Ask 10 people the definition of a touring motorcycle and you’re likely to get 10 different answers. Many would think they need a large motorcycle with a windscreen, fairing, hard luggage, big displacement motor, and various electronics and other features for safety and comfort. But not all touring riders subscribe to the theory that bigger […]

“Left Brainerd for the Cherokee camps … Thus we leave this place, 
perhaps never to return.” —The Journal of Rev. Daniel S. Butrick, October 4, 1839 Reverend Butrick departed from Calhoun, TN, with the Richard Taylor Detachment on the overland Northern Route. My wingman, Bob Brown, and me, however, initially follow a paved approximation of […]

Once upon a time, it was called Pinnacles National Monument, but today it is America’s newest national park. That’s where this story begins. Graduating from San Jose State, getting married, and landing my first permanent job with the National Park Service all within one week was a miracle. “We’d like to offer you a job […]

The prettiest end of Europe—that could be the most accurate description of Portugal. Remnant’s of this once-enormous empire are scattered throughout, from its decadent dining establishments to haunting historical buildings. One can’t forget the country’s beautiful coastline though, or its peaceful countryside, which is exactly where this journey begins.

Touratech is well known for its efforts to equip adventure riders with the right stuff, from shock absorbers to crash bars, even all-weather riding gear. Helmets are a relatively new offering from the Bavarian-based supplier. As part of their first installment, the Aventuro carbon helmet nails the needs of adventure riders. That’s no easy task. […]

Ohio is an amazingly contradictory land. In places, it’s as flat as a Ping-Pong table with arrow-straight swaths of asphalt plowing through endless acres of agriculture. But in the southern part of the state, rugged hills magically rise from nowhere, grab the road, and rumple it into a glorious chaos of curves.

A $10 early bird discount is available through May 1 on tickets to the 2017 AMA Vintage Motorcycle Days, scheduled for July 7-9 at Mid-Ohio Sports Car Course in Lexington, OH. AMA members can get a $15 ticket discount through June 5, which is an additional $5 off the early bird discount. The event features vintage motorcycle racing, bike shows, seminars, demo […]

National Park Week is April 15-23, and to celebrate the National Park Service is hosting fee-free days at all national parks April 22-23. National Park Week is an excellent time to make great connections, explore new places, discover open spaces, and enjoy affordable vacations. April 22 is Earth Day, and April 23 is the second annual […]

Erwin G. “Cannon Ball” Baker was a “different breed of cat,” writes Don Emde in his book Finding Cannon Ball’s Trail. Baker was a legendary motorcycle and automotive enthusiast who spent most of his life shattering American coast-to-coast and other speed records. In 1914, he set a new transcontinental record on an Indian motorcycle, riding […]

Last weekend was Eurobike Raleigh, the Southeast’s largest gathering of Euro and Euro-inspired motorcycles. The eighth annual event took place over two days in Raleigh, NC. Presented by Do the Ton Triangle, a local group of café racer enthusiasts, Eurobike Raleigh 2017 saw a mix of European makes plus scooters and café racers from Europe, […]

When cold weather calls, journey south for a relaxing cruise along the Gulf of Mexico. Starting in Florida’s capital, this route will take you through four states before ending up in The Big Easy. Best Time to Go: Winter through early spring Scenery: Sand and surf Curves: Mostly straight Services: Plentiful Traffic: Can be heavy on weekends and around […]

Motorcycle chains and final drives are strong, durable, and efficient, but they do need occasional maintenance. Fortunately, these are fairly simple procedures and can be accomplished by most owners in a reasonably short time. A quick inspection should be performed before every ride. On bikes equipped with chains, a thorough inspection, lubrication, and adjustment should […]