“The Glory Stompers,” released in 1967, is a B-movie outlaw biker film that is interesting from a film history point of view.
The plot revolves around Chino (played by Dennis Hopper), the leader of the Black Souls motorcycle gang, who kidnaps Darryl’s (Jody McCrea), girlfriend, Chris (Chris Noel).
The film’s frmework is, more or less, a western but it remains firmly in the B-picture format, exuding a gritty atmosphere.
I ran across Glory Stompers on a rainy day on ScreenPix Westerns network so I took one for the team. Is it worth your time, not really.
I have a lot of other motorcycle TV reviews on this blog. Just do a seach for IJustWant2ride Motorcycle TV to get a list from your search engine.
What you need to know: Lane Filtering is now legal in Colorado.
On April 4, 2024, the governor of Colorado signed into law a bill allowing motorcycles to filter between stopped cars in traffic and at stoplights. Colorado became the fifth state to legalize lane filtering, joining California, Utah, Montana, and Arizona.
The bill will go into effect on August 7, 2024. Motorcyclists will be allowed to filter through stopped traffic at a speed of 15 mph or less.
However, this legislation will be subject to safety studies, and unless those studies work out favorably, it will automatically become illegal again in 2027.
My Take: I support lane filtering when it is safe and legal. I like the idea that this time will be used to study the results of the new bill. HOWEVER, not too sure if that is enough time to get a good sample data set AND how is the state going to inform/train the drivers of cars/trucks on the new law.
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What you need to know: United States House Congressional Motorcycle Caucus increases in size.
With the recent gain of six new members, the House Motorcycle Caucus now has 36 members.
Founded in 2009, “The House and Senate Motorcycle Caucuses host educational seminars and press events that shine a light on the issues facing the motorcycling community. The bipartisan membership of these caucuses allows us to know who our champions on Capitol Hill are and which legislators are committed to standing with us on critical issues.” (quote and list from the Motorcycle Riders Foundation)
My Take: If your representative is on the list AWESOME! If not drop them a note and encourage them to join and work with our community. My rep is not on the list, and I just sent a request asking why he is not.
Ride to work day use to be on the 3rd Monday in June. But, because of the new Untied States National Holiday of Juneteenth, the Ride to Work organization moved it to the second Tuesday of June.
Why the second Tuesday? “Because RTW Day is about riding to work (as well as for utility transportation), starting in 2024 RTW Day will annually be on the Second Tuesday in June. This day is chosen because A) it breaks up the workweek better than a Monday day does (RTW Day is a demonstration day), and B) because a midweek day is more likely to receive media coverage than a Monday or Friday.”
Why “Ride to Work” anyway? Ride your motorcycle on Ride To Work Day and demonstrate: – The number of motorcyclists to the general public and politicians – Motorcyclists are from all occupations and all walks of life – Motorcyclists can reduce traffic congestion in large cities – Motorcycles are for transportation as well as recreation
Be aware that this motorcycle recall list is for the United States for the last 30 days, there is no way I could cover the entire world. But in the world of global manufacturing, if a motorcycle is being recalled in one country there is a good chance it is under recall in others. So, safety first.
Also, (DISCLAIMER) this should not be considered a definitive list, check for yourself if you have any questions.
If you are US based, use the NHTSA website http://www.safercar.gov. Enter your VIN number to see if your motorcycle is affected by the recall.
If you are based outside the USA, use the appropriate website to locate recalls that may impact you.
The Virginia Commissioner of Motor Vehicles, Commissioner Lakey, recently sent motorcycle owners correspondence regarding motorcycle safety (see below), highlighting the Virginia Riders Training program. The letter also included a pamphlet regarding the Rider Training program (above).
Shockingly, statistics reveal that 76% of motorcyclists involved in crashes in Virginia had not completed a training course. Even more alarmingly, 1 in 4 riders in these accidents lacked an “M” motorcycle endorsement on their licenses.
This data underscores the importance of training and proper licensure. As we mark Motorcycle Safety Awareness month, I am grateful for the Commissioner’s efforts in raising awareness through these letters and educational materials. It is my sincere hope that more individuals seize this opportunity to enhance their skills and ensure safer rides for themselves and others.
During Motorcycle Safety Awareness Month in May, promoting awareness among children about watching for motorcycles is crucial.
A game where kids count motorcycles instead of “punch bugs” can foster early recognition of motorcycles, benefiting their future driving habits.
This effort aims to enhance overall safety on the roads, emphasizing that safety gear and motorcycle technology alone are insufficient without driver awareness.
By encouraging families and friends to engage in this activity, we invest in a safer future for all road users.
The excitement of spotting motorcycles in this game can make road safety a priority at an early age, emphasizing the importance of vigilance on the roads.
It is important to get the word out to your non-riding friends and family!
I don’t own any of these photos/memes about motorcycle safety, but I have gathered them from actross the intenet. I think that “Fair Use” is in full operation regarding their use.
So, PLEASE, copy past and any of these motorcycle safety pictures and memes. Post them all to your favorite media sites. Point them out to non-riders, we motorcycle riders already get it!
I must admit, as a child my parents asked me that question many times. As an adult, I still get that inquisitive look and even if the words are not said, the eyes shout that question to some degree. When I first told friends that I was going to volunteer to get up early, keep my eyes on the track, and pick up crashed motorcycles at the races I both saw and heard “why,” or in a few cases “how did you arrange that?”
Until 2012, the only races I watched were Olympic Track and Field races. I did not watch or follow any motorsport racing. I first started watching motorcycle racing when my son, who was 14 at the time, did a research paper on Valentino Rossi. He and I accepted the invitation of a friend to watch the MotoGP races at his place. After several Sundays of watching races, my interest rose and I began studying the rules, regulations, classes, and riders.
Two years later I was hosting MotoGP watch parties at a local BBQ joint in the “party room” and inviting people in the area who either already watched, had the same curiosity I had a few years ago, or were just looking for a way to hang out and meet others who rode. We would connect the laptop to a big TV and watch the replay of races that often happened in the early hours of the morning, as they were held overseas. Some years we had door prizes from local dealerships and shops for attendees at the first and last races of the year.
Opening Race 2023 was well attended and full of fun and excitement.
When it was announced the Circuit of the Americas (COTA) in Austin, TX was hosting a MotoGP round in 2013, I decided to attend with some friends. The live action was amazing and I was hooked. Before the event, I had received an email from one of the track marshal organizers asking if I would share the request for volunteers with my Christian Motorcyclists Association friends (at the time I was part of the North Texas Leadership Team). I knew nothing about track marshaling or what it entailed, so I passed the information on to others but did not volunteer myself.
Two years later with my son being 18 years old, we researched what track marshals did and both registered to volunteer at the 2015 race. (flaggers and rider assist positions were also available). Our volunteer applications were accepted and we were able to learn even more that weekend at COTA. It was a fun experience and to see and hear the bike go by that close to us was something you couldn’t get from normal seating at the track. I returned to volunteer in 2017, 2020, 2021, 2023, and again this year, 2024. I also was a track marshal for the 2023 MotoAmerica round at COTA. The MotoAmerica paddock is more open and fans are allowed a lot more access to riders.
My son and I were waiting for the trailer to take MotoGP Legend Andrea Dovizioso’s bike that ran out of fuel on the cool-down lap. Dovi placed 2nd and had already caught a ride to the podium celebration.
So why do I volunteer three full days to be a track marshal?
1) A love for motorcycle racing and the view of the races is the best you can get. You not only see the races, you feel the races. DO NOT volunteer if you are trying to get content for social media – there are strict rules concerning personal cameras, cell phones etc…
2) The opportunity to help provide a safe (as much as possible) racing environment for the riders.
3) To help represent the USA on a world stage by being part of a high-quality track marshal team.
4) The chance to promote, and encourage motorcycling in America. Without volunteers, most racing series would not survive.
5) The chance to meet volunteers from around the world i.e. Czech Republic, Australia, Mexico, England, and others. I now have friends in many other countries that I have met while volunteering at these events. One friend, Roberto, I now pick up at the Austin airport and he stays with me and other friends who attend the race at a rental house for the weekend.
6) The opportunity to walk the paddock and meet riders and their team members when allowed. While there isn’t always a ton of time during the weekend, occasionally there will be opportunities to experience some of the event as a fan as well.
7) The opportunity to share your passion for motorcycling and motorcycling racing.
What is needed to be a track marshal volunteer?
1) Willingness and commitment. Please DO NOT accept a volunteer position and then not attend. Each year I am surprised at the number of “no-shows” that take place. One year over 100 volunteers didn’t show! The volunteer organizers work hard every year to recruit, rearrange, and fill in as needed to make sure America does not fail MotoGP.
2) A good attitude. This is not the place for egos. People need to be flexible, humble, helpful, and willing to follow instructions. The only line to be “drawn in the sand” is one’s safety.
3) Willingness to attend virtual training sessions before the race weekend. Usually one or two training sessions of 1 to 1.5 hours.
4) Understanding and commitment to do your best regardless of the weather conditions. Rain, cold, or hot and sometimes all three in one weekend can happen, but the races go on.
5) Come with a humble attitude and willingness to follow directions given by experienced team members. Not following instructions can lead to problems and/or injuries.
The global MotoGP feed is running while I help Aleix Espargaro #41 after a high-speed crash
What do track volunteers get for their time and efforts?
1) The best seats in the house! Nothing blocking the view of the race as they ride by your station.
2) Breakfast, lunch and dinner is provided. Water and sports drinks are provided at each station during each day.
3) Opportunities to walk on the track, meet riders, and be a part of the event
4) “Swag bag” for each volunteer. Items in the bag may change but each year I have received a custom volunteer cap, t-shirt, race program book, and other items. Past goodies have included a COTA or MotoGP mug, sunglasses, a keychain, sunscreen, a small notebook, etc.
5) Free parking (at the volunteer lot)
6) Three complimentary tickets to share with friends or family. Each ticket is good for one entry so one person can enter each day or three could enter for one day. This year (2024) my complimentary tickets helped two friends get seats on the starting grid opposite the VIP suites and stands!
7) A satisfaction and sense of pride in being a part of the team ensuring the event is successful.
Celebrating with Joe Roberts after finishing 2nd in Moto2 – first American to finish on the podium at an American GP since Ben Spies in 2011 at Indianapolis. Joe took my flag on the celebration ride and garage celebration.
What are the “value-added” aspects of being a track marshal?
1) Meet other race fans and make new friends from all over the United States and the world. Over the years there have been track marshals from Australia, the United Kingdom, the Czech Republic, Canada, Mexico, Turkey, Italy, Brazil, Ukraine, South Africa, and others!
2) Future preference when volunteering to marshal other racing events, including MotoAmerica and Formula 1 (provided you fulfill your commitment and aren’t one of the “difficult” marshals). Leadership will even help if you want to try to marshal at an international race!
3) Potential opportunity to help riders who have gone down, and see the most expensive, high-powered motorcycles in the world up close!
4) To be a small part of the MotoGP World Championship and the racing excitement that has made you a fan of the sport. As I mentioned before, they rely heavily on volunteers to make these events operate smoothly and continue to be something we can enjoy for years to come
5) For riders who enjoy track days, club racing, or are considering either can see the best of the world and get a clearer idea of advanced riding techniques.
2018 Valentino Rossi’s bike getting prepared for the race.
What jobs are available for volunteers and what do they do?
Track Marshal – check track for debris before and between races, quickly assist a down rider restart or remove the bike (“be quick but don’t rush’), help ensure riders safely get off the track.
Flaggers – when appropriate or directed display the appropriate flag to communicate with the riders track situations or conditions.
Rider Assist – assist medic in cases where a rider is injured.
*** All three positions work as a team to ensure the safety of riders and volunteers. ***
How does one go about volunteering?
1) Visit the Circuit of the Americas volunteer page and register.
2) Visit the MotorsportsReg page and search for the event you want to work.
5) Visit the webpage of the track you want to marshal at and search for the volunteer tab.
Not all motorcycle races have the same volunteer organizers, so you may have to search the internet or call the track. Volunteers are needed at all levels and all types of motorcycle racing so there are a lot of opportunities. Give it a try and I believe you will find it rewarding.
About Thomas
Thomas Osburn , native Texan recently moved to Pulaski, Tennessee to get closer to my wife’s family. Thomas Retired in 2022 after 36 years in public education – teacher, coach and then campus administration for the last 19 years.
Started riding in 2004 – currently I own a 2022 Indian Pursuit. He have organized, led and completely run an annual summer motorcycle tour since 2006. This summer there are 14 individuals going on my “Beat The Heat Tour 2024” to East Tennessee/NC.
He has been a member of the Christian Motorcyclists Association since 2004 and was a part of the Texas State leadership team 2013-2023.
In 2017 he attended the MotoGP races at Mugello, Italy. After the race he rented a motorcycle in Milan, Italy and rode for a week in the Alps (Switzerland and Italy).
In 2018 he and three friends and rode to Homer, Alaska and back.
His son, Richard, is an assistant sales manager at Laconia Harley Davidson. If you are ever in that area Thomas would like you to stop by and to say high as see it he can help you out.
Be aware that this motorcycle recall list is for the United States for the last 30 days, there is no way I could cover the entire world. But in the world of global manufacturing, if a motorcycle is being recalled in one country there is a good chance it is under recall in others. So, safety first.
Also, (DISCLAIMER) this should not be considered a definitive list, check for yourself if you have any questions.
If you are US based, use the NHTSA website http://www.safercar.gov. Enter your VIN number to see if your motorcycle is affected by the recall.
If you are based outside the USA, use the appropriate website to locate recalls that may impact you.
*****
Motorcycle Recall April 2024: Kawasaki
Be aware that this motorcycle recall list is for the United States for the last 30 days, there is no way I could cover the entire world. But in the world of global manufacturing, if a motorcycle is being recalled in one country there is a good chance it is under recall in others. So, safety first.
Also, (DISCLAIMER) this should not be considered a definitive list, check for yourself if you have any questions.
If you are US based, use the NHTSA website http://www.safercar.gov. Enter your VIN number to see if your motorcycle is affected by the recall.
If you are based outside the USA, use the appropriate website to locate recalls that may impact you.
*****
NHTSA Campaign Number: 24V270000
Manufacturer Kawasaki Motors Corp., U.S.A.
Components TIRES
Summary Kawasaki Motors Corp., U.S.A. (KMC) is recalling certain 2024 ZR900C, ZR900E and ZR900N (Z900RS ABS, Z900RS CAFE ABS, and Z900RS SE ABS) motorcycles. Due to an improper manufacturing process during installation of the sidewall rubber of the tire, the front tire may blister on the inner surface. As such, these motorcycles fail to comply with the requirements of Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standard number 119, “New Pneumatic Tires-Other Than Passenger Car.”
Remedy Dealers will replace the front tires, free of charge. The manufacturer has not yet provided a schedule for recall notification. Owners may contact KMC customer service at 1-866-802-9381. KMC’s number for this recall is DAL491A.
I JUST WANT 2 RIDE!! 