
SECURING YOUR HELMET TO YOUR MOTORCYCLE
Your helmet protects your head, reflects your style, and often costs a serious chunk of change. If you leave it on your bike, even for a quick run into a store or going inside a restaurant for lunch, you may be risking it getting stolen.
Having your helmet stolen can be a major hassle. First helmets are pricey to replace. Even if you have motorcycle insurance with coverage for riding gear, you’re likely to be out of pocket for the deductible. If you’re far from home and your helmet is stolen, you may be stranded or forced to ride illegally or unsafely.
So how do you help prevent your helmet from being stolen? Outlined below are some ways to secure your helmet to your motorcycle.
Use a Dedicated Helmet Lock
Helmet locks are designed for the job. You can find them in two main types:

Cable Locks: Lightweight, flexible cables with combination or key locks. Great for looping through the chin bar or D-rings and securing to your bike’s frame or crash bar.

Mounted Helmet Locks: Some bikes come with built-in helmet locks. Aftermarket versions can also be mounted to your frame, handlebars, or crash bars.

Pro Tip Some locks come with motion alarms. If someone tampers with your helmet, it sets off a loud deterrent.
Lock It Inside a Motorcycle Trunk or Saddlebag

If you have a trunk or large enough saddlebag, you’ve got the perfect secure storage for your helmet (provided of course they aren’t already full).
- Many trunks can fit at least one full-face helmet.
- Not only keeps your helmet safe from theft, but also dry if it happens to rain.
Use a Lockable Helmet Bag
These hybrid bags combine portability with protection. Think of a regular helmet bag—but with built-in steel cable and a lock. Place your helmet inside, pull the locking cable tight, and attach it to your frame. Some even come with water-resistant or anti-scratch liners.

Loop a Cable Under Your Seat
Some riders run a cable through their helmet and fasten under their seat.
However, this will only work if you can remove and replace your seat easily, and if the seat has a lock to secure it to the frame.
Locks with Alarm Systems
If you want high-tech protection, you can go for a lock with a built-in motion alarm. This may be a cable lock or you can even use a disc lock with a built-in alarm.
- Sounds a 90-120 dB alarm if tampered with
- Can deter both helmet and motorcycle thieves
Make Your Helmet Less Attractive to Thieves
Personalize It! …Stickers, patches, or custom paint jobs make your helmet more recognizable and harder to resell.
Carry a Lightweight Helmet Bag
While not always the most convenient option, carrying your helmet with you is the most foolproof way to prevent theft and damage. If you’re in a high-theft area or don’t want to leave your helmet outside, carry a helmet bag with a shoulder strap. Lightweight, easy to store, and lets you carry your helmet comfortably if you need to bring it indoors.
Final Word: Don’t Let Your Guard Down
It only takes seconds to lose a helmet, and way longer to replace one. Doing a search for “motorcycle helmet anti-theft lock” or similar search will provide many options that are available. While no method guarantees complete prevention, securing your helmet will deter opportunistic theft.
Securing your motorcycle helmet is a simple and protects your investment and peace of mind. With little effort, you can confidently leave your lid knowing it will be safe and sound until your return.
SAFETY TIP: “DEALING WITH THE SKID”
Safety tip from Paul Carroll

It’s inevitable, if you ride you will eventually experience a loss of traction on your bike at some point. Now, the more important thing is what you are going to do about it.
First is not to panic. You can deal with this skid. If you are talking about hitting some sand or dirt going into a corner and your back tire starts to slide, then slightly turning your bars in the direction of the skid will help keep the bike upright until your back tire clears the sand and gains traction again. Those who have ridden dirt bikes know this technique well.
If you lose traction when approaching a stop sign or stop light and it’s on the front wheel, immediately release the front brake lever and reapply. If it’s a back tire lock up, you should NOT let off of the rear brake pedal. Instead, ride the skid out using your front brake to bring the bike to a stop. There are times where you can release the rear pedal, but ONLY if the rear and front wheel are in alignment.
Until next time, Ride Safe!
LEMHI VALLEY TO ALPINE MAJESTY: OUR JOURNEY HOME CONTINUES
Friday, July 26th, 2024, marked day six of our epic eight-day Glacier Road Trip. And what a day it was!
After a comfortable night at the Sacajawea Inn in Salmon, Idaho, we woke up to a wonderful sunny morning. We fueled up our bikes at the local Sinclair and grabbed some breakfast essentials before hitting the road. Our destination for the day was the scenic town of Alpine, Wyoming, approximately 225 miles to the southeast.
Our journey began heading south on Highway 28, a route that winds through the magnificent Lemhi Valley. This stretch is also part of the Sacajawea Historic Byway, adding a layer of historical significance. The crisp morning air prompted a quick stop to add some layers, a reminder of the varied climates we encounter on these rides.
We passed through Leadore, a town with an interesting past, having developed as a railroad hub for transporting ore from nearby mines after a logistical issue with the original station site. It’s fascinating riding through these small historical towns.
Reaching our halfway point, we took a well-deserved break. With engines off and helmets removed, the silence and fresh air were invigorating. To our west, the rugged peaks of Saddle Mountain stood tall, while to the east, vast prairie stretched out before us. It was a moment of pure solitude and appreciation for the stunning scenery. Refueled and refreshed, we hopped back on our bikes, ready for the next leg.
Lunchtime brought us to a familiar spot: the Teton House in Menan, Idaho. This was a nostalgic stop for us, as we had visited this very place during a previous road trip to Alpine a few years back–a trip fondly remembered for our dealership GM receiving his “princess crown!”
The final leg of our journey, just over 50 miles from Ririe, Idaho, took us through the beautiful Snake River Canyon. The winding Snake River carved its path through the landscape, leading us to the inspiring Palisades Reservoir, a vast expanse of water framed by the surrounding mountains. The views were truly spectacular, a fitting grand finale to our ride.
Finally, we arrived in Alpine, Wyoming, and made our way to the Flying Saddle Resort, another familiar and welcoming stop from our previous Alpine adventure. After checking in, a refreshing swim in the resort’s large indoor pool was the perfect way to unwind before a delicious dinner at the resort restaurant.
Today’s ride was a true masterpiece of Idaho and Wyoming landscapes. From the chilly morning in Salmon to the historic Lemhi Valley, the panoramic mid-ride stop, the nostalgic lunch at the Teton House, and the breathtaking Snake River Canyon, every mile was a highlight. It was a perfect blend of history and natural beauty.
The next day, we turned our sights towards home as we embark on a roughly 327-mile ride to Vernal, Utah. Stay tuned for more tales from the road!
COLORADO GETS TOUGH: A NEW BILL TO CRACKDOWN ON CARELESS DRIVING CAUSING BODILY INJURY
The open roads and breathtaking scenery of Colorado come with a responsibility: to drive with care and attention. The Colorado senate is working on a new Bill (SB25-281) that introduces stricter penalties for careless driving resulting in bodily injury to another person. This isn’t just a minor tweak; it’s a clear message that negligence behind the wheel with harmful consequences will be met with more serious repercussions.

For years careless driving has often been treated as a traffic violation, typically only resulting in small fines and a few points on a driver’s license. However, with SB25-281 there would be a new law specific to the offense of careless driving causing bodily injury.
This means that if a driver operates a vehicle in a careless manner, and that carelessness directly leads to another person suffering physical harm, there will now be more significant legal consequences. The bill would also increase the penalty for a person who commits careless driving and causes the death of another.
What Does This Mean for the Careless Driver?
While careless driving may have previously resulted in just a traffic ticket, the same action that causes bodily injury or even death will now lead to more severe penalties
- Increased Fines: up to $1,000 for bodily harm, between $1,000 and $100,000 if resulting in death
- Jail Time: up to 1 year in jail for bodily harm, and between 1 year and 1.5 years if resulting in death
- Driver’s License Suspension: The court may impose a suspension of driving privileges
- A Criminal Record: This new offense could result in a criminal record, impacting future opportunities
- Increased Insurance Premiums: An accident resulting in bodily injury or death will lead to a significant increase in the driver’s insurance rates
Why the Change?
The bill intends to enhance safety on Colorado’s roads and provide greater accountability for drivers whose negligence causes harm. Current penalties for careless driving causing injury don’t adequately reflect the impact on victims and their families. By creating a more serious offense, the legislature aims to deter careless behavior and ensure that those who cause injury through their negligence face more meaningful consequences.
What Constitutes Careless Driving?
So what actions can be classified as careless driving? Generally, it refers to operating a vehicle without paying reasonable attention to the road and other traffic. Examples can include:
- Following too closely
- Making unsafe lane changes
- Excessive speed
- Running red lights
- Stunt driving
- Distracted driving (texting, eating, adjusting the radio)
- Failure to yield the right-of-way
Moving Forward
It’s hopeful this bill will be passed and put into law. It underscores the importance of staying focused, alert, and making safety a top priority every time someone gets behind the wheel. Cracking down on careless driving that leads to bodily injury will particularly benefits those that are most vulnerable—motorcyclists, bicyclists, pedestrians.
Regardless of this proposed bill, as motorcyclists you must always stay vigilant.
WHISPERS OF THE PAST: EXPLORING THE BALDWIN TUNNEL IN POUDRE CANYON
The Poudre Canyon conjures images of rushing whitewater, towering pines, and rugged cliffs. For those venturing along Highway 14, the scenic byway carves its way through this natural masterpiece. Nestled not far from the Mishawaka, there is the Baldwin Tunnel, a silent guardian whispering tales of ingenuity and perseverance that is long forgotten. The Baldwin Tunnel isn’t just a passage through rock, it’s a tangible link to the canyon’s history, and holds a significant place in the development of Northern Colorado.

A Testament to Human Endeavor
As you approach the mouth of the tunnel, you can almost feel the echoes of the men who painstakingly carved this passage through solid granite. Built in the early 1900s, the Baldwin Tunnel was a crucial part of an ambitious project to bring electricity to the growing city of Fort Collins. The Larimer County Light and Power Company recognized the immense potential of the Poudre River’s powerful flow. To harness this energy, they embarked on the construction of a hydroelectric plant, and the Baldwin Tunnel played a vital role in this endeavor.
It took sheer determination to bore through the hard granite rock with the tools and techniques of the time. This wasn’t a task for the faint of heart. Workers labored, using dynamite and hand tools to carve out the tunnel, stretching roughly 570 feet. Construction was completed around 1916. The tunnel’s primary purpose was to provide passage for Highway 14 along the Poudre River, which was essential for accessing the upper reaches of the canyon and facilitating the transport of materials for the hydroelectric project.
The tunnel was named after Charles Baldwin, who served as the road construction supervisor during its creation. His role was vital in ensuring the successful completion of this challenging undertaking.
More Than Just a Hole in the Rock
Today, as you drive through the Baldwin Tunnel, it’s easy to overlook its historical significance. It becomes just another landmark along a stunning drive. But take a moment to consider its origins. Think about the visionaries who conceived of this project and the laborers who worked so diligently to bring it to fruition.
While you can’t exactly stop and explore inside the tunnel, you can appreciate its presence as you drive through. The Baldwin Tunnel serves as an important reminder of the ingenuity and hard work that shaped the Poudre Canyon and the surrounding communities. It’s a piece of history, etched in stone, and a testament to the enduring power of human endeavor.
Impact and Legacy

Before the Baldwin Tunnel was completed, the road essentially ended near Thompson’s Resort (the original name of the Mishawaka). Travel to the upper parts of Poudre Canyon was a more arduous journey over Pingree Hill to Rustic (a northern route). The tunnel’s completion opened the canyon, making it more accessible for travel, recreation, and further development.
While its initial purpose was linked to the hydroelectric plant, the Baldwin Tunnel quickly became an integral part of the scenic Highway 14, facilitating tourism and connecting communities within and beyond the canyon. Today, as travelers pass through it, they are traversing a piece of history, a physical reminder of the ingenuity and perseverance that shaped this beautiful region of Colorado. The tunnel stands as a silent witness to the canyon’s past, a time of ambitious engineering and the harnessing of natural resources.
So, the next time you find yourself winding through the breathtaking Poudre Canyon and pass through the Baldwin Tunnel, take a moment to appreciate the whispers of the past held within its rocky embrace. It’s more than just a tunnel, it’s a story waiting to be remembered.
RIDING WITH PURPOSE: THE INDIAN MOTORCYCLE RIDERS NATIONAL CHARITY RIDE AND FOLDS OF HONOR
The rumble of a V-twin engine. The open road stretching out before you. The camaraderie of fellow riders. For many, motorcycling is a passion and a way to connect with the world and others. But what happens when that passion fuels something even greater? That’s the magic behind the Indian Motorcycle Riders Group National Charity Ride, an event that channels the spirit of riding into tangible support for the incredible work of Folds of Honor.

For those unfamiliar, Folds of Honor is a non-profit organization that provides educational scholarships to the spouses and children of military service members who have fallen or been disabled in the line of duty. Their mission is simple yet profound: to ensure that the families who have sacrificed so much for our freedom have the opportunity to pursue their educational dreams.
The IMRG understands the importance of giving back, and the National Charity Ride has become a powerful testament to that commitment. For a 2nd year, each chapter will plan a ride route in their local area starting or ending at their local dealership—this includes the Northern Colorado IMRG Chapter. These aren’t just leisurely rides; they are purposeful journeys where each mile covered is in honor of the brave men and women who serve our country and their families.
What makes this partnership so impactful? It’s the perfect synergy of a passionate motorcycle community and a worthy cause. IMRG members embody a spirit of freedom and patriotism, values deeply intertwined with the sacrifices made by our military families and help provide tangible support that can change lives.
The funds raised through the IMRG National Charity Ride directly contribute to Folds of Honor scholarships, helping to ease the financial burden of education for Gold Star families and those with disabled veterans. These scholarships empower spouses to pursue careers, and children to achieve their academic aspirations, ensuring that the legacy of their loved ones continues through opportunity.
To make a donation to Folds of Honor and sign-up for the National Charity Ride on September 20th , or to simply make a donation, visit the Northern Colorado IMRG National Charity Ride Team page:
- To donate and sign-up for the 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.
