DON’T MISS OUT: RENEW YOUR NORTHERN COLORADO IMRG CHAPTER MEMBERSHIP FOR 2025!

Did you know your Northern Colorado IMRG Chapter membership expires December 31, 2024, and once again it’s time to renew your membership for the 2025 calendar year? You don’t want your membership to expire, so please fill out the form and remit your payment as soon as possible and support your local IMRG Chapter.

Membership in the Northern Colorado IMRG Chapter is more than just about riding motorcycles; it’s about being part of a remarkable community of individuals that foster camaraderie, adventure, and personal growth. At the heart of the NoCo IMRG Chapter lies a vibrant network of passionate motorcyclists who share a deep-rooted love for the open road and the thrill of riding. We are more than just fellow riders; we’re friends, confidants, and a source of unwavering support.

We had so much fun in 2024. We cherished the friendships, adventure, social get-togethers. We created many lasting memories. Here are just a few highlights from this year:

• We travelled 4,492 miles together
• Many lunch rides, and dinner rides
• Road Survival skills training sessions
• Happy Jack Rd in Cheyenne for International Female Ride Day
• Glen Haven (for cinnamon rolls) & Peak-to-Peak… twice!
• Multi-night road trip to Taos
• Walden/Snowy Range
• Fort Laramie
• Multi-night road trip – Beartooth, Glacier
• Cripple Creek overnighter
• Indian Motorcycle demo days

Ready to renew your membership? Here’s how:

You can pay your dues by filling out the membership enrollment form which you can download from nocoimrg.org/membership-form and mailing it with your check to the dealership. Or, drop it in the Northern Colorado IMRG drop box at the Dealership. You can also bring your membership enrollment form and payment to a Chapter meeting.

Go to the Online Membership Enrollment Form at nocoimrg.org/northern-colorado-imrg-membership-enrollment to complete and submit. After submitting the form, you will have the option to pay your dues via PayPal or Venmo.

Let’s make 2025 another unforgettable year!

A SCORCHING SUMMER RIDE TO HISTORIC FORT LARAMIE

As the cold chill of December settles in, we can’t help but reminisce about a sweltering summer day this past July. The Northern Colorado IMRG embarked on a heroic journey to the historic Fort Laramie in Wyoming. This iconic landmark, located along the North Platte River, played a pivotal role in America’s westward expansion. From its humble beginnings as a fur trading post in 1834 to its transformation into a significant military outpost, Fort Laramie witnessed firsthand the events that shaped the American West.

Our 163-mile odyssey began at Indian Motorcycle of Fort Collins. As we headed north on Highway 85, the sun beat down relentlessly, testing our endurance. A quick fuel stop and rider pickup in Cheyenne provided a brief respite before we plunged deeper into the unforgiving heat.

The temperature soared as we approached Torrington, where we sought refuge at La Familia Prado Mexican restaurant. The delicious food, refreshing drinks, and lively camaraderie rejuvenated our spirits, preparing us for the final leg of our journey.

We arrived at the small town of Fort Laramie, which is named after the historic Fort Laramie, our destination, about 13 miles away. The town was pretty quiet, and offered a glimpse into the past with its historic buildings. The population, around 200. Eagerly pressing on, we past the Army Iron Bridge, built in 1875, which spans the North Platte River. The bridge is considered a marvel of 19th-century engineering, consisting of three 140 feet long iron spans.

We arrived at historic Fort Laramie and were transported back in time. The cavalry barracks, commissary storehouse, Old Bedlam (Wyoming’s oldest documented building), the post trader’s store, and several historic houses provided a glimpse of the rich history of this iconic landmark.
The fort hosted numerous treaty negotiations with various Native American tribes, including the Treaty of Fort Laramie in 1868. It played a significant role in military operations, particularly during the Indian Wars. Today, Fort Laramie is preserved as a National Historic Site, allowing visitors to explore the historic buildings, and to learn about the significance of the site.

Despite the scorching heat, which exceeded 100 degrees Fahrenheit, we were determined to soak up every moment of this historic adventure. We sought shade, hydrated frequently, and utilized cooling techniques to combat the relentless heat.

Before leaving, we wet down our gear and cooling vests. We drank a lot of water to rehydrate, then began the hot journey home. We re-traced our route back home, but stepped up the pace. The journey was grueling, but the sense of accomplishment and the memories of exploring this historic site made it all worthwhile.

This unforgettable ride was a testament to our endurance and a reminder of the incredible history that shaped the American West not far from our backyard.

HAYSTACK ROCK: A COLORFUL CANVAS ON HIGHWAY 287

As you cruise along Highway 287 north of Fort Collins, you can’t miss it: a massive 40-ton, weathered rock splashed with vibrant colors and messages. The Northern Colorado IMRG has passed the graffiti painted rock countless of times. This is Haystack Rock, a local landmark that has become a unique canvas for expression. For generations, this colossal boulder has served as a “First Amendment billboard,” inviting anyone with paint and a brush to share their thoughts, feelings, and artistic talents. The rock’s surface is a constantly changing mosaic of messages, ranging from heartfelt tributes and humorous slogans to political commentary and personal affirmations.

Millions of years of erosion and weathering caused this granite boulder to break free from the nearby sandstone cliffs. It then rolled down the hillside, eventually settling on this grassy clearing, a stark contrast to the modern traffic of Highway 287.

The tradition of painting the rock started sometime around 1899 at the start of the “border war” game between Colorado State University and the University of Wyoming. Haystack Rock has evolved into a site where people come to add their own messages, admire the work of others, or simply take a moment to appreciate the unique blend of creativity and individuality. The rock has become a symbol of community spirit, a place where individuals from all walks of life can connect and express themselves.

The land where the rock sits has changed hands over the years. The current owner is the Northern Water Conservancy District, which purchased the land in the mid-1980s. Northern Water doesn’t mind people painting the rock, and even include it as a stop on tours.

The rock’s name, “Haystack Rock,” stems from a historical anecdote. In the early days of Fort Collins, a con artist covered the rock with hay, and attempted to sell it to the military. Upon closer inspection, the “hay” turned out to be this massive rock, hence the name.

The ever changing art on Haystack Rock is as diverse as the people who create it. The messages on the rock can be serious, humorous, or simply bizarre. Nevertheless, Haystack Rock remains an iconic symbol of freedom of expression, community spirit, and artistic expression.

A GRAND MOTORCYCLE JOURNEY: THE WALDEN & SNOWY RANGE RIDE

The Walden & Snowy Range ride this past June was an unforgettable journey through some breathtaking landscapes of northern Colorado and southern Wyoming. This extraordinary motorcycle route offered an unparalleled mix of stunning scenery, meandering roads, and inviting small towns, making it an experience etched in memory. From the rugged cliffs of the Poudre Canyon to the serene meadows of North Park, and finally to the towering peaks of the Medicine Bow Mountains, the ride was a treat for the senses at every turn.

Eleven Northern Colorado IMRG family members began this day’s expedition by taking Colorado Highway 14 west, a road that traced the path of the Cache la Poudre River as it carved through the magnificent Poudre Canyon. Towering canyon walls, vibrant scenery, and the sparkling river created a picture-perfect backdrop as we ascended toward Cameron Peak. We stopped at the Cameron Peak rest area for a while to view the breathtaking panorama of the Colorado wilderness. However, the mosquitoes were beginning to get the best of us, so we did not stay long.

Emerging from the canyon, we were greeted by the expansive beauty of North Park—a valley of rolling hills, sprawling ranches, and idyllic meadows that stretched as far and wide. Following this scenic route, we arrived in the old western community of Walden. We stopped to fuel up our bikes as we always do upon arriving in Walden.

From Walden, the ride continued north on Colorado Highway 125 toward the Wyoming border. This stretch of road offered sweeping views of the snowcapped Medicine Bow Mountains to the west contrasting with the green pastures below. Crossing into Wyoming, we arrived in the small and welcoming town of Riverside, where we enjoyed a hearty lunch at the rustic Bear Trap Café. We enjoyed good food, good conversation, and even played a little pool.

After refueling ourselves with an enjoyable meal, we headed north to Highway 130, which led us into the heart of the Snowy Range. This section of the ride was undoubtedly the highlight, with the Snowy Range Pass rising to over 10,000 feet.

From the summit, we were rewarded with panoramic views of jagged peaks, alpine lakes, and green meadows—a scene that felt almost otherworldly. The crisp mountain air and the sense of being atop the world made the moment truly magical.

After stopping and taking many pictures to capture the moment, we descended the pass, and rolled into the historic town of Laramie, where the charm of the Old West met the vibrancy of a college town. From there, we turned south onto Highway 287, a long and winding road that carried us back to Ted’s Place, the starting point of our journey.

Every mile of the Walden & Snowy Range ride offered something unique, from the thrill of navigating winding mountain roads to the serenity of open valleys and the hospitality of small-town stops. It was more than just a motorcycle ride—it was a celebration of the raw, untamed beauty of the American West right here in our own backyard.

SMALL BUT MIGHTY: STOCKING STUFFERS FOR MOTORCYCLISTS

The holiday season is here, and finding the perfect stocking stuffers for the motorcyclists in your life can be as thrilling as a winding mountain road. These small but thoughtful gifts are a great way to show your appreciation for their passion for riding. From practical tools to fun accessories, here are a handful of stocking stuffer ideas that will rev up any rider’s holiday cheer.

Motorcycle Keychain: Every rider loves to personalize their gear, and a motorcycle-themed keychain is an affordable, stylish option. Look for ones shaped like motorcycles, helmets, or brands like Indian Motorcycle

Touchscreen Stickers for Gloves: These small, adhesive stickers are typically made of conductive material and can be applied to the fingertips of gloves. Once applied, you can easily swipe, tap, and type on your device without having to remove your gloves.

Compact Multi-Tool: A pocket-sized multi-tool is invaluable for quick fixes on the road. Look for one designed specifically for motorcycles, featuring tools like hex keys, screwdrivers, and wrenches that fit common motorcycle parts.

Helmet Care Products: Motorcycle helmets are an investment, and keeping them clean is essential. Helmet-specific cleaning wipes, anti-fog sprays, or visor cleaning kits make fantastic stocking stuffers. They’re compact, practical, and thoughtful for every rider.

Motorcycle-Themed Socks: You can’t go wrong with a fun pair of motorcycle-themed socks! Look for designs featuring bikes, racing stripes, or tire patterns. Comfortable and quirky, these socks add a little personality to every outfit.

Reflective Decals or Tape: Safety is always a top priority for riders. Reflective decals, stickers, or tape can be used to make their helmet, bike, or gear more visible during nighttime rides.

Small First Aid Kit: A compact first aid kit tailored for riders is a thoughtful and potentially life-saving gift. These kits can be stored easily in a saddlebag or under the seat, ensuring the rider is prepared for minor injuries on the road.

Motorcycle-Themed Patches or Pins: For riders who love to customize their jackets or bags, patches and pins featuring motorcycle logos, slogans, or artwork are a great option. They’re small, affordable, and full of personality.

Portable Tire Pressure Gauge: Tire maintenance is crucial for safe riding, and a portable tire pressure gauge is a useful tool that easily fits into a pocket or saddlebag.

Bike Cleaner: Motorcyclists often take pride in their bikes and enjoy keeping them clean. It’s a practical gift that shows you care about their bike and want to help them keep it looking its best. Many motorcycle cleaners come in compact sizes, perfect for a stocking.

Microfiber Towel: A fantastic stocking stuffer for a motorcyclist. It’s a practical, versatile, and relatively inexpensive gift. Microfiber towels are excellent for cleaning and polishing a motorcycle. They can remove dirt, dust, and grime without scratching the paint or chrome.

Gift Card to a Motorcycle Gear Shop: It offers the motorcyclist the freedom to choose exactly what they want or need, whether it’s a new pair of gloves, or accessory on their bike. A gift card for the dealership can be used toward bike maintenance, or performance add-on parts.

Gaiter or Bandana: A versatile and practical stocking stuffer for a motorcyclist. These accessories offer multiple benefits, including sun protection, wind protection, cold weather protection, dust protection.

Kickstand Pucks: A small, yet incredibly useful accessory for any motorcyclist. It’s designed to prevent the motorcycle’s kickstand from sinking into soft surfaces like asphalt, grass, or gravel. This can help make the bike more stable while parked.

Hand Warmers: Especially useful for those who ride in colder weather. They provide much-needed warmth and comfort during those chilly rides.

Wet Wipes: Motorcycle cleaning wipes are a practical and convenient stocking stuffer for motorcyclists. These pre-moistened wipes are perfect for quick clean-ups on the go, whether it’s wiping down a sweaty helmet, cleaning greasy hands, or removing dirt and grime from the bike’s surfaces.

Chapstick & Sunscreen: Two essential items that every motorcyclist should have on hand. Chapstick helps to prevent chapped and cracked lips from the wind while riding. Sunscreen helps to protect the skin from harmful UV rays, reducing the risk of sunburn.

Glasses Lens Wipes: A practical and thoughtful stocking stuffer for motorcyclists for quickly cleaning their sunglasses, goggles, helmet visors, phones, rearview mirrors, navigation screens.

Fun Accessories: Don’t forget about fun extras like mini motorcycle models, novelty mugs, or ornaments shaped like bikes or helmets. These items add a playful touch to the holiday season.

Stocking stuffers may be small but will show the motorcyclist in your life that you understand their passion. Whether it’s a practical tool or a thoughtful keepsake, these ideas are sure to please any rider this holiday season.

MASTERING THE BREEZE: COMPREHENDING AND CONTROLLING WIND BUFFETING

Ever feel like your helmet’s doing a little headbang concert? Your head is constantly bobbling making it tough to keep your eyes focused on the road. That’s likely the work of wind buffeting. It’s a common issue that can significantly impact your riding comfort and safety. The biggest thing you’ll get with wind buffeting is the vibration of your helmet. Wind and road noise will also be louder. Wind buffeting and road noise will add to your fatigue.

Wind buffeting occurs when air flows around your helmet and body at high speeds, creating turbulence and pressure differences. This can lead to head bobbing, helmet lift, and overall discomfort. It can be particularly noticeable when riding behind larger vehicles or at higher speeds.

A windshield is often used to deflect strong winds from your chest and head and instead make it flow over the top of your head. While air is being deflected by the windshield, a vacuum is created behind the windshield. Depending on the height of the windshield, buffeting may move up or down as the wind fills the vacuum. There is also wind coming from the sides of the tank. You can determine if wind buffeting is coming from the sides of the motorcycle by holding a hand next to the side of the tank. If that results in quieting wind noise or reduces buffeting, then this could be your primary source.

In short, buffeting occurs when wind is trying to fill the vacuum behind the windshield. This is caused by wind coming over the top of the windshield to fill the vacuum, or wind coming up from the ground around the tank to fill the void.

Why is Wind Buffeting a Problem?

Reduces Riding Comfort: The constant force and turbulence can lead to neck and shoulder pain, fatigue, and a generally unpleasant riding experience.
Distraction: Wind buffeting can be distracting, taking your focus away from the road and potentially leading to accidents.

Helmet Instability: In severe cases, wind buffeting can cause your helmet to lift or wobble, shaking your head so bad it blurs vision, compromising safety.

Combating Wind Buffeting

If your motorcycle has an adjustable windscreen, experiment with different positions to find the best setting for you. Aim to direct the wind over your helmet or around your shoulders. Avoid positioning the windshield too high, as this can obstruct your view of the road. A dirty windshield can significantly impair your vision. A poorly angled windshield can cause glare, making it difficult to see. A curved windshield can distort your view of the road, especially at certain angles. And if the windshield is too low, it may direct wind straight into your helmet or increase buffeting.

Experts say the perfect position for the windshield is where it is level with the tip of your nose, or even with your mouth. This gives you a couple of inches to see over the top of the windshield, and the wind will clear the top of your head.

Depending on factors like your height, seating position, windshield size, and adjustability, finding the ideal windshield position can be challenging. If you’re struggling to achieve optimal wind deflection, an aftermarket windshield might be the solution. Companies like Freedom Shields and Klock Werks specialize in windshields designed to improve airflow and reduce wind buffeting. These aftermarket options often allow for lower windshield heights while still effectively deflecting wind over the rider’s helmet.

If wind buffeting is caused by wind coming up from around the tank, adding lowers to your motorcycle can help mitigate the issue if your bike doesn’t already have lowers. Aftermarket deflectors can be mounted to forks, crash bars, or existing lowers to further deflect the wind and reduce buffeting.

A well-designed, aerodynamic helmet with carefully placed vents can also significantly reduce wind buffeting by directing the airflow smoothly around the rider’s head. Full-face helmets are generally better for reducing wind buffeting since it provides a barrier between the rider’s face and the wind.

Experiment with different riding positions to minimize the impact of wind. Adjusting your posture may help deflect wind and reduce buffeting, making your ride more comfortable and less fatiguing.

Controlling wind buffeting can be a complex issue, and the best solution to minimize buffeting will vary depending on various factors, including helmet design, windshield height, rider position, bike aerodynamics, and wind conditions. Trial and error is sometimes needed to resolve the problem.

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Ride, Seek, and Explore!