Northern Colorado IMRG Upcoming Events

Saturday, January 20th—Monthly Chapter Meeting. Our regular Chapter meeting will be held at the dealership. Be sure to join us to share your ideas for epic rides and activities to conquer in 2024. From multi-night adventures to short pleasant rides to relaxed dinner rides, we’re open to anything! Share your thoughts (which might ignite additional inspirational sparks), and we’ll gauge everyone’s enthusiasm for different ideas.
This isn’t about finalizing plans—it’s about shaping our year of adventures together. While we can’t promise to plan every single proposal, your input is invaluable. We’ll collect all ideas, discuss their feasibility, and keep you updated on the most promising ones as we begin to create our adventure calendar for the year.

Have a brilliant ride or activity idea brewing? Share it with us! Jot it down and enter it using this year’s new, online Google form before our next Chapter meeting. Submit any and all ride or other activity ideas.

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For up-to-date information on all Northern Colorado IMRG rides and events, visit our Events Calendar.

RIDING INTO THE FUTURE: ANTICIPATING THE THRILLS OF 2024 WITH THE NORTHERN COLORADO IMRG

As we rev our engines and cruise into the promising horizon of 2024, the Northern Colorado Indian Motorcycle Riders Group is gearing up for another exhilarating year of camaraderie, and adventure. With the wind in our face and the open road ahead, we’re excited to travel into the New Year and discover what it holds for us. The heart of any motorcycle riding group lies in the joy of the ride, and as 2024 unfolds we are excited to take routes from the winding mountain roads to the vast plains of Northern Colorado where the rides will not only be about reaching the destination but relishing the journey. As we explore new routes and revisit old favorites, the camaraderie among our riders will undoubtedly grow stronger.

The NoCo IMRG has always been more than just a collection of riders; it’s a fellowship built on shared passion and mutual respect. In 2024, we look forward to organizing rides and other events that go beyond the asphalt. These gatherings will provide opportunities for our members to forge lasting friendships and celebrate the unique bond that comes with being part of our tight-knit community. We look forward to another year filled with exciting adventures, and new friendships. Together, we will ride into the future, embracing the spirit of camaraderie and the unique bond that defines our community of passionate riders.

Here’s to the road ahead!

RENEW YOUR CHAPTER MEMBERSHIP FOR 2024!

Northern Colorado IMRG Chapter memberships expired December 31, 2023, and it’s once again time to renew your membership for the 2024 calendar year. We know it’s very hectic this time of year, but won’t you please consider renewing your membership today if you haven’t done so already? The 2024 dues remain at $25.00. If your dues aren’t received by the end of January, we will have to remove you from our member roster and communications channels. You don’t want your membership to expire, so please fill out the form, write that check (or pay via PayPal this year!), keep up to date, and support your local IMRG Chapter.

Despite the many weather challenges that Mother Nature presented, 2023 was an incredible year for the NoCo IMRG Chapter. We rode a total of 4,597 miles together, embarking on 25 exciting riding days. Our adventures included multi-day road trips like the Durango Rendezvous, Glenwood Springs Loop Ride, and Thermopolis Road Trip, along with epic all-day rides like the Beecher Island Battlefield Ride and Walden-Snowy Range Ride. We also enjoyed dinner rides, exploring hidden gems like the Wyoming Territorial Prison and Morning Fresh Dairy Farm. We embraced the diversity of Colorado’s landscape with flatland adventures and mountain escapades. At the heart of it all were our monthly Chapter meetings where we connected with friends, shared stories, and celebrated our shared passion for motorcycling. Our NoCo IMRG Chapter is a testament to the unwavering spirit of motorcycling. We look forward to many more unforgettable rides and camaraderie with you as we move into 2024.

There are two easy ways this year to renew your membership and pay your 2024 dues:

Method #1

You can fill out the membership enrollment form available from nocoimrg.org/membership-form and pay your 2024 dues using the traditional methods. You can drop your membership form in the Northern Colorado IMRG drop box at the dealership. Or, you can bring your membership enrollment form and payment to a Chapter meeting. We’ll be accepting these at our January Chapter Meeting on Saturday, 1/20. Or, you can mail your form with your check to the dealership using the address below.

NoCo IMRG Chapter #2036
c/o Indian Motorcycle of Fort Collins
1800 SE Frontage Rd.
Fort Collins, CO 80525

Make your check ($25) to NoCo IMRG Chapter 2036

Method #2

Starting this year, you can now pay your membership dues by using PayPal and emailing your membership enrollment form. Begin by downloading and filling out the membership enrollment form from nocoimrg.org/membership-form.

• Save your completed membership form as a PDF, scan it, or take a picture of it. Then email it as attachment to: [email protected].
• Using PayPal, send $25 payment to: [email protected]. Please follow the additional instructions below when making your payment:
  • In the PayPal notes for your payment (“What’s this for?”) enter the following using your name: FirstName LastName 2024 NoCo IMRG Dues
  • When prompted for the payment type, please choose “For friends and family”. This way, NoCo IMRG does not incur a PayPal fee.

Let’s come together and make 2024 another awesome year!

RIDE TO FOUR CORNERS VIDEO LAUNCH: AN UNFORGETTABLE DAY AT DURANGO RENDEZVOUS 2023

On day 3 of Northern Colorado IMRG’s Durango Rendezvous visit, we embarked on an inspiring ride to the Four Corners, a unique landmark where the borders of four states converge–Arizona, Colorado, New Mexico, and Utah. The journey took us through a diverse landscape and covered roughly 240 miles. It offered some incredible views and a chance to experience the rich history of the region. Our expedition began in Ignacio where we headed south, navigating a narrow and rough highway towards the Navajo Dam in New Mexico. Despite the challenging road conditions, the scenery was wonderful with arid landscapes and minimal traffic.

One of the highlights of the ride was crossing over the San Juan River Bridge in Shiprock, New Mexico. This historic truss bridge, built in 1937, stands as a testament to the region’s engineering prowess. We also passed by the impressive Shiprock Pinnacle, a geological wonder formed by the remnants of an ancient volcano. Its distinctive shape, resembling a 19th-century clipper ship, earned it its name and serves as a reminder of the region’s rich geological history.

Finally, we arrived at the Four Corners Monument, the place where four states meet in a single point, making it a truly unique location to visit. After soaking up the atmosphere at the Four Corners, we traveled back across Colorado through Cortez and Durango before returning to the resort in Ignacio. As the day drew to a close, we enjoyed a delicious meal and camaraderie at the Durango Rendezvous Banquet.

Overall, the ride to the Four Corners was a fantastic experience that providing unique scenery, historical landmarks, and a true sense of adventure. It was a perfect way to experience the beauty and diversity of the southwestern United States and created a lasting memory of the Durango Rendezvous.

FEAR

A SAFETY TIP FROM PAUL CARROLL

All of us have fears. It’s normal and necessary for survival. It is our reaction to that fear which will determine our fate. On two wheels this reaction is no different. Fear can kill you–it leads to riders panicking and making critical control mistakes. Or worse yet, taking no actions at all. It leads to self-doubt that, “I cannot make that corner.” Or, “I cannot get the bike stopped quick enough.”

We all have or have had some type of fear when we started riding and you may still have those fears today. But over time with practice and experience, those fears can be morphed into confidence and competence.

Confidence in yourself to be able to have absolute control of your bike. Practice, practice, and practice some more. The more you train and practice the better you will get. But more importantly, practice in different environments: in the rain, gravel, in the dark. This will condition yourself to be able to quickly perform functions regardless of the environmental factors surrounding you.

Competence = Confidence. The more proficient rider you become, the better you feel when on the ride. Remember, training and practice are key. If you are passionate about riding why wouldn’t you want to be the best you could be? There is no better feeling than to be able to make a Big V-Twin do exactly what you want it to do. Master the machine, don’t let it master you.

Until next time, Ride Safe!

GEARING UP FOR TWO-WHEELED ADVENTURES WITH A PASSENGER: YOUR SAFETY AND COMFORT GUIDE

Road tripping with a passenger on your motorcycle can be an exhilarating experience filled with shared smiles and scenic memories. But it’s crucial to prioritize safety and comfort for both of you.

Before going on the road with a passenger, hone your skills to become a more proficient rider. Carrying extra weight significantly alters handling, increasing the risk of crashes especially for beginners. Taking off, stopping, and passing will all take longer, requiring more space and careful planning. Suspension adjustments are typically needed to keep the bike from bottoming out and to give more ground clearance. A slight increase in tire pressure may be needed to make your tires run more stable. Consult your owner’s manual for recommended suspension adjustments and tire pressure to optimize safety.

Remember, practice comes first. Build your confidence by riding solo, and master balance and control before adding a passenger.

Here are some tips for when you carry a passenger:

1. To safely carry a passenger, your motorcycle must be equipped with a securely mounted passenger seat and footrests. Passengers must be tall enough to comfortably reach the footrests and strong enough to hold onto the rider or passenger hand-holds. They must also be mature enough to understand the risks and responsibilities of riding as a passenger.
2. Safety first! Don’t hit the road until your passenger is fully equipped with all the appropriate gear: helmet, gloves, and sturdy boots.
3. Clearly tell your passenger to wait for your signal before getting on or off the motorcycle. During mounting and dismounting, keep your feet flat and the front brake engaged for stability.
4. Avoid jerky movements and sudden stops. Be extra smooth, and go easy on lean angles. Take corners gradually so that you and your passenger can lean in sync for optimal stability.
5. Your passenger trusts you for a safe ride. With a passenger on board your awareness focus needs to be twofold. Keep your eyes peeled for road hazards and traffic patterns. Remember that stopping and maneuvering take longer. Anticipate situations and adapt your reactions accordingly.
6. Give the passenger a way to signal if they are uncomfortable with something, such as tapping on your shoulder.
7. When the weight of a passenger is added, acceleration slows, and cornering and braking potential decreases. When carrying a passenger, the rider should allow extra time and space for emergency avoidance maneuvers, especially while in traffic or riding in formation with other motorcyclists.
8. Talk to your passenger throughout the ride. Inform them about upcoming bumps, scenic stops, and any changes in pace. Remind them to hold on firmly, especially during turns and accelerations.
9. Have the passenger follow these rules:

• Hold your waist. Or, use the passenger hand-holds or arm rests.
• Keep feet on their footrests at all times including when stopped.
• Keep hands and feet away from hot or moving parts.
• In turns and curves, look over your shoulder in the direction of the turn or curve. This will place the passenger in a good position without telling them to lean with the bike.
• Avoid leaning too much or turning around. These actions can make the bike unstable and difficult to control.
• The passenger will do a better job if they maintain a seating position that lets them look ahead, just like the rider. Like the rider, the passenger should be assessing threats down the road so they may prepare if you have to do emergency braking or obstacle avoidance.

Practice your basic skills with the passenger. Make a few quick stops so you both know how it will feel. You want to be aware of how the motorcycle handles differently with a passenger. By following these tips, communicating with your passenger, and practicing responsible riding, you and your passenger can embark on unforgettable motorcycle adventures together and double the joy!

INDIAN MOTORCYCLE HEATS UP THE FUTURE WITH WIRELESS POWERED CLOTHING

Say goodbye to tangled wires and bulky batteries with Indian Motorcycle’s innovative new concept for wireless powered heated clothing. This revolutionary technology, outlined in a recently filed patent, promises to transform the way we experience riding in cold weather.

How it Works

Indian Motorcycle’s system utilizes inductive charging, similar to how smartphones charge wirelessly. The motorcycle is equipped with coils embedded in key contact points like the handlebars, seat, and footboards. These coils create a magnetic field that transfers energy to receiving coils woven into the rider’s jacket, pants, gloves, and boots.

Benefits Galore

The advantages of this system are numerous:

• Convenience: No more battling with wires or bulky battery packs. Simply hop on your bike and enjoy the warmth.
• Comfort: Direct, near-skin heating provides superior warmth compared to traditional heated clothing methods.
• Safety: Eliminating exposed wires reduces the risk of snags and electrical hazards.
• Versatility: The modular design allows riders to mix and match heated clothing pieces to suit their needs.
• Scalability: The technology could potentially be adapted to power other accessories like heated visors or phone chargers.

Beyond Heated Gear

The implications of Indian Motorcycle’s patent extend beyond just keeping riders warm. This technology could pave the way for a future where motorcycles wirelessly power a variety of electronic devices, creating a truly seamless and integrated riding experience.

Challenges and the Road Ahead

While the concept is promising, there are still hurdles to overcome. One challenge is ensuring efficient energy transfer between the bike and the clothing. Additionally, the compatibility of the system with existing motorcycles and clothing needs to be addressed.

Despite these challenges, Indian Motorcycle’s wireless powered heated clothing concept represents a significant leap forward in rider comfort and convenience. With continued development and refinement, this technology has the potential to revolutionize the way we ride in the years to come.

In addition to the benefits already mentioned, here are some other potential advantages:

• Reduced environmental impact: By eliminating the need for disposable batteries, the system could help to reduce waste and pollution.
• Improved rider performance: By keeping riders warm and comfortable, the system could help to improve focus and concentration leading to safer and more enjoyable rides.
• Increased appeal to new riders: The convenience and ease of use of the system could attract new riders who might otherwise be intimidated by the challenges of cold-weather riding.

Overall, Indian Motorcycle’s wireless powered heated clothing concept could be a game-changer with the potential to make riding motorcycles more enjoyable in less than fair weather riding conditions.

THE AMERICAN MOTORCYCLIST ASSOCIATION: 100 YEARS OF RIDING STRONG

In 2024, the American Motorcyclist Association (AMA) will celebrate a momentous milestone: its 100th anniversary. For a century, the AMA has been the unwavering champion of motorcyclists’ rights, safety, and the pure joy of riding. From its humble beginnings to its present-day influence, the AMA’s story is one of passion, perseverance, and a deep love for motorcycles. The AMA was founded in 1924 by a group of forward-thinking motorcyclists who saw the need for a united voice to represent their interests. At the time, motorcycles were still relatively new and often met with hostility from the public and lawmakers. The AMA’s early years were spent fighting for basic rights, such as the right to ride on public roads and the right to form motorcycle clubs.

For a century, the AMA has championed the rights and interests of riders across the country. From humble beginnings in 1924 with just a handful of passionate riders, the AMA has grown into a powerhouse for the rights and freedoms of millions of motorcyclists across the country. From advocating for rider safety and freedom to promoting competitive racing and recreational riding, the AMA has been a steadfast guardian of motorcyclists. But it’s not just about safety and legislation. The AMA has also been instrumental in promoting motorcycling as a recreational activity and a way of life. Through its vast network of clubs, events, and resources, the AMA has fostered a vibrant community where riders of all ages and skill levels can connect, share their passion, and experience the thrill of the ride together.

The AMA’s 100th Anniversary

It’s a story of grit, determination, and a shared love of motorcycles that has shaped the landscape of American motorcycling as we know it. The AMA’s 100th anniversary is a cause for celebration for all motorcyclists. The organization has made a significant impact on the lives of millions of riders, and it continues to be a powerful force for good in the world of motorcycling. With the AMA at the helm, we can be confident that the voices of motorcyclists will continue to be heard.

Happy 100th birthday, AMA! Here’s to the next century of freedom, adventure, and the open road!

MOTORCYCLE TYPES

Dive into the world of motorcycles! These two-wheeled (and sometimes three!) machines offer an exhilarating way to experience the highways or conquer rugged terrain. These motorized beauties come in diverse forms from powerful street cruisers to rugged off-road beasts.

First, there’s the urban adventurer: the street motorcycle. Cruisers, with their laid-back riding position, are perfect for cruising city streets. Sport bikes, with their sleek designs and powerful engines, conquer corners like champions. And touring bikes, loaded with comfort and storage, are built for epic journeys.

Craving a taste of both worlds? Dual-purpose, also known as dual-sport, motorcycles are the answer. These versatile machines tackle paved roads and dirt trails with ease, letting you explore beyond the asphalt jungle. But if the call of the wild is irresistible, off-highway motorcycles are your ultimate freedom machines. Built for rugged terrain and adrenaline-pumping adventures, they’ll take you where cars fear to tread.

Street Motorcycles

Dual Purpose Motorcycles

Off-Highway Motorcycles

FUEL YOUR FREEDOM: TIPS TO AVOID RUNNING OUT OF GAS ON YOUR MOTORCYCLE

Cruising down the highway on your motorcycle with the wind in your face and your knees in the breeze is a feeling of pure freedom. But that feeling can quickly evaporate if you sputter to a halt with an empty tank. Running out of gas on a motorcycle isn’t just inconvenient, it can be dangerous, especially on remote roads or in bad weather. With a little planning and awareness you can keep your fuel gauge comfortably above “E” and ensure your journey stays smooth. Here are some tips to help you avoid an unwelcome gas stop:

Know Your Bike

Fuel Gauge: It sounds obvious, but understanding your motorcycle’s fuel gauge and efficiency is crucial. Not all fuel gauges are created equal. Some are notoriously inaccurate, especially as the needle dips towards empty. Knowing its quirks will help you interpret its warnings accurately. If your fuel gauge starts dropping faster than usual don’t ignore the warning! Factors like riding conditions, maintenance, and your riding style can affect your actual fuel consumption. Track your mileage and make a mental note of how far you can travel on a full tank. This awareness will help you plan your rides more effectively. Also keep in mind that mileage will be reduced when riding two up or have an extra weight added for a road trip.

Trip Meter: Most motorcycles have a trip meter that can be set to track distance. Note that your bike’s average fuel range and reset the trip meter to zero when you fill up. This gives you a rough estimate of how far you can travel before needing gas. Periodically check the trip meter during your ride. This simple habit allows you to estimate the remaining distance you can cover before needing to refuel.

Plan Your Ride

Map Your Route: When embarking on a long ride, plan your stops strategically. Familiarize yourself with gas stations along your route and make a note of their locations. Try to refuel when your tank is still relatively full rather than waiting until the last possible moment. This proactive approach ensures that you have a better chance of finding a gas station when needed. Consider the distance between gas stations and factor in potential detours or scenic side roads that might tempt you off course. When on Northern Colorado IMRG rides, we plan our fuel stops based on time in the saddle (i.e. needed rest stops) and for the bike with the least amount of fuel range.

Top Off Early: Don’t wait until the last minute to refuel. When your gauge hits halfway start looking for a gas station. Make note of any potential fuel short-ages, which may make it harder to find gas, especially when you are low. You will want to refuel more often in this scenario. It’s better to play it safe than risk pushing your luck.

Ride Smart

Fuel Efficiency: Aggressive acceleration and high speeds guzzle gas. Cruise smoothly, maintain moderate speeds, and avoid stop-and-go traffic whenever possible. Smooth, controlled riding with mindful gear changes optimizes fuel efficiency and keeps your engine purring happily.

Bonus Tips

Carry a Can: Consider keeping a small portable fuel can in your saddlebag. It can be a lifesaver if you get caught short between gas stations. Just remember to fill it with fresh gas before your trip. Having a reserve of fuel with you provides a convenient solution to avoid running out of gas in remote or unfamiliar areas.

Siphon Hose: Riding with a group? Carry a siphon hose. This way if someone runs low, a little bit of gas can be siphoned from the other bikes and not be left stranded on the side of the road.

Use Smartphone Apps: Our trusty smartphones come in handy for motorcyclists too! There are plenty of apps available that can help you find nearby gas stations and provide other useful info like real-time fuel prices. Take advantage of these apps so that refueling becomes a breeze.

Regular Maintenance Checks: A well-maintained motorcycle is likely to be more fuel-efficient. Regularly service your motorcycle, paying attention to components like the air filter, spark plugs, and fuel injectors. A clean and well-tuned bike is not only safer but also more economical in terms of fuel consumption.

By following these tips and staying mindful of your fuel gauge, you can ensure your motorcycle adventures are filled with exhilarating rides and not worrying about running out of gas. Remember, a little preparation goes a long way in keeping the freedom flowing!

Happy riding!

RIP ICONIC V-TWIN MOTORCYCLES: WELCOME ELECTRIC MOTORCYCLES! WHAT A THRILLING REPLACEMENT!

Make the transition to electric motorcycles for the good of the motorcycling community. This is a change that is overdue and needs to come. Make your iconic V-Twin gas motorcycle a thing of the past and trade it in for an electric motorcycle. This is the right choice to make and everyone will be much better off if you make the switch.

It’s time to put an end to the pleasing rumble of that powerful V-Twin engine. No one should hear how sweet your stage one exhaust sounds when you start your engine, or have to hear the deep rumble of your engine as you downshift into the corner and accelerate coming out of it. The deep muscular sound of a gas powered V-Twin engine simply needs to become a forgotten memory. You should be filled with guilt for having a motor-cycle that sounds so good and embrace the soulless hum of an electric motor. And, if you do have some rebel within you then you can make your electric bike sound big and bad with a clothes pin and baseball card.

Why do you want to feel the raw power beneath your seat as you twist the throttle when you can instead enjoy a symphony of silence? There’s no need for the allure of centuries-old engineering principles like power, torque, and responsiveness when we can silently glide around on an electric motorcycle? No vibrations, no deafening noise, and absolutely no character whatsoever. When you’re out on the road, you’ll never miss the beautiful sound of a V-Twin thundering between your legs. …Never! Just think of the joy you will have riding an overgrown electric toothbrush! How thrilling!

Gone are the days of short gas station visits or basking in the freedom of taking spontaneous road trips. But hey, charging stations are practically everywhere these days, right? I mean, who wouldn’t enjoy patiently waiting for hours while their electric steeds juice up for that mind-numbing 30-minute ride?

Don’t forget about the nail-biting excitement of not knowing when your motorcycle battery will run out of juice! Who needs a predictable gas gauge? With electric motorcycles you can enjoy the thrilling game of, “Will I make it home, or will I be pushing my deadweight electric beast uphill?” Talk about suspenseful adventures!

There’s a lot of benefit to touring on an electric motorcycle. Gone are those days of riding carefree on back roads while having a little fear of getting stranded because you know not every small town has a gas station. Having an electric motorcycle means you can stop the drudgery of exploring these small towns and obscure places, and riding back country and mountain roads from sun up to sundown. Instead, you stick to touring on the major highways with an electric motorcycle for about 100 miles or so where you’re more likely to find a charging station and then explore on foot for about 14-hours while your bike is charging. There’s no better way to socialize than being stranded somewhere with another electric motorcycle rider who is waiting hours on end for his bike to recharge. You can swap stories of the day’s short highway adventure as you make fun of the gas powered motorcycle riders going past while heading to the small mountain towns oblivious to what they are missing by not hanging out with the other electric motorcycle riders at the charging station.

Electric motorcycles also give you the opportunity to replace a beautifully intricate V-Twin engine with… a battery. Who needs the satisfaction of getting their hands dirty and feeling like a true gearhead? Wouldn’t you much rather brag about the number of kilowatt-hours your electric motor can produce?

So fellow riders, let’s bid adieu to the iconic V-Twin motorcycles that brought excitement, freedom, and a sense of rebellion to our lives. Let’s welcome with open arms the silent, characterless, and range-anxiety-inducing electric motorcycles so they can take over our beloved two-wheeled community. Em-brace the change. RIP V-Twins, we’ll miss you.

See you at a charging station …sarcastically!

Ride. Seek. Explore.