British ecologist and avid motorcyclist Chris Morgan is on a quest to save threatened bear populations around the world. The 39-year-old Morgan uses his Touratech TT-39 equipped BMW F 650 GS to navigate scores of incredibly rugged tracks in his attempt to reach some of the most remote bear habitats.

Following its 2003 introduction, the RF-1000 soon became Shoei’s hottest-selling helmet. Boasting a slew of popular features and good value, it’s no surprise that it took the company’s engineers a while to improve upon it. That day has arrived with the introduction of Shoei’s all-new sport-touring lid, the RF-1100.

Though it violates an adventurer’s prescription for a life well lived, occasionally the destination is as important as the journey. Really.

Beginning next year, emergency help on the Swain County part of the route known as the “Tail of the Dragon” may take longer to arrive. Graham County is ending its ambulance service into Swain County to respond to wrecks on the well-known motorcycle route on U.S. 129.