RIDING THE FUTURE: THE YONGLE RISHENG CG WIND/SOLAR-POWERED MOTORCYCLE
Ever wonder what’s next for getting around? Well, things are always changing in the world of green transportation, and some seriously cool stuff is popping up. Okay maybe not so cool, but definitely weird. One strange idea that has cropped up lately is the YongLE Risheng CG Wind/Solar-Powered Electric Motorcycle – a concept that sounds like it’s straight out of a bad sci-fi movie! It promises to be super-efficient, great for the planet, and still give you that awesome open-road feeling.
The details on this exact bike are a bit tough to find, but just thinking about a motorcycle that uses both wind and sun power??? That’s just quirky! It really shows how shrewd some people are at imagining how to get folks from point A to point B.
Getting Around Green: A Two-Way Power Play!
When we say “wind/solar-powered,” it means this bike has a couple of different ways to get its energy. The goal? To be as efficient as possible, no matter what the weather’s doing!
Solar Power: Picture this—a sleek, flexible solar panel built in a canopy attached to what was once a Honda CG125. The panel grabs sunlight and turns it straight into electricity, storing it up in a battery on the bike. That means quiet, zero-emission rides, assuming a perfect sunny day providing charging potential!
Wind Power: Now, this is where it gets really interesting for a motorcycle! We’re talking about a “small” turbine mounted on the solar panel canopy to catch the wind as you ride. Imagine the turbine turning and generating power just from cruising along! This could act like a special booster, topping up your battery while you’re moving, especially at higher speeds, or even when you’re just parked somewhere breezy.
Sweet Perks for Two-Wheelers!
With the bike constantly making its own power, you could ride a lot longer than on a regular electric motorcycle. YongLE says this CG model can hit a top speed of 37 mph, with a total cruising range of 50-75 miles. And over 31 of those miles could be purely on wind and solar power.
Total Showstopper—a motorcycle like this would totally turn heads (with lots of finger pointing and laughter)!
RIDING FREE: AMERICA THE BEAUTIFUL PARK PASS AND AMA PETITION
The open road, the wind in your face, and the call of the wild – for many motorcyclists, there’s nothing quite like exploring America’s vast and varied landscapes from the saddle of their bike. Our national parks and public lands offer some of the most breathtaking routes and destinations for these adventures. However, a recent petition by the American Motorcyclist Association (AMA) to the Department of the Interior (DOI) highlights a significant concern for riders: the pricing structure of the “America the Beautiful” National Parks and Federal Recreational Lands Pass.
The Heart of the Matter: A Two-Wheeled Dilemma
The America the Beautiful Pass is a fantastic program, providing access to national parks, wildlife refuges, and various federal recreational lands. For most vehicles, the pass covers the vehicle and all its occupants. This works seamlessly for cars, trucks, and RVs. But what about motorcycles?
The AMA argues that the current pass structure treats motorcycles unfairly. While a car with multiple occupants pays a single fee, each and every motorcycle, despite having a smaller footprint and only one or two passengers, is charged the same entrance fee. This means a solo rider or a couple riding their own motorcycles can end up paying significantly more per person for park access compared to someone in a four-person car. Even a bicycle rider with a pass can bring along three other bicyclists using the one pass.
The AMA’s Stand: Seeking Fair Access
The American Motorcyclist Association, a leading advocate for motorcyclists’ rights, has formally petitioned the Department of the Interior to review and revise the fee structure for the America the Beautiful Pass as it applies to motorcycles. Their core argument centers on equitable access and fair pricing.
Their petition emphasizes an unnecessary financial burden is placed on motorcyclists and contradicts admission guidelines that currently exist for automobiles, bicycles and pedestrians. They also state motorcyclists are often environmentally conscious users of public lands, seeking out scenic byways and natural beauty. They believe that the current system inadvertently penalizes a specific user group for their choice of recreation, potentially discouraging them from visiting these national treasures.
Why This Matters for All Outdoor Enthusiasts
While this issue directly impacts motorcyclists, it raises broader questions about fairness and accessibility in our national parks. Every visitor, regardless of their mode of transport, should feel that they are contributing equitably and receiving fair value for their park entrance fees.
The AMA’s petition is not just about saving a few dollars for riders; it’s about advocating for a consistent and just policy that recognizes the unique characteristics of different visitor groups. As the DOI reviews this petition, it’s an opportunity to ensure that America’s public lands remain welcoming and accessible to all who wish to experience their grandeur.
What’s Next?
The AMA encourages its members and all concerned citizens to support their efforts by reaching out to their representatives and the Department of the Interior. Fair access to our national parks benefits everyone, preserving these incredible resources for generations of enthusiasts, whether they arrive by car, foot, or on two wheels.
Keep an eye on the AMA’s official channels for updates on this important initiative. Let’s hope for a future where every journey into America’s beautiful landscapes is met with fair and equitable access for all.
RIDING WITH PURPOSE: THE INDIAN MOTORCYCLE RIDERS NATIONAL CHARITY RIDE AND FOLDS OF HONOR
The National IMRG flagship fundraising event 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.
To support Folds of Honor, visit the Northern Colorado IMRG National Charity Ride Team page:
- To make a donation and sign-up for the September 20th Charity Ride, click the “Join Our Ride” button. The ride donation is $35 and comes with a T-Shirt. Make sure you select South Region as your region.
- For a donation only contribution, select the “Donate Now” button.
Your support, in any form, can make a real difference in the lives of these deserving families.
FROM THE DESK OF
Colonel (Ret.) Nick Nichols
President, Folds of Honor
Dear Indian Motorcycle Riding Groups (IMRGs),
On behalf of the entire Folds of Honor family, I want to extend our deepest gratitude to Indian Motorcycle and the National IMRGs for your incredible partnership and unwavering support of our mission. Your commitment to honoring the sacrifice and educating the legacy has had a profound impact on military and first responder families across the country.
Thanks to your outstanding fundraising efforts in 2024, you raised over$114,000–an extraordinary achievement. I’m proud to share that 100% of those funds were directed to our scholarship program, resulting in 24 supplementary scholarships awarded to deserving recipients throughout the United States. Your generosity is transforming lives and creating a lasting legacy.
As we look forward, I’m both excited and grateful for the opportunity to build on this momentum. With your passion and dedication, I have no doubt that our shared goal of raising $250,000 is within reach-and will have an even greater impact in advancing our mission.
I look forward to supporting this powerful partnership in every way I can. I’m especially excited to meet the top fund raisers and celebrate your outstanding efforts this coming winter to in Las Vegas or Scottsdale–location and auction to be confirmed.
To further strengthen our local impact I have directed all Folds of Honor chapters to actively collaborate with nearby lMRGs. These local alliances are essential to growing our reach, deepening our connections, and driving successful activations. I encourage you to welcome and lean on them as valuable partners in your charitable efforts and regional tallies.
Thank you again for riding with purpose and for standing with us as we honor the heroes and families to honor their sacrifice and educate their legacy. Let’s make 2025 our most impactful year yet.
With gratitude and respect,
Colonel (Ret.) Nick Nichols
President) Folds of Honor
INDIAN MOTORCYCLE RIDES FOR CHARITY: A CUSTOM SPORT CHIEF RT MEETS ROCK ROYALTY
Indian Motorcycle recently made waves with a remarkable donation: a custom-built Indian Sport Chief RT for a charity auction. This unique event coincided with the historic reunion of rock legends Ozzy Osbourne and Black Sabbath, creating an unparalleled convergence of iconic American machinery and heavy metal royalty.
This wasn’t just any motorcycle; it was a customized Sport Chief RT, a model already known for its robust performance, unique styling, and touring capabilities. This particular motorcycle had undergone an extensive custom treatment, transforming it into a one-of-a-kind masterpiece. The design blended classic American cruiser aesthetics with modern, performance-oriented features like advanced suspension and braking. Every curve, every meticulously applied paint detail, and every custom component was been carefully chosen to create a visual experience that paid homage to the raw energy and rebellious spirit of rock and roll. This powerful, ergonomically designed motorcycle is a rolling work of art and a true collector’s item, promising an exhilarating ride whether on the open highway or making a grand entrance.
The auction’s backdrop was equally monumental: Ozzy Osbourne and Black Sabbath, undisputed pioneers of heavy metal, reunited for a special, highly anticipated event. This reunion was far more than a concert; it was a celebration of a musical legacy that has influenced countless artists and shaped the landscape of rock music for decades. The electrifying energy associated with Ozzy and Black Sabbath provided the perfect, high-profile stage for a charitable initiative of this magnitude, drawing attention from fans across the globe.
Beyond the roar of the engine and the thunder of the drums, the auction served a profound and noble purpose. Proceeds generated from the sale of this brilliant Sport Chief RT directly benefited deserving charities with all proceeds supporting Cure Parkinson’s, Birmingham Children’s Hospital, and Acorn Children’s Hospice.
This initiative showcased Indian Motorcycle’s commitment to giving back to the community and leveraging the passion of its riders and the allure of its motorcycles for a greater good. It was a compelling reminder that the spirit of freedom, adventure, and camaraderie so deeply embodied by motorcycling can also be a formidable force for positive social change, extending its reach far beyond the open road.
This one-of-a-kind customized motorcycle intertwines with the very fabric of rock and roll legend. Whether you’re a devoted Indian Motorcycle loyalist, a lifelong fan who grew up with the anthems of Black Sabbath, this custom-built motorcycle embodied both power and purpose. The custom Sport Chief RT, designed with Black Sabbath imagery, was signed backstage by the performers. This Sport Chief was customized by Simon Mann (paint) and Ben Godfrey (build) of Krazy Horse Genuine Wild Rides.
INDIAN MOTORCYCLE’S NEW PATH: A PARTNERSHIP ROOTED IN NATIVE AMERICAN HERITAGE
Despite the use of feathered headdresses and tribal motifs, Indian Motorcycle has never been Native American-owned. The history of Indian Motorcycle presents a complex legacy, with recent ongoing debate over whether its Native American inspired imagery is a celebration or cultural appropriation.
Now, Indian Motorcycle is taking a new, direct approach: a genuine collaboration with Native American artist Jeremy Arviso to launch a limited edition clothing line that’s both meaningful and stylish. This partnership is rooted in collaboration, purpose, and storytelling, marking a significant shift for the brand. Jeremy Arviso with Navajo, Hopi, Akimel O’odham, and Tohono O’odham lineage, is known for blending traditional Native symbolism with modern streetwear. His impressive portfolio includes collaborations with Nike and the NFL.
The Indian Motorcycle RVSO Collection is a limited-edition clothing line including t-shirts, tank top, sweatshirt, and hats. Each design is rich with cultural meaning: the Sacred Hoop and four sacred colors (white, red, black, yellow) represent directions, seasons, and life cycles, while Arviso’s arrow motifs symbolize movement and spiritual direction.
Proceeds from the collection benefit Change Labs, a Native-led nonprofit supporting Indigenous entrepreneurs in the Navajo and Hopi Nations. This transforms the collection into a powerful statement of intent.
In an era of superficial brand representation, this initiative stands out. Indian Motorcycle has genuinely empowered a Native artist and invested in Native communities. It’s a refreshing move that expands Indian Motorcycle’s cultural footprint beyond motorcycles, prompting the industry to rethink its engagement with art, identity, and the communities it references. Motorcycling, at its core, is about freedom, expression, and art.
This collaboration between Indian Motorcycle and Jeremy Arviso could truly mark a turning point for how major companies engage with and honor Indigenous cultures, fostering a future where commercial ventures and cultural respect go hand-in-hand.
–> Explore the collection! <–
SAFETY TIP: “RIDING IN THE RAIN”
A Safety Tip from Paul Carroll
It’s that time of year again when the weather in Colorado becomes very bi-polar. Nice and warm one minute, then cold and rain the next. So I wanted to get this quick tip out there on some do’s and don’ts when it comes to riding in wet weather.
Most motorcyclists obviously do not prefer to ride in the rain, but if you spend a lot of time on the bike, it will be inevitable you will have to deal with wet road conditions. However, with the right clothing, the proper technique and a bit more concentration, the ride in the rain can be enjoyable as well. The rider and the bike have to be up for the challenge.
The dynamics are usually no different in the rain than on a dry road. The difference is that acceleration, braking, turning and cornering have to be done much more gently and smoothly. Due to the decrease in traction, you cannot lean as much during cornering.
All shifting and braking should be gradual and smooth. Any abrupt acceleration and deceleration on a wet surface could result in a loss of traction.
When riding wet city streets, particular attention should be paid to manhole covers and street striping. Avoid leaning the motorcycle on these surfaces. I prefer to ride in between crosswalk striping when turning at an intersection.
If on an interstate or highway, increase your following distance and decrease your speed. Shifting your lane position can also help reduce the amount of road spray you encounter.
The key phrase to remember here is, “smooth is safe.”
Until next time, Ride Safe!