NoCo IMRG Informer Newsletter (September 2024)

Northern Colorado IMRG Informer Newsletter

WEIRD MOTORCYCLE HELMETS

When you think of motorcycle helmets, images of sleek, aerodynamic designs with solid-colored finishes might come to mind. But for some riders, a helmet is more than just a safety device—it’s an expression of individuality and creativity. Enter the world of bizarre motorcycle helmets, where eccentricity meets engineering in ways that are as eye-catching as they are inventive. Crazy adorned helmets are a testament to the fact that motorcycle culture thrives on originality. Unusual helmet designs prove that a bit of whimsy can go a long way in making a statement. After all, who says you can’t have a little fun while staying safe on the road?

Here are just a few wacky helmets found on a Google search.

#1 This crazy blue motorcycle helmet cover will unleash your inner wild child! This head-turning helmet accessory is certainly outlandish and guaranteed to put a smile on every face you pass. No doubt wearers of this helmet will become the star of impromptu photo shoots.

#2 This female Terminator helmet certainly shows the badass side of a female rider. The boundary-pushing design channels the iconic Terminator and redefines the image of the female rider. The helmet is a powerful statement of strength and femininity. With a dual personality, it presents one face to the world and another to the road.

#3 You’ve seen skull helmets before, but nothing compares to this bone-chilling masterpiece. It’s been molded to perfection, and is not just a helmet; it’s a statement. Bold, edgy, and undeniably different, it’s a head-turner that leaves a lasting impression. While the helmet may scare off a few, there’s no denying that it stands out from the pack.

#4 This Predator motorcycle helmet inspired by the Predator movies might intimidate or frighten some. However, I suspect many people will simply find the helmet humorous and entertaining at best, and perhaps get closer to take a picture. It certainly takes boldness on the rider’s part to have confidence to stand out. Hopefully he doesn’t do an embarrassing miss shift to neutral trying when taking off.

#5 Motorcycles are about the exhilaration of two wheels, endless horizons, and big smiles. This helmet’s mischievous smirk emphasizes motorcycle life in wide-open, high-definition glory. Showing a wicked smile, no doubt, reflects the adrenaline this rider gets while riding.

#6 This motorcycle enthusiast has a purr-fectly wild side. This rider is boldly adorning striking cat ears on her helmet. Whether you’re a cat lover or not, no doubt heads turn and conversations ignite when she rides by.

#7 Creepy custom helmet inspired by the Marvel Comics character Venom. The Venom character is an alien symbiote that bonds with a human host to survive. Both Venom and a motorcycle rider are sometimes associated with darkness and danger. While Venom is a villain, the motorcycle rider is most likely law-abiding.

#8 A motorcycle rider cruising through town with a replica of a tea kettle for a helmet. At the stop light, fellow riders might be revving their engines, but this rider tips their head to one side to pour tea out of their kettle.

STRANGE MOTORCYCLE LAWS

Motorcycle laws can be quirky, ranging from the downright bizarre to the downright impractical. For example, some states have laws against riding a motorcycle while blindfolded, while others prohibit riding in a gorilla costume. Additionally, some laws seem to be based on outdated assumptions, such as restrictions on female riders holding onto male riders for support. While some laws have a clear safety rationale, others leave riders scratching their heads, wondering if they were dreamt up by someone who’d never even seen a motorcycle.

Here are a few peculiar laws:

  • In Tennessee, hunting any game from a moving vehicle, including a motorcycle or automobile, is prohibited, except for whales; those are fair game.
  • Have you ever seen bikers dressed up in Santa costumes around the holidays? In Virginia, this tradition is against the law. You’re prohibited from hiding your identity in public places in the state, including while riding your motorcycle.
  • No riding on the wrong way on a one-way street is a no-brainer. But in Alabama there is an exception for motorcycle riders. As long as you have a lantern attached to your bike, you can travel any which way on a one-way road.
  • You must have clean tires while riding in Minnetonka, MN. If you have dirty tires, make sure to clean them before riding through Minnetonka. Dirty tires are a “nuisance” that impacts safety and general welfare, according to the city’s motorist laws.
  • While it may be common sense, Alabama lawmakers specify that riding a motorcycle while blindfolded is strictly prohibited.
  • Screeching your tires while riding in Kansas can result in a $500 fine and up to 30 days in jail. So no burnouts in Kansas.
  • No cursing while riding in Rockville, Maryland. Irritating motorists may lead you to let some unpleasant language slip while riding, but you’ll need to keep a handle on your tongue in Rockville, Maryland. Swearing from any vehicle is a misdemeanor.
  • No honking near a restaurant after 9 p.m. in Arkansas. Honking your horn after 9 p.m. near restaurants or anywhere that sells cold drinks or sandwiches is against the law.
  • In London, a traffic law specifically states you can’t have sex on a parked motorcycle.
  • Massachusetts motorcyclists are prohibited from having dangerous wild animals on board.
  • In Pennsylvania, you are required to set off rocket flares for every mile of country road you ride. After the flare is sent, you have to wait 10 minutes for the road to clear of any livestock before continuing on.

TED’S PLACE: A LANDMARK LOST TO TIME

Many of Northern Colorado Indian Motorcycle Riders Group rides start or end at Ted’s Place, the gas station on the corner of US-287 and CO-14 (Poudre Canyon) near Laporte.

Have you ever wondered why this is called Ted’s Place?

A Cornerstone of the Community

Ted’s Place wasn’t just a gas station; it was a cornerstone of the Laporte community, a symbol of simpler times, and a testament to the enduring spirit of the American West. Nestled at the intersection of US 287 and Colorado State Highway 14, its iconic sign was a beacon for weary travelers and a familiar sight for locals for decades. It held a special place in the hearts of many.

A Humble Beginning

The story of Ted’s Place begins in May 1922 when Ted Herring returned from infantry service in World War I, and his brother, Cameron, opened a filling station and store at this spot. It was a time when automobiles were still a novelty, and the Poudre Canyon was a remote and rugged wilderness. Yet, Herring saw potential in the location, and his intuition proved correct.

A Symbol of the Times

Ted’s Place evolved with the times. Soon, the popular rest stop expanded to include snacks, picnic supplies, fishing gear, and expert advice on local fishing. As their business grew, the Herrings opened a restaurant. As the Laramie Road was paved in the early 1930s, the Herrings raised the building to match the new road level, adding the iconic “TED’S” sign that became a landmark. The two-story structure stood as a testament to the era, a snapshot of small-town America.

A Chapter Ends

Tragedy struck in 1963 when Ted Herring passed away, marking the beginning of a new chapter for the beloved establishment. Ownership changed hands several times, and the once-vibrant business began to decline. Despite efforts by local historians and preservationists to save it, the building was ultimately demolished in 1989.

A Legacy Lives On

While the physical structure of Ted’s Place is gone, its spirit lives on in the memories of those who knew it. It’s a reminder of a bygone era when life moved at a slower pace, and people knew their neighbors.

REVVING FOR VICTORY: THE INDIAN MOTORCYCLE TRAINING SCHOOL’S CRUCIAL ROLE IN WW-II

During World War II, as the world was engulfed in conflict, the Indian Motorcycle Company in Springfield, Massachusetts, became a crucial contributor to the war effort in a unique way. Known for producing some of the most iconic motorcycles in history, Indian Motorcycle didn’t just supply vehicles; it also played a vital role in training military personnel to effectively operate and maintain these machines. The Indian Motorcycle Training School, established in Springfield during the war years, was a significant part of this effort.

The Birth of the Indian Motorcycle Training School

The Indian Motorcycle Company, founded in 1901, was one of the oldest and most prestigious motorcycle manufacturers in the United States. By the time World War II broke out, Indian had already established itself as a leader in the motorcycle industry. The U.S. military recognized the strategic value of motorcycles for various purposes, including reconnaissance, communication, and escort duties. To meet the growing demand for reliable and durable vehicles, Indian Motorcycle ramped up production of military models like the Scout 640B and the Chief 340B.

However, producing motorcycles was only part of the equation. The military needed trained personnel who could not only ride but also maintain and repair these machines under harsh wartime conditions. To address this need, the Indian Motorcycle Company established the Indian Motorcycle Training School in Springfield, Massachusetts.

Training the Troops

The training school was designed to provide comprehensive instruction to soldiers, mechanics, and other military personnel who would be using Indian motorcycles in the field. The curriculum covered a wide range of topics, including basic and advanced riding techniques, mechanical maintenance, and field repairs.

One of the primary focuses of the training was to ensure that soldiers could handle the motorcycles in a variety of challenging environments. This included navigating difficult terrain, understanding the mechanics of the bikes, and performing quick repairs in the field. The soldiers were trained to be self-reliant, as they often had to operate in remote areas where immediate support was unavailable.

The training school featured both classroom instruction and practical, hands-on experience. Soldiers learned to disassemble and reassemble engines, troubleshoot mechanical issues, and perform routine maintenance tasks. The practical training was often conducted on rugged courses that simulated the challenging conditions soldiers might face in combat zones.

The Impact on the War Effort

The Indian Motorcycle Training School in Springfield was more than just a technical institute; it was a crucial component of the U.S. military’s broader strategy to enhance mobility and communication on the battlefield. Well-trained motorcycle units were able to conduct reconnaissance missions, deliver messages quickly, and provide escort services for convoys, significantly improving the operational efficiency of the military.
Indian motorcycles became synonymous with reliability and toughness during the war. The soldiers who trained at the Springfield school carried this reputation with them into battle, where their skills and the ruggedness of their machines often made the difference in critical situations.

Legacy of the Training School

After the war, the Indian Motorcycle Training School’s legacy continued to influence motorcycle culture and military training programs. The skills and techniques developed during this period became a standard for military motorcycle training. Moreover, many of the soldiers who trained at the school carried their knowledge and passion for motorcycles into civilian life, contributing to the post-war motorcycle boom in the United States.

CDOT: RIDER SAFETY AWARENESS

In May, the Colorado Department of Transportation (CDOT) kicked off their annual motorcycle safety campaign. Even as the prime riding season draws to a close, CDOT’s essential safety information remains valuable for all motorcyclists.

We’ve all experienced fleeting thoughts about death and what our absence would feel like to our loved ones. “What if I die?” “What if my loved one dies?” Or for those who have lost loved ones, “I wish they were here.”

While most of us can cast these thoughts aside, for motorcyclists, these thoughts loom as a constant fear each time they ride. Motorcyclists are 28 times more likely to be killed in a crash than passenger vehicle occupants. And right now in Colorado, motorcyclist fatalities are the highest in the state’s history.

Although motorcycle fatalities decreased slightly in 2023, with the onset of warmer weather, the safety of these vulnerable road users remains a significant concern — especially because motorcycle-related crashes historically increase during the summer months. In 2023, 134 motorcyclists were killed in the state. While motorcyclists represent just 3% of the state’s roadway users, they account for a staggering 19% of all deaths.

Here’s another startling statistic – half of the motorcycle riders killed in 2023 were not wearing a helmet. Head injuries are the leading cause of death, and a helmet can reduce the likelihood of fatality by 37%, according to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA). Alcohol impairment and speed are also major contributing factors – in 2021, 30% of motorcyclists killed in a crash had alcohol in their system, and 34% of motorcyclists involved in fatal crashes in 2020 were speeding.

The good news? We’re in the rider’s seat when it comes to reversing these concerning trends by prioritizing caution and safety on the road.

CDOT offers the following tips and reminders to motorcyclists:

  • Always wear a helmet.
  • Do not ride if you’ve been drinking or taking any drugs.
  • Be predictable – signal your intentions and be aware of your surroundings.
  • Ride defensively – be prepared for other drivers to make mistakes.
  • Invest in your safety by taking a motorcycle safety course. Visit comost.com to find courses offered through the Colorado State Patrol.
  • No lane splitting – it is illegal in Colorado. Late filtering became legal on August 7, which allows motorcyclists to ride between stopped vehicles.
  • Wear high-visibility personal protective gear such as boots and gloves.
  • Observe all traffic laws and obey the speed limit.

Let’s reflect on the 134 motorcycle riders who left behind shattered hearts last year. They left their loved ones with a sentiment no one ever wishes to express: “Wish you were here.” By riding and driving responsibly, we not only safeguard ourselves but also spare our loved ones from heart-wrenching consequences. Ride and drive safely — for your own sake, and for the cherished souls who long for your return.

WHAT’S YOUR MOTORCYCLE MANTRA?

Motorcycle slogans are more than just catchy phrases; they serve as rallying cries, symbols of freedom, and reflections of the unique lifestyle associated with two-wheeled adventures. These slogans often encapsulate the thrill, camaraderie, and spirit of independence that riders cherish. Whether they emphasize the thrill of the open road, the importance of safety, or the sense of community among riders, motorcycle slogans resonate with those who share a passion for these powerful machines.

Keep the rubber side down and the shiny side upFeel the freedom, ride the wind
We ride together, we thrive togetherBrother & Sisterhood on two wheels
Wind therapyKnees in the breeze
Ride or dieLive fast, ride hard
Explore the open roadLive to ride, ride to live
Born to rideTwo wheels, one love
Feel the wind, embrace the thrillRide like the wind
ATGATTIf you are alive, ride
Sometimes it takes a lot of curves to get your mind straightDress for the slide, note the ride
Ride your own rideMake life a ride
Live to ride, ride to eatTrading miles for smiles
Wear your gear, don’t be a gearThe road is calling, and I must go
One love, one rideHelmet hair, don’t care
Born to ride, forced to workRide like everyone else is invisible
Find your freedom on two wheelsTwo wheels, endless possibilities
Ride like you stole itFour wheels move the body, two wheels move the soul
Break free, ride freeThrills on two wheels
Accelerate to happinessHappiness is a motorcycle and a full tank of gas
Keep your bike high and your head higherNo time is wasted when spent on two wheels
When life gets you down, remember it’s only one down, and the rest is upRiding a motorcycle is art in motion, and poetry on two wheels
Driving a car is like watching a movie, riding a motorcycle is like starring in oneEverything looks better from the inside of a motorcycle helmet

So what do you think? Do these embody the spirit of the riding community? Do any these mantras resonate with you? For decades, riders from around the world have expressed thoughts that remind us of the freedom, adventure, and passion that come with two-wheeled journeys. So, the next time you hit the road, remember these slogans and let them inspire your ride.


Ride. Seek. Explore.