THE SOUL OF THE OPEN ROAD: A BIKER’S BLESSING

For those who feel the pull of the open road, a motorcycle is more than just a machine. It’s a partner in adventure, a key to freedom, and a vessel for the soul. The experience of riding is a sensory journey—the roar of the engine, the wind on your face, the blur of the world rushing by. It’s a feeling so profound that it often finds its expression in something equally profound: a biker’s blessing.

A biker’s blessing is not just a plea for safety; it’s a poem, a prayer, and a declaration of a rider’s spirit. It speaks to the deep connection between the rider, the machine, and the world around them. It’s a testament to a life lived on two wheels, where every journey is a story waiting to be told.

May the sun rise in front of me,
May the rain fall behind me,
And the wind follow beside me,
May the angels guard my travels,
For they know the road ahead of me.

“May the sun rise in front of me, may the rain fall behind me, and the wind follow beside me” isn’t just a practical hope for good weather. It’s a way of asking to be in sync with the forces of nature, to embrace the journey as it unfolds. It also carries a sense of forward momentum and leaving the past behind, with only the future ahead.

As the blessing continues, it speaks of a higher power watching over the journey. The words, “May the angels guard my travels, for they know the road ahead of me,” acknowledge that the path isn’t always clear. The road is full of the unknown—unexpected turns, unseen hazards. This passage is an expression of trust in an unseen force, a quiet faith that the twists and turns of life—or the road—are part of a greater design.

Keep me safe through
Swirling turns and rolling hills,
Let the eagle guide me
To the mountaintops.

“Keep me safe through swirling turns and rolling hills,” is a direct plea for protection on the most thrilling parts of a ride, the parts that demand skill and courage, and speaks to the pursuit of aspiration and the joy of overcoming challenges. And the guidance of the “eagle to the mountaintops” is a powerful metaphor. The eagle, a symbol of freedom and vision, represents a pure and singular focus on reaching new heights, both literally and figuratively. It is a reminder that the goal is not just to ride, but to ascend—to find new perspectives and conquer personal summits.

A biker’s blessing, at its heart, is about the journey, not just the destination. It’s a celebration of the unique way of life that riders embrace—one of independence, camaraderie, and a love of the open road. It’s a simple acknowledgment that while the road may be challenging, with a little faith, a strong spirit, and the right guidance, the journey is always worth it. It’s a reminder that every ride is a chance for a new adventure.

Do you have a personal biker blessing or a ritual you follow before you ride?

THE 2025 INDIAN SCOUT 101: A NEW PEAK PREDATOR

The Indian Scout has long been a staple of the American cruiser scene, a modern icon with deep roots in a legendary past. In 2025, Indian Motorcycle unleashed a completely new Scout lineup, with the 101 Scout standing at the top. This isn’t just a styling refresh; it’s a ground-up redesign aimed at performance riders.

A Powerful Heart: The SpeedPlus 1250 Engine

At the core of the new Scout lineup is the all-new, liquid-cooled SpeedPlus 1250 V-twin engine. While all Scout models benefit from this new 1250cc powerplant, the 101 Scout has a special tune, pushing its output to 111 horsepower and 82 ft-lbs. of torque. This is a significant jump from the standard Scout’s 105 horsepower, giving the 101 an edge that’s felt the moment you twist the throttle. The engine features a new, more aesthetically pleasing design and is paired with a six-speed transmission.

A Chassis Built for Performance

The new Scouts also feature an all-new tubular steel frame, a departure from the previous generation’s aluminum chassis. This change was made to not only improve rigidity and handling but also to make the bike easier to customize—a nod to the custom builder community. On the 101 Scout, this new frame is complemented by a premium, performance-focused suspension package.

Up front, the bike offers fully adjustable, inverted front forks with greater travel suspension to handle bigger bumps and uneven road surfaces, providing a smoother and more controlled ride. At the rear, fully adjustable piggyback shocks offer a stylish and functional upgrade allowing riders to fine-tune their ride for handling or comfort.

Premium Components and Technology

The 101 Scout doesn’t just have a more powerful engine and better suspension; it comes with a suite of high-end components and advanced technology as standard. Braking is handled by powerful dual front discs with four-piston Brembo calipers, providing superior stopping power. The bike also features a 19-inch five-spoke cast wheel up front.

On the technology front, the 101 Scout comes standard with the Limited +Tech package, which is an optional extra on other Scout models. This includes a keyless ignition, a USB charging port, and three selectable ride modes: Sport, Standard, and Tour. The centerpiece of the tech package is the new 4-inch round touchscreen display powered by Indian’s Ride Command system.

The New King of the Scout Lineup

The 2025 Indian Scout 101 is more than just a trim package: it’s a statement. With its enhanced engine performance, premium suspension, and top-tier technology, it’s designed for riders who demand the best from their cruiser. The new Scout platform, with the 101 Scout as its flagship, solidifies Indian Motorcycle’s position as a leader in the American V-twin market, offering a perfect blend of heritage style and modern performance.

THE CORBIN SPARROW: QUIRKIEST VEHICLE YOU’VE NEVER HEARD OF…

Electric vehicles have gone from niche curiosity to mainstream reality, but the journey hasn’t been without its peculiar bumps. One of the most unique—and now laughable—entries in this history is the Corbin Sparrow. This three-wheeled, single-seat electric car was a bold, if not awkward, vision of the future that soared in popularity before crashing back to Earth.

The brainchild of Mike Corbin, of motorcycle seat fame, the Corbin Sparrow was a fully enclosed electric vehicle designed for one thing: the short urban commute. It was a minimalist concept, a far cry from today’s sleek Teslas and Rivians. Unveiled at the 1996 San Francisco Auto Show, the Sparrow was an instant hit. The mid-90s were the dawn of the first dot-com boom, a period of optimistic innovation where anything seemed possible. In this environment, the Sparrow’s eccentric design resonated with people, and Corbin quickly took thousands of deposits.

But turning a prototype into a viable product proved to be a major challenge. Corbin managed to deliver a few hundred vehicles before facing the harsh realities of manufacturing. The company declared bankruptcy in 2003, a victim of several interconnected issues. There were persistent supplier problems, the inevitable fallout from the dotcom bust, and most critically, the severe technological limitations of the era. The Sparrow’s crude lead-acid batteries offered a meager range that made it an impractical option for all but the shortest of trips.

While the Corbin Sparrow may be best remembered now for its role as the goofy villain’s car in Austin Powers in Goldmember, its story is a fascinating footnote in the history of electric vehicles. It was a product ahead of its time, a bird with big ambitions that just couldn’t fly on the technology available.

KEEP YOUR LID LOOKING NEW

Your motorcycle helmet is more than just a piece of gear; it’s a critical safety component that protects you on every ride. Just like your motorcycle, your helmet requires a bit of regular care to stay in top condition. Keeping it clean not only makes it look good but also extends its lifespan and ensures you have a clear, safe view of the road.

Let’s walk through the simple steps to properly clean and maintain your helmet, from the outer shell to the inner lining.

1. Cleaning the Exterior Shell

The first line of defense against road grime is your helmet’s outer shell. After a long ride, it’s often covered in bugs and dust.

• Soften the Grime: To easily remove stubborn bug splatter, place a damp, warm towel over the affected area for a few minutes. The moisture will soften the bugs, making them much easier to wipe off.
• Gentle Cleaning is Key: Use a microfiber cloth and a mild soap-and-water solution or a helmet-specific cleaner. Avoid harsh chemical cleaners, glass cleaners with ammonia, or abrasive sponges, as these can damage the helmet’s finish and graphics. The main thing that you want to keep in mind when looking for a cleaning agent is to ensure that it is not petroleum-based. Baby shampoo is an often-used option, due to its gentle nature.
• Wipe Down: Gently wipe the entire exterior, paying special attention to vents and seams. Finish by wiping the helmet dry with a clean, dry microfiber cloth.

2. Caring for the Visor

A clean visor is crucial for clear vision. A scratched or dirty visor can cause dangerous glare, especially at night.

• Never Use Harsh Cleaners: Like the shell, your visor is delicate. Many face shields have a protective coating of some sort. As such you should only use warm water or anti-scratch cleaning solution specifically for visors.
• Be Patient: Don’t scrub at a dried bug. Let a damp cloth sit on the spot for a moment to loosen the debris before wiping it away.
• Remove for a Deep Clean: If your visor is removable, take it off for a more thorough cleaning. This allows you to get to all the nooks and crannies without worrying about splashing water onto the interior.
• Sun Shield: Wipe down your helmet’s internal sun shield with a spritz of water and a microfiber towel. It’s best to clean it while it’s still in place, as it can be difficult to reinstall it once removed.

3. Washing the Interior

Over time, sweat and hair products can build up in the helmet’s liner, leading to odors and discomfort. Many modern helmets have a removable liner and cheek pads for easy washing.

• Removable Liners: Check your helmet’s manual to see if the pads and liner can be removed. If they can, hand-wash them in lukewarm water with a small amount of mild detergent or baby shampoo.
• No Washing Machine: Do not put your liner in a washing machine or dryer. Agitation and heat can cause the foam and fabric to break down, compromising the helmet’s fit and protective qualities.
• Air Dry: After washing, gently squeeze out excess water and let the liner and pads air dry completely. Don’t use a hair dryer or other heat sources. They must be completely dry before you re-install them in the helmet.
• Non-Removable Liners: If your liner is not removable, you can spray a helmet-specific interior cleaner directly inside. You can also use a small amount of mild soap and a damp cloth to gently spot-clean the interior. Make sure to let it dry completely before use.

4. Proper Storage

How you store your helmet is just as important as how you clean it.

• Avoid Direct Sunlight: Store your helmet out of direct sunlight and away from extreme heat, which can degrade the materials.
• Proper Placement: Place the helmet on a flat, stable surface or a dedicated helmet stand. Avoid hanging it from mirrors or handlebars, as this can compress the padding and damage the seal around the visor.
• Keep it Dry: Always ensure your helmet is completely dry before storing it to prevent mildew and unpleasant odors.

Taking a few minutes for regular cleaning and proper storage will help ensure your helmet continues to look good and to protect you for years to come. Ride safe!

THE HONDA MOTOCOMPACTO: A MODERN TWIST ON A CLASSIC IDEA

Honda has a long history of innovation, but few of its creations have been as distinctive as the original Motocompo scooter from the 1980s. Engineered to fold-up and fit neatly into the trunk of a subcompact car, it provided a unique solution for “last-mile” travel. Now, over four decades later, the conceptual foundation of that original design has been revitalized for the electric era with the introduction of the Honda Motocompacto.

The new Motocompacto exemplifies a minimalist design philosophy. In contrast to its gasoline-powered predecessor, this electric scooter is defined by its clean lines and a boxy, rectangular profile. The most remarkable attribute is its ability to fold into an exceptionally compact and portable form. The handlebars and seat retract, and the wheels are concealed, transforming this scooter into a sleek, manageable carrying case. Weighing approximately 42 pounds, it is sufficiently lightweight to be carried up a flight of stairs, stowed in a vehicle’s trunk, or conveniently stored in a closet.

As far as performance is concerned, the Motocompacto is designed for a specific application. It’s not intended to be a high-speed commuter vehicle. Instead, its purpose is to facilitate short trips from a parking area to a final destination. With a maximum speed of 15 mph and a range of approximately 12 miles on a single charge, it’s ideal for navigating a college campus, covering the distance between an office building and a downtown establishment, or maneuvering within a recreational vehicle park. It has a built-in charger enabling the battery to be recharged from any standard 110V outlet.

Beyond its function as a mode of transportation, the Motocompacto serves as a design statement. It pays homage to a previous era of intelligent engineering while simultaneously looking toward the future of personal electric mobility. This scooter is made to appeal to a new demographic of urban residents and adventurers who value convenience, portability, and a sustainable means of travel. It effectively addresses the “last mile” mobility challenge, offering a practical and stylish solution to a common predicament faced by modern commuters.

The Honda Motocompacto demonstrates that innovative concepts can be successfully re-imagined. By combining nostalgic design elements with newer technology, Honda created a vehicle that is both a functional tool and a work of art. It suggests that the future of personal transportation will involve more than just automobiles; it will encompass smart, scalable, and adaptable solutions for every journey.

HONE YOUR SKILLS: MSF’S DIY PRACTICE DRILLS

The road to becoming a more skilled and safer motorcyclist is a continuous journey. While formal training courses like those offered by the Motorcycle Safety Foundation (MSF) are an essential starting point, consistent practice is what is truly needed to build confidence and mastery. To support this continued learning, the MSF offers a valuable and often-overlooked resource, the online: Do It Yourself (DIY) Practice Drills videos.

These drills are designed to help riders of all experience levels refresh and refine core skills in a self-directed, controlled environment. Whether you’re a new rider who wants to solidify the fundamentals learned in your course or an experienced veteran looking to knock off some rust after a long winter, these videos provide a structured way to practice.

The MSF has organized these practice tools into two main categories:

Quick Drills: These are short, animation-based clips that provide a clear and concise visual guide to each exercise. They are perfect for a quick review on your phone or tablet while you’re at your practice location. You can watch a quick demo of a drill, then immediately try it yourself.

Practice Prep: These are longer-format videos that go into more detail. They offer additional tips, common mistakes to avoid, and real-world rider examples to help you fully understand the setup and execution of each drill. This is a great resource to watch at home before heading out to the parking lot to practice.

The benefits of using these DIY drills extend far beyond simple repetition. They help you:

• Improve Control: Drills focused on the “friction zone,” braking, and low-speed maneuvers help you develop a more intuitive feel for your motorcycle.
• Enhance Street Skills: By practicing controlled braking, swerving, and cornering techniques in a safe, off-street environment, you’re better prepared to react to unforeseen situations in real traffic.
• Build Muscle Memory: The more you practice, the more these vital actions become second nature. When you need to perform an emergency maneuver, you won’t have to think—you’ll just react.
• Boost Confidence: Feeling competent in a variety of situations makes you a more confident and relaxed rider, which in turn makes you a safer rider.

To get the most out of these drills, the MSF recommends a few key tips:

• Find a Safe Space: Look for a large, empty parking lot away from traffic and obstacles.
• Use Markers: Use cones, tennis balls, or even a piece of chalk to mark out the courses. This helps you visualize the drill and measure your progress.
• Wear Proper Gear: Always wear all your personal protective equipment (PPE), including a helmet, jacket, gloves, and boots, just as you would on the street.
• Start Small: Don’t rush. Master drills at a slow, controlled speed before attempting to increase your pace.
• Go at Your Own Pace: There’s no test or grade here—just a chance to learn and improve.

The Motorcycle Safety Foundation’s DIY Practice Drills are a free and accessible tool for any rider committed to continuous improvement. By making practice a regular part of your riding routine, you’re not just honing your skills; you’re investing in your own safety and the longevity of your riding journey.

RIDING WITH PURPOSE: THE INDIAN MOTORCYCLE RIDERS NATIONAL CHARITY AND FOLDS OF HONOR

The National IMRG flagship fundraising event by IMRG chapters across the country benefits Folds of Honor, which provides educational scholarships to the families of fallen or disabled military service members and first responders. Scholarships are awarded to applicants in all 50 states. Every $5,000 raised will fund one full scholarship. These scholarships turn our fundraising into real, lasting impact for deserving families. This mission aligns with IMRG values: community, respect, and service.

The National IMRG drive goes through September 20th. To make a donation to Folds of Honor, visit our Northern Colorado IMRG National Charity Ride Team web page.

To donate, select the “Donate Now” button. Your support, in any form, can make a real difference in the lives of these deserving families.

Thanks to the generosity of our chapter members, we’ve not only met our chapter goal, but exceeded our fundraising goal of $500 for Folds of Honor! Your dedication to this cause is amazing. Thank you for making a difference.

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