Motorcycling Arizona’s Mountains
Story and photos by Koz Mraz
www.kozmoto.com
Arizona has incredible geological diversity that lie between Flagstaff’s Humphries Peak, at 12,637 feet to the Grand Canyon, the Red Rocks of Sedona to lush Verde Valley.
Arizona also has the longest continuous stretch of uninterrupted Route 66 two-lane asphalt and is home to Route 666. Renamed SR 191 in 2003 because the Department of Transportation was constantly replacing stolen highway signs.
by Felicity Donohoe from https://www.pressandjournal.co.uk
From https://maps.harley-davidson.com/
From https://www.harley-davidson.com/us/en/content/rent-a-bike.html
If you’re looking for a road trip with a difference, then Harley Davidson may have the answer – and you don’t need to own a Hog to make it happen.
Seen in iconic movies such as Easy Rider – ridden by Peter Fonda – and even Arnie in Terminator 2: Judgment Day – nothing says cool like a Harley Davidson motorcycle, and if the highway has been calling you, this might be the way to get up close and personal with the American outdoors.
Motorcycling is an option to beat weekend traffic and find a different kind of freedom for your staycation – and you don’t need to fork out a fortune and own one of the bikes. In fact, you can rent one for a holiday with affordable cruising daily prices or touring per week rates, choosing from a wide range of models such as Heritage Classic bike or Ultra Limited.
And taking it a step further, Harley Davidson has an online ride planner that includes top trips around the States. Simply type in your start and finish, with customisable options such as preferred stops and overnight accommodation, if needed. The interactive planner works out your route and can generate on-road and – if you’re feeling brave – off-road routes for the adventurous rider.
There is 10% discounts for HOG (Harley Owners’ Group) members.
Ensure you have your motorcycle licence and equipment, including helmet, when hiring.
For the interactive ride planner go to maps.harley-davidson.com by clicking here.
What motorcycles can I rent?
A variety of new models are available at hundreds of convenient locations all around the world. Browse and enquire on-line or check your local Harley-Davidson® Authorized Rental Dealer for more information. Have a look at the current models to see which one appeals to you.
Where can I rent a Harley-Davidson® motorcycle?
There are hundreds of convenient locations all around the world where you can rent a bike for your holiday, extended test ride, or while your bike is being serviced.
How do I sign up?
Find a location on the rental locator and click “book online” or for locations in the USA book directly on www.eaglerider.com.
What happens after I inquire online?
You will receive a confirmation email. Outside the USA you will be contacted by the Harley-Davidson® Authorized Rental Dealer you selected to discuss your rental requirements.
When you pick up your rental motorcycle, ensure you bring your full driver’s license with the valid motorcycle endorsement, along with your major credit card and your sense of adventure.
What do I need to hire a bike?
What gear do I need?
You will need a helmet and the right gear to ensure you are comfortable and protected on your ride.
Your dealership may have gear you can hire or there is an extensive range in their showroom to buy.
One of the best parts about owning a motorcycle is having a front-row view to all things nature. There’s nothing standing in between you and all the colors of the natural world. Fall is one of the best times to go cruising through the wilderness. Leaf peepers are known for chasing bright yellows, reds, and oranges all over the country as autumn sets in. Chances are there’s a great leaf-oriented stretch of road near you.
Get Your Bike Ready for the Trip
Before you head out on your trip, make sure you have everything you need to explore the open road. Some of these routes can be quite remote, so you need to have a plan in case things take a turn for the worst.
Above all else, use helmet communication to keep in touch with your loved ones on your trip, especially if you stray far from home. You should be able to call for help or check your GPS without taking your eyes off the road. You drove all this way to look at the leaves, after all.
Looking down at your phone can be a recipe for disaster. You also need to keep your hands on the handlebars at all times to stay in control. Use a Bluetooth motorcycle helmet to use your electronic devices hands-free for more peace of mind behind the wheel.
Find a Bluetooth motorcycle helmet with speakers that produces clear audio. You need to balance the sound of your music, call, or GPS with the sounds of the road in case another driver needs to get your attention.
Your phone may not be there to rescue if you get lost or get into a wreck. Consider bringing along paper maps of your destination and a backup communication system, such as two-way radio, in case you don’t have access to cell service.
Inspect your motorcycle to make sure it’s ready for the trip at hand. Add air to the tires, if needed. You should know the approximate distance of your trip. Check the mileage and consider visiting your local mechanic if it’s been over a year or 6,000 miles since your last tune-up.
Tunnel of Trees – Michigan
The country’s “third coast” is known for its rich forestry and sprawling coastlines and Michigan’s Tunnel of Trees is perhaps the best example of both. The branches of the trees extend over the road, creating what looks like a tunnel.
Most of the action takes place on M-119. You can catch it at the north end of Petosky. The tunnel official starts in Harbor Springs. Follow the route for another 20 miles around the edge of Lake Michigan. The bluff, which runs around 140 feet above sea level, keeps you up high for a panoramic view of the coast. Be sure to slow down or stop when taking in the sights. The state road narrows at several points, including the infamous Devil’s Ridge. Lots of drivers will probably have their eyes on the trees, so don’t be surprised if they make a mistake.
Coastal Route One – Maine
Route One has a reputation across the East Coast. It makes for a stunning drive, whether you’re coming from Key West, Florida or New York City. We suggest taking it all the way north to Maine, where you’ll see some of the most picturesque roads of your life. New England is full of many charms, including open farmland, quaint towns full of history, and weaving coastlines, and Route One lets you see the best of everything.
You’ll need to take I-95 about 90 minutes north of Boston to the Maine border. From there, hop on Route One to cruise through small towns like towns as Kennebunkport and Ogunquit, both of which are teeming with lush forestry. The road takes you along the coast, which gives you the chance to explore the area’s many islands, nooks, and peninsulas. You’re bound to pass a lighthouse or three.
There’s a certain humble charm to the remote towns of Northern Vermont. Turn down the noise of your engine to enjoy the peace and quiet as the water laps against the rocky shore. Wildlife can get pretty bold in the more rural parts of the state. Don’t be surprised if you run into a moose as soon as you get out of the city.
San Juan Mountain Skyway – Colorado
If you love the mountains, head out west to Colorado to experience the thrill of the San Juan Mountain Skyway. The road gets its name for its steep incline and sharp turns. The road goes from 6,200 feet above sea level near the city of Cortez to over 11,000 feet near what’s known as the Red Mountain Pass.
It gives you the ultimate mountain experience, complete with expansive river valleys, peaks over 14,000 feet tall, and trees that feel larger than life. The arching road gives you a cascading view of the trees during the fall. You can see several miles into the distance in some parts.
The road starts in Durango, CO, the largest city on the path. This is the time to stock up on supplies. Your choices start to thin out from here. Follow the road north via U.S. 160 to Mancos. Consider stopping by Rocky Mountain National Park and Mesa Verde National Park while you’re in the area if you feel like seeing more of what this iconic state has to offer. It continues for a total 235 miles, or 7 hours, going all the way up to Telluride and Silverton.
It’s best to start your trip in the early fall, as some roads turn icy early in the season. The mountains have a climate all their own, so be prepared to encounter some snow along the way. Bring along a few extra layers to stay warm on your motorcycle as temperatures fluctuate.
Nothing beats the gorgeous palette of fall foliage. Chart a course for one of these autumn destinations to enjoy the ride of your life.
by Mark Masker from https://vtwinvisionary.com
The V-Twin Visionary Smoky Mountain Tour makes landfall this week at Smoky Mountain H-D! Experience four days of the world’s best motorcycle riding. Enjoy real-deal Tennessee barbecue and some of the best Southern rock bands around. And of course there’s all the riding to be done in the surrounding beauty of the Smoky Mountains.
Additionally, Tour and VIP passes are on sale now. Both get you into the big show and come with their own perks.
When you’re done and ready to chow down and drink up, Smoky Mtn H-D and The Shed Smokehouse has you covered, too. They’re the basecamp for the big party. Check out the latest and greatest P&A from our sponsors while you’re here, too.
More details on the V-Twin Visionary Smoky Mountain Tour to come in the weeks following.
At Laconia – We Ride!
The origin of Laconia Motorcycle Week was a small group of motorcycle enthusiasts gathering for a “gypsy tour” to Laconia, over 98 years ago. Today, the spirit of Progressive Laconia Motorcycle Week® continues with rides and gypsy tours at the center of an already packed events schedule. Join us for at least one of our many Motorcycle Week rides, where you’ll enjoy the spectacular NH scenery while also raising money for some worthy causes.
The 15th Annual Peter Makris Memorial Ride to NHMS kicks off the week on Saturday, June 12th at 11am. This NH police escorted ride around Lake Winnipesaukee starts and ends at Naswa Resort, where riders can enjoy lunch and entertainment. Proceeds benefit the Easter Seals NH Veterans Count Program, Laconia Fire Department’s Emergency Response Teams (CERT) and “Building Dreams for Marines.”
The AMA Gypsy Tour to NHMS for USCRA Vintage Races takes place on Sunday, June 13th. The tour leaves Rally Headquarters on Lakeside Avenue at 10:30 and ends at NH Motor Speedway for the USCRA Vintage Races. Tour includes a 50% discount on race tickets for the day and a lap around the track!
Monday “Life of Ridetime” ride to benefit families of fallen first-responders. Register at Laconia Harley 9am-9:55am, kickstands up at 10am. Join us for a scenic ride to Cigar Shenanigans in North Conway for an afternoon of live music, food, & fun! $20/rider, $15/passenger, lunch included. For more info: lifeofaridetime.org or call 732-210-6910.
Show your love for pets on Monday, June 14th by taking part in the Mae-West Memorial Pet Run Ride, leaving Rally Headquarters at 10:30am for a ride through scenic local towns and ending at Destination TBD. Participants receive a custom t-shirt for their donation. Proceeds to benefit local animal support shelters.
On Tuesday, June 15th, join the Ride to Bentley’s Saloon! The Bentley’s crew will lead this gypsy tour from Rally Headquarters at 10:30am for a 70+ mile scenic ride to Bentley’s Saloon in Arundel, Maine.
Tuesday: Ride to the Racetrack! Help New England children in need by joining this motorcycle ride from Laconia Harley-Davidson to NH Motor Speedway for laps around the 1.6-mile full road course! Registration is $20 per rider or passenger & ALL proceeds benefit the NH Chapter of Speedway Children’s Charities, the official charity of NHMS. Registration at 9am and Kickstands up at 10am! More information here.
Don’t miss the Covered Bridge Gypsy Tour on Wednesday, June 16th, leaving Rally Headquarters at 10:30am. Route includes at least 6 covered bridges throughout New Hampshire and a stop for lunch along the way. A popular ride led by Dave and Deb!
This is just a sampling of the many organized tours and rides offered during the week. Check out our events page here for a complete list of rides and other events.
Don’t forget, you can skip the traffic by parking the bike in Meredith and taking the Weirs Shuttle Train to the Weirs and back June 12 & 13 and June 18 & 19. A convenient (and scenic) way to visit ground zero of Progressive Laconia Motorcycle Week®.
Still time to WIN a Harley!
Enter to win a Harley-Davidson FLHX Street Glide (valued at over $23,000) by purchasing your raffle tickets now. Only 3,000 tickets will be sold and you don’t have to be present to win.
We’re just days away from #98! We can’t wait to see you here June 12-20!
For more information on the catastrophic fire at our rally headquarters office on Christmas Day, please visit our GoFundMe page. Friends of Laconia Motorcycle Week
“Laconia – Where Rallies Were Invented”
#LaconiaMcWeek
#NHLakesRegion
#LaconiaBikeWeek
June 12th-20th, 2021 – New Hampshire – home to America’s Original Riding Rally
This year’s Progressive Laconia Motorcycle Week® promises to be bigger and better than last year’s pandemic-postponed event. The changing guidelines dictated by the response to COVID 19 and subsequent vaccines have made planning for this year’s rally a challenge but we’re proud to announce that all the popular events rally goers have experienced in the past will be back.
In addition to the Hill Climb Expo up Tower Street on June 15th and the Gunstock Amateur Hill Climb on June 16th, the week will feature several rides and “gypsy tours,” a nod to the origins of the rally, when a group of riders, over 100 years ago, first made the trek to Laconia.
The 15th Annual Peter Makris Memorial Ride to NHMS takes place on Saturday, June 12, featuring a police escorted ride around Lake Winnipesaukee and a return to the NASWA resort for lunch and entertainment. On Sunday, June 13th, the AMA Gypsy Tour to NHMS for USCRA Vintage Races begins at 10:30 AM on Lakeside Avenue. Participants will get a 50% discount on race tickets for the day and a free lap around the track at NH Motor Speedway.
Monday, June 14th features the Mae-West Memorial Ride. Riders meet at 8:30 AM at Rally Headquarters for a scenic ride through local towns and ending at NH Motor Speedway. All proceeds benefit local animal shelters. The popular Covered Bridge Gypsy Tour leaves Weirs Beach at 10:30 AM for a 170 mile guided tour to at least 6 covered bridges throughout scenic New Hampshire.
Three more rides originate from Laconia on Thursday, June 17th. The Ride to the Sky guided tour to the base of Mount Washington leaves (from Laconia Harley-Davidson) at 9 AM and the We Love Laconia Motorcycle Week Ride leaves Rally Headquarters at 10:30 AM for a scenic tour ending at NASWA Resort. Make sure to join or watch in tribute as the POW/MIA Freedom Ride tours Lakeside Avenue in Weirs Beach at 6 PM en route to Meredith’s Hesky Park for the 33rd annual POW/MIA vigil.
Finally, kick-off the 2nd weekend with the new Motorcycle Lights Parade on June 18th! Ride from downtown Laconia to Weirs Beach. This first ever evening ride is a great chance to showcase those LED lights!
Be sure to keep checking the events page on the official site of Progressive Laconia Motorcycle Week® laconiamcweek.com for updates on these and many other events at this year’s rally.
Laconia Motorcycle Week® gives great appreciation to all of our sponsors, especially our Presenting Sponsors: Progressive, AMSOIL and Team Motorcycle, as well as the State of New Hampshire for their large financial support of our rally each year.
For more information about visiting the state of NH, check out visitnh.gov.
Laconia – where rallies were invented!
by Kalyn Wolfe from https://www.pnj.com
What is it like to be an American? Is there any truth to the negative stereotypes that surround Americans?
These are the questions Claire Coleman and her husband, Nick, asked themselves as they left New Zealand more than 10 years ago. With a pickup truck and an RV, they spent a year meandering across the lower 48, learning about American culture with every dirt road, brewery and person they encountered.
It was these experiences that inspired Claire Coleman to publish a book called “The Back Of Beyond: A North American Road Trip, Kiwi Style!” not long after. But the inspiration didn’t stop there.
“It was this trip that inspired us to move to America,” she said. “We had positive experiences with every American we met.”
The next step involved obtaining visas.
“We needed to open a business in order to fulfill our visa requirements, and Nick spent years in the oil rig industry,” Coleman said. “I haven’t worked in the oil rig industry, so we had to figure out a business we could run together. Nick has worked on motorcycles since he could walk, so in 2016 we decided to open EagleRider Motorcycles Pensacola.”
Five years and two locations later, EagleRider Motorcycles Pensacola has recently moved to its third location at 3305 North W St. and held a grand opening April 8 to mark the occasion.
But Coleman would be the first to tell you that it was a celebration that almost didn’t happen.
“COVID killed us,” she said. “Everyone was canceling. We lost all of our international customers and we had no forward bookings. The borders closed, we initially closed shop, sold up our house and most belongings and planned on returning home to New Zealand. Then we literally drove past our new building on North W Street as they were banging in the for sale sign, so our plans changed and we got ready for round two in Pensacola.”
As soon as they closed on the location in October, the couple went to work on upgrades and renovations, which included new ceiling tiles, lighting, paint and a mural of Pensacola Beach for people to take selfies.
“Our new location is triple in size,” Coleman said. “We have a bigger showroom and have added repair work to our rental program.”
EagleRider Motorcycles Pensacola offers a wide variety of adventures, from daily, weekly to monthly rentals, with seven Harley Davidson models to choose from. A 10% discount is automatically applied for groups of four or more during select seasonal months.
If you’re not sure which way to travel, the website offers a host of guided and self-guided tours for people to browse and book for inspiration.
“It’s the best form of social distancing,” Coleman said.
EagleRider Motorcycles Pensacola is open from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. Monday through Friday and 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. Saturday and Sunday. For more information, visit eaglerider.com/pensacola or call 850-748-3423.
Women’s Motorcycle Tours Celebrates 10 Years of Life Changing Experiences For Ladies Who Ride Motorcycles
Alisa Clickenger, owner of Women’s Motorcycle Tours, has been empowering women and building confidence for women through motorcycling since 2011.
Women’s Motorcycle Tours (WMT) was the first motorcycle tour and event company that specializes exclusively for women motorcycle riders. There is nothing more rewarding than crafting unique and engaging experiences to bring women motorcyclists and women together who are interested in the motorcycle lifestyle. Whether women want to join in for a day ride, a weekend retreat, a weeklong tour, or a coast to coast event, there are numerous ways to join Women’s Motorcycle Tours and experience the sisterhood of the motorcycling community and the freedom of the open road.
For the last 10 years it has been the mission of Alisa Clickenger, Women’s Motorcycle Tours owner, to reinvent the way women motorcycle riders come together. It has always been her goal to give a voice to all women riders on all brands of bikes and from all disciplines of riding. Women’s Motorcycle Tours features programming curated exclusively by women riders and for female riders and those women interested in the motorcycling lifestyle.
Fun Facts About Women’s Motorcycle Tours
“I started Women’s Motorcycle Tours with one tour – the Women’s Empowerment Motorcycle Tour. Ten years ago there weren’t nearly as many female riders and we were an anomaly.” said Clickenger.
“After chancing upon a couple of other women riders on the other side of the country and having a blast riding with them, I realized that I wanted to recreate the joy and connection I experienced riding with those ladies. I also wanted to serve as a mentor and empower them to go out and explore on their own motorcycle journeys. While my tour offerings have changed over the years, I’ve continued with the Teaching Tours because I love sharing my knowledge and experience in order to uplift and educate other women.
I’ve ridden all over the world by myself, but I’ve learned that the shared experiences are so much richer and rewarding – and I just want to pass that on to others so they can enjoy motorcycling as much as I have.” said Clickenger.
Women’s Motorcycle Tours is now a motorcycle experience company exclusively focused on women. WMT offers life-changing motorcycle experiences, moto mindset coaching and bespoke motorcycle tours throughout the United States and across the world. With years of event planning experience and hundreds of thousands of miles behind them, the team at Women’s Motorcycle Tours understands the power and excitement that epic journeys offer. The camaraderie and friendships that form over the course of their tours have proven to change lives, establish life-long friendships, and bring families together in a way that only riding motorcycles can.
Since 2011, WMT has been creating epic and life-changing experiences for women through motorcycle riding. Until 2019, WMT exclusively focused on motorcycle tours. In early 2020 Women’s Motorcycle Tours started to include events for women riders – the response was incredible. Now, WMT offers group and custom tours, conferences, and outdoor festivals. WMT’s events are now held online and in-person, and feature inspiring stories, educational seminars, upliftment and the opportunity for female motorcycle riders from all over the world to make meaningful connections with each other.
2021 Events & Tours
2021 Suffragists Centennial Motorcycle Ride
July 21 – August 20, 2021
2021 LIVE Women’s Motorcycle Festival & Conference
August 19-22, 2021
2021 Women’s Motorcycle Conference *ONLINE* – Theme: Education
November 5-6, 2021
About Women’s Motorcycle Tours
Women’s Motorcycle Tours (WMT) is a female-owned motorcycle experience company exclusively focused on women. WMT offers life-changing motorcycle experiences, moto mindset coaching and bespoke motorcycle tours throughout the United States and the world. With years of event planning experience and hundreds of thousands of miles behind them, the team at Women’s Motorcycle Tours understands the power and excitement that epic journeys offer. The camaraderie and friendships that form over the course of their tours have proven to change lives, establish life-long friendships, and bring families together in a way that only riding motorcycles can. www.
Tonit Announces Slick New Video Feature
Video Feature Enhances User Experience & Makes Tonit a True Social Media Platform
Kelowna, BC – August 9, 2019 – Tonit, the motorcycle community app built by riders for riders, today announced the release of their new Video Feature, which makes sharing motorcycle content more versatile and engaging. Members will now be able to snap and feature up to 60 seconds worth of video on their profiles, and view the latest clips posted on their feeds.
The Tonit app was developed to be a social hub for motorcycle riders to connect with one another and foster a strong community. On the app, riders can meet, post photos and videos, share tips and tricks, track and share riding experiences, and stay safer on the road.
“Our members asked for it, and we listened,” said Jason Lotoski, Founder and CEO, Tonit. “Tonit is 100% developed from the community’s voice. The new video feature is cementing Tonit’s place as a must have social-media platform for riders across North America. We will continue to roll out new app features and improvements quickly to keep meeting member requests that help build a better experience for the community.”
Tonit can be downloaded for free on Google Play or the App Store.
Motorcycle social media app Tonit has devoted itself to uniting and growing a global network of motorcycle riders. With over 200k users in less than 8 months, the app allows people to create profiles, connect with other motorcyclists, join group rides, and attend motorbike-centric events.
A near fatal accident didn’t stop Natalie from getting back on the open road.
When she was young, Natalie yearned to one day have her own motorcycle. She made her dream a reality when she purchased her own Yamaha, and could finally experience the thrill of riding solo and getting involved in the local motorcycle community.
Things took a turn for the worse and she was involved in a near fatal accident that left her dreams – and bones – broken. Natalie was told that she wouldn’t be able to walk for up to a year. Five surgeries, organs removed, and one titanium pelvis later, Natalie’s passion for riding drove her to get back up again. Three months after her accident, she was back on wheels– and not the wheelchair kind.
One of the things that helped Natalie stay positive throughout her traumatic ordeal was the Tonit community that would be there to welcome her return to the road.
For motorcyclists riding in groups or flying solo, no resource offers a more authentic way to connect with other passionate riders than the Tonit app.
About Tonit https://www.tonit.com/
Tonit, the motorcycle app built for riders by riders was developed to bring motorcyclists together both online and on-the-road through an interactive and inclusive social community. Motorcyclists across the globe use Tonit to connect with other riders, share bike-related content, map and track riding experiences, and stay safer on the road. Riders can find new people to hit the road with based on location and riding style, and, once in touch, easily plan group rides. Routes and stats can be shared with the Tonit community so that riders can discover new locations, share intel about best routes, provide maintenance tips and tricks and post photos and experiences. Launched late November 2018, Tonit has over 60,000 downloads and 50,000 active users and four months later was the #1 trending lifestyle app on Google Play. Tonit is a free download on both the Google Play and App Store. Visit tonit.com to learn more.
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