Minnesota Adventure Riders

Forbes had a nice article recently on Polaris and their effort to revive the Indian brand with all new models this year.  Here is a snippet:

“The new Indian is being engineered from scratch, with new frames and new engines, as well as a handful of classic Indian styling cues, such as the war bonnet, the valanced fender and the engine’s exposed push rods. “Think of how Chevrolet took the ’68 Camaro and brought it forward to 2010 when it was relaunched,” said Steve Menneto, vice president of motorcycles at Polaris. “It was a modern car, with all the technology, electronics and quality, without losing the brand heritage.””

Its too bad they are actually made in Iowa, but I look forward to see how this Minnesota company innovates this legendary brand.

Last Spring a new helmet law was introduced into the State legislature that would make it illegal to ride without a helmet if you don’t have proper insurance.

ABATE as a nice write up .  I personally have mixed feelings about this.  Making someone else pay because you are choosing to ride without ATGATT is not cool.  However, I don’t like the government continuing to invade our personal decisions either.

Anyone heard of the status on this?  I believe it went into committee, but that was quite a while ago.  Sound off in the comments if you know any details or want to weigh in on the subject.

Its that time of year again. We will try to keep you updated on stats right here. Two riders from the USA this year will compete; the legendary Johnny Campbell (41 yrs old) will make his return to the Dakar after a long absence and also Kevin Muggleton (46 yrs old).  Johnny will be riding for Honda (of course) on a Honda Rally CRF450 and Kevin will be riding for Redverz on a Honda CRF450 Dakar X. 

Kevin’s facebook page is here, with LOTS of photos.  Johnny’s is here.

You can watch the Dakar on NBC Sports Network at 1 AM or 1:30 CST each night. Can’t wait?  Watch the preview videos below.

Here is the schedule and route map:

Read the rest of this entry »

If you missed it WCCO evening news did a nice spot on the I-Cycle derby this last week. Quite a few Dual Sports and Adventure bikes shown.  Looks like a fun time. Clink the link for a video and article.

Dakar 2013 is gearing up.  Here is a fun behind the scenes video of what racers have to go through well before the race ever starts.

Riding season in Minnesota may be wrapping up for many of you but in case you forgot, it is a perfect time for riding in other parts of the world.  The Rally in Morocco is going on now.  Stay up to date by visiting: http://rallyemaroc.npo.fr/posi/?lang=en

Their Youtube channel is also excellent:

Enjoy!

A quick post to let you all know that the Minnesota DNR is once again seeking your feedback on expanding OHM trails. This time it is adding another mile of trail to huntersville. See the press release with contact information here.

Please take a minute to drop them an email, let them know you are  an OHM rider, let them know you spend time and money in the areas of MN where OHM trails are built, and finally let them know you approve of the expansion of the Huntersville trail system.

Thank you to all who continue to support our trails!

I came across a new outfitter in the Saint Paul area today.  I was impressed with their selection, prices, location, and overall atmosphere.  They have an online presence at https://www.traditioncreek.com and their retail location is at 933 7th Street West in Saint Paul right near the old Landmark/Schmidt brewery.  They had their grand opening this week.  Really a fun store to browse through.

Its always good to support local  retailers, so next time you need a tent, sleeping bag, stove, or other gear, look these guys up.  I think your experience will be a lot more satisfying than the big box stores.  I picked up a dried spaghetti pack and some lightweight tent stakes for my trip on the TMAT on the north shore next week.  I am looking for a reason to go back soon!