important it is for new riders to review safety guidelines and follow safety rules, such as buying motorcycle accessories including a helmet.
- We gave kudos to vindy.com for publishing safety tips and guidelines for both new and experienced riders.
Why New Riders Need to Review Safety Guidelines
Owning a motorcycle is a great way to reduce your carbon footprint and save money on fuel costs. However, they can also be extremely dangerous vehicles, especially for new riders. Motorcycles can be extremely difficult to see by other drivers, particularly at night. There are certain safety measures that must be adhered to in order to decrease the chances of getting injured. Getting into an accident on a bike has much more serious consequences than if you were in a car or truck.
That’s why we give kudos to vindy.com for publishing some safety tips and guidelines for new riders. Experienced riders will also get value out of reading the article, as it offers some common sense, yet sometimes forgotten, tips on how to be a safe and courteous driver. Statistics don’t lie: those on motorcycles are more than 30 times more likely to die in a crash, as opposed to being in a car.
Some of the safety tips include buying a bike that you can handle; honing your skills as a driver; and making sure that you invest in quality motorcycle accessories such as a helmet.
Other safety tips include choosing the right gear (no t-shirts or jeans) and watching out for road hazards. Of course, alcohol should be avoided, as should going over the speed limit.
Moms Don’t Have to Give up Their Motorcycles
Society has changed over the last few decades and women are no longer expected to raise children and take care of a household; however, when it comes to motorcycles, women are sometimes excluded from a group that has been male dominated up until the last few years.
Women riders are increasing in record numbers; they are not content to sit on the back of the Harley – they want to be in control. What happens, though, when women become moms?
Some people still think that when you become a mom, you should park your bike and head out to the car dealership to get the best minivan that money can buy. Thanks to the media – in particular, the Herald Review – we know that motorcycle riders come from all walks of life, and most are just ordinary, everyday people. That includes moms.
That’s why we give kudos to the Herald Review for shedding some light on the fact that moms can ride too, whether they have young ones at home, or they are empty nesters.
Herald Review’s article also goes on to say that not all motorcycle riders are gang members, decked out in leather, or out to cause trouble. When these stereotypes disappear, we’ll all be better motorists who share the road and better riders who stay safe.
Staying Safe on Two Wheels, Motorcycle Accessories Can Help
Motorcycles may be fuel efficient and fun to ride, but they can also pose a great danger if you don’t follow certain safety rules and guidelines and just concentrate on cool motorcycle accessories. While there is no way to always avoid an accident, knowing how to ride safely can greatly reduce your chances of getting injured. Vindy.com has posted some tips on how to stay safe on two wheels; this is especially helpful for beginners.
Source: http://www.vindy.com/news/2013/apr/28/motorcycle-safety-tips-for-new-riders/
Ride Proves There’s an Increase in Women Motorcyclists
May 3rd saw women bikers from around the world gathering at their local She Shore Riders Chapters all-female motorcycle clubs for the sole purpose of riding in the wind! An article in the Bradenton Herald by Dee Graham has showcased the International Women’s Riding Day and the increase in numbers attending shows just how popular riding has become among women.
Source: http://www.bradenton.com/2013/04/30/4504747/women-in-the-wind-kick-into-gear.html
Buying Your Motorcycle Apparel on a Budget
When you have a motorcycle, there are certain requirements that you’ll have to meet in order to ensure a safe ride. Of course, you’ll need motorcycle apparel that not only looks good but is functional as well. Jafrum.com has some great tips on how to buy everything you need even when money is tight and you’re on a strict budget.
Source: http://blog.jafrum.com/2012/11/07/buying-motorcycle-gear-on-a-budget/