Backcountry Discovery Routes has released news on an upcoming film about its new Northern California Backcountry Discovery Route (CABDR-North). The film is scheduled to premiere on Feb. 17 at the Sofia Performing Arts Center in Sacramento, California, before a three-month tour.

The adventure motorcycling non-profit Backcountry Discover Routes works to responsibly create adventure and dual-sport motorcycling routes. The company’s recent Economic Impact Study white paper shows that BDR has brought in $60 million to BDR-related areas and small communities during 2023.

Related: Backcountry Discovery Routes Announces Economic Impact of BDR Routes

Upon the film’s premiere, the company will release free GPS tracks, a digital map, FAQs, and travel resources on the BDR website, and a waterproof map of the route can be purchased on the online store.

Related: Riding South Dakota’s Black Hills BDR-X

For more information on the film and the CABDR-North route, read the press release below, and find the film’s trailer at the bottom.

The adventure motorcycling non-profit Backcountry Discovery Routes (BDR) has just released the trailer for their upcoming Northern California Backcountry Discovery Route (CABDR-North) Expedition documentary film. The feature-length film premieres on Feb. 17 at the Sofia Performing Arts Center (Sutter Theatre) in Sacramento, California, kicking off a three-month tour with over 80 film screenings planned at motorcycle dealerships and clubs across the country.

The CABDR-North represents the organization’s 13th route for adventure and dual-sport motorcycle travel, with free GPS tracks, travel resources, and BDR Motorcycle Map scheduled to accompany the film’s debut.

Motorcycle dealerships and clubs interested in hosting an CABDR-North film screening can reserve their tour date on the BDR website.

Riders looking to help BDR continue on its mission of creating and preserving ADV riding opportunities should consider joining the BDR Annual Supporter Program featuring exclusive BDR swag and industry discounts from over 40 adventure brands.

About the Northern California Backcountry Discovery Route & Film

The Northern California Backcountry Discovery Route expedition film features members of the BDR team and special guests from both BMW Motorrad USA and Zero Motorcycles as they take a first run on the all-new route, immersing themselves in Northern California’s captivating blend of landscapes, terrain, and history.

Starting in Mammoth Lakes, California, atop Minaret Vista, the 940-mile route traverses the Great Sierra Nevada Range’s conifer forests, mountain meadows, and gentle slopes, concluding in the high desert of the Modoc Plateau just north of Alturas, California, at the Oregon border. Riders enjoy blissful forested two-tracks, tackle rugged canyon, and mountain roads and ascend peaks to fire lookouts with unparalleled, 360-degree views.

Highlights of the route include quaint towns nestled in the High Sierra’s folds, with their historic inns dating back to the 1880s. Beyond the thrill of the twisty roads and scenic vistas, riders can delve into California history, discover relics of mining towns, and witness geological wonders.

The route caters to riders of varying skill levels and offers optional challenging sections, plus three expert segments.

“California.… The mere utterance of the word evokes a vision and emotion expressed in countless song and prose dedicated to a place called ‘California,’” said Ron West, Northern California BDR Route architect and BDR board member. “The birthplace of Disneyland is also nothing short of a Magic Kingdom for the adventure rider. This route, born of countless scouting trips over the last five years, captures the essence of a remote and beautiful Northern California, one that may be difficult for the casual tourist to comprehend. But we found it! Just as adventurers before you from California’s earliest days seeking gold or a new beginning, so can you find your adventure by simply downloading and following the tracks laid before you. Eureka!”

Route Release & Film Tour

The Official Film Premiere of the CABDR-North documentary will be on Saturday, Feb. 17 at 5 p.m. PST at the Sofia Performing Arts Center (Sutter Theatre) in Sacramento, California, featuring representatives from BDR, BMW Motorrad USA, Zero Motorcycles, and select industry partners and journalists.

Free GPS tracks, digital map, FAQs, and travel resources will be released on February 17th at 12 noon PST on the BDR website. The waterproof CABDR-North motorcycle map will be available for purchase at the BDR Online Store.

For those in Southern California, BDR is hosting a film screening and a mini-ADV Expo event on March 16 in the Los Angeles Arts District, at Bike Shed, a 30,000 square foot moto-venue, with a bar and restaurant, multi-brand retail space, barbershop, tattoo studio, and gallery space. During the day, the event is open to the public for free from 12 p.m. to 5 p.m., featuring representatives from major ADV brands and BDR industry partners, as well as OEM demo rides. The film screening will take place from 6 p.m. to 8 p.m. in the gallery space with admission tickets sold on the BDR website.

Every year, nearly 100 motorcycle dealerships and clubs across the country host screenings of the BDR organization’s newest film. Check the Film Tour page for a schedule of upcoming CABDR-North premieres and join your fellow adventure enthusiasts for an exciting evening of adventure motorcycle film entertainment.

Dealerships and/or clubs interested in hosting a film screening can get more information and reserve their screening date on the BDR Dealership Page.

Route Sponsors

BDR partnerships with major industry brands made this project possible.

BMW Motorrad USA is presenting their third BDR route, with the Lead Motorcycle Instructor from the BMW U.S. Rider Academy (in Greer, South Carolina) joining the CABDR-North filming expedition.

“Now, with first-hand experience of riding a BMW GS on a BDR, I have insights that will help us better prepare students who are training for a BDR ride,” said Richie Few, led motorcycle instructor at the BMW U.S. Rider Academy. “If you dream about taking your motorcycle off the beaten path or riding a BDR, join us in South Carolina and take a class at the BMW U.S. Rider Academy. Together, we can help make that dream a reality.”

Zero Motorcycles underscored their commitment to advancing the possibilities of electric adventure riding in the backcountry by providing two DSR/X motorcycles, their pioneering electric ADV model, to be tested on the route.

“For me, the Northern California BDR expedition is rooted deep,” said Trevor Doniak, chief prototype and test rider for Zero Motorcycles. “From participating in the development of the DSR/X at Zero in Santa Cruz to my personal upbringing in Northern California, this was an experience of a lifetime. The NorCal BDR will not disappoint! I’ve been riding motorcycles since I was 4 years old and love every aspect of riding. The Northern California BDR fulfilled me 10X from a motorcycle rider’s perspective.”

Edelweiss Bike Travel, Austria-based premier world-wide motorcycle tour company, has been a BDR industry supporter for many years.

Outback Motortek, producer of quality protection and multifunctional luggage systems (used by BDR recently in their Ducati DesertX build) has deep roots in metal fabrication going as far back as the early 80’s.

Northern California Backcountry Discovery Route Industry Partners

Special thanks to BDR community members and partners including:

Touratech-USA, KLIM Technical Riding Gear, Mosko Moto, Motoz Tires, SENA, Alpinestars, Colorado Motorcycle Adventures, Gaia GPS, Rev’It!, Austin Moto Adventures, Cyclops Adventure Sports, Moto Camp Nerd, West 38 Moto, Rever, Wolfman Luggage/Threadworks, Black Dog Cycle Works, Doubletake Mirror, ADVMoto Magazine, Upshift Online, and BMW MOA.

The post Northern California Backcountry Discovery Route Expedition Film appeared first on Rider Magazine.

On Tuesday, Jan. 9, Triumph Motorcycles America kicks off a 20-city tour that will showcase an impressive array of all-new motorcycles. In 2024, Triumph is introducing an incredible amount of all-new motorcycles and is poised to make a major impact in the North American motorcycle market, reminiscent of when British rock bands took America by storm in the ’60s.

To celebrate the large wave of new model motorcycles, Triumph is hosting 20 “British Invasion Tour” events across the United States in January and February, where each of the new models will be showcased. At every event, Triumph enthusiasts will gather for an exclusive one-night-only first look at the new 2024 models, which are not yet in dealerships, while also enjoying live entertainment, a variety of activities, and some light food and beverages.

“It’s been a few years since Triumph has planned a tour like this,” said Adam VanderVeen, marketing director for Triumph Motorcycles America, “but with a lineup like Triumph is bringing for 2024, the time is right to host a series of new model release parties like only Triumph can, because every one of these game-changing new motorcycles deserves to be showcased. In addition to offering enthusiasts the chance to see the latest new models, the best part of these tour events is creating a premium brand experience for our owners and fans to come out and enjoy an evening together as a Triumph community.”

The British Invasion Tour will feature a curation of Triumph’s exciting new model year 2024 motorcycles, including the following:

All-New Triumph TF 250-X

Triumph Motorcycles has officially launched the new TF 250-X, revealing a class-leading power to weight ratio and the most complete specification package ever to launch into the ultra-competitive 250cc motocross market.

Developed entirely by Triumph in close collaboration with racing champions including Ricky Carmichael and Iván Cervantes, the new four stroke competition model is an all-new ground-up design. The performance racing powertrain and unique aluminum chassis are ultra compact and super light, with all the best components on the market, already fitted out of the crate.

Related: 2024 Triumph TF 250-X Review | First Look 

All-New Triumph Speed 400 & Scrambler 400 X

Born into a peerless bloodline, the Speed 400 joins Triumph’s most successful modern classic lineup, the Speed Twin 900 and 1200, while the Scrambler 400 X takes its rugged design cues from the Scrambler 900 and 1200, with an off-road pedigree that goes back to the first factory Scramblers of the 1950s.

Designed from the ground-up with a new single-cylinder, four-valve, liquid-cooled engine platform at their heart, these new models are designed to deliver a fun, agile, and confidence-inspiring ride for riders of all ages and experience levels.

Related: 2024 Triumph Speed 400 and Scrambler 400 X | First Look Review

Updated Triumph Scrambler 1200 XE & All-New Scrambler 1200 X

The cool and capable Scrambler 1200 XE hits the road in the new year sporting updates including latest-generation Brembo Stylema calipers, new suspension with enhanced adjustability, enhanced styling details, and improved touring capability.

The new Scrambler 1200 X delivers the same exceptional core capability, commanding riding position, and torque-rich performance Scrambler customers love, combined with a generous specification of equipment and technology. Built to be more accessible, the Scrambler 1200 X has a seat height of 32.28 inches, reduced to 31.29 inches with the accessory low seat, and dedicated specification that offers exceptional functionality at a more competitive price.

Related: 2024 Triumph Scrambler 1200 X and XE Review | First Look

Fully updated Triumph Tiger 900 Rally Pro & GT Pro

Delivering more power, torque, capability, and comfort, the new Tiger 900 range from Triumph Motorcycles is raising the bar for middleweight adventure bikes in 2024. The new lineup includes the Tiger 900 GT, GT Pro, and Rally Pro, each providing a significant step-up in performance and specification.

Related: 2024 Triumph Tiger 900 Review | First Ride 

New for 2024 Special Edition Models

Celebrated as the ultimate café racer since 1964, the Triumph Thruxton will finish its final production run.

In a fitting farewell to this award-winning motorcycle, Triumph has unveiled the Thruxton Final Edition, an exclusive and striking motorcycle with incredible specification, performance, capability, and timeless style.

Related: 2025 Triumph Thruxton Final Edition | First Look

Available for one year only, the new Triumph Stealth Edition models are an exclusive collection of eight beautiful Bonneville motorcycles. Each model features its own unique tank design which showcases a dramatic hand-painted finish that intensifies in the light to reveal vivid color.

Related: 2024 Triumph Stealth Edition Lineup | First Look

Soon to be announced all-new Triumph 660 Model

A new legend is about to hit the streets. On Jan. 9, an all-new 660 Triumph motorcycle will be announced and will be on display at the kick-off British Invasion Tour event in Los Angeles, California.

The British Invasion Tour is free and open to all. Guests must register to attend. All guests may RSVP and find details about each tour location at the Triumph Motorcycles Events webpage.

See all of Rider‘s Triumph coverage here.

The post Triumph Motorcycles America Launches 20-City ‘British Invasion Tour’ on Jan. 9 appeared first on Rider Magazine.

For more information on Rally for Rangers, visit the Rally For Rangers website or listen to our interview with Rally for Rangers co‑­founder Tom Medema on the Rider Magazine Insider Podcast. For details on the 2024 rallies, read the press release below.

Celebrating 10 years of supporting rangers and protecting parks one motorcycle at a time, 2024 will see a “Greatest Hits” of our decade of adventure. We hope you’ll consider joining us or otherwise supporting these critical efforts to aid park rangers in their important work!

Peru: May 18-30, 2024

Beginning in May, we will return to Peru for a road-based tour of parks from the Pacific to the Amazon.

We will be visiting world renowned parks like Machu Picchu along the way and reaching heights of 16,000 feet as we traverse the stunning Andes range on Peru’s famous winding mountain roadways.

Learn more and sign up.

Mongolia: July 21 to Aug. 3, 2024

July will see our return to where it all began: Lake Hovsgol National Park. The Mongolia rally is SOLD OUT and will be our first all-alumni event to celebrate this historic milestone. Waitlist signups are still available. Learn more.

Black Hills: Sept. 18-22, 2024

Following our successful first venture in the U.S., next September we will return to the stunning and historic Black Hills. This rally will support not only the Oglala-Sioux Park Rangers but also rangers of the Northern Cheyenne.

The event has a broad mix of riding options, from full pavement tours of parks and monuments to the off-road challenges of the Black Hills BDR-X. You get to choose! More details in early 2024.

Bhutan: Nov. 3-16, 2024

The Kingdom of Bhutan welcomes our return in 2024 to support parks and rangers that protect an incredible array of endangered species such as tigers, elephants, and so much more.

This primarily road-based trip is suited for intermediate and advanced riders. Learn more and sign up.

The post Rally for Rangers Announces 2024 Rally Dates, Locations appeared first on Rider Magazine.

SEATTLE – Backcountry Discovery Routes (BDR), the nonprofit organization dedicated to developing adventure riding opportunities across the U.S., just released its comprehensive Economic Impact Study white paper.  The report underscores the role played by BDR riders in bolstering local economies, with BDR-related spending creating an annual economic impact of over $60 million across all BDR routes.

To access the complete economic impact study white paper and learn more about Backcountry Discovery Routes, visit the Economic Impact Study page on the BDR website.

Conducted in partnership with the University of Wyoming’s Center for Business and Economic Analysis (CBEA), the study examined visitor spending patterns among motorcyclists traveling on BDR routes. Key findings were derived from economic impact calculations, utilizing state-specific multipliers, industry-specific margins, estimates of out-of-state visitors, and average spending per industry and state.

One of the standout conclusions from the study is the substantial positive impact BDR has on small rural communities. As the organization continues to create new BDR routes, it brings a surge of economic activity to these areas in the form of tourism. The influx of commerce extends to various sectors, including hotels, campgrounds, restaurants, gas stations, grocery stores, parks, and more. Many of these rural communities have faced economic challenges due to declines in traditional industries such as mining and forestry, and BDR’s initiatives have proven to be an important source of new tourism revenue for these remote local economies.

Inna Thorn, executive director at Backcountry Discovery Routes, said that many states are looking for new outdoor recreation opportunities to help diversify their economies and bring new tourism dollars to local communities.

“This economic impact study underscores the substantial positive influence BDR has on the communities we travel through,” she said. “More than just an advocate for off-highway motorcycling, BDR is a catalyst for economic growth in rural communities along our routes. As we continue to expand our network of routes, we are committed to making a lasting and positive difference in these communities, while educating our riders about safe and respectful travel on public lands and in local communities.”

Related: Backcountry Discovery Routes | Ep. 58 Rider Magazine Insider Podcast

In addition, BDR efforts are also growing the sport by creating new adventure riders and driving motorcycle sales. The study found that BDR riders generated $9.6 million in motorcycle sales in 2022. BDR riders are not just buying motorcycles, they are also spending significant dollars on related products and services to prepare for a BDR ride. 

BDR invites all interested parties, including policymakers, local officials, and motorcycling enthusiasts, to explore the full economic impact study white paper. By understanding the tangible benefits that BDR routes bring to rural areas, communities and stakeholders can work together to harness the potential for sustainable growth and development of adventure motorcycle tourism.

About Backcountry Discovery Routes

Backcountry Discovery Routes (BDR) is a 501c(3) nonprofit organization that creates off-highway routes for adventure and dual-sport motorcycle travel. The organization’s work includes promoting rider education and safety campaigns, driving economic relief to rural communities, and encouraging responsible motorcycle travel in the backcountry. Through the careful investment of funds and working with land managers and other public benefit organizations, BDR seeks to keep remote public roads open for motorcycling for generations to come. 

BDR delivers turn-key trip planning resources to the community including GPS tracks, digital maps, travel information, route condition updates, YouTube videos, Q&As, and other information – all available 24/7 on the Backcountry Discovery Routes website. The organization relies on the generosity of donors and a team of volunteers and ambassadors who contribute thousands of hours each year to help carry out this mission. 

Since 2010, BDR has created routes in Washington, Utah, Colorado, Arizona, Idaho, New Mexico, Nevada, the Mid-Atlantic region, Southern California, the North-East region, Wyoming, and Oregon and the soon-to-be-released Northern, California project. In 2022, BDR introduced a new concept of shorter, BDR-style routes that loop called BDR-X. Current BDR-X routes include Red Desert, Wyoming; PA Wilds, Pennsylvania; Steens Mountain & Alvord Desert, Oregon; and now the Black Hills, South Dakota.

See all of Rider‘s Backcountry Discovery Routes coverage here.

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As a young motorcyclist, I discovered BMW by accident. In the summer of 2003, I was cruising along the Blue Ridge Parkway on my 1998 Harley-Davidson Sportster 1200 Custom, a violent jackhammer of a bike that was crude, loud, and spectacularly uncomfortable. The sun was about to set as I pulled into a motorcycle-friendly campground. After parking my bike, I saw a large crowd gathered around a blazing fire, listening intently to a presentation. I approached curiously and was soon in rapt attention myself.

The speakers were Chris and Erin Ratay, who were wrapping up a four-year, 101,322-mile circumnavigation of the planet aboard a pair of BMW F 650s, a trip that earned a Guinness World Record for the longest distance traveled by a couple on two motorcycles. I had stumbled upon the last stop on the Ratays’ “ultimate journey” before they returned home to New York.

Of course, the globetrotting couple shared interesting tales of adventure travel, but the theme they kept coming back to was the indestructability of their BMWs. Their bikes were on display, and everyone at camp scrutinized them carefully. After four years traversing 50 countries on six continents, both F 650s looked as though they had been dropped from an aircraft at 30,000 feet, crash-landed on jagged rockface, set on fire with napalm, and then run over by a battalion of Abrams tanks. Yet both started instantly and ran with the precision of a fine Swiss watch.

Juxtaposed against my primitive Sportster, the contrast in terms of modern engineering and stout reliability couldn’t be clearer. I began studying BMWs and fell in love with the R 75/5 that Clement Salvadori wrote about in the pages of Rider (Retrospective, April 1991; I also recently wrote my own Retrospective: BMW /5 Series – 1970-1973). I soon had a 1973 long-wheelbase Monza Blue R 75/5 Toaster in my garage, and it was a revelation. Despite its age, it was so quiet, so smooth, and so stable at speed. That motorcycle, with its quirky air-cooled flat-Twin “boxer” motor and bizarre but practical styling, was my gateway drug into the wonderful world of BMW motorcycles. And what a journey it’s been!

Over the past 20 years, I’ve owned or co-owned 11 BMWs ranging in age from a 1971 R 60/5 to a 2020 R 1250 GS. I’ve put well over 200,000 combined miles on them, traveling all over the U.S. and Canada. All of them have been supremely functional, which isn’t surprising given the company’s storied history of engineering innovations. BMW has given us hydraulically damped forks as well as the first production versions of a nose fairing, a full fairing, a single-sided swingarm, anti-lock brakes, and of course, BMW’s proprietary Paralever and Telelever suspension systems, among many other innovations.

BMWs are generally overengineered, sometimes to a fault, but the company’s rabid fan base of high-mileage riders has come to respect the brand as representative of some of the finest motorcycles available at any price.

However, what I appreciate more than the motorcycles themselves is the BMW community of riders. They’re a wildly diverse group of mostly professionals, skewing heavily toward the intellectual and analytical gearheads that I feel most at home with. Every BMW group I’ve spent time with emphasizes riding competence and safety. BMW is a marque that appeals to serious riders, as reflected by the odometers one sees at any of the brand’s big rallies: 100,000-plus miles on bikes that are only a few years old is a common sight.

One hundred years of continuous production is a stellar accomplishment for any company, especially for a brand that has been considered a niche manufacturer for much of its history. But in recent years, BMW Motorrad has branched out beyond its traditional touring and adventure bikes to produce models such as high-performance sportbikes and electric scooters, which would have been unthinkable when I started riding BMWs 20 years ago. It’s going to be fascinating to see where the next 100 years take us!

See all of Rider‘s BMW coverage here.

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When you travel by motorcycle, people like to tell you about how they could never tour or camp on a bike. From non-motorcyclists, I typically hear that their fears or lack of confidence would prevent them from ever touring. 

For motorcyclists, those worries don’t come up as often – motorcycle riding tends to require (and breed) a sense of fearlessness and confidence in and of itself. What I hear from fellow motorcyclists is that their equipment holds them back from touring or moto camping. In other words, because they don’t have the “right” bike!  

Unlike their adventure brethren with high-towering suspensions and readily available luggage racks or touring motorcycles with plenty of space and smooth highway capability, sportbikes and other types of motorcycles are unfit for motorcycle travel – or so it may seem.  

As someone who got her touring start on a Kawasaki Ninja 400, I can attest that it is not only possible to travel longer distances on a small-displacement sportbike but even enjoyable. The biggest issue is luggage space, and there are solutions.  

Why Is Space an Issue? 

Sportbikes are inherently shorter and squatter than adventure bikes, dual-sports, or enduros, with a shorter wheelbase and lower center of gravity. This means less physical space for luggage to sit. Add to that the lack of stock panniers, saddlebags, or even luggage racks – not to mention luggage manufacturers’ propensity to leave sportbikes off the list of aftermarket racks – and you’re left scratching your head as to where to put your gear.  

The solution is twofold. Find the best luggage you can attach to your bike with ingenuity, while making your gear as small as possible.  

Best Luggage Possible 

For my first motorcycle tour, I stayed at a friend’s house near the Great Smoky Mountains in Tennessee. I had equal parts enthusiasm and cluelessness, but I knew I needed a way to transport my belongings.  

After asking around, I found a friend willing to loan me their 30L Kriega Drypack. My husband had a 10L of the same brand, and I was able to easily attach the larger pack to the included straps under my seat and the smaller one to the other pack.  

See all of Rider‘s luggage reviews here.

I learned my first motorcycle packing lesson that trip – it’s always harder to repack on the way home, especially if you bought a few too many souvenirs. On that Tennessee trip, my bags were bursting at the seams to begin with, so I don’t know what I was thinking when I purchased additional items. I ended up asking my friend to mail those items to my house!   

Having loved my experience with my friend’s Kriega, I purchased two of my own Drypacks – a 40L and a 30L. I stacked them up the same way I had the 30L and 10L but not with the same result. My center of gravity was off, and the ride, especially at low speeds, was uncomfortable.  

This high center of gravity was alleviated with the addition of some Sedici universal saddlebags. My first attempt at using them was less than ideal, as they sagged and touched my Ninja 400’s exhaust, burning a hole and melting my toiletries. Some adjustments helped stop the sagging, and they tended to be easier to ride with than the leaning tower of Kriega I had before.  

Smallest Gear Possible 

If you think you’re going to fit a full kit of car camping gear on your motorcycle, you might be disappointed with the result. It’s important to purchase gear fit for the occasion. Unfortunately, there aren’t as many motorcycle-specific camping gear options for sale, especially in brick-and-mortar shops. What to do? 

Luckily for us, a different group of adventurers also require packing compactly – backpackers. Given that their body is the vehicle for their kit, backpackers have an eye for getting the lightest, smallest, most packable gear possible. What fits on a person’s back may very well fit on your motorcycle just as well. Shop at outdoor and camping stores like REI and Sportsman’s Warehouse for backpacking essentials.  

See more by the author here.

Saving space wherever possible is the name of the game, which is made easier with the ability to compress. Clothing or other soft items can be shrunk down to a fraction of their size using packing cubes. These zippered contraptions allow you to squeeze out all the air, saving you precious space. Compression sacks are another useful tool for squishy items like sleeping bags.  

Some riders use cargo nets to secure their gear, but I won’t use one again. On my first moto camping trip, I used a cargo net to hold my sleeping bag (compressed in a stuff sack) onto one of my Kriega Drypacks. On the curvy backroads in Kentucky, it shifted back and forth with every turn.  

A fellow motorcyclist whom I met on the road suggested Rok Straps, and I had ordered four on my phone before our conversation ended. These ingenious straps, which combine a wide bungee strap with a non-stretchable adjustable nylon strap with a quick-release buckle and webbed loops on each end, allow you to tie anything down securely. They can be used to tighten down soft luggage or to secure items to racks or pillion seats. I rarely ride without them, even when I’m not on a trip. You never know when you might need to buy something that doesn’t fit in your tank bag.  

Related: Precious Cargo: The Art of Carrying Stuff on a Motorcycle 

Touring or moto camping can be an exciting and even life-changing experience, regardless of what type of motorcycle you own. No one should let the myth that only certain types of motorcycles are capable of touring stop them from experiencing the thrill of a moto trip. I’m the case in point that it’s possible.  

The post Touring on a Sportbike appeared first on Rider Magazine.

Yamaha Champions Riding School, the premier motorcycle riding school in North America, is proud to announce a new Champions University digital curriculum: Traffic Survival. This is the fourth curriculum and arguably the most important Champ U online course to date.

Related: A Cruiser Guy Goes to Yamaha ChampSchool

Riding on the street is often considered dangerous and unpredictable. Distracted drivers, traffic, dilapidated roads, and insufficient training have become the norm. In fact, motorcyclists are 28 times more likely to lose their lives in a fatal accident than other drivers.

The best way to stay safe on the street is to master motorcycle vehicle dynamics, understand the unique dangers of the road, and learn how the best riders in the world avoid them. As our skills and safety increase, so does the fun – and at the end of the day, that’s why we all love this sport! Traffic Survival is designed to give any rider, on any bike, the skills and strategies needed to enjoy every street ride and have more fun on two wheels for many years to come.

Derived from multi-time World Champion Freddie Spencer’s curriculum, ChampSchool has been in business since 2014 and has trained some of the best riders in the world with multi-day curriculums for street riders, racers, police officers, motorcycle manufactures, and the US Marine Corps. Yamaha Champions Riding School is at the forefront of motorcycle vehicle dynamics training.

We gathered subject matter experts with diverse backgrounds that include police motor officers, veteran street riders, international motojournalists, and national road racing champions with one goal: create a complete curriculum on how to thrive and survive on the street.

Traffic Survival combines over 40 videos, quizzes, and drills to form the definitive guide for street riding techniques and strategies, derived from data driven best practices, not internet-based theory.

Unlike our $2500-plus exclusive multi-day training events, Champ U: Traffic Survival is available to any rider with an internet connection and at a price any motorcyclist can afford. New riders and veteran street riders will learn the best techniques and approaches to handle a wide variety of situations, especially those that account for the majority of street crashes.

Traffic Survival will retail for $99.95 but is available until the end of the year for a very special introductory price of $79.95.

The weather may be getting colder, and your motorcycle might be going into storage for a while. Don’t miss this opportunity to improve your skills on your preferred device. When warmer days arrive, you will be ready!

Learn more about Champ U: Traffic Survival and our other online and in-person courses at the Champ U courses page.

Related: Nick Ienatsch | Ep. 59 Rider Magazine Insider Podcast

About Yamaha Champions Riding School

Yamaha Champions Riding School (ChampSchool) is the nation’s premier motorcycle training program. ChampSchool is the evolution of the Freddie Spencer High-Performance Riding School and is led by racer, author, and former right-hand man of Spencer, Nick Ienatsch. ChampSchool uses “Champions Habits” to teach all riders the skills and techniques used by the top riders in the world to go faster safer, while concentrating on the way in which modern motorcycles are designed to be ridden. ChampSchool is dedicated to making all motorcycle riders safer and more in control of their riding, no matter what type of riding they do. For more information visit the ChampSchool website.

The post Yamaha Champions Riding School Announces New ‘Champ U: Traffic Survival’ appeared first on Rider Magazine.

When I’m traveling and tell other riders that I’m from Tennessee, they tell me they’re jealous. They talk about how lucky I am to live in a state with so many fantastic riding roads through the Great Smokies. However, before last summer, I had to shamefully admit I’d never ridden in East Tennessee.

I got the opportunity to change that in June when I needed some photos for my CFMOTO 450SS review. I’d get to spend a couple days away from the desk, experience Appalachian riding, put some miles on the test bike, and get paid for it! Talk about a win‑­win‑­win‑­win.

As with most trips, this one didn’t go as smoothly as planned.

I ran into my first hiccup just past Nashville. When I stopped to pull up directions for the next leg of my journey, my phone’s map wouldn’t load. I also wasn’t able to call or text. I didn’t know where I needed to go other than in a general southeast direction.

Unable to rely on my phone for navigation, I stopped at gas stations along the way to ask locals for directions. Most were happy to help, and some were so happy that they took half an hour to tell me their own motorcycling stories. I enjoyed these interactions, but it was getting late, and I was still a long way from 129 Cabins in Robbinsville, North Carolina, where I’d be staying.

When night fell, I was on the highway that would take me directly to the cabin, and I started to relax. Then I saw a sign that read “Motorcycles: High crash area next 11 miles.” Before I knew it, I was on the Tail of the Dragon.

Those 11 miles with their 318 curves were the longest I’ve ever ridden. It was pitch dark with no other cars, bikes, or signs of human presence. The LED lights on the 450SS are great, but they shine in front of the bike while the road snaked away from where the headlight was pointed. I was also afraid of deer popping out from the woods since they’re a big cause of accidents in my area.

A stretch of road that many riders travel across the world to experience was a nuisance to me. I felt some guilt about that, but all I wanted was to get to my cabin in one piece. And eventually, I did.

After a delightful photoshoot with Killboy the next day, it was time to head home. My phone started working again after a simple restart, but the return trip took just as long as getting there. I dodged storms for hours, ducking into gas stations to keep the laptop in my backpack dry when rain poured down. When the skies cleared, the temperatures rose from 65 degrees to 98 with 100% humidity. Sitting on the interstate in stand‑­still traffic with no airflow in that kind of heat was draining.

Related: Killboy | Ep. 53 Rider Magazine Insider Podcast

I finally made it home, and after a cold shower, I felt better. When my husband got home from work, I told him all about the storms and the heat and the traffic, filling his poor ears with complaints. Then I remembered riding along the Ocoee River. The rain had stopped for a while, and the temperature was just right. Mountains were rising on either side of me, and the river rushed by as kayakers navigated the rough whitewater. I remembered all the wonderful roads I’d sampled during the photoshoot, how much fun I had with the photographers, and how welcoming and peaceful the cabin was. And I knew I’d make this journey again, although with a little more preparation next time.

Riding is living times 10. There’s always something to complain about, but the beauty to be found is worth it.

The post The Ups and Downs of My First East Tennessee Motorcycle Ride appeared first on Rider Magazine.

All brands of cars and motorcycles are welcome. Suzuki USA headquarters is located at 3251 E. Imperial Hwy, Brea, CA 92821.

To enter the Suzuki Motor USA campus from the 57 Freeway, go east on Imperial Highway, turn left on Valencia Street, then turn left on Nasa Street, and pull into the parking lot. The parking lot has enough room for more than 300 motorcycles and cars.

Ride down and spend Saturday morning with other enthusiasts!

See all of Rider‘s Suzuki coverage here.

The post Suzuki Motorcycles, Cars, and Coffee | Saturday, Dec. 9 appeared first on Rider Magazine.

Benelli Motorcycles is an Italian brand with a storied 113-year history. Following last month’s EICMA show in Milan, Italy, Benelli announced a new distributor for its motorcycles in North America. Read the full press release below.

We are thrilled, yes, thrilled, to announce a momentous first in the 100-plus-year history of Benelli. Its motorcycles are now distributed in North America by Keeway Group, co-owner and exclusive worldwide corporate manager of the Benelli brand. In short, Benelli is finally represented by Benelli in the North American markets.

Related: Tracing 111 Years of Benelli History

Founded by the six Benelli brothers in 1911, in the seaside city of Pesaro, Italy, the original Benelli factory is now the Benelli Museum, still fully owned by the brand. Originally conceived as a brand of passion, Benelli soon went racing with youngest brother Antonio “Tonino” quickly achieving many victories. Racing in Italy evolved into racing internationally, with Benelli earning two GP world championships. Every year Benelli and the city of Pesaro celebrate Benelli Week, a tradition that began 13 years ago at the company’s 100th anniversary in 2011.

Keeway Group, the corporate manager of the Benelli brand, also has other brands to provide dealers a robust array of two-wheeled vehicles. Keeway’s growing complementary line of scooters and small-displacement motorcycles will also be offered in the U.S. market, at a later date in 2024.

Related: Benelli Leoncino Review | Road Test

At November’s EICMA, the international motorcycle exposition taking place in Milan, Italy, the side by side displays of Benelli and Keeway were teeming with media, dealers, and consumers, from all corners of our round planet. Attendees included over 400 distributor and dealer representatives from 66 countries. With design studios in Italy and Spain, and primary manufacturing in China, Benelli and Keeway are truly international brands.

Related Story: Benelli TRK502X Review | Road Test

The initial 2024 Benelli models will be arriving in the USA in the first quarter of the year, with additional models arriving in the second quarter. Specifics about the models heading to North America will be made available in the near future.

Keeway America is a wholly owned subsidiary of Keeway Group, with main offices and warehouses for distribution located in Frisco, Texas, a suburb of Dallas. We welcome powersports professionals to inquire about joining our seasoned team. For additional information, visit Benelli’s U.S. website or contact marketing@keewayamerica.com.

The post Benelli Motorcycles Now Distributed in North America by Keeway Group appeared first on Rider Magazine.