Ordinary Biker Oz

Must Ride Roads in Texas - Three Twisted Sisters

2026-04-14T17:04:00.001-05:00

Inside the Frio Canyon Motorcycle Stop restaurant

The second full day of riding on our trip to the Texas Hill Country included the famous Ranch to Market (RM) roads 335, 336 and 337 aka The Three Twisted Sisters (sisters because of the consecutive numbers) and after lunch Texas 39 which runs along side a good amount of the North Fork Guadalupe River.

This post and the VIDEO is about the Three Twisted Sister. The geography of this area makes for great riding and pretty scenery.

Getting to the "sisters" was a nice scenic ride in it's own right, albeit not very curvy. We passed several ranches and while on TX 41 we saw a herd of bison and in the herd was a "white buffalo!" Once we turned south on US 83 we could tell we were at a higher elevation than where we were heading. The views of the valleys were very scenic.

Once we arrived in Leakey, Texas we gassed up at the Stripes Convenient Store and gas station. It's a clean station with a good parking lot and 12 gas pumps! After our fuel stop we headed to RM 336. I had never ridden the sisters counter-clockwise so this time we did.

RM 336 reportedly has 133 curves in 27 miles (Leakey to Hwy 41 intersection). I cannot confirm or deny the number of curves because I was too busy enjoying the ride to count curves. The elevation slowly got higher, although it's not a big change it is noticeable. If one is inclined to do so there are some good places to stop for photos of the surrounding area.

RM 335

Once at the Hwy 41 intersection we turned west (left) and rode for 13.5 miles and turned south (left) on RM 335. We grabbed some throttle and enjoyed the 32 miles and reportedly 134 curves as we descended to Barksdale and TX 55. During previous rides on RM 335 I have seen two giraffes at a specific ranch (I make note of the ranch on the VIDEO), but this time they were not seen. Turning south (left) we traveled 4.5 miles to Camp Wood and the intersection of RM 337 aka East 4th Street.

RM 337 gains elevation from Camp Wood and then descends into Leakey and Frio Canyon Motorcycle Stop were we had lunch. RM 337 continues to Medina for a total of 57 miles and a reported 235. We had ridden RM 337 east of Leakey the day before so we hit 20 miles of RM 337 this day for a total of 185 miles with 94 miles being the route for the Three Twisted Sisters.

Waiting for our lunches

We stopped for lunch, t-shirts etc at the Frio Canyon Motorcycle Stop. A good crowd of motorcyclists gathered for lunch, drinks and more. It's a good place to stop when in Leakey.

Outside seating at the Frio Canyon Motorcycle Stop

Here is a video that will give you a small taste of the Three Twisted Sisters. If you get to the Hill Country you will enjoy the riding; however, I do not recommend going July - September as the temperatures and humidity can make it uncomfortable. June can even be hot so check you weather apps.

Ride carefully and prayerfully!

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"Trust in the Lord with all your heart and lean not on your own understanding; in all your ways submit to him, and he will make your paths straight." - Proverbs 3:5-6

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Awesome Roads in Texas Hill Country - Day 1

2026-04-01T20:54:00.002-05:00

Texas is a big state and has a lot of different topology, climates and geographical regions. One of my favorite regions to ride in is the Texas Hill Country. The Edwards plateau, limestone hills, changing elevation (500 to 2400+ feet), numerous rivers, big ranches, little ranches and a lot of ranches raising exotic mammals are just part of what makes the region unique.

Three of us from Tennessee met six of my Texas friends for 3 days of riding and two days at the MotoGP races in Austin. For me this was my second time to attend the races as a spectator instead of a volunteer track marshal as I had six times over the past 11 years.

We converged on a Tuesday for lunch at the Blue Bonnet Cafe in Marble Falls, TX, one of the best restaurants in Texas (I can't believe I haven't posted about the Blue Bonnet Cafe, yet). After lunch we enjoyed a scenic ride on the east side of Inks Lake and headed to Llano. After a fuel stop we continued south on Texas 16 towards Fredericksburg. Prior to getting to Fredericksburg we detoured west and rode the Willow City Loop. The loop is a county road and has a few cattle guard crossings and free-range cattle could be crossing the road, although they weren't close that day. The views of the canyon along the loop are picturesque. Around dusk or dawn it is very likely deer would be seen on or near the road, but we were there mid-afternoon.

On Wednesday, day 1 of all riding together, we head south and west on some great roads and I had my action camera ready to capture parts of the ride. (See Video)

After getting through and out of Kerrville we experienced very little traffic. TX 16 is in great shape and has plenty of sweepers and elevation changes. At Medina we turned west on Ranch Road 337. Whenever we saw the tall fences we would look for exotics, bison or other non domesticated animals of which we saw numerous over the days of riding.

I made a mistake and turned left at the intersection with Ranch Road 187 and ended up in Utopia long before we should arrive so we stop for a break. We heading back to Vanderpool and then continuing west on Ranch Road 337 which has nice elevation and scenic views of the surrounding area.

At Leakey we stopped for a fuel break before taking Ranch Road 1120 to Ranch to Market (RM) Road 1050 east towards Utopia and Lost Maples Cafe. RM 1050 was 14 miles with sweepers, tighter curves roller coaster elevation change and nice vistas.

In Utopia we pulled into Lost Maples Cafe, which was suggested by my friend Jerry. When I entered the cafe and before I could ask for a table for eight the host/waitress said "We have your table in the back." I asked was that for us and she stated she saw us pull up and tried to count how many of us there were and proceeded to prepare for us. The waitress was quick, friendly and had a good sense of humor. The food was very good and everyone enjoyed his meal. If you are in that area it's worth the stop. Those who had pie for dessert we pleased.

After lunch we took Ranch Road 470 east to Bandera and then north on Ranch Road 689 to the edge of Kerrville where we turned on TX 27 to Comfort. We rode through Comfort to Ranch Road 473 to Old San Antonio Road aka Old Tunnel State Park Road. At Grapetown we took Grapetown Road to Luckenbach.

After some time in Luckenbach we headed back to the house in Fredericksburg. So Day 1 with 220 miles of fun filled, grin inducing riding in the Hill Country was in the books. If you haven't ridden in that area of Texas put it on your bucket list.

See Day 1 Video and watch for the next post about day 2 and the video of day 2 which included riding the renown Three Twisted Sisters.

Ride carefully and prayerfully!

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"Trust in the Lord with all your heart and lean not on your own understanding; in all your ways submit to him, and he will make your paths straight." - Proverbs 3:5-6

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First Ride of 2026 and First After Surgery!

2026-02-03T16:22:00.002-06:00

The sheep in Tennessee country were curious when I stopped by

This may be a lot later than most riders in the southern states of North America, but I went on my first motorcycle ride in 2026 and the first after my aortic heart valve replacement. Wow, it felt great!

In August 2025 my family doctor heard a heart murmur. No other doctor had every mentioned hearing a murmur so it was new development. A echocardiogram was ordered. Two weeks later the doc is telling me I have stenosis in my aortic valve (stenosis is narrowing and stiffening of the valve) which is not good.

A trip to Vanderbilt Hospital in Nashville, Tennessee for more tests and consultation took place. We were told I had a bicuspid valve, which is a birth defect, instead of a normal tricuspid valve and it would eventually fail. A replacement was needed.

October 22 at 5:30am I checked in for a mini aortic heart valve replacement and later that day I awoke with a new bovine heart valve. Recovery was slow at first but in the last six weeks I have progressed well and have gained endurance and strength. So it was time for a ride!

A sunny day and an old country church made for my first 2026 ride photo stop

Fun ahead! No straight roads on this ride

February 2, 2026 was sunny and temperatures rose to the upper 40's. I geared up for a short ride after the longest period without riding since I first started riding motorcycles in March of 2004. I headed to a nearby road that I enjoy and I could not stop smiling. The Indian operated like it should and I enjoyed the curves with confidence.

Although it was a short jaunt, by design, it made me feel good about my recovery and now I am looking forward to more days that are warmer and hopefully dry. Today has been warmer, but rainy.

Short ride but a good one for the first after heart valve replacement surgery

I plan to get some more miles ridden before the end of March in preperation for a trip to the Texas Hill Country. Some friends and I will be heading to the Texas Hill Country for four days of riding and then two days attending the MotoGP races at Circuit of the Americas (COTA) in Austin. Of course we will ride the Three Twisted Sisters while in the Hill Country, eat Texas BBQ and some Tex-Mex!

It was great to be back on the motorcycle after 3+ months and I am so blessed the surgery and recovery has been successful. I am also so blessed to have a wonderful, knowledgeable and caring wife to help me through it all, as well as supportive and prayerful children, family and friends. Thank you all!

Ride carefully and prayerfully!

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"Trust in the Lord with all your heart and lean not on your own understanding; in all your ways submit to him, and he will make your paths straight." - Proverbs 3:5-6

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Top Waterfalls to See in Idaho and a Must Ride Scenic Byway

2026-01-18T12:26:00.001-06:00

When something is located near a world renown site it can easily get over looked. That is the case with the Mesa Falls in Idaho. Just 50 miles southwest from the west entrance to Yellowstone lies two awesome waterfalls, the Upper Mesa Falls and the Lower Mesa Falls.

The Mesa Falls Scenic Byway (ID 47) is a 29 mile road that runs east of US 20 and connects with US 20 at both ends, Ashton, ID on the south end and 9 miles south of Island Park, ID on the north end. The Mesa Falls Scenic Byway also intersects the Teton Scenic Byway just east of Ashton and both are great roads to ride.

The Henrys Fork River runs through the Caribou-Targhee National Forest and is a tributary to the Snake River. The river cuts through the basalt rock and surrounding landscape to create two eye-popping waterfalls. The waterfalls are the last notable falls on the Snake River that have not been impacted by manmade influences.

We took US 20 from West Yellowstone to Island Park where we stopped for breakfast at Pond's Lodge in Island Park. Pond's Lodge has cabins, a gas station and a restaurant. The restaurant is a nice establishment with friendly and attentive service as well as good food. The log siding building is charming and it has sportsman decor. More importantly they served a great breakfast.

The trophies on the wall watch over the customers

Huckleberry Pancakes

My son and I enjoyed huckleberry pancakes, scrambled eggs, and hash browns. The huckleberry pancakes were delicious, the eggs and hash browns were cooked to order and it all tasted great! The other seven in our group were also happy with their orders and we all left with full stomachs, so I guess you can say we were satisfied.

Heading south away from Island Park we turned east on ID 47 a.k.a. Mesa Falls Scenic Byway and rode 13 miles to the entrance of the Mesa Falls area. The road and parking lot are well paved. There are restrooms, a visitor center, a gift shop, boardwalks and a viewing platforms. The park is well maintained. Fees were $1/ motorcycle and $5/car. (Fees may change) Access to view the Lower Mesa Falls is from the Grandview Campground and Overlook.

Upper Falls in the morning sunlight

The Upper Falls is 114 feet high and 300 feet wide (the Upper Yellowstone Falls is 109 feet). The roar of the falls can be heard long before the waterfall is seen. The morning sunlight and spray from the falls create an impressive rainbow. The spray creates a lush ecosystem on the side of the canyon below the forest. The secluded area was peaceful and crowd free. We saw various birds including an osprey. The wildflowers were blooming and were colorful.

We thought this rock at the base of the Upper Falls looked like a bear.

The falls are the last two major undisturbed waterfalls in Idaho. Most have been impacted by irrigation or hydroelectric projects. The pristine wilderness around the falls is a hikers paradise, although grizzly bear have been seen in the area according to park signs. There is a one mile hiking trailing from Upper Falls to Lower Falls. The trailhead is located at Upper Falls between the two parking lots on the east side. There are other longer trails for those wanting to hike more.

Awesome Photo opp!

The river heading toward Lower Falls.

Lower Falls is not as high, but it sure is beautiful. Notice the hiking trail on the edge of the canyon.

When you are visiting Yellowstone taking some time to visit the Upper and Lower Mesa Falls well be very rewarding not to mention you will encounter a lot less congestion. The ride/drive to the falls is beautiful and the falls will make you smile.

Ride carefully and prayerfully!

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"Trust in the Lord with all your heart and lean not on your own understanding; in all your ways submit to him, and he will make your paths straight." - Proverbs 3:5-6

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How Many Miles Ridden This Year - Not Enough

2025-12-31T17:36:00.001-06:00

I have often been asked, "how many miles do you ride in a year?" I would make a "ball park" guess, but until this year, 2025, I never kept an accurate count. Inspired by fellow blogger Redlegs from Denver, Colorado I decided in December of 2024 I would photograph the odometer on January 1st and again on December 31st.

Visit Redleg's Rides and you will see he does an awesome job of keeping up with his mileage on various rides and vehicles and he compares the miles to the previous year's. He also does a great job with his photographs!

I know in the past I have many years of higher mileage, but compared to the commonly accepted average of 3,000 miles/year I did OK. Considering my last ride of the year was October 20, 2025 (not by choice and not when my last ride for a year is normally taken) I rode a little less than 5/6th of the year.

January 1, 2025 odometer on the Indian Pursuit digital screen

On October 22nd I had "mini aortic valve replacement" surgery to fix a birth defect that was only discovered during my annual checkup. I was surprised since symptoms were not evident. This also leads to a later start on riding in 2026. Weather permitting I can start riding again February.

December 31, 2025 on Indian Pursuit odometer/tachometer

One motorcycle - 2022 Indian Pursuit

Miles ridden in 2025 - 7,477

Nine States - Tennessee, Mississippi, Alabama, Kentucky, Missouri, Texas, Arkansas, Colorado and Wyoming

It was a good year, rode with a lot of great people, ate at a lot of great local spots, saw a lot of great countryside, had a lot of great laughs and thanks to some great doctors I will ride again, soon. I am a blessed man.

I hope you all have a great 2026 with many miles and smiles. Ride carefully and prayerfully.

Ride carefully and prayerfully!

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"Trust in the Lord with all your heart and lean not on your own understanding; in all your ways submit to him, and he will make your paths straight." - Proverbs 3:5-6

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One of the Most Beautiful North Carolina Town to Visit!

2025-10-21T16:10:00.005-05:00

Indeed, I understand that if you search for Chimney Rock online, you'll discover there are numerous places with that name worldwide, yet only one is located near Bat Cave! That's correct - Bat Cave, North Carolina, and unfortunately it has absolutely no connection to Batman or Robin.

The community would greatly benefit from visitors as they are still recovering from the flooding caused by Hurricane Helene in 2022.

Located southeast of Asheville, NC, along the scenic US 74 Alternate. Coming from Asheville once you pass the small town of Fairview, NC you will enjoy 10 twisty miles before entering the quaint town of Bat Cave. Here you will find the entrance to Chimney Rock Park. Bat Cave gets its name from Bat Cave Mountain, which features a cave filled with numerous bats, quite interesting! This charming town boasts several shops and eateries.

The first time I visited Bat Cave we spent the night in Asheville, NC, ate breakfast before making our way towards Bat Cave and Chimney Rock. US 74 Alternate is a pleasant route. Once we were three miles out of Asheville, traffic was quite light. The ten-mile stretch from Fairview to Bat Cave is truly enjoyable, featuring several tight turns and six hairpin curves about four miles from Fairview. Having ridden the Tail of the Dragon twice the previous day, I found this ten-mile route almost equally exhilarating and far less congested, making it much less stressful and highly enjoyable, although shorter.

The second time I visited Bat Cave I led the group out and back from Almond, NC which allowed for a lot more curvy and scenic roads.


If you look closely, you can spot some of the curves leading towards Bat Cave

Less than a mile ahead, you will encounter another set of curves with a slope, which, although not as sharp, have some delightful bends. Along the roadside, the beautiful yet invasive Kudzu climbs up the trees and mountainside unchecked.


Main Street, US 74, in Bat Cave

Upon our arrival in Bat Cave, we decided to explore a few shops and search for a place to grab an early lunch before heading to Chimney Rock. The quaint shops were full of character and enjoyable to browse. There were plenty of fellow bikers in town, indicating it’s a popular stop.

Chimney Rock viewed from Bat Cave

Based on a recommendation from one of the shop owners, we chose to have lunch at the Riverwatch Deli and Grill. As the name suggests, you can relax on the back porch or deck while overlooking the Rocky River. We ordered our deli sandwiches and enjoyed them while gazing at the river and Chimney Rock above. The lunch was satisfactory, but nothing particularly memorable comes to mind; nonetheless, I would gladly dine there again.

We rode up to the park entrance, paid the admission fee, and began our ascent up the mountain. The ride was pleasant and shaded, with numerous pull-offs featuring picnic tables. Upon reaching the parking area, we decided to hike to Hickory Nut Falls, which is a remarkable 485-foot waterfall. We descended a series of steps leading to the actual trail.

Some of the steps guiding from the parking lot to Hickory Nut Trail

The trail spans 0.75 miles in one direction and is easy to navigate while providing ample shade. There are several spots to pause, relax, and take in the views of the surrounding mountains or the Bat Cave below. Near the end of the trail, we crossed a wooden bridge that led us to the base of the falls. It was quite beautiful, and I’m glad we took the time to trek the trail.

Hickory Nut Falls

After returning to the main parking area, we took the elevator up to the gift shop and bridge that leads to the top of Chimney Rock. Chimney Rock towers 315 feet above the base at the parking lot, reaching an elevation of 2,280 feet. Once we arrived at the gift shop and snack bar, we crossed the bridge to stand atop Chimney Rock. From there, we could see all of Hickory Nut Gorge, Lake Lure, Bat Cave, and the surrounding areas.

Lake Lure as viewed from Chimney Rock

We also hiked to the Opera Box (a fantastic place to unwind) and up to view Devils Head, a rock formation resembling what we imagine the devil's profile to look like. It’s an intriguing formation.

Devils Head - reminds me of the Duke Blue Devil logo

We thoroughly enjoyed the scenery. The Chimney Rock Park website claims that one can see up to 75 miles from the peak of Chimney Rock. I can't speak to the exact distance, but it was an incredible day, with amazing sights, and definitely worth the visit.

Chimney Rock as seen from the Opera Box

Chimney Rock and Bat Cave, NC is worthy of visit. You will enjoy the scenery and the roads as they twist, turn, rise and fall through the North Carolina foothills of the Smoky Mountains.

Ride carefully and prayerfully!

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"Trust in the Lord with all your heart and lean not on your own understanding; in all your ways submit to him, and he will make your paths straight." - Proverbs 3:5-6

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Best Pie in Texas - Koffee Kup Hico Review

2025-10-05T10:56:00.003-05:00

Texas Hill Country in the spring can be colorful

When heading to the Texas Hill Country one has to decide on a route and more importantly, a lunch stop. With countless scenic back roads to choose from, my sweet tooth often ends up guiding my decision. Hico is one of my favorite destinations for a lunch stop, specifically the famous Koffee Kup Family Restaurant, well-known across Central Texas for its legendary pies.

The famous Hico Koffee Kup established in the early 1980's

I love exploring as many unfamiliar Farm-to-Market roads as possible, and there are multiple possibilities on the way to Hico. The lightly traveled routes with their twists, elevation changes, and minimal traffic enforcement make for a fun spirited ride. Hico is tucked into the northern edge of the Texas Hill Country and offers some of the best roads for motorcycle enthusiasts.

If you roll into Hico around lunch time the Koffee Kup can bustling. Locals, travelers, and even a lot of bikers often fill the place. However; waiting for a table while eyeing the legendary pie rack is worth the wait.

The food at the Koffee Kup is consistently good, classic, home-cooked comfort meals. I usually want to leave room for one of the many varieties of freshly made pies so I keep lunch simple. Most often I go with a flavorful hamburger, no fries.

Fresh made pies are the highlight at the Koffee Kup

On one particular visit I found myself in front of the pie rack with least 15 pie options staring back at me, the decision wasn’t easy. Normally, I’d go for my tried-and-true coconut cream pie, but this time, something new caught my eye - the “Doctor’s Office” pie. Built on a graham cracker crust and layered with sweet cream, vanilla custard, roasted coconut, and almond slivers, it was impossible to resist.

The slice was perfectly chilled, generously sized, and every bite blended rich flavor with just the right amount of texture from the crust and toppings. By the time I finished, the Doctor’s Office pie had earned a spot alongside coconut cream as my new favorite.

The Doctor's Office

If you’re ever riding within 50–75 miles of Hico, do yourself a favor and detour to the Koffee Kup. The pies are some of the best in Texas, and the ride through Central Texas FM roads makes the trip even sweeter.

Ride carefully and prayerfully!

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"Trust in the Lord with all your heart and lean not on your own understanding; in all your ways submit to him, and he will make your paths straight." - Proverbs 3:5-6

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Half A Million and the Top 5

2025-09-27T12:37:00.005-05:00

I am fully aware there are many publications and blogs that have had millions of eyes/readers peruse their websites and blogs. However, for a motorcycle rider that is not a professional writer the thought of having 500,000+ click on a simple blog is startling and humbling.

An early post about Wheels Through Time museum and the same model my grandfather owned back in 1915.

When I started the blog I just wanted to be an "ordinary biker" providing useful and straightforward information for other riders. I did not want to use strange and unnecessary phrases just to be different, "original" or condescending. Often the similes used in publications are just silly, for example, one author stated "the engine fired up with the sound of 10,000 angry wasps." That description did not provide me with any useful information.

Here are some of the bikes I have had over the years, but not all, with links to reviews and/or videos.

2010 Yamaha FJR

2012 Honda VFR1200

2009 Suzuki VStrom 650

I am so glad the blog has been so well received and I want to thank everyone who has visited, read a post or left a comment. I greatly appreciate past and future feedback, comments and subscribers.

Here are the five most read blog post. Some were posted years ago and some only months ago. If you missed one of these maybe now is a good time to read it.

The Five Most Read Posts

5) An Epic Museum Featuring an American Icon is A Must Visit!

4) Texas Hill Country

3) Honda VFR 1200 Review

2) Yamaha FJR Review

1) V Star 1100 Review

Ride carefully and prayerfully!

Top Five Oz Videos

Connect and follow Biker Oz on the following:

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Please visit the following great companies:

THE ESSENTIALS FOR MODERATE SELF-IMPROVEMENT

Awesome gear for every rider!

Feedback on these businesses is appreciated. You may comment below.

"Trust in the Lord with all your heart and lean not on your own understanding; in all your ways submit to him, and he will make your paths straight." - Proverbs 3:5-6

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Will Future Legislation Restrict Motorcycling?

2025-09-18T15:39:00.005-05:00

I try to stay aware of legislation that has impact on the motorcycling community, but of course I don't catch it all.

I believe we the members of the motorcycling community need to communicate with legislators (local, state and federal), agencies and other power brokers when we see rights and/or opportunities potentially being restricted. Being proactive is much better than being reactive in these matters.

I have been a long time member of the American Motorcyclists Association(AMA). AMA is were I get a lot of alerts and updates that impact our biker community. AMA is a good place to start if you are not already involved. (I get NO compensation from AMA). AMA also has a good amount of member benefits and discounts.

I recently read a post on I Just Want 2 Ride by Warren Massey that caught my attention. With the author's permission I am sharing his complete post below. Please take time to read the post and consider ways to communicate with your representatives.

Protecting Motorcyclist Rights: Guest Post by Save London Motorcycling

Posted: September 10, 2025 in Motorcycle, Motorcycle advocacy, Motorcycle news
Tags: grassroots motorcycle organization, Hackney motorcycle policies, Harley, Harley Davidson, legal challenge for motorcyclists, Motorcycle, motorcycle advocacy, motorcycle blog, motorcycle community, motorcycle commuting, motorcycle freedom, motorcycle parking charges, Motorcycle Ride, motorcycle riding, motorcycle rights, motorcycle safety, motorcycle touring, motorcycling in London, Save London Motorcycling, sport bike, Sportbike, UK motorcycle laws, Vision Zero coalition

[IJustWant2Ride – Start] This post is by the organization Save London Motorcycling. Save London Motorcycling is a grassroots organization dedicated to fighting threats to motorcycling in London, UK. Don’t think it can’t happen in the US. I have pointed out, in several posts, attempts to “restrain” motorcycling and do not forget that the Vision Zero coalition is all about zero motorcycles.

Please share this to raise awareness this not just for “Save London Motorcycling” but for all of us. [IjustWant2Ride – End]

****

Why We Fight to Ride Our Motorcycles

Across the UK, riders are under attack. Step by step, rule by rule, life on two wheels is being made harder, and London is on the front line.

Riders see what’s happening, but too often they don’t know how to respond. That’s why we created Save London Motorcycling to organize, to show riders they have power, and to fight back. We don’t charge membership fees; we just spread awareness and ask for whatever time, energy, and passion riders can spare.

Motorcycling is something we love, the freedom, the community, the vitality. Most riders aren’t chasing the old stereotype of the anarchist outlaw. We’re just people who ride because we love it and it makes our lives better.

If you are invisible, you are in danger

As passionate as we can be about bikes when talking to other riders, most of us don’t bring it up unprompted in day-to-day conversation with non-bikers. We’re more interested in riding than talking about riding, and that makes us invisible to many people. They don’t know anyone who looks like their idea of a stereotypical biker, and so they don’t think they know anyone who rides. And as every rider knows, if you’re invisible, you’re in danger.

We all know there’s a small minority of people who think motorbikes are nothing but a nuisance: noisy, dirty, and dangerous. They don’t ride, they don’t understand why we do, and if it were up to them, they’d ban us all tomorrow.

Government Officials Have Agendas

In the UK, much like the USA, it’s local government that makes the rules we feel every day. That means one anti-motorbike councilor, elected with only a few hundred votes, can make life hell for riders across their borough.

If they tried to do this to car drivers they’d be reined in by their more moderate colleagues, car drivers are voters after all! But their colleagues don’t think they know any bikers, they don’t see us, they don’t hear us, and they don’t think we vote.

Hackney has become an extreme example of this, after their own anti-motorcycle activist councilor decided to impose parking charges on motorbikes at the same rate as cars and ban all-day parking to prevent motorbike commuting.

With petitions and protests, presenting the evidence and reasoning the case, we achieved some concessions from the Council. But in the end, they simply stopped listening. The original policy was so draconian, that even after their ‘concessions’ the costs are devastating.

Charges for commuters add up to more than £2,000 a year just to park at work. Resident permits up to £596 annually, and business permits reach £1,560, with further rises already planned. For around 10% of residents, those living in so-called ‘car-free developments’, permits are simply unavailable – motorbikes are banned outright.

By Hackney’s own projections, these rules would cause a 70% drop in motorbike use in the borough. Riders who rely on two wheels for work, family, or affordable travel are being told they’re no longer welcome. Hackney’s own target for reducing car use over the same period is only 30%.

Riders are being deliberately disproportionately targeted, not because of evidence, but because we are seen as a politically soft target.

Standing Up for Motorcyclists

Save London Motorcycling is refusing to let this stand. We have launched a legal challenge in the High Court, arguing that Hackney’s policy is unlawful, disproportionate, and discriminatory. If we win this case, it could have important implications for councils across the UK, setting the precedent that motorcyclists cannot be disproportionately targeted in this way without evidence.

Taking a council to court is not cheap, but thanks to the generosity of over a thousand riders and supporters, we have raised more than £20,000 through crowdfunding, with our target of £25,000 now within reach.

This is why we fight. Campaigning isn’t easy. It’s long evenings in council chambers and endless hours in meetings with decision-makers who would rather be anywhere else than listening to riders. But the support we consistently receive from around London and the UK proves something important: we don’t have to be invisible.

When riders know they can make a difference, they step up. They bring their energy, their stories, their belief that motorcycling makes life better – for themselves, and for the city as a whole. That passion is contagious, and it’s powerful.

Call to Action

Change comes from the small things: an email to a councilor, a repost on social media, a donation to a legal fund. Each of these acts alone might seem small, but together, multiplied across thousands of riders, they become impossible to ignore.

We must harness the sense of community that binds us as riders, the solidarity we feel when we see another biker on the road and turn it into collective action. That is our strength. If we use it, we can protect motorcycling not only for ourselves, but for the generations to come.

Make no mistake: this is a fight for the future of Motorcycling. If we stand together, we can win it.

Links to Save London Motorcycling

Save London Motorcycling – Facebook

Save London Motorcycling – X

Save London Motorcycling – Instagram

Save London Motorcycling – Interweb

Ride carefully and prayerfully!

Top Five Oz Videos

Connect and follow Biker Oz on the following:

Ordinary Biker Oz YouTube Channel has video reviews and more

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THE ESSENTIALS FOR MODERATE SELF-IMPROVEMENT

Awesome gear for every rider!

Feedback on these businesses is appreciated. You may comment below.

"Trust in the Lord with all your heart and lean not on your own understanding; in all your ways submit to him, and he will make your paths straight." - Proverbs 3:5-6

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An Epic Museum Featuring an American Icon is A Must Visit!

2025-09-05T17:34:00.005-05:00

On my various motorcycle tours and trips we enjoy the riding times and most of our stops are for a short time, but occasionally a longer stop is well worth the extended time. One such stop is the Buffalo Bill Center of the West in Cody, Wyoming. Cody is a great place to stop before riding the amazing scenic Chief Joseph Byway and the Top of The World Beartooth Pass or heading to Yellowstone National Park.

Welcome to Cody, Wyoming!

Cody was founded by William "Buffalo Bill" Cody in 1896 and is the eastern gateway to Yellowstone National Park. It makes sense that the Buffalo Bill Center of the West is located in a town that bears his name. The center is a consist of five museums and contains over 50,000 artifacts.

Buffalo Bill welcomes Scotty

The five museums, Buffalo Bill Museum, Plains Indians Museum, Whitney Western Art Museum, Draper Natural History Museum and Cody Firearms Museum, display unique artifacts that surprise, excite and educate.

The Buffalo Bill Museum highlights Buffalo Bill and includes personal artifacts such as saddles, posters, the clothing he wore when performing in his show and his famous buckskin jackets. There is a life-sized hologram of the Buffalo Bill in the museum.

Buffalo Bill artifacts

The Plains Indian Museum displays the histories, cultures and modern lives of the indigenous plains peoples. Artwork from the 1800s to current times are displayed. The 19111 log house that belonged to Standing Bear of the Oglala Lokata people is on display.

Plains Indian display

The Whitney Western Art Museum was added in 1959 and has over 300 works of art from many artist including Remington, Russell, Moran and Bierstandt. Visitors to the center are welcomed by The Scout, a huge Gertrude Vanderbilt Whitney bronze sculpture.

Scout by Gertrude Vanderbilt Whitney

The kid-friendly and interactive Draper Natural History Museum provides experiences about the greater Yellowstone ecosystem. Displays feature wildlife like wolves, grizzlies, elk and more. One can also catch a seasonal raptor show (check with the center for times and dates).


That is one big grizzly!

Western transportation

For me the highlight was the Cody Firearms Museum. With 4,300 American made firearms and 20,000 related artifacts there is plenty to see. From 16th-century hand cannons, early American rifles and pistols to modern firearms are on display. The Colt 1911 semi-auto handgun from the series Longmire and two other guns from the show are also there.

Weapons and more from Longmire

There were so many firearms to see. They were all organized and expertly displayed. It took Scotty and I quite a while to get through this part of the center.

Admission to the museum provides entry for two consecutive days, which if you take time to really sock in the displays and read all the placards you will need the two days. The museum may seem pricey but it is well worth it. If you are heading up that way plan a visit to the center, you will not be disappointed.

Ride carefully and prayerfully!

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THE ESSENTIALS FOR MODERATE SELF-IMPROVEMENT

Awesome gear for every rider!

Feedback on these businesses is appreciated. You may comment below.

"Trust in the Lord with all your heart and lean not on your own understanding; in all your ways submit to him, and he will make your paths straight." - Proverbs 3:5-6

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Epic Rocky Mountain Road You Must Ride

2025-08-22T11:53:00.004-05:00

The Collegiate Range is vast and impressive

Located in central Colorado on US 24 (65 miles south of I70) sits Buena Vista. Buena Vista offers awesome views and access to many 14'ers (mountains 14,000 feet or higher) in the Sawatch Range. It also provides the eastern approach to one of the highest and less traveled paved mountain passes in the Rocky Mountains.

Heading west out of Buena Vista on Colorado Highway 306 Mount Princeton towers to the south at an impressive 14,196 feet and to the north Mount Yale rises to 14,199 feet. The magnificent behemoths are members of the Collegiate Peaks range and beautiful valleys loaded with aspens abound. The road leads to the Cottonwood Pass. Historically Cottonwood Pass was the major crossing point for travelers and merchants. For many years it was only paved on the eastern side, but in September 2019 the newly fully paved road on both sides of the pass opened.

The views are awesome

If one approaches the pass from Almont, on the west side of Cottonwood Pass, take Colorado Highway 742 and turn right on Colorado 209 after traveling approximately half way around Taylor Park Reservoir, which is a picturesque mountain lake with Grizzly Peak (13,433) and Jenkins Mountain (13,440) to the north of the reservoir. The paved connection between Buena Vista and Almont is 56.8 miles of curves, vistas, and access to some of Colorado’s best hiking trails and campsites.

Taylor Park Reservoir is surrounded by snow-capped mountains

Cottonwood Pass 12,126 feet

The average grade of the road is 4.1% but has a 6.1% grade at its steepest section. The road ascends 3970 feet from Buena Vista to the 12,126 feet at the top of the pass making it the second highest pass in the USA behind Trail Ridge Road in the Rocky Mountain National Park which rises to 12,183 feet. At the summit the continental divide is crossed and breathtaking views of both sides of the divide can be enjoyed.

What a curve! Looking east from the summit in July

Looking east from the pass as the sun is setting - mid June

The road is closed due to snow and/or ice during the colder months but typically open late May till late October or early November. Colorado road closures can be found HERE.

The ride is smile-inducing and the views are world class. Wildlife viewing is always a possibility especially in the earlier morning hours or as the sun sets, caution is advised. The road is popular with bicyclists so be alert.

Buena Vista has a lot of lodging and eating options. 18 miles north of Almont on highway 135 Crested Butte, another beautiful mountain town, has a lot of options or 10 miles south on highway 135 is Gunnison which also has plenty of options.

My brother-in-law, Jeff and I at the pass

Western view from the pass in July

Cottonwood Pass will not disappoint, but be prepared.

Some Travel Tips from the Road

Best time to go: Late June through early October. The road usually closes in winter, and snow can linger well into May. Fall is absolutely stunning with the aspens turning.

What to bring: A light jacket (even in summer, it can get chilly up top), water, and snacks. If you’re into hiking, there are trailheads along the way — toss in some boots.

Keep an eye out: Wildlife is common, especially in the early morning and at sunset. Elk, deer, and sometimes bears wander nearby. And remember, cyclists love this road — give them space.

Food + fuel stops: Grab coffee or a burrito in Buena Vista before heading up. On the west side, Crested Butte has tons of great restaurants (plus that mountain-town charm), while Gunnison is bigger and has plenty of practical options.

Photo ops: Don’t miss the pullouts near the summit. The views of both sides of the Divide are the kind of thing you’ll want on your camera roll forever

Ride carefully and prayerfully!

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THE ESSENTIALS FOR MODERATE SELF-IMPROVEMENT

Awesome gear for every rider!

Feedback on these businesses is appreciated. You may comment below.

"Trust in the Lord with all your heart and lean not on your own understanding; in all your ways submit to him, and he will make your paths straight." - Proverbs 3:5-6

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A Wyoming Road That is a Must Ride For Motorcycle Riders

2025-08-08T16:17:00.002-05:00

The Rocky Mountains stretch from New Mexico to western Canada for 3,000 miles (4,800 kilometers) and is full of great roads that twist through, over and around the mountains. Inspiring vistas, expansive valleys, meandering rivers and abundant wildlife can be see along the way.

Taylor Park Reservoir in the Sawatch Range in central Colorado

I have been blessed to ride many, but by no means all, of the Rocky Mountain roads, some paved and a few not paved. All have unique traits, charm and of course views.

One in Wyoming that I have greatly enjoyed on two different occasions, once as I lead a group to Yellowstone National Park for six days and again when a friend and I were heading to Glacier NP then on to Alaska. The scenic road travels north of Cody, WY to US 212 aka Beartooth Pass (which is also a delightful and breathtaking ride). So in reality combining the two roads makes for an awesome ride full of views and curves.

Surrounded by the Shoshone National Forest the Chief Joseph Scenic Byway aka WY 296 starts 17 miles north of Cody off WY 120. Turning west the byway curves left and begins to rise and fall for the next few miles before beginning to ascend up to Dead Indian Summit Overlook at 8,071 feet (2,460 meters). The overlook is 13 miles from WY 120 and is worthy of a stop to soak in the amazing view of some of the most pristine Wyoming landscape.

Breathtaking vista from the overlook

From the overlook one can see the Absaroka Mountains to the west, to the north the Beartooth Mountain Range and the Clarks Fork River down below.

Absaroka Mountains

Chief Joseph Scenic Byway winds off Dead Indian Summit Pass

Overlook to the left and Dead Indian hill to the far right

Heading north from the overlook for 32.5 miles the scenic byway continues to provide smile inducing curves, switchbacks, elevation change and massive views until it intersects with US 212. Turning left will take you to Cooke City, Montana and a gateway to Yellowstone National Park. Turning right will lead up Beartooth Pass, pass Top of The World Store and on to Red Lodge, Montana.

If you get up to NE Wyoming or South Central Montana don't miss the opportunity to ride Chief Joseph Scenic Byway and Beartooth Highway (closed in the winter). You will be glad you did.

Ride carefully and prayerfully!

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THE ESSENTIALS FOR MODERATE SELF-IMPROVEMENT

Awesome gear for every rider!

Feedback on these businesses is appreciated. You may comment below.

"Trust in the Lord with all your heart and lean not on your own understanding; in all your ways submit to him, and he will make your paths straight." - Proverbs 3:5-6

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Biker Oz Interview on Motorcycle Men Podcast

2025-07-26T14:51:00.003-05:00

I became a fan of podcasts in 2019. I listened to a lot of different styles and various topics with motorcycle related podcasts occupying the largest portion of my listening time. Some hosts his/her show solo while others use a team approach. Some are 30 minutes or less while others are much longer.

Some podcasts were entertaining, some informative and some educational. I continue to listen to have kept me interested and engaged. In 2021 I posted a list of some of my favorite at the time - check it out HERE.

However, at that time I had not started following Motorcycle Men podcast. Many are no longer active anymore while others have built a good following, so I may need to post a new list of favorites soon.

Motorcycle Men is a four man team with the host Ted Kettler aka "Wrongway" and co-hosts Tim aka "Buktu", Chris aka "Joker" and Justin aka "Shoes." The four guys "share with you their exploits of the road, the roads, the people, the destinations and everything that goes along with it." (Motorcycle Men website)

Broadcasting from the "V-Twin Cafe" stories, motorcycle information and laughs are plentiful. One-on-one interviews with a wide range of people in the motorcycle world are frequent. The range of topics and personalities has made the Motorcycle Men podcast one of my current top 5.

While listening to a particular interview with a man who rode to Alaska I was struck by how my experience riding to Alaska was quite different. I emailed the show and mentioned how much I enjoyed my ride to Alaska with some friends. Ted responded he was interested in my story. After communicating we scheduled a time to talk. I also go to share some of my experiences of track marshaling for MotoGP and MotoAmerica.

2024 I gave Joe Roberts a USA flag to carry as he celebrated his 2nd place finish

Follow this LINK to listen to any or all of their shows. I believe you will enjoy them so give them a listen. You can find the Motorcycle Men Podcast on various podcast platforms. Check out past episodes and let me know what you think.

Ride carefully and prayerfully!

Top Five Oz Videos

Connect and follow Biker Oz on the following:

Ordinary Biker Oz YouTube Channel has video reviews and more

Christian Motorcyclists Association

Come Ride With Us

Please visit the following great companies:

THE ESSENTIALS FOR MODERATE SELF-IMPROVEMENT

Awesome gear for every rider!

Feedback on these businesses is appreciated. You may comment below.

"Trust in the Lord with all your heart and lean not on your own understanding; in all your ways submit to him, and he will make your paths straight." - Proverbs 3:5-6

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Awesome Waterfall Route in the Blue Ridge Mountains

2025-02-27T17:13:00.005-06:00

The Smoky Mountains Waterfalls are beautiful

I've had the incredible opportunity to uncover a variety of stunning waterfalls while journeying through

the breathtaking scenery of Western North Carolina. Many of these hidden gems are conveniently

located near the highway, making them easily accessible. If you’re a waterfall lover looking for an

unforgettable day trip, let me share one of my favorite scenic routes that begins and ends

in Waynesville, NC!

Kick off your adventure on US 276, famously known as Pisgah Highway. You’ll find yourself enchanted
by the twisting roads as you head east. After enjoying the drive, take a turn onto US 64 west, where
you’ll pass through the charming town of Brevard on your way to Highlands. Keep going west on US
64, and you’ll glide through Franklin, eventually connecting with US 23 north to join US 74 East. This
route winds just north of Dillsboro before bringing you back to Waynesville.
Waynesville Waterfall Loop has plenty of fun curves also!

As you navigate along US 276, don't miss the chance to stop at some of the region's most mesmerizing
waterfalls. Must-see spots include the iconic Looking Glass Falls, the easily accessible Moore Cove
Falls (just a 1.5-mile round-trip hike), Upper Log Hollow Falls (a 2.6-mile trek), Barnett Branch Falls (a
brief 0.7-mile hike), and the exhilarating Sliding Rock Falls. Each waterfall promises a visual delight,
and the drive itself is filled with scenic twists and turns that make for an exhilarating trip.
The route has twists and turns as well as beautiful scenery

For a unique adventure, make sure to visit Sliding Rock Falls, located just 28 miles southeast of
Waynesville and 19 miles north of Brevard along US 276. This favored spot is managed by the
National Forest Service and requires a $5 entry fee per person. Lifeguards are available from 9 AM to 6
PM during the peak season, from Memorial Day to Labor Day, ensuring a safe experience for
everyone.
The natural slide is fun, refreshing and produces many smiles

What truly makes Sliding Rock Falls stand out is its thrilling opportunity to cool off on a hot southern
summer day. With a natural 60-foot water slide leading into a refreshing 7-foot deep pool, it’s a fun way
to beat the heat. The current is just right, guiding you down into the inviting coolness below. While the
water can be brisk, it’s incredibly refreshing, especially in warm weather. The surrounding landscape
adds to the ambiance, filled with laughter from fellow adventurers eager to take the plunge.
Sliding Rock Falls is surrounded by old growth trees

A visit to Sliding Rock Falls is absolutely worth the trek and small fee—just be prepared for an
exhilarating splash when you slide in!
A walking path leads behind Dry Falls

As you continue your journey towards Highlands, NC, be sure to take in the sights of Sequoyah Falls
and Bridal Veil Falls along US 64, just a short distance of less than three miles. More waterfalls await,
including Dry Falls, Quarry Falls, and Cullasaja Falls. One of the most unique experiences is being able
to park and walk behind Bridal Veil Falls, a thrill not offered at many other spots!
Bridal Veils Fall pullout allows for a unique perspective

Each town on this delightful 135-mile loop has its own charm, featuring inviting shops and cozy “mom
and pop” restaurants renowned for their delicious meals. This route is a treasure trove of winding
roads, extraordinary landscapes, cascading waterfalls, and outstanding hiking trails, all just waiting to
be discovered\
Ride carefully and prayerfully!

Top Five Oz Videos

Connect and follow Biker Oz on the following:

Ordinary Biker Oz YouTube Channel has video reviews and more

Christian Motorcyclists Association

Come Ride With Us

Please visit the following great companies:

THE ESSENTIALS FOR MODERATE SELF-IMPROVEMENT

Awesome gear for every rider!

Feedback on these businesses is appreciated. You may comment below.

"Trust in the Lord with all your heart and lean not on your own understanding; in all your ways submit to him, and he will make your paths straight." - Proverbs 3:5-6

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A Scenic Road and A Great Meal:: CO 165 and Max’s Place

2025-01-29T17:19:00.004-06:00

Heading west on CO 165 from I25 - the view is awesome

After a satisfying ride, a hearty meal seems almost essential, and when you're riding through Colorado, you're never short on breathtaking roads. With their twists, turns, hills, and stunning landscapes, the state offers some of the best routes for motorcyclists. While finding a great road is relatively easy, discovering a local eatery that serves up fantastic food can be more of a challenge. But when you do find that perfect spot, it’s definitely worth sharing.

Max's has plenty of parking and outdoor seating with a view

One such place is the 36-mile stretch of Colorado 165, which runs from Colorado 96 near North Hardscrabble Creek to I-25 in Colorado City. This stretch of CO 165 is a true joy to ride, featuring a mix of sweeping curves, tight bends, and changing elevations.

CO 165 is a fun and scenic road

Co 165 also will lead you pass Bishop’s Castle—an intriguing stop that’s well worth a visit. And after enjoying the ride, be sure to end or start your journey at Max’s, located in Colorado City.

Bishop's Castle is a fun and interesting stop along the way

Max’s sits on the north side of the road as you head east into Colorado City, with plenty of parking available. The restaurant has both indoor and outdoor seating options. If you opt for the outdoor area, you’ll enjoy a lovely southwest-facing view of the mountains.

The service at Max’s Place is quick, friendly, and filled with that classic country hospitality. Although the menu highlights breakfast, burgers, and dairy treats, I couldn’t resist trying the Green Chili—a dish that’s hard to come by in Texas.

The green chili is tasty and satisfying

The bowl of Green Chili arrived hot (but not too spicy), topped with shredded cheddar and accompanied by a soft flour tortilla. The first spoonful was a revelation—no need to add anything. The blend of ground meat, beans, spices, tomatoes, and green chilies created a rich, flavorful dish with just the right amount of heat.

The tortilla complemented the chili perfectly. Savoring each bite while taking in the view made for a memorable lunch. And to finish the meal, I couldn’t resist the fresh-baked blueberry pie à la mode.

The pie was served warm, with a generous scoop of soft-serve ice cream on top. The flaky crust and rich blueberry filling made it a standout—one of those rare pies that could stand on its own, even without the ice cream.

Blueberry pie and ice cream was a perfect end to the meal

What really made the meal special, however, was the value. The old-fashioned service and cooking were matched by equally old-fashioned prices. It’s hard to find this level of qualityfor the same price. It was a great value.

So, if you’re ever riding through the Front Range of the Rocky Mountains, make sure to check out Colorado 165, and don’t miss a stop at Max’s in Colorado City.

Ride carefully and prayerfully!

Top Five Oz Videos

Connect and follow Biker Oz on the following:

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Please visit the following great companies:

THE ESSENTIALS FOR MODERATE SELF-IMPROVEMENT

Awesome gear for every rider!

Feedback on these businesses is appreciated. You may comment below.

"Trust in the Lord with all your heart and lean not on your own understanding; in all your ways submit to him, and he will make your paths straight." - Proverbs 3:5-6

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Epic views from National Scenic Byway - Beartooth Highway

2025-01-07T13:05:00.002-06:00


View from Beartooth Highway

I love mountain air and the amazing vistas. I enjoy looking out in all directions and seeing miles of valleys, mountains, lakes, and wilderness. Some mountain passes are breathtaking. I take a lot of photos even though the photos never capture the awesome beauty.

On my trip to Yellowstone and again on my trip to Alaska I made plans to ride US 212 a.ka. the Beartooth Highway that connects Montana and Wyoming by way of Beartooth Pass. The Beartooth Highway is designated an "All-American Road" which means the US Department of Transportation deems the road worthy of being a tourist destination unto itself, due to the scenic uniqueness. Of the 150 National Scenic Byways there are only 37 roads with the distinguished All-American Road designation and this one is well deserving.

Top of the pass in late June - no snow or ice on the roads luckily

The Beartooth Highway runs 67 miles from Red Lodge, MT to Silver Gate, MT (northeast gateway to Yellowstone NP) crossing the MT/WY state line twice. The 38 miles stretch between WY 296/ Chief Joseph Highway (another great road) and a point about 12 miles west of Red Lodge, MT is the most scenic, invigorating, and challenging portion of the road. The road has breathtaking vistas, hairpin curves, elevation changes, sweeping curves and wildlife.

The Beartooth Highway twisting up the mountain

The road reaches an elevation of 10,947 ft. at Beartooth Pass. Cliff hugging switchbacks, tight curves, steep grades, and mountain plateaus make for an amazing stretch of pavement. The high elevation makes drastic weather changes a constant possibility so riders should be prepared. When we rode up on July 15 the temperature dropped about 25 degrees from the Beartooth Highway/Chief Joseph Highway intersection to the pass and state line. We had to stop and bundle up before we got too high. Glad we did since it was cold and windy at the pass.

Heading towards the pass

At the pass and at the MT/WY state line we enjoyed the vast scenery. It was amazing. The mountain lakes were deep blue, the peaks were still snow capped, the meadows were alive and green, and the vibrant tundra stretched out around us. Both sides of the pass are fantastic and challenging.

Twin Lakes

Beartooth Mountains

Forest and stream on west side of the pass

There is one store along the route known as the "Top of the World Resort." You can get fuel, snacks, drinks, t-shirts, and souvenirs. There is also a nice area with picnic tables to sit and enjoy the surroundings. The staff was very friendly and informative. We enjoyed a nice break on top of the world. If one was so inclined the resort has lodging available.

Top of the World store - a great place stop

The road offers great views and fun curves

We hit the pass around noon so the chance to see much wildlife was not good. We were too late (or too early depending on how you want to look at it). We did see some bison not too far from the road as we were heading to Cooke City, WY.

Bison roaming near the road - watch out!

The Beartooth Highway is a great All-American Road and is well worth the ride. The beauty and the fun is intense. If you get to that area of this great country make sure to include US 212. You will not be disappointed.

Ride carefully and prayerfully!

Top Five Oz Videos

Connect and follow Biker Oz on the following:

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Please visit the following great companies:

THE ESSENTIALS FOR MODERATE SELF-IMPROVEMENT

Awesome gear for every rider!

Feedback on these businesses is appreciated. You may comment below.

"Trust in the Lord with all your heart and lean not on your own understanding; in all your ways submit to him, and he will make your paths straight." - Proverbs 3:5-6

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Best Motorcycle Roads in New Mexico

2024-12-13T08:58:00.005-06:00

Rio Grande River in New Mexico

A few years back I rated some roads I had ridden (Scenic Roads #6-#10 and Scenic Roads #1-#5) and found especially scenic. Since then I have had the opportunity to ride many other great roads and one in particular has become a "favorite" road.

Nestled in the northeast corner of New Mexico is The Enchanted Circle, a well known Scenic Byway which includes the mountain towns of Angel Fire, Eagles Nest, Questa, Red River and Taos. This is a is a great place to ride, camp, hike, sightseeing and enjoy local New Mexico cuisine.

However, I have decided the 76 mile stretch of US 64 between the Enchanted Circle (just northwest of Taos, NM) and Tierra Amarilla (south of Chama, NM) is a fun, scenic must ride for motorcyclists and well worth the detour off the Enchanted Circle. Not to mention the charm of Chama and several good restaurants in the town.

76 miles of New Mexico landscape

What does this road have to offer? Expansive views for the Rocky Mountains, a drive by the Greater World Earthship Community, sweeping curves, hairpin turns, elevation change, scenic overlooks, wildlife and solitude (traffic is minimal).

Heading west from the Enchanted Circle US 64 passes over the Rio Grande Gorge Bridge which is 600 feet above the floor of the gorge. A visitor center with access to the walkway across the bridge is on the west side and is worth the stop and walk. US 64 intersects with US 285 then continues through the Carson National Forest. Riders need to be aware of the potential for wildlife so keep alert. With a total of 5 passes over this road I have seen a bunch of suicidal ground squirrels (they will dart out right in front of you) and a few deer, but they were never very close to the road.

A scenic view of the Rio Grande Gorge Bridge and the Rocky Mountains

Spirited riding is almost mandatory. The sweepers on the eastern sector allows for consistent throttle and very little downshifting. The middle sector has nice elevation changes with some straight sections where some riders (not that I would :) ) could test bike velocity. In the western sector there are some tight turns allowing the outer portion of tires to get some usage.

Great view from US 64

Great views abound and the road reaches an elevation of 10,507 feet at Brazos Summit (second highest point on any NM highway), so the temperature can dip even in the summer. Like all mountain areas, rain is always a possibility so have good rain gear. Two of the five times I have ridden the road I have experience brief light rain showers.

View from overlook before descent to Tierra Amarilla, NM

The combination of various radius curves, elevation change, spectacular vistas, minimal traffic and great destinations at each end makes this a road worth the fuel to experience and enjoy.

Ride carefully and prayerfully!

Top Five Oz Videos

Connect and follow Biker Oz on the following:

Ordinary Biker Oz YouTube Channel has video reviews and more

Christian Motorcyclists Association

Come Ride With Us

Please visit the following great companies:

THE ESSENTIALS FOR MODERATE SELF-IMPROVEMENT

Awesome gear for every rider!

Feedback on these businesses is appreciated. You may comment below.

"Trust in the Lord with all your heart and lean not on your own understanding; in all your ways submit to him, and he will make your paths straight." - Proverbs 3:5-6

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Awesome Christmas Gifts For Motorcycle Riders

2024-11-28T22:59:00.002-06:00

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Shopping for Christmas gifts can often be difficult. Trying to find something a person will like, but doesn't already have, takes time and sometimes creativity. Motorcycle accessories and gear can be expensive so many people resort to less than personal gift cards.

Here are some affordable gift ideas that most bikers will enjoy and find useful.. Although numbered, the list is in no particular order and with the exception of the fifth item, I will receive NO compensation or consideration from any of the companies mentioned, even if you buy from them.

Happy shopping for your biker!

A Book Motorcycle Riders Will Love

1) If your motorcyclists loves traveling and quality photographs France in America will make him/her smile. After retiring Gary France from London, England shipped his Harley Davidson RoadKing to New York City, NY and began a 6 month, 21,475 mile trip to fulfill his dream of riding across America.

While riding in 27 states he experienced some of America's greatest sites. roads, food and people. He documented his travels with professional quality photographs and writing that pulls the reader along on the ride. This is an inspirational travelogue coffee table that is also a great resource for trip planning. Any biker or adventurer will enjoy this book. Order Here at France in America

Three action packed road racing series

2) Finding motorcycle racing on television (free) is extremely difficult if not impossible, but it is one of the most thrilling sports to watch and I haven't found many riders who does not enjoy watching good motorcycle racing. A subscription to a racing series would be a welcomed surprise a rider. One would enjoy the gift for a year and share with friends with a "watching party." There are several series but here are my three favorite:

MotoGP World Championship - the world's best riders on prototype machines. The subscription includes years of previous races, interviews, technical explanations, documentaries, highlights, practice sessions, qualifying sessions and races for all four classes in the championship: MotoGP, Moto2, Moto3 and MotoE. Races can be watched live or on demand afterwards. With 20+ rounds there are plenty of races for the money.

World Superbike Championship (WSBK) - modified production motorcycles ridden by world class riders. This subscription also includes years of previous races for all four classes in the championship: Superbikes, Supersports, Supersports300 and Women’s Circuit Racing World Championship (WCR). Races can be watched live or on demand afterwards. WSBK has 12 rounds with two or more races per class each round.

MotoAmerica - Ten round series in the United States of America. There are eight classes using different size production motorcycles modified within the specifications. MotoAmerica includes the wildly popular King of the Baggers. Although this is a national series there is an international flavor as there are numerous riders from other countries including riders from the two world series. MotoAmerica has become extremely competitive and highly respected globally. Watch the rising stars where many have moved to the world stage after successful seasons.

Dixxon Flannels are high quality and a great value.

3) Dixxon Flannel Shirts - This is a great company that my son introduced me to a few years back. They make flannel shirts, short sleeved shirts, t-shirts and more. High quality, stylish and comfortable shirts that can be worn when riding or when out and about. For riders who want to ride even when temperatures are less than ideal the flannel shirts provide comfort and warmth. Dixxon.com

Rocky Boots Alpha Force - side zipped, comfortable and waterproof

4) Rocky Boots - Comfort, ankle and foot protection, waterproof, side zipper, non-slip soles, durable - all are characteristics of the Alpha Force Rocky Boots. I got my first pair in 2014 and wore them for 6 years. I am now heading into my fifth year with my second pair and they are still in great shape. When needing to ride in the rain they have never failed me. These are great waterproof boots for an affordable price. Check out the Alpha Force and many other styles and models - Rocky Boots

5) Duke Cannon - Christmas 2019 I received some Duke Cannon soap and shampoo. I immediately enjoyed the funny and direct packaging/marketing Duke Cannon uses i.e. "Not for clowns" was part of directions for the shampoo. I also was happy to see the company's commitment to financially supporting our military. The bar soap and many fragrances were inspired by our American soldiers. They have a wide range of products for hair, body, face, beard and more. Ever Duke product I have used have been excellent quality. Since that Christmas I have used Duke Cannon products exclusively.

Full disclosure -this is the only company on this list of which I am an affiliate partner. So if you follow this link and purchase I will receive a small commission.

Still riding even when it is cold outside

6) Fleece Lined Jeans - about 8 years ago I discovered fleece-lined jeans at Cabela's and decided to try them during an upcoming charity event. I was not disappointed. The jeans are comfortable, durable and the fleece lining feels great. After the event I purchased a second pair in order to be prepared for cold weather riding, camping or any outside endeavor during the winter. I have used them multiple times. Here is a video review I did with more info.

7) Haul Master Wheel Cleaning Stand - I have NEVER had one of these, but I want one. Just recently saw one at Harbor Freight and love the idea. As I have gotten older and now own a "bagger," cleaning that rear wheel is difficult. Getting up and down to move the bike 1/8 to 1/4 wheel turn is tough on this old man. If I could stay down, rotate the wheel and keep cleaning it would be much nicer. Maybe Santa will bring me one.

Ride carefully and prayerfully!

Top Five Oz Videos

Connect and follow Biker Oz on the following:

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THE ESSENTIALS FOR MODERATE SELF-IMPROVEMENT

Awesome gear for every rider!

Feedback on these businesses is appreciated. You may comment below.

"Trust in the Lord with all your heart and lean not on your own understanding; in all your ways submit to him, and he will make your paths straight." - Proverbs 3:5-6

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Perfect Shirts For Cooler Weather - You Will Want to Wear Them Daily!

2024-10-14T18:04:00.005-05:00

Living in the South I get to ride my motorcycle pretty much year-round. Ice and snow will hinder riding 5-15 days each winter with an occasional "harsh" winter adding a few more non-riding days. The main issue when riding during late fall to early spring is dealing with the cold temperatures. That is where a high quality flannel shirt earns it's keep.

(*** I have not received nor will I receive any discounts, commission or any form of compensation from Dixxon Flannel. Well, unless after this they want to send me some shirts :) ***)

Six years ago my son gave me a Dixxon Flannel long sleeved shirt, but now I have several of them so it is time to share my thoughts on the Dixxon Flannel shirts. Richard gave me the "Bixby" flannel for Christmas. What is a "Bixby?" Dixxon.com states the "Bixby" was "inspired b the grey's of the architecture and the lush green surroundings of Big Sur."

The company makes a limited run of each design and many have special connections and color schemes to people, musicians, places, movies or things. For example, the "Thriller Miller" was named after MotoGP motorcycle racer Jack Miller while the "Bixby"was a nod to the beauty of Big Sur.

The "Bixby" was perfect for an October breakfast ride.

Dixxon Flannels also have designs for Black Sabbath, Freddy Kruger, Fender "Stratocaster", Slayer, Autism Awareness, The Kramer (yes, Kramer from Seinfeld), S & S Cycle, Pantera to name just a few. Dixxon states, "With superior quality, intentional design, limited drops and badass collaboration our products sell out fast and are often featured in extremely sought after collections." The limited drops means you'll not be dressed like the next guy.

Dixxon collaborated with Jack Miller for the "Thiller Miller"

Dixxon Flannels was started by Danny Dreyer, a former Harley Davidson technician. Danny "has unapologetically embraced the counter-culture he grew up around motorcycles, skateboards, tattoos and hardcore-punk music." - https://www.dixxon.com/pages/about-us

Armed with the knowledge and experience of what bikers want and need from apparel he has build company that produces high quality clothing with attention to detail.

Left to right - The "Cove", inspired by the skate park in Santa Monica and the "Kramer" are two of my favorites.

Why are these shirts now my favorite shirts of all time? Each shirt has an exclusive colorway (color combination and design) so I don't see the same shirt at events, shops and/or rides. The quality of the fabrics, buttons, snaps and the workmanship is top-notch.

Each flannel comes with hidden button downs for the collars and a soft microfiber triangle sewn to the left front, inside at the shirt tail. The microfiber comes in so handy for cleaning sunglasses, glasses or phone screens or camera lens.

The microfiber is a very useful feature of Dixxon Flannels.

The fit and feel screams "quality." I love wearing them and I have now purchased some of the short sleeved bamboo shirts, which are made to the same high standard.

The Dixxon short sleeved shirts are also high quality

The flannels are great for riding in cooler weather. Instead of wearing a t-shirt and needing a jacket once parked at the latest toy run or other event, the flannel is warm and stylish and all I need when looking at all the other motorcycles and/or visiting with friends.

The shirts are great for riding, a night out to a football game, church, going out for dinner or hanging around the house.

I highly recommend you try one. They are worth it and you will end up wanting another one.

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Why I Write A Blog And Have A YouTube Channel

2024-09-01T22:42:00.004-05:00

When I started riding motorcycles in 2004 I tried to read a lot of motorcycle magazines and books. I learned a lot. One thing I learned was some authors, especially authors of reviews, tried to be way more clever than they needed to i.e. "the engine started up with sound of a million angry hornets..."

So I started this blog September 2009 with a goal of posting straightforward, clear and useful information. On the first post I stated "part of this blog is to give straightforward reviews of items that I have personally used, places I have eaten, roads I have traveled, and/or bikes I have ridden. At times I will use the reviews of close friends that I ride with and respect."

Lower Falls in Yellowstone NP

I have strayed off motorcycle related topics a few time i.e. my WWII veteran dad, Honor Flight..., otherwise the gear, roads, restaurants and other items have been related to my motorcycle addiction. I have also had some "guest posts" including one by Warren Massey author of I Just Want 2 Ride blog.

Dad at WWII Memorial in Washington D.C.

With the same goal and desire to provide useful, honest information and reviews I launched a YouTube channel "Ordinary Biker Oz".

Ride on a great road in Oklahoma

The videos are much more varied and sometimes provide just a clip of a great road to ride, a neat place to visit, a motorcycle review or some other little nugget.

Indian Challenger Pursuit Review

I also post some "motovlog" videos, which are spoken blogs while riding the motorcycle. Topics will vary.

My first vlog is about upcoming trip in June, 2017

My son riding US 129 aka The Tail of the Dragon on his own bike for the first time

I would like to invite you to visit the YouTube channel and give me some feedback. I have a lot to learn about vlogging and all comments are welcome. If you like what you see please subscribe.

Be safe and enjoy the road.

Ride carefully and prayerfully!

Top Five Oz Videos

Connect and follow Biker Oz on the following:

Ordinary Biker Oz YouTube Channel has video reviews and more

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Come Ride With Us

Please visit the following great companies:

THE ESSENTIALS FOR MODERATE SELF-IMPROVEMENT

Awesome gear for every rider!

Feedback on these businesses is appreciated. You may comment below.

"Trust in the Lord with all your heart and lean not on your own understanding; in all your ways submit to him, and he will make your paths straight." - Proverbs 3:5-6

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LongTerm Indian Pursuit Review

2024-07-29T17:24:00.003-05:00


2022 Indian Pursuit at Bishop's Castle near Rye, Colorado

After almost eight years on the Honda VFR and 72,452 miles it was time to change motorcycles. I remarried in October 2018 and Jennifer enjoys riding, but the passenger comfort was not great for her so we wanted to get something we both could ride for longer rides, day trips and multi-day trips.

I researched numerous touring motorcycles. I wanted the following:

Comfort for both of us
Performance i.e. good torque, good speed, smooth power delivery
Smooth handling, agile
Adjustable windsheild
Good reputation/reviews and customer service
Appropriate seat height - I am 5'6"
Not found in every neighborhood

I realize some of the criteria is subjective and open to personal likes and preferences so I needed to research and test ride some bikes. I will spare you the boring details of how the decision was made, but I test rode to bagger motorcycles and landed on the Indian Challenger. I was going to add the tour pack, passenger floorboards and a few other items.

February and March, 2022 I was looking at the Challenger I discovered Indian had just released the Pursuit - a full tourer with the foundation being the Challenger. This piqued my interest so I started asking questions and looking at the Pursuit.

There were no Pursuits in any NE Texas dealership in March of 2022 so I visited the Republic of Texas Indian in McKinney, TX to test ride a Challenger since the Pursuit is a Challenger with the Pursuit touring package. The Challenger test ride was great. I really loved the power of the 108 PowerPlus engine, the comfort and the smooth handling, especially for a cruiser-based touring bike. After 12 years on sport touring motorcycles the handling needed to be top notched.

After communicating with three different Indian dealerships I placed my order and in a little over 2 weeks I picked up the Pursuit!

March 25, 2022 Picked up the bike and headed to Tyler, TX

Now after 22 months I have over 22,000 miles on the Pursuit. I have ridden it in 13 states (a lot in the Rocky Mountains of Colorado), in rain, 100+ degrees, cold weather, nice weather, big cities, rural areas and various conditions in between. Famous named roads (Tail of the Dragon, Cherohala Skyway, Talimena Drive, Million Dollar Highway, The Silver Thread, Natchez Trace...), interstates and rural roads have all been part of the journey. Now it's time to give a honest long-term review of the 2022 Indian Challenger Pursuit.

Running up Rocky Mountian passes was no problem and was a lot of fun!

Here are a few basic specification of the Pursuit- furnished on Indian Website:

108 cu in PowerPlus engine - liquid cooled

122 HP

128 ft-lbs torque

6.0 gallon tank

Seat Height 26.5in

Wet Weight 917

Brembo brakes

Heated grips (a first for me)

7 inch Infotainment screen

I have modified, changed or added the following during this time - not all at once.

Added:

Mesh grill covers for vents and windshield vent (not really sure what to call the cutout on the bottom)

Pathfinders driving lights

Pathfinders Saddlebag running lights

FormTech phone holder

Wind Rider Seat Cover (used late spring to late fall)

Lower Fairing Storage

Changed:

Stock Headlight to Pathfinder Adaptive Headlight

Stock Seat to Indian Heated Touring Seat

First I must say the Pursuit is not the same type of motorcycle as my previous two sport touring bikes (Yamaha FJR 1300 and Honda VFR 1200). It is longer and heavier so my thoughts and comparison is based on the cruisers I have ridden (Yamaha, Kawasaki, Harley Davidson, Suzuki, Honda and Ducati).

Just a few months of ownership and loving it.

The Pursuit is heavy and I can feel it until it it gets rolling. The handling and responsiveness of the motor negates the weight. I know I have to be mindful when stopping and/or parking. I check for slope, angle, gravel... so that I can safely stop.

The handling stood out most to me. Curves and switchbacks are fun and exciting. According to TheAutopain.com the Pursuit lean angle is 31 degrees and the Harley Davidson Road Glide's is 29 degree. My personal experience is the Pursuit will lean into curves and power through with ease.

July 2024 on US 129 aka The Tail of The Dragon

The 108 cu in PowerPlus has great torque and pulls up hills and mountains without having to slow down. Passing others is simple with signal, a look over the shoulder and a twist of the wrist. The power and speed comes on smoothly and with a grin.

The Indian heated seat allows me to ride comfortably for miles, day after day. I am very comfortable with the seating and handlebar positions. The controls for the signals, horn, cruise control and the infotainment system are easily accessible. The infotainment system is customizable which allows owners to personalize the screens to his/her liking.

Comfort, performance and styling all in one great package

Motorcycles preferences are personal to each rider, but I believe the Indian Pursuit is top of the line in the cruiser based touring category. I have had miles and miles of great riding and smiles. If you are looking for a two up touring machine I would highly recommend the Indian Pursuit.

Here is a short video I made about my Pursuit, check it out - Pursuit Review Video.

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Please visit the following great companies:

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9 Motorcycle Myths - a guest post by Warren Massey

2024-06-13T16:38:00.001-05:00

9 Myths About Motorcycle Riding

There are motorcycling myths that are just too good to die. Below are 9 of those myths, a few with my own commentary, which seem to hang around forever.

Open-face helmets are just as good as full-face helmets: Full-face helmets provide better protection by covering the entire head, including the chin and face. They reduce head injuries by 64% and neck injuries by 36% compared to open-face helmets. Plus, they offer better noise reduction.
Using car tires on motorcycles is fine: This myth is dangerous. Car tires are incompatible with motorcycle dynamics, especially during cornering. Stick to motorcycle-specific tires for safety. While I have never seen this in person, it must be something that happens as this comes up from time to time.

The rear brake stops a bike better than the front brake: Actually, using the front brake is more effective and safer. Proper braking technique is crucial, and the front brake provides over 70% of a motorcycle’s stopping power.
Motorcycles are more dangerous than cars: While motorcycles have inherent risks, proper training, gear, and awareness can mitigate these risks. Responsible riding matters more than the vehicle type. Statistics show that more riders are injured in single vehicle crashes than in crashes with cars.
Helmets break necks in a crash: False. Helmets protect your head and neck. They do not cause neck injuries; they prevent them.
“Laying it down” is the best way to avoid a crash: No, it is not. Staying upright and using proper braking and maneuvering techniques is more effective for avoiding accidents.
You must be strong to ride a motorcycle: Strength matters less than skill and technique. Proper body positioning and control are essential, regardless of physical strength.
You can get expert skills just riding on the road. Just riding from point a to point b over and over will only give you the skills to ride from point a to point b. You really need to take, at least, the basic and advanced riders’ course to hone your skills. There are other levels of training to move your skills to a higher level. Then do the training with your passenger.
Loud pipes save lives: Contrary to widely held belief, loud exhaust pipes do not necessarily make you safer. Becoming a better rider through skill development and awareness is more effective for safety. While less restrictive exhausts may add some horsepower, OEM exhausts are designed for midrange performance where you spend most of your time riding. I can debate this one with myself. I have two motorcycles, one with stock pipes and one with loud pipes. Anecdotally, I see more folks look around for me as I move up in traffic when I am on my loud bike, they can almost feel the rumble. But I cannot prove it one way or another if this is really a myth.

Remember, understanding these myths may help you become a safer and more informed rider!

If you have a Motorcycle Myth riders should be aware of let me know in the comments. - Oz

About Warren Massey – Warren began riding motorcycles at the age of 5, according to his mom, and has never looked back! Warren started his blog IJustWant2Ride.com in 2013 and currently has over 20,000 followers. Warren is also a co-host on the world’s longest running motorcycle podcast “The DawgHouse Motorcycle Radio” which has run weekly for 16 years.

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Best Rider to Rider Bluetooth Communications

2024-06-04T20:11:00.003-05:00

Beat The Heat Tour 2023 at Lizard Head Pass, Colorado

Group rides can be a lot of fun but when a group is large it can be helpful to have communication with at least one other rider to help ensure the group is doing well and staying together. Although, for me the primary season I started using a Bluetooth communication set up was for music and in extreme cases the ability to make a call or receive a call while still moving, the ability to have up to date information about my group when I am leading is also important.

My first Bluetooth device was a Sena 20S I purchased in January 2016 and reviewed a three months later. That Sena was a good system. I used it up until the spring of 2023, I even removed the Sena from my helmet and took it with me to Italy when I rented a BMW (and helmet) and rode in the Alps for a week.

In the Spring of 2023 my wife's Sena 10S was not working well and battery life had degraded greatly. The 20S had served me well, but it time for a pair of new Bluetooth headsets. Of course all the research showed me the top two brands were Sena and Cardo. There are pros and cons with both brands and their different models. After a good amount of research and some input from friends I decided on switching to the Cardo Packtalk. Now over a year later what do I think?

Arai Nicky Hayden and Cardo Packtalk

Here are some of the notable differences that I like:

1) Cardo is Waterproof - Sena 20S water resistant (On various trips the Sena got wet and kept working, but I always took it off if the rain was going to hard or for a long time).

2) The Cardo is slimmer so it does not stick out from the helmet as much as the Sena.

I love the slim Cardo Packtalk.

3) Cardo mesh system connects easily with other Cardo's and with a little work it connects with Sena systems.

4) The JBL speakers that come with the Packtalk are great! When using the Sena I would plug in headbuds to the Sena and use them because even with my full face helmet the music was difficult to hear. (I understand Sena has upgrade and now has much better speakers.)

5) Taking the Packtalk off the helmet and replacing it is very easy.

Of course there are other difference but the five above are the ones that standout to me.

The controls are very easy to use even with a riding gloves. The sound quality is great! The Cardo Packtalk has voice activation for Siri so I can talk to Siri without using any of the controls. This feature is really nice to skip a song, have a text read, compose a text, make a call...

Sleek and yet easy to control and use.

So after riding over 23,000 miles with the Cardo as my communication system I have no regrets. The battery life has been great and the system has worked flawlessly.

If you need a high quality Bluetooth communication system I highly recommend the Cardo Packtalk.

Ride carefully and prayerfully!

Top Five Oz Videos

Connect and follow Biker Oz on the following:

Ordinary Biker Oz YouTube Channel has video reviews and more

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Come Ride With Us

Please visit the following great companies:

THE ESSENTIALS FOR MODERATE SELF-IMPROVEMENT

Awesome gear for every rider!

Feedback on these businesses is appreciated. You may comment below.

"Trust in the Lord with all your heart and lean not on your own understanding; in all your ways submit to him, and he will make your paths straight." - Proverbs 3:5-6

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Volunterring at MotoGP and MotoAmerica Races

2024-05-05T21:36:00.007-05:00

*** The following is also on the I Just Want 2 Ride blog as a guest post ***

I must admit, as a child my parents asked me that question many times. As an adult, I still get that inquisitive look and even if the words are not said, the eyes shout that question to some degree. When I first told friends that I was going to volunteer to get up early, keep my eyes on the track, and pick up crashed motorcycles at the races I both saw and heard “why,” or in a few cases “how did you arrange that?”

Until 2012, the only races I watched were Olympic Track and Field races. I did not watch or follow any motorsport racing. I first started watching motorcycle racing when my son, who was 14 at the time, did a research paper on Valentino Rossi. He and I accepted the invitation of a friend to watch the MotoGP races at his place. After several Sundays of watching races, my interest rose and I began studying the rules, regulations, classes, and riders. Two years later I was hosting MotoGP watch parties at a local BBQ joint in the “party room” and inviting people in the area who either already watched, had the same curiosity I had a few years ago, or were just looking for a way to hang out and meet others who rode. We would connect the laptop to a big TV and watch the replay of races that often happened in the early hours of the morning, as they were held overseas. Some years we had door prizes from local dealerships and shops for attendees at the first and last races of the year.

Opening Race 2023 was well attended and full of fun and excitement.

When it was announced the Circuit of the Americas (COTA) in Austin, TX was hosting a MotoGP round in 2013, I decided to attend with some friends. The live action was amazing and I was hooked. Before the event, I had received an email from one of the track marshal organizers asking if I would share the request for volunteers with my Christian Motorcyclists Association friends (at the time I was part of the North Texas Leadership Team). I knew nothing about track marshaling or what it entailed, so I passed the information on to others but did not volunteer myself.

Two years later with my son being 18 years old, we researched what track marshals did and both registered to volunteer at the 2015 race. (flaggers and rider assist positions were also available). Our volunteer applications were accepted and we were able to learn even more that weekend at COTA. It was a fun experience and to see and hear the bike go by that close to us was something you couldn’t get from normal seating at the track. I returned to volunteer in 2017, 2020, 2021, 2023, and again this year, 2024. I also was a track marshal for the 2023 MotoAmerica round at COTA. The MotoAmerica paddock is more open and fans are allowed a lot more access to riders.

My son and I were waiting for the trailer to take MotoGP Legend Andrea Dovizioso’s bike that ran out of fuel on the cool-down lap. Dovi placed 2nd and had already caught a ride to the podium celebration.

So why do I volunteer three full days to be a track marshal?

1) A love for motorcycle racing and the view of the races is the best you can get. You not only see the races, you feel the races. DO NOT volunteer if you are trying to get content for social media - there are strict rules concerning personal cameras, cell phones etc…

2) The opportunity to help provide a safe (as much as possible) racing environment for the riders.

3) To help represent the USA on a world stage by being part of a high-quality track marshal team.

4) The chance to promote, and encourage motorcycling in America. Without volunteers, most racing series would not survive.

5) The chance to meet volunteers from around the world i.e. Czech Republic, Australia, Mexico, England, and others. I now have friends in many other countries that I have met while volunteering at these events. One friend, Roberto, I now pick up at the Austin airport and he stays with me and other friends who attend the race at a rental house for the weekend.

6) The opportunity to walk the paddock and meet riders and their team members when allowed. While there isn’t always a ton of time during the weekend, occasionally there will be opportunities to experience some of the event as a fan as well.

7) The opportunity to share your passion for motorcycling and motorcycling racing.

What is needed to be a track marshal volunteer?

1) Willingness and commitment. Please DO NOT accept a volunteer position and then not attend. Each year I am surprised at the number of “no-shows” that take place. One year over 100 volunteers didn’t show! The volunteer organizers work hard every year to recruit, rearrange, and fill in as needed to make sure America does not fail MotoGP.

2) A good attitude. This is not the place for egos. People need to be flexible, humble, helpful, and willing to follow instructions. The only line to be “drawn in the sand” is one’s safety.

3) Willingness to attend virtual training sessions before the race weekend. Usually one or two training sessions of 1 to 1.5 hours.

4) Understanding and commitment to do your best regardless of the weather conditions. Rain, cold, or hot and sometimes all three in one weekend can happen, but the races go on.

5) Come with a humble attitude and willingness to follow directions given by experienced team members. Not following instructions can lead to problems and/or injuries.

The global MotoGP feed is running while I help Aleix Espargaro #41 after a high-speed crash

What do track volunteers get for their time and efforts?

1) The best seats in the house! Nothing blocking the view of the race as they ride by your station.

2) Breakfast, lunch and dinner is provided. Water and sports drinks are provided at each station during each day.

3) Opportunities to walk on the track, meet riders, and be a part of the event

4) “Swag bag” for each volunteer. Items in the bag may change but each year I have received a custom volunteer cap, t-shirt, race program book, and other items. Past goodies have included a COTA or MotoGP mug, sunglasses, a keychain, sunscreen, a small notebook, etc.

5) Free parking (at the volunteer lot)

6) Three complimentary tickets to share with friends or family. Each ticket is good for one entry so one person can enter each day or three could enter for one day. This year (2024) my complimentary tickets helped two friends get seats on the starting grid opposite the VIP suites and stands!

7) A satisfaction and sense of pride in being a part of the team ensuring the event is successful.

Celebrating with Joe Roberts after finishing 2nd in Moto2 - first American to finish on the podium at an American GP since Ben Spies in 2011 at Indianapolis. Joe took my flag on the celebration ride and garage celebration.

What are the “value-added” aspects of being a track marshal?

1) Meet other race fans and make new friends from all over the United States and the world. Over the years there have been track marshals from Australia, the United Kingdom, the Czech Republic, Canada, Mexico, Turkey, Italy, Brazil, Ukraine, South Africa, and others!

2) Future preference when volunteering to marshal other racing events, including MotoAmerica and Formula 1 (provided you fulfill your commitment and aren’t one of the “difficult” marshals). Leadership will even help if you want to try to marshal at an international race!

3) Potential opportunity to help riders who have gone down, and see the most expensive, high-powered motorcycles in the world up close!

4) To be a small part of the MotoGP World Championship and the racing excitement that has made you a fan of the sport. As I mentioned before, they rely heavily on volunteers to make these events operate smoothly and continue to be something we can enjoy for years to come

5) For riders who enjoy track days, club racing, or are considering either can see the best of the world and get a clearer idea of advanced riding techniques.

2018 Valentino Rossi’s bike getting prepared for the race.

What jobs are available for volunteers and what do they do?

Track Marshal - check track for debris before and between races, quickly assist a down rider restart or remove the bike (“be quick but don’t rush’), help ensure riders safely get off the track.
Flaggers - when appropriate or directed display the appropriate flag to communicate with the riders track situations or conditions.
Rider Assist - assist medic in cases where a rider is injured.

*** All three positions work as a team to ensure the safety of riders and volunteers. ***

How does one go about volunteering?

1) Visit the Circuit of the Americas volunteer page and register.

2) Visit the MotorsportsReg page and search for the event you want to work.

3) Central RoadRacing Association volunteer opportunities.

4) Central Motorcycle Racing Association volunteer opportunities

5) Visit the webpage of the track you want to marshal at and search for the volunteer tab.

As a fellow track marshal, Rich Overton, stated "Sometimes it takes until the last race of the last day, but every event I have worked, something happens that makes the whole weekend worthwhile, and you never know what is is going to be until it happens."

Not all motorcycle races have the same volunteer organizers, so you may have to search the internet or call the track. Volunteers are needed at all levels and all types of motorcycle racing so there are a lot of opportunities. Give it a try and I believe you will find it rewarding.

Ride carefully and prayerfully!

Top Five Oz Videos

Connect and follow Biker Oz on the following:

Ordinary Biker Oz YouTube Channel has video reviews and more

Christian Motorcyclists Association

Come Ride With Us

Please visit the following great companies:

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Ordinary Biker Oz

Must Ride Roads in Texas - Three Twisted Sisters

Awesome Roads in Texas Hill Country - Day 1

First Ride of 2026 and First After Surgery!

Top Waterfalls to See in Idaho and a Must Ride Scenic Byway

How Many Miles Ridden This Year - Not Enough

One of the Most Beautiful North Carolina Town to Visit!

Best Pie in Texas - Koffee Kup Hico Review

Half A Million and the Top 5

Will Future Legislation Restrict Motorcycling?

Protecting Motorcyclist Rights: Guest Post by Save London Motorcycling

Why We Fight to Ride Our Motorcycles

If you are invisible, you are in danger

Government Officials Have Agendas

Standing Up for Motorcyclists

Call to Action

An Epic Museum Featuring an American Icon is A Must Visit!

Epic Rocky Mountain Road You Must Ride

A Wyoming Road That is a Must Ride For Motorcycle Riders

Biker Oz Interview on Motorcycle Men Podcast

Awesome Waterfall Route in the Blue Ridge Mountains

A Scenic Road and A Great Meal:: CO 165 and Max’s Place

Epic views from National Scenic Byway - Beartooth Highway

Best Motorcycle Roads in New Mexico

Awesome Christmas Gifts For Motorcycle Riders

Perfect Shirts For Cooler Weather - You Will Want to Wear Them Daily!

Top 5 Videos On Biker Oz YouTube Channel

Why I Write A Blog And Have A YouTube Channel

LongTerm Indian Pursuit Review

9 Motorcycle Myths - a guest post by Warren Massey

Best Rider to Rider Bluetooth Communications

Volunterring at MotoGP and MotoAmerica Races