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August 20.2025
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Billy Joel's Vintage Motorcycle Legacy: The Closing of 20th Century Cycles
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01.24.2026
Discover Laurie Montoya's Impact: BikerDown's Mission to Support Riders
Update Understanding the Mission: Laurie Montoya and BikerDown When life takes unexpected twists, it often leads to meaningful endeavors. Laurie Montoya, President and Founder of the BikerDown Foundation, embodies this journey. After witnessing the struggles of injured motorcycle riders, she was inspired to create a support network tailored for their needs. BikerDown began as a small effort to assist riders and has grown into a vital resource providing medical equipment, financial aid, legal help, and online fundraising. This evolution underscores the importance of community and reaction to real-life challenges. The Value of Support in a Distracted Driving World The world of motorcycling is not just about freedom on two wheels; it’s also about facing harsh realities. Motorcyclists often deal with the grim statistic that distracted driving is a leading cause of accidents. Laurie emphasizes the importance of understanding this context, helping both riders and drivers appreciate each other's viewpoints. "Motorcycles can easily be misunderstood by others on the road," she notes, pointing out how societal perceptions can skew the reality of riders' lives. The mission of BikerDown is to combat these misconceptions and provide awareness while offering resources to those who need it most. The Charitable Heart of the Motorcycle Community M any may not realize the vast resources available within the motorcycle community. Riders frequently come together to support charitable events, contributing to causes beyond their own. Laurie says, "Bikers are some of the most generous people. Every weekend, they come together to donate time and money to help others in need, often outside of their circle." This camaraderie forms the backbone of not just BikerDown, but the entire biking culture, which thrives as a supportive network. Recognizing this culture is essential for both motorcycle enthusiasts and those who share the road with them. What Can We Learn from the Biker Community? So, what can non-riders learn from the bike community? The focus on camaraderie, support, and resilience shines through Laurie’s narrative. She recalls, "In every disaster, there’s an opportunity for unity. That’s what we see often in the motorcycle world." This perspective serves as an essential lesson for everyone: supporting community spirit plays a crucial role in recovery and growth. There’s much to gain from understanding these values, particularly for personal injury lawyers and motorcycle dealerships who can advocate for better safety measures and awareness. Getting Involved: Help and Resources for Riders For those affected by motorcycle accidents, the BikerDown Foundation offers more than just words of encouragement. They provide concrete assistance, helping individuals navigate through the often overwhelming aftermath of a crash. “If you or someone you know has been in an accident, please reach out for help,” Laurie urges. With a dedicated helpline and a plethora of resources available, those in need can find the support that is crucial for proper recovery. Take Action: Support the Biker Community As our roads become increasingly crowded, and distractions mount for drivers, it’s imperative for everyone to safeguard motorcycle riders on the road. This means understanding their struggles, supporting initiatives like BikerDown, and advocating for safer driving practices. Motorcycle dealerships can play a pivotal role in promoting these initiatives, establishing a culture of safety within their businesses. Let us champion awareness and give support to those who share the road with us.
01.23.2026
Tom Umphress Named Chair of AMA Board: What It Means for Riders
Update Tom Umphress Takes the Helm of the AMA: What This Means for Motorcyclists The American Motorcyclist Association (AMA) has ushered in a new era with the election of Tom Umphress as the chairman of the board. This change comes during a pivotal time for motorcycle enthusiasts, signaling a renewed focus on the needs of both amateur and professional riders. Focus on Amateur Racing: A Commitment to the Grassroots Umphress's leadership will prioritize amateur racing, a critical aspect of the AMA's member base. "The majority of our racing members are amateur racers, and it's essential to continue providing a safe, competitive environment for them," he stated during his acceptance speech. This commitment highlights the growing need for safety measures and structured support as more riders enter the competitive scene, which is crucial for maintaining the health of the sport. The Expansion of Non-Competition Membership: An Untapped Opportunity While the AMA has traditionally focused on competition, Umphress emphasizes the importance of addressing non-competition memberships. He believes that expanding the AMA's presence in both on- and off-road riding communities presents the greatest opportunity for growth. This strategic shift could not only increase membership numbers but also foster a diverse motorcycling community where different riding experiences are embraced. Advocacy Efforts: A Voice for Motorcyclists Umphress, who has served as Vice Chair under Russ Ehnes, brings a wealth of advocacy experience that positions him well for this new role. His leadership has been instrumental in addressing legislative issues impacting motorcyclists, particularly regarding land use, public access, and riders' rights. As chairman, Umphress aims to fortify these advocacy efforts, ensuring all motorcycle enthusiasts can enjoy their passion without undue restrictions. Continuity and Change: Transitioning Leadership The transition of leadership from Russ Ehnes to Umphress signifies a blend of continuity and fresh perspectives. Ehnes's tenure saw considerable achievements that strengthened the AMA’s foothold in various critical areas. Umphress's willingness to acknowledge the groundwork laid by his predecessor while driving new initiatives showcases his commitment to keeping the organization dynamic and responsive to its membership base. A Call to the Community: Engaging Riders Everywhere As the AMA embarks on this new chapter under Umphress's guidance, there is an open invitation to the greater riding community to engage with the association. Whether through grassroots events, safety initiatives, or advocacy campaigns, every member of the riding public has a role to play in the AMA's future. Together, they can strengthen the community and ensure that motorcycling remains a vibrant part of American culture. In conclusion, Tom Umphress’s ascent to chairman of the AMA board holds significant promise for the future. His focus on amateur racing, non-competition membership, and advocacy efforts will not only benefit current riders but also attract a new generation of enthusiasts to the sport.
01.22.2026
Celebrating Excellence: 2025 AMA Racing, Organizer and Volunteer Awards
Update The AMA Honors 2025’s Best: A Year of Racing Excellence On January 20, 2026, the American Motorcyclist Association (AMA) celebrated its stellar year by recognizing outstanding contributors to the sport through the presentation of the 2025 AMA Racing, Organizer, and Volunteer Awards. This prestigious affair highlights the champions and unsung heroes who propelled competitive and recreational riding within the AMA framework. Acknowledging Community and Collaboration in Motorcycling With the words of AMA Director of Racing, Mike Pelletier, echoing through the hall, "We are so grateful to all of the racers, riders and organizers that made 2025 another successful year for the AMA’s racing and recreational riding pursuits," the organization took a moment to appreciate individual and group contributions that truly made an impact. Among the standout figures was 14-year-old Charlie Walter, honored as the AMA Volunteer of the Year, whose spirit in volunteering despite being sidelined by injury reveals the resilience and camaraderie that runs deep in the motorcycle racing community. Celebrating Athletic Excellence The 2025 award ceremony was dotted with remarkable achievements in the motorcycle racing domain. Steward Baylor Jr., Bodie Paige, and Syler Padusnak each secured the esteemed Athlete of the Year titles in their respective categories, reflecting not just personal dedication but also the drive to elevate the sport itself. Baylor’s remarkable season as the National Champion is a testament to his relentless pursuit of excellence in a competitive field. Outstanding Contributions by Clubs and Organizations Recognizing the pivotal roles played by playing that significant role in community engagement, the AMA awarded various organizations that exemplified excellence in organizing events. BCMX earned the title of AMA Motocross Organizer of the Year, whereas J Day Offroad was distinguished as the AMA Off-Road Organizer of the Year. These accolades demonstrate how impactful effective organizational leadership is in enhancing participant experiences and expanding the sport's reach. The Importance of Participation and Recognition Voting by AMA members contributed to the selection of some award recipients, fostering a sense of community ownership within the organization. This participatory model enriches the awards, as stakeholders have a direct hand in recognizing traits they value most in racing culture. By including community input, the AMA bolsters the relationship between the organization and its members, ultimately leading to a healthier ecosystem where both competition and camaraderie can thrive. What’s Next for the AMA? As the dust settles on a remarkable 2025, the AMA is already gearing up for the challenges and excitement that await in the next racing season. The focus on inclusivity and recognizing emerging talents ensures that the sport continues to evolve. This foundational support for racers across all age groups ensures that budding athletes and seasoned veterans alike receive the validation and encouragement to pursue their passions. For those enthusiastic about the future of motorcycle racing, the AMA's ongoing commitment to fostering talent and recognizing achievement serves as a robust framework. The awards not only honor individual accomplishments but also lay the groundwork for the next generation of motorcycling enthusiasts, setting the stage for even greater heights in the sport. In conclusion, the AMA’s celebration of 2025 leaves an indelible mark, not just in the history of motorcycle racing but within the hearts of its community. As we move forward, let us rally around these champions and ensure the continuous growth of motorcycle racing for years to come.
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