National and Regional News

PICKERINGTON, Ohio - The outbreak of COVID-19 has forced the cancellation or postponement of dozens of AMA-sanctioned competition and recreation events. Please check directly with event organizers for up-to-date information. At the same time, state and federal agencies are altering the hours of parks and riding areas used by OHV riders. And some are being closed. Please check the websites of the federal and state agencies that oversee parks and other facilities in your area for the latest information.

Readers: Are you aware of motorcyclists helping out during the coronavirus crisis? Do you have examples of how your local and state government's responses to the outbreak are unnecessarily infringing on motorcyclists' rights? If so, please send an email to grassroots@ama-cycle.org.

WASHINGTON, D.C. - A federal lawsuit filed in February by the group Public Employees for Environmental Responsibility and three other conservation groups challenges the government's decision to allow electric bicycles on nonmotorized trails in the National Park System. The Federal Advisory Committee Act requires meetings to be publicized in the Federal Register and open to the public, neither of which occurred, the lawsuit alleges. The lawsuit charges the Interior Department, National Park Service, former Park Service Deputy Director P. Daniel Smith and current Park Service Deputy Director David Vela with ignoring a number of laws, including the National Environmental Policy Act, to push through e-bike access. The groups behind the lawsuit want the e-bikes restricted to approved motorized trails.

WASHINGTON, D.C. - The U.S. Agriculture Department will make available up to $100 million in grants to expand the infrastructure needed to sell more ethanol, biodiesel and other renewable fuels. A department press release, issued in March, stated that the "USDA is making grants available... to increase significantly the sale and use of higher blends of ethanol and biodiesel by expanding the infrastructure for renewable fuels derived from U.S. agricultural products." The AMA opposes the continued expansion of availability of fuel containing more than 10 percent ethanol by volume. None of the estimated 22 million motorcycles and ATVs in use in the United States is certified by the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency to operate on E-15 (15 percent ethanol by volume) or higher-ethanol fuel blends. Use of those fuels may cause engine and fuel system damage and void manufacturer warranties.

WASHINGTON, D.C. - The land speed racetrack at Bonneville-once 13 miles long-is now less than 8 miles, due to salt erosion. It is critically important that the U.S. Department of the Interior contribute funds toward a 10-year restoration program that will dramatically increase the amount of salt pumped onto Bonneville Salt Flats. The AMA needs your help in urging Interior Secretary David Bernhardt to fund the Restore Bonneville program in 2020. The U.S. Bureau of Land Management, the Utah Department of Natural Resources, local company Intrepid Potash and the land speed racing community have identified a strategy and are collaborating to restore Bonneville. But without federal funding, the project cannot succeed. To take action, go to https://tinyurl.com/uzl6h2x.

WASHINGTON, D.C. - In March, the U.S. Bureau of Land Management New Mexico state director signed the Record of Decision for the Oklahoma, Kansas, and Texas Final Joint Environmental Impact Statement associated with the Oklahoma, Kansas, and Texas Bureau of Land Management Resource Management Plan. The plan governs land use and resource management decisions for public lands managed under the jurisdiction of the BLM and the U.S Bureau of Indian Affairs. BIA regional directors for the Southern Plains and Eastern Oklahoma Regions signed RODs for their respective Bureau of Indian Affairs Integrated Resource Management Plans. Within the planning area, the BLM administers 15,100 acres of public land and 4.8 million acres of federal mineral estate. The BIA Eastern Oklahoma Regional Office manages 394,200 surface acres and 2.03 million acres of mineral estate. And the BIA Southern Plains Regional Office manages 457,500 surface acres and 632,000 acres of mineral estate acres. The BIA-administered trust lands include multiple tribal jurisdictional boundaries. The documents update land use management decisions for resource values, such as vegetation, fish and wildlife, energy and minerals, lands and realty, recreation and others. The document also facilitates future environmental analysis and permitting of Indian minerals. Copies of the Final Joint EIS, BLM RMP, and BIA Integrated RMP are available for review at the following BLM offices: Oklahoma Field Office, 201 Stephenson Parkway, Suite 1200, Norman, Okla.; New Mexico State Office, 301 Dinosaur Trail, Santa Fe, N.M. They are available online at www.blm.gov.

KENNESAW, Ga. - Yamaha Motor Corp. USA awarded more than $127,000 to eight organizations in the fourth-quarter 2019 grant cycle of the Yamaha Outdoor Access Initiative, bringing the annual total to more than $400,000. Projects receiving OAI grants often have a strong stewardship component, as well as an inclusive community of users working together to ensure all types of outdoor recreationists can access and enjoy public land sustainably and safely. Since it began, the program has contributed more than $4 million to more than 360 projects. Projects support diverse communities, including motorized recreation, biking, hunting, fishing, camping and other outdoor recreationists. More information, including grant applications, is available at www.yamahaoutdoors.com.

State News

PAYSON, Ariz. - The Tonto National Forest, Mesa Ranger District, is discontinuing paper permits due to increased demand from visitors to the popular Bulldog Canyon OHV area. Those wishing to visit the area are instead required to obtain a permit online through recreation.gov. This transition to an online system also means the public will no longer will have to travel to the district office to obtain a permit. The online process includes a $6 administrative fee. Additionally, while past permits allowed up to five additional household members to be added to the permit, each OHV operator, age 16 or older, will now need a permit on hand while riding in the Bulldog Canyon OHV area. Passengers not operating motorized vehicles in the permit area will not need a permit. To reserve a permit on recreation.gov, search for 'Tonto National Forest Off-Highway Vehicle Permit' and follow the prompts to purchase and then print the permit. The permit will include six months of gate code combinations to unlock access gates to the Bulldog Canyon OHV area. For more information, contact the Mesa Ranger District, (480) 610-3300 from 8 a.m.- 4:30 p.m. weekdays. You can also visit www.fs.usda.gov/detail/tonto/news-events/?cid=FSEPRD709010 for information regarding access points.

POLAND, Maine - Selectpersons in the town of Poland tabled proposed changes to its ATV ordinances to await the results of a two-year trial use of an abandoned railroad bed alongside Waterhouse Park, according to a report in the Sun Journal. The Bog Hooters Tri-Town ATV Club will be using the rail bed for recreational riding, beginning in May. The proposed changes to the ATV ordinance include: changing the name of the provision to the Motorized Recreation Vehicle Ordinance-to include ATVs, snowmobiles, motorbikes and utility task vehicles; deleting rules already addressed in state laws, but subject to only local control; lowering the speed in designated wildlife habitats or shared pedestrian trails; and changing the wording regarding when recreational vehicles can be used, from "May 15 to Dec. 1" to "during a time frame as designated by the Board of Selectpersons, dependent upon weather and trail conditions."

ST. PAUL, Minn. - H.F. 3699, introduced in the Minnesota House, and companion bill S.F. 3605 in the Senate would require the state to move to an E15 blend of vehicle fuel. If the bills become law, Minnesota would be the first state to require the use of the fuel, which contains 15 percent ethanol by volume. The national standard for fuel is E10 (10 percent ethanol by volume). The bills would exempt fuel sold at airports; resorts, marinas, houseboat rental companies; and fuel sold for use in motor sports racing, collector vehicles, and off-road use. The legislation also requires retail stations to provide one fuel pump with a dedicated hose and nozzle dispensing a fuel blend containing 9.2 to 10 percent biofuel for use in vehicles-such as motorcycles-that are not approved by the U.S. EPA for use with more than 10 percent ethanol.

ALBANY, N.Y. - Lewis County legislators approved a resolution in March asking the state Department of Environmental Conservation to include ATV trails in the recreation management plan for the Croghan Tract Conservation Easement in the Adirondack Park, the Watertown Daily Times reported. "Taxpayer dollars are used to purchase conservation easements and should provide for all recreation rights and access, including ATV access, especially in Lewis County which is known for its extensive ATV trail system," the resolution says. "With expansion of the system only enhancing [the county's] economic development through recreational and tourism features." The resolution asks the DEC to work with county representatives, "to develop a plan that acknowledges the economic importance and significance of ATV access and use for recreational and sporting activities in Lewis County" so the ATV-using public can use the "tract like others who are provided access simply because they are in other motorized vehicles." The Croghan Tract Conservation Easement includes 12,800 acres in Croghan and Watson To obtain a copy of the full plan, go to the DEC website, email r6.ump@dec.ny.gov or call (315) 785-2263. Written comments on the draft plan can be sent to NYS DEC, Attn: Matt Nowak, 7327 State Route 812, Lowville, NY 13367 or to the email address above.

COLUMBUS, Ohio - Gov. Mike DeWine signed into law a bill that allows motorcyclists to wear earplugs or earphones for ear protection while riding. Ear plugs can help protect riders and passengers from potential damage to their eardrums from exhaust and wind noise. The bill was supported by the AMA and ABATE of Ohio.

STURGIS, S.D. - The Sturgis City Council delayed the annexation of the Jackpine Gypsies Motorcycle Club property until May 4 to give the club and the owners of other land time to assess the effect of the annexation. Jackpine Gypsies representatives told the Council that annexation of the club grounds-which includes a dirt oval race track, motocross and hill climb course-might fall under current or future city restrictions on continuing the club's activities. The club earlier estimated the annexation would result in about $2,500 a year in additional property taxes. The proposed annexation is part of a strategy by the Sturgis city manager to ensure residents and businesses that receive city services help pay for them, according to the Rapid City Journal.

Industry News

CARMEL-BY-THE-SEA, Calif. - The 2020 Quail Motorcycle Gathering has been canceled, due to the CoVID-19 outbreak, and organizers have announced May 14-15 as the dates for the 2021 event. Ticketholders, display entrants, and ride participants will all have the option to roll their current status over to the 2021 event, or receive a full refund. Those holding reservations at Quail Lodge & Golf Club can cancel their reservations without penalty.

HAMAMATSU, Japan - Suzuki Motor Corporation is celebrating its 100th anniversary during 2020. The company manufactures cars, motorcycles, all-terrain vehicles (ATVs), marine engines, wheelchairs, and other internal combustion engines. Suzuki has over 45,000 employees and has 35 production facilities in 23 countries and 133 distributors in 192 countries. Suzuki's domestic motorcycle sales volume is the third-largest in Japan.

STURGIS, S.D. - Mayor Mark Carstensen said the annual Sturgis motorcycle rally is still scheduled for August, according to the Rapid City Journal. He said he hopes the COVID-19 virus will have run its course by August, saying he hopes to reach a final decision about the rally in June.

AMA News

PICKERINGTON, Ohio - 2020 AMA Vintage Motorcycle Days is still on the schedule for July 10-12 at Mid-Ohio Sports Car Course in Lexington, Ohio. Should the outbreak of COVID-19 and its resulting restrictions affect the event in any way, the AMA will issue an announcement and post it to www.americanmotorcyclist.com and all AMA social media outlets. Meanwhile, AMA members can purchase discounted tickets at www.amavintagemotorcycledays.com/tickets. AMA members save an additional $5 off the already discounted early bird pricing. AMA members can also call (614) 856-1900 to order their tickets. A fundraiser for the AMA Motorcycle Hall of Fame, AMA Vintage Motorcycle Days showcases classic motorcycles of all makes and styles, and honors the riders who made them famous. Activities at the event include the AMA Vintage Grand Championship, which features road racing, motocross, hare scrambles, trials and flat-track racing. In addition, North America's largest motorcycle swap meet is packed with parts, bikes and memorabilia from all eras. Bike shows feature some of history's most beloved motorcycles. Attendees will be entertained by stunt shows, demo rides of current production bikes and live music, while seminars on numerous topics by noted motorcycling experts keep them informed. Non-AMA members and those reserving RV spaces must purchase tickets through Mid-Ohio Sports Car Course at midohio.com or by calling (419) 884-4000. AMA Vintage Motorcycle Days is a family-friendly event. Admission is free for children under 12 accompanied by a ticketed adult. Free parking is also available on site.

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AMA News & Notes is a monthly publication compiled and edited by the American Motorcyclist Association. Designed to inform motorcyclists of rights-related issues and events in the United States and around the world, AMA News & Notes welcomes your input. Suggestions and editorial contributions can be sent to AMA Managing Editor Jim Witters at jwitters@amacycle.org.

Sign up and stay informed: AMA News & Notes keeps motorcyclists up-to-date on hot topics, news affecting the motorcycling community and opportunities to communicate with elected officials. Click here to check the "Sign me up for News & Notes" box.

AMA Action Alerts notify motorcyclists when and how to make a difference on important issues. Click here to see the most recent AMA Action Alerts, or to sign up and receive them.

Readers also may sign up for other AMA e-newsletters, including Hall of Fame Insider, which focuses on the AMA Motorcycle Hall of Fame. To subscribe, click here.

Protect your right to ride! Volunteering is easy, and it's rewarding. To learn how you can help, visit us online.

Follow the AMA on Facebook at www.facebook.com/AmericanMotorcyclist, on Twitter @ama_rights, @ama_riding and @ama_racing and on Instagram at @ama_riding and @ama_racing

Support the plan to restore Bonneville

Salt Flats land speed record course

Let Interior Secretary Bernhardt know BLM funding is essential

The land speed racetrack at Bonneville -- once 13 miles long -- is now less than 8 miles, due to salt erosion. It is critically important that the U.S. Department of the Interior contributes funds toward a 10-year restoration program that will dramatically increase the amount of salt pumped onto Bonneville Salt Flats. Help restore the Salt Flats before it's too late.

The U.S. Bureau of Land Management, the Utah Department of Natural Resources, local company Intrepid Potash and the land speed racing community have identified a strategy and are collaboratiing to restore Bonneville. Please urge Interior Secretary David Bernhardt to fund the Restore Bonneville program through the department's fiscal 2020 budget.

By following this link Take Action and providing your contact information, you'll sign and send our email to Bernhardt, explaining the importance of the Bonneville Salt Flats and how he can directly affect funding for the needed restoration.

Even better, if you personalize the email by adding what Bonneville means to you, it will have far more impact. An easy way would be including a sentence at the beginning describing what it is like to attend or even take part in a race on the Salt Flats. Also feel free to amend the subject line of the email to read "I visit" or "I race at" the Bonneville Salt Flats.

Thank you in advance for commenting. If you do submit edited comments, please forward a copy to us at grassroots@amacycle.org. Please forward this alert to your friends and ask them to submit comments, too.

National and Regional News

WASHINGTON, D.C. - U.S. Sens. Ron Johnson (R-Wis.) and Gary Peters (D-Mich.) introduced S. 3249, the Motorcyclist Advisory Council Reauthorization Act, which would refine the membership seats of the federal Motorcyclist Advisory Council to ensure more national motorcycle organizations are represented and authorizes the council for six years. The AMA worked closely with the Motorcycle Riders Foundation and Harley-Davidson Motor Co. on the legislation, which is the companion bill to H.R. 5234 introduced in late November. S. 3249 would require the MAC to include five highway engineering experts from state or local governments, one state or local traffic safety engineer who is a motorcyclist, one roadway safety data expert on crash testing and analysis and one representative from each of the following groups: a national association of state transportation officials, a national motorcyclist foundation, a national motorcyclist association, a national motorcycle manufacturing association and a national safety organization. The current MAC, chaired by Mike Sayre-AMA government relations manager for on-highway issues-was authorized in 2015 and is finalizing its report to the U.S. Department of Transportation. The MAC advises the U.S. Secretary of Transportation, the administrator of the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration and the administrator of the Federal Highway Administration on transportation issues of concern to motorcyclists, including barrier design; road design, construction, and maintenance practices; and the architecture and implementation of intelligent transportation system technologies.

WASHINGTON, D.C. - The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration has granted Nuro's request for a temporary exemption from some low-speed vehicle standard requirements, so the company can test its electric delivery vehicle, the "R2." This exemption marks the first time the U.S. government has approved a company's request to deploy a vehicle that does not meet the standards for cars and trucks operated by humans. Unlike a conventional low-speed vehicle, the R2 is designed to have no human occupant and operates exclusively using an automated driving system. Nuro will be permitted to produce and deploy no more than 5,000 R2 vehicles during the two-year exemption period, and NHTSA will closely monitor Nuro's operations during and after that time. Nuro intends to operate these vehicles as part of a local delivery service for restaurants, grocery stores, and other businesses. The AMA opposes the use of public roadways for testing driverless vehicles-even low-speed delivery vehicles-because it increases the risk to motorcyclists and other road users.

WASHINGTON, D.C. - The U.S. Navy has released its final environmental impact statement for the planned expansion of the Fallon Range Training Complex in Nevada, making it available online. The complex is a training area made up of 12,256 square nautical miles of airspace and about 232,000 acres of Navy-managed land. The facility modernization will include:

• Renewal of the Navy's current public land withdrawal
• Land range expansion through the additional withdrawal of public lands and the acquisition of nonfederal land
• Airspace expansion and modernization
• Upgrades to range infrastructure

The AMA submitted comments on the draft EIS in January, conditionally supporting Alternative 3 as the least disruptive to continued OHV use. However, the AMA also supported local riders, calling for reconnection of cherry-stemmed routes created by the Alternative 3 as originally drafted, and the creation of a special recreation area, codifying OHV use as legitimate, outside the expansion area. The AMA was encouraged by the Navy's agreement to continue the annual "Vegas to Reno" race and, possibly, other competition events near three sections of the training area. Also, taking the Sand Springs Range and Fairview Peak-the latter having many roads and OHV trails and the popular earthquake fault destination-out of the training area was a positive for the OHV community."

State News

TRACY, Calif. - Thirty-seven acres at the east end of the Carnegie SVRA reopened to off-highway vehicle recreation on Jan. 30. The area includes the 4x4 Play Area, Trials Bike area, and Motocross Practice Track. In January of 2019, this part of the park was closed due to litigation. Conclusion of the suit ends the closure of this popular part of the park and allows for recreation in these areas. The reopening re-establishes off-highway vehicle recreation opportunities that have historically been provided in the East Bay. Carnegie SVRA's 1,300 acres serve California's Bay Area communities with hill climbs, trail riding and track riding opportunities.

WILLOWS, Calif. - Mendocino National Forest Supervisor Ann Carlson issued an order that opens more trails and campgrounds for the Ranch Fire area, but continues the temporary closure of selected trails and campgrounds until more fire hazards can be removed. The new closure is effective until Dec. 31. Most of the road system and trails in the Ranch Fire area have been evaluated, and hazards have been removed. Forest Order No. 08-20-02 opens the majority of OHV trails on the Grindstone Ranger District as well as Pine Mountain Lookout and Bear Creek campground on the Upper Lake Ranger District. However, numerous hazards still exist within the general forest, along many roads and trails and in campgrounds. Forest Order 08-20-02, including the order, map and list of closed trails and facilities may be downloaded from the forest website: https://tinyurl.com/urx4jwu.

SOUTH WINDSOR, Conn. - The Town of South Windsor was unprepared for the overwhelming opposition it faced in February when Mayor Andrew Paterna proposed a ban on ATVs. Paterna said a small number of ATV riders had trespassed on and damaged some farms, and at least one resident complained about excessive sound from ATVs. But, when word got out that the ban would be considered, motorcycle and ATV enthusiasts packed the meeting chamber. A report from TV station WFSB stated that, "Every town resident who spoke at the Monday night meeting spoke out against the proposal." Paterna later confirmed to the AMA that he will not raise the issue again.

ANNAPOLIS, Md. - State Delegate Kathy Szeliga (R-Baltimore County, Hartford County) has reintroduced a bill that would allow lane splitting in Maryland, as well as require state agencies to create guidelines for safe lane splitting and ways to incorporate the practice into rider education. Szeliga's H.B. 920 bill was referred to the House Environment and Transportation Committee. This is just the second time a lane splitting bill has been introduced in Maryland. This bill would require that the state agencies, including the Motor Vehicle Administration and State Highway Administration, develop guidelines for safe and appropriate lane splitting for motorcyclists and other road users.

CONCORD, N.H. - The decades-old tradition of riding motorcycles on a frozen Concord pond came to a halt this year, due to an obscure amendment to the state's budget. Concord hired Suzi Pegg as its new economic development director in 2017, and she objected to the sound of motorcycles on the pond near her new home. So, she convinced the mayor to talk to state legislators, who included a ban on such riding in the $13 billion 2019 budget bill. Outraged motorcyclists visited the state capitol to urge lawmakers to reverse the ban. They caught the ear of state Rep. Jack Flanagan (R-Brookline), who proposed an amendment to House Bill 1316 that would reopen the pond for vehicular use on Mondays, Thursdays and Saturdays from 10 a.m. till 4 p.m. The AMA has supported the Flanagan amendment with letters to state Rep. Suzanne Smith, chair of the House Committee on Resources, Recreation and Development, which is investigating the change.

NEW YORK - The New York City Council is considering a law that would require side guards on trucks fulfilling contracts with the city, such as private garbage private trucks contracted by the city to plow snow. The side guards are designed to prevent motorcyclists, pedestrians and bicyclists from accidently getting underneath the trucks in traffic. Sponsored by council members Ydannis Rodriguez and Ben Kallos, the bill would require these vehicles would need to be equipped with side guards by Jan. 1, 2021. A law signed by Mayor Bill de Blasio in June 2015 already requires truck side guards on city-operated vehicles and private trash haulers fulfilling a contract with the city.

KANAB, Utah - The U.S. Bureau of Land Management developed new land use plans for the Bears Ears National Monument and for three units of the Grand Staircase-Escalante National Monument in Utah. The revised Bears Ears boundaries include two separate units, known as the Shash Jáa and Indian Creek units, that are reserved for the care and management of the objects of historic and scientific interest within their boundaries. The Shash Jáa Unit contains 97,393 acres of BLM-administered lands and 32,587 acres of U.S. Forest Service-administered lands. The Indian Creek Unit contains 71,896 acres of BLM-administered land. Lands that remain part of the 1 million-acre Grand Staircase-Escalante National Monument are the Grand Staircase (209,993 acres), Kaiparowits (551,034 acres) and Escalante Canyons (242,836 acres) units. The BLM refers to lands that are now excluded from the national monument (861,974 acres) as the Kanab-Escalante Planning Area. The new management plans were prompted by a 2017 directive from the president, which called for "right-sized" boundaries for these public lands, while providing for the protection of objects consistent with the original intent of the Antiquities Act of 1906. The AMA and Utah officials have urged federal officials to adhere to the provision in the Antiquities Act that requires that monuments should be as small as possible, while still protecting artifacts and cultural resources. The boundary revision process included public meetings, collaboration with local, state and other federal agencies and participation by more than 30 American Indian tribes.

SELAH, Wash. - The Washington Off Highway Vehicle Alliance is asking OHV riders to attend a March 4 meeting with state officials regarding road management on state lands. The state Department of Fish and Wildlife and the state Department of Natural Resources will provide information and accept comments on the Green Dot program, which designates the roads in Yakima and Kittitas counties are open to public motorized use. The meeting is 6-8 p.m. March 4 at the Selah Civic Center, 216 S. First St., Selah. To view Green Dot maps or learn about the program, visit https://tinyurl.com/r5274lc.

Industry News

CARMEL, Calif. - The Quail Motorcycle Gathering will honor Roland Sands as 2020 Legend of the Sport at its May 16 event. Sands has set several track records around the world, and was the 1998 American Motorcyclist Association 250GP Champion. After 10 years of professional racing, Sands founded Roland Sands Design, a motorcycle, product and apparel. During the past five years, RSD has expanded into event promotion, with the Moto Beach Classic in Southern California and the Super Hooligan National Championship, a series that unites the custom-motorcycle scene with flat track racing.

SACRAMENTO, Calif. - The Honda ADV150 may be coming to the United States, according to a report at Motorcycle.com, which said the California Air Resources Board certified the scooter for the 2021 model year. The "adventure scooter" features a 149cc overhead cam engine and an automatic transmission. The ABS model sold in Indonesia claims a curb weight of 293 pounds, while the non-ABS version is 291 pounds.

SHANGHAI - Switch Motorcycles has unveiled plans for its eScrambler electric motorcycle that is scheduled for sale in the 2022 model year. Switch is owned by New Zealand-born Matthew Waddick, who also produced electric conversion kits for the Honda Cub as part of Shanghai Customs. The eScrambler has a top speed of 93 mph, a 0-62 mph time of 3.2 seconds, and a range of 93 miles.

BERLIN - BMW Motorrad is developing a crumple zone for motorcycles, using a patented V-shaped component behind the front wheel. A report at Visordown.com says the device keeps the front wheel of the motorcycle from deflecting to the side in a front impact and holds the wheel straight, creating an impact zone that includes the wheel and forks.

NEW DELHI - Hero MotoCorp executives said they are willing to be Harley-Davidson's partner to design and manufacture locally made, low-powered products, according to a report in The Times of India. Harley-Davidson and Hero have been in talks, but no agreement has been reached.

TÄBY, Sweden - MIPS AB, the Swedish-based developer of multi-directional helmet protection technology, announced that its design is being used in 583 models from 103 helmet brands in motorcycling, bicycling, snow sports, equestrian, hockey, rock climbing and construction. Professional motorcycle racers wearing MIPS-equipped helmets include Ryan Villopoto, Aaron Plessinger, Dean Wilson, Cole Seely, Romain Febvre, Clement Desalle, Taylor Robert and Ricky Brabec.

International News

MELBOURNE - A plan to create 151 on-street motorcycle parking spaces would open up sidewalks for pedestrians and increase pedestrian safety. The plan under consideration by the city would convert 36 car spaces to motorcycle-only use. "By introducing 151 new motorcycle bays we can divert motorcycles from parking in key congested footpath areas," Lord Mayor Sally Capp told Motorbikewriter.com. "We are creating more space for people to walk while still accommodating our riders."

JERUSALEM - Ride Vision has developed a collision-aversion technology for motorcycles that uses standard cameras as visual sensors that recognize and analyze relevant threats to safe operation. The company says its goal is to provide motorcyclists with an advanced driver assist system with off-the-shelf technology. According to a report in the Jerusalem Post, Ride Vision sets up two small cameras on the front and back of the motorcycle. The motorcycle's left- and right-side mirrors have LED lights that flash different colors, depending on the threat detected. Ride Vision also integrates with Bluetooth helmets for audio warnings.

AMA News

PICKERINGTON, Ohio - James Holter has been named the AMA's Chief Operating Officer. Holter, most recently the AMA vice president of communications and marketing, assumes the responsibilities of Jeff Massey, who is leaving his position as AMA chief operations officer on March 6. As COO, Holter reports to Dingman. His direct reports are the department directors who execute the AMA's mission in the areas of government relations, competition, recreational riding, finance, communications, membership and marketing, creative services, industry relations and business development, and all other aspects of operations. Holter has worked at the AMA for 15 years, with responsibilities in editorial, communications, marketing and membership. Massey served as AMA COO since September 2014. He will return to his hometown of Indianapolis and resume a career in education.

PICKERINGTON, Ohio - The AMA Board of Directors held its annual election of officers on Feb. 7. The board elected as chair Russ Ehnes, the member representative on the board from the Northwest Region. The board elected as vice chair Gary Pontius, the member representative from the North Central Region; as assistant treasurer Ken Ford, the member representative from the Southeast Region; and as executive committee members Jerry Abboud, an at-large director from Thornton, Colo., and Paul Vitrano, business member representative from Indian Motorcycle. Ehnes replaced outgoing chair Maggie McNally-Bradshaw, former member representative from the Northeast Region. McNally-Bradshaw had been AMA board chair since 2013 and served on the board since 2009. She exited her position due to term limits.

PICKERINGTON, Ohio - Get your tickets and make your plans to be at Mid-Ohio Sports Car Course in Lexington, Ohio, July 10-12 for 2020 AMA Vintage Motorcycle Days. AMA members can purchase discounted tickets now at www.amavintagemotorcycledays.com/tickets. AMA members save an additional $5 off the already discounted early bird pricing. AMA members can also call (614) 856-1900 to order their tickets. A fundraiser for the AMA Motorcycle Hall of Fame, AMA Vintage Motorcycle Days showcases classic motorcycles of all makes and styles, and honors the riders who made them famous. Activities at the event include the AMA Vintage Grand Championship, which features road racing, motocross, hare scrambles, trials and flat-track racing. In addition, North America's largest motorcycle swap meet is packed with parts, bikes and memorabilia from all eras. Bike shows feature some of history's most beloved motorcycles. Attendees will be entertained by stunt shows, demo rides of current production bikes and live music, while seminars on numerous topics by noted motorcycling experts keep them informed. Non-AMA members and those reserving RV spaces must purchase tickets through Mid-Ohio Sports Car Course. These tickets will be available in December online at midohio.com or by calling (419) 884-4000. AMA Vintage Motorcycle Days is a family-friendly event. Admission is free for children under 12 accompanied by a ticketed adult. Free parking is also available on site.

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AMA News & Notes is a monthly publication compiled and edited by the American Motorcyclist Association. Designed to inform motorcyclists of rights-related issues and events in the United States and around the world, AMA News & Notes welcomes your input. Suggestions and editorial contributions can be sent to AMA Managing Editor Jim Witters at jwitters@amacycle.org.

Sign up and stay informed: AMA News & Notes keeps motorcyclists up-to-date on hot topics, news affecting the motorcycling community and opportunities to communicate with elected officials. Click here to check the "Sign me up for News & Notes" box.

AMA Action Alerts notify motorcyclists when and how to make a difference on important issues. Click here to see the most recent AMA Action Alerts, or to sign up and receive them.

Readers also may sign up for other AMA e-newsletters, including Hall of Fame Insider, which focuses on the AMA Motorcycle Hall of Fame. To subscribe, click here.

Protect your right to ride! Volunteering is easy, and it's rewarding. To learn how you can help, visit us online.

Follow the AMA on Facebook at www.facebook.com/AmericanMotorcyclist, on Twitter @ama_rights, @ama_riding and @ama_racing and on Instagram at @ama_riding and @ama_racing.

National and Regional News

WASHINGTON, D.C. - The Office of United States Trade Representative has again proposed tariffs on motorcycles with an engine size between 500cc and 700cc, along with parts and accessories, imported from countries in the European Union, as part of a dispute over aircraft subsidies. This proposal comes after the USTR announced in October that these motorcycles would not be subject to tariffs originally proposed in April. This continued targeting of the motorcycle community and industry only brings uncertainty and harm to American motorcyclists and the small businesses that support them. The AMA is joining others in the motorcycling community to oppose the USTR's ill-conceived proposal. Motorcyclists should not be penalized with exorbitant tariffs because of an unrelated trade dispute. Any trade sanctions imposed as a result of this dispute should come from more closely related industries or products. You can make your voice heard on this issue by following this link: https://tinyurl.com/qspkcrc.

WASHINGTON, D.C. - Motorcyclists rode a little less in 2018 than in the year before, according to a report from the U.S. Bureau of Transportation Statistics. Riders traveled 20.1 billion miles in 2018, down about 1 percent from 2017.

State News

BAKERSFIELD, Calif. - State parks and recreation officials are closing part of the Oceano Dunes area to meet a Jan. 1 air quality requirement. About 48 acres of the Oceano Dunes State Vehicular Recreation Area will be closed "to improve air quality conditions for nearby communities." A San Luis Obispo County Air Pollution Control District standard goes into effect Jan. 1.

PLACERVILLE, Calif. - U.S. Rep. Tom McClintock (R-Calif.) and the El Dorado County Board of Supervisors expressed their appreciation for Forest Supervisor Laurence Crabtree. calling him "an indispensable steward of our forests." Crabtree will be retiring from the U.S. Forest Service on Jan. 6. Liz Berger, currently deputy forest supervisor for the Tahoe National Forest, has been selected to serve as acting forest supervisor for the Eldorado National Forest beginning in January.

DENVER - A series of listening sessions is scheduled to give OHV riders a chance to share their experiences and vision for off-highway recreation with the U.S. Forest Service, the U.S, Bureau of Land Management, the Colorado Department of Parks and Wildlife, the National Off-Highway Vehicle Conservation Council and the Colorado Off-Highway Vehicle Coalition. More information is available at https://tinyurl.com/w5oefry. The sessions, organized by NOHVCC, are:

• 6-9 p.m. Jan. 27 at the Alamosa Family Recreation Center, 2222 Old Sanford Road, Alamosa, Colo.
• 6-9 p.m. Jan. 28 at the Pueblo Convention Center, 320 Central Main St. Pueblo, Colo.
• 6-9 p.m. Jan. 29 at the Colorado Springs Marriott, 5580 Tech Center Drive, Colorado Springs, Colo.
• 6-9 p.m. Jan. 30 at the DoubleTree by Hilton Vail, 2211 N. Frontage Road W., Vail, Colo.
• 6-9 p.m. Jan. 31 at Fay Myers Motorcycle World, 9700 E. Arapahoe Road, Greenwood Village, Colo.
• 9 a.m.-Noon Feb. 1 at the DoubleTree by Hilton Denver-Thornton, 83 E. 120th Ave., Denver.
• 6-9 p.m. Feb. 3 at the Fort Collins Marriott, 350 E. Horsetooth Road, Fort Collins, Colo.

​SUCHES, Ga. - The U.S. Forest Service has released the environmental assessment for the Foothills Landscape Project, calling for three off-highway vehicle trails in the Chattahoochee National Forest in Georgia to be closed. Those closings and the reclassification of 83.1 miles of Forest Service roads to reduce maintenance costs or implement seasonal access are part of a broad program intended to improve environmental conditions on 157,625 acres of the forest, but could impact the ability to ride. The assessment calls for the closing of parts of the Tibbs, Tatum Lead and Milma Creek ATV trails. Seasonal access would be limited on 2.9 miles of the Muskrat Creek route starting at the Windy Gap trailhead. Finally, a rerouting is proposed on the Oakey Mountain OHV System. Riders can tell officials how they feel about this plan by following this link https://tinyurl.com/u8dpkou. The comment deadline is Jan. 10.

ALBANY, N.Y. - Gov. Andrew Cuomo (D) vetoed a bill that could have lifted state restrictions on electric scooters and bicycles, but that also would have allowed local jurisdictions to regulate or ban them. Cuomo wanted the bill to include a helmet requirement, according to a report in the New York Post.

HARRISBURG, Pa. - About 157 new miles of all-terrain vehicle trails are planned for five projects funded by $647,300 from the Pennsylvania Department of Conservation and Natural Resources ATV grant program. The projects include:

• Cambria and Clearfield counties, Rock Run Recreation Inc., $121,300, to buy equipment to build and maintain about 140 miles of trail at Rock Run Recreation Area in Chest Township;
• Lawrence County, Mines and Meadows LLC, $390,600, to help buy about 213 acres in New Beaver Borough for the expansion of Mines and Meadows ATV Park;
• Luzerne County, Earth Conservancy, $62,000, for a feasibility study for an ATV facility in Newport Township;
• Northumberland County, Northumberland County Anthracite Outdoor Adventure Area Authority, $19,000, to develop about 4 miles of trail on the Western Reserve of the AOAA in Coal Township; and
• Susquehanna and Wayne counties, Northeast Pennsylvania Sno Trails Inc., $54,400, to prepare a trail study for the development of about 13 miles of the former Ontario and Western Railroad corridor for ATV use.

​OLYMPIA, Wash. - Beginning today, Jan. 1, residents must pass a basic knowledge and skills test to obtain a motorcycle learner's permit and pass advanced knowledge and skills tests to get a motorcycle endorsement on their driver's licenses. Those caught riding without an endorsement face a fine of $48 that can rise to $136 with fees and assessments. The new law also includes an additional penalty of $250. The new law also creates a for a subsidy program to help make rider training more affordable.

International News

ANTWERP - A 10-year-old ban on quads in the city will be lifted Jan. 17. The city enacted the ban on the use of quads in the developed area and on the unpaved roads outside in 2009. Motorcycle Action Group Belgium opposed the ban and has been working since to get quad use restored. According to the MAG lawyer, Stefaan Claeys, the ban was annulled because a general ban is disproportionate and "there is no reasonable link of proportionality between this ban and the intended purpose." Claeys said that, "You cannot prohibit legal road users from using their vehicles to avoid the inconvenience caused by some of them. Those who cause a nuisance must be tackled by means of road traffic regulations, as is the case for all other road users."

BRADFORD, Ontario, Canada - Minister of Transportation Caroline Mulroney announced plans to allow off-highway vehicles easier access to roads, which would allow riders to connect to more trail networks across the province. "Tourism and local businesses in many municipalities-especially rural and northern-are anticipated to benefit when more off-road enthusiasts are able to connect to more trail networks and surrounding community attractions," said Prabmeet Sarkaria, associate minister of small business and red tape reduction.

Industry News

LOS ANGELES - The Petersen Automotive Museum has announced the promotion of Richard Varner to chairman of its board of directors. Having served as treasurer since 2013, Varner brings more than 40 years of experience as a respected business leader, car collector, vintage racer and professional motorsports series co-owner to his new role. A Wichita, Kansas native, Varner has been collecting and restoring automobiles and motorcycles for several years; his passion led to the formation of professional motorcycle road racing series, MotoAmerica. In addition to serving on the Petersen board of directors, Varner is the Chairman of the California Highway Patrol 11-99 Foundation and a member of the Dean's Advisory Board at the University of Nebraska School of Business, his alma mater.

WASHINGTON, D.C. - The Smithsonian's National Museum of American History will be the new home of American author Robert M. Pirsig's 1966 Honda Super Hawk motorcycle featured in his book, Zen and the Art of Motorcycle Maintenance: An Inquiry Into Values. Pirsig's book, originally published by William Morrow in 1974, has sold more than 5 million copies and has been translated into 27 languages. The inspiration for Zen stemmed from a monthlong road trip Pirsig (1928-2017) took with his 11-year-old son Chris in 1968. Stored for decades in the family's New England garage and recently mechanically restored, the motorcycle is a gift from Pirsig's widow, Wendy K. Pirsig. In addition to the motorcycle, the gift includes Pirsig's leather jacket, maps, shop manual and other gear from the 1968 ride, together with a manuscript copy and signed first edition of the book. Pirsig's favorite toolboxes, with tools for maintaining his bike and other vehicles as well as tools he made himself, are also part of the donation.

PARIS, Texas - American motorcycle enthusiast Adam Sandoval set the Guinness World Record for largest parade of Harley-Davidson motorcycles by organizing 3,497 bikes on Oct. 5. Riders from 48 states and Canada participated in the event, which broke a 2010 record set by a group from Greece. In addition to the record achievement, more than $54,000 in registration proceeds were donated to Motorcycle Missions, a nonprofit organization that teaches Veterans and First Responders how to build and fabricate motorcycles.

AMA News

PICKERINGTON, Ohio - Hayley Bell, founder of the Women Riders World Relay, is the 2019 AMA Motorcyclist of the Year. Bell launched the WRWR movement, which attracted thousands of riders from 84 countries to participate in a leg of the relay, during which a baton made its way around the world. The original intent of the relay was to call attention to the lack of quality women's riding gear that fits properly and provides adequate protection. But the event also built a network of female riders that Bell calls "a global sisterhood of inspirational women." The AMA Motorcyclist of the Year designation, awarded annually by the AMA Board of Directors, recognizes the individual or group that had the most profound impact on the world of motorcycling in the previous 12 months.

PICKERINGTON, Ohio - The world of motorcycling has lost three  staunch advocates with the passing of AMA Motorcycle Hall of Famers Ed Waldheim and Clark Collins and former AMA Board of Directors member Jim Viverito. Waldheim was inducted into the AMA Motorcycle Hall of Fame in 2007 for his ongoing dedication to the riding community and his tireless efforts to secure, maintain and expand off-road riding opportunities in his home state of California. Collins' storied career as an advocate for off-road motorcycling includes helping found the BlueRibbon Coalition public land access group, building national and regional coalitions among trail users and helping get the federal Recreational Trails Program enacted into law. He was inducted into the Hall of Fame in 2010. Viverito served on the AMA Board of Directors from February 2010 to July 2016. His service on the AMHF Board, which is tasked with raising money to fund the AMA Motorcycle Hall of Fame, began July 2014.

PICKERINGTON, Ohio - AMA Motorcycle Hall of Famer Dick Klamfoth passed away Dec. 13. He scored his 12 victories in AMA Grand National competition, three of which came in the Daytona 200 - in 1949, 1951 and 1952. He was the first rider to win the Daytona 200 three times and went on to be a motorcycle dealership owner and race promoter. Klamfoth was inducted into the AMA Motorcycle Hall of Fame in 1998.

PICKERINGTON, Ohio - Bradley Timm of Westerville, Ohio, was selected Dec. 6, as the winner of the two Honda motorcycles that were customized to celebrate the life of AMA Motorcycle Hall of Famer Nicky Hayden, the late MotoGP World Champion. Maggie McNally-Bradshaw, chair of the American Motorcyclist Association Board of Directors, selected the winning ticket in a drawing at the Hilton Downtown Columbus before the 2019 KTM AMA Motorcycle Hall of Fame Induction Ceremony.

PICKERINGTON, Ohio - Get your tickets and make your plans to be at Mid-Ohio Sports Car Course in Lexington, Ohio, July 10-12 for 2020 AMA Vintage Motorcycle Days. AMA members can purchase discounted tickets now at www.amavintagemotorcycledays.com/tickets. AMA members save an additional $5 off the already discounted early bird pricing. AMA members can also call (614) 856-1900 to order their tickets. A fundraiser for the AMA Motorcycle Hall of Fame, AMA Vintage Motorcycle Days showcases classic motorcycles of all makes and styles, and honors the riders who made them famous. Activities at the event include the AMA Vintage Grand Championship, which features road racing, motocross, hare scrambles, trials and flat-track racing. In addition, North America's largest motorcycle swap meet is packed with parts, bikes and memorabilia from all eras. Bike shows feature some of history's most beloved motorcycles. Attendees will be entertained by stunt shows, demo rides of current production bikes and live music, while seminars on numerous topics by noted motorcycling experts keep them informed. Non-AMA members and those reserving RV spaces must purchase tickets through Mid-Ohio Sports Car Course. These tickets will be available in December online at midohio.com or by calling (419) 884-4000. AMA Vintage Motorcycle Days is a family-friendly event. Admission is free for children under 12 accompanied by a ticketed adult. Free parking is also available on site.

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AMA News & Notes is a monthly publication compiled and edited by the American Motorcyclist Association. Designed to inform motorcyclists of rights-related issues and events in the United States and around the world, AMA News & Notes welcomes your input. Suggestions and editorial contributions can be sent to AMA Managing Editor Jim Witters at jwitters@amacycle.org.

Sign up and stay informed: AMA News & Notes keeps motorcyclists up-to-date on hot topics, news affecting the motorcycling community and opportunities to communicate with elected officials. Click here to check the "Sign me up for News & Notes" box.

AMA Action Alerts notify motorcyclists when and how to make a difference on important issues. Click here to see the most recent AMA Action Alerts, or to sign up and receive them.

Readers also may sign up for other AMA e-newsletters, including Hall of Fame Insider, which focuses on the AMA Motorcycle Hall of Fame. To subscribe, click here.

Protect your right to ride! Volunteering is easy, and it's rewarding. To learn how you can help, visit us online.

Follow the AMA on Facebook at www.facebook.com/AmericanMotorcyclist, on Twitter @ama_rights, @ama_riding and @ama_racing and on Instagram at @ama_riding and @ama_racing.

Tell Congress to support your right to race!

The Recognizing the Protection of Motorsports Act (RPM Act, H.R. 5434) was reintroduced in the House by U.S. Rep. Patrick McHenry (R-N.C.) and cosponsored by Rep. Raul Ruiz (D-Calif.), along with five other original sponsors: Reps. Richard Hudson (R-N.C.), Kurt Schrader (D-Ore.), Bill Posey (R-Fla.), Gil Cisneros (D-Calif.), and Michael Burgess (R-Texas).

The bi-partisan RPM Act would ensure that converting motor vehicles into competition-only vehicles remains legal. Street motorcycles are considered motor vehicles under the federal Clean Air Act.

The RPM Act states that it was the clear intent of Congress when passing and amending the Clean Air Act that motor vehicles, including motorcycles, used solely for competition would be exempt from the Clean Air Act's prohibitions against modifying emission control devices.

The American Motorcyclist Association supports the bill and its protections for amateur and professional racing enthusiasts.

Tell your represenative you support H.R. 5434. Send a prewritten email by using the convenient AMA Action Center.

Take Action

National and Regional News

WASHINGTON, D.C. - The National Park Service has reversed its September decision to allow ATVs and side-by-sides in Utah's five national parks. The change was scheduled to go into effect Nov. 1. The Park Service initially intended to allow the vehicles, because Utah law allows some of them to be registered and operated on state roads. Anti-access groups and Grand County officials objected to the change and urged the NPS to rescind its decision.

WASHINGTON, D.C. - U.S. Sens. Richard Burr (R-N.C.) and Joe Manchin (D-W.Va.) re-introduced S. 2602, Recognizing the Protection of Motorsports Act, which would protect the right of vehicle owners to convert their personal vehicles, including motorcycles, into competition machines. In 2015, the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency was granted authority to fine amateur racers for such modifications. The AMA supports this legislation. Click on this link to contact your senator http://cqrcengage.com/amacycle/app/take-action?engagementId=503034.

WASHINGTON, D.C. - The U.S. Department of Transportation's National Highway Traffic Safety Administration released highway crash fatality data for 2018, showing a 2.4 percent decline in overall fatalities, the second consecutive year of reduced crash fatalities. Motorcyclist fatalities declined 4.7 percent. The report shows that 4,985 motorcyclists died in crashes in 2018, down 244 from the 5,229 fatalities in 2017.

RENO, Nev. - The National Off-Highway Vehicle Conservation Council's annual conference drew about 200 people from across the country in October. The AMA was represented by Western States Representative Nick Haris and Steve Salisbury, government relations manager for off-highway issues. The conference brings together off-road enthusiasts, government officials, industry leaders, OHV rights advocates and vendors. The 2020 conference is scheduled for Aug. 17-22 in Knoxville, Tenn.

COLUMBUS, Ohio - To attract new riders and encourage motorcyclists to ride more, the motorcycle industry must tap into people's positive emotions, while offering easy and practical ways to enter and stay a part of the two-wheeled community, four presenters from the Motorcycle Industry Council said during the AIMExpo in September. Those were the findings by the research firm Centauric LLC, hired by the MIC to determine why some people ride and others don't. Among the suggestions to attract riders were more support for rider communities and networks, development of rider mentorship programs and offering new ways to access motorcycles that are not ownership-based. The MIC is refining these elements into an action plan, which will be presented to MIC members at the MIC annual symposium in November.

State News

WRANGELL, Alaska - At a Nov. 6 meeting, the Wrangell-Petersburg Resource Advisory Committee will review the progress of previously funded projects, consider new project proposals and take up remaining recommendations for the allocation of Title ii project funding. The meeting is 6:30-9 p.m. in two locations: Wrangell Ranger District Office, 525 Bennett St., Wrangell, Alaska; Petersburg Ranger District Office, 12 N. Nordic Drive, Petersburg, Alaska. The locations will be connected via videoconference. For more information, contact Linda Slaght, RAC coordinator, (907) 772-5948 or lslaght@fs.fed.us.

SACRAMENTO, Calif. - California Gov. Gavin Newsom vetoed a bill that would have denied the off-highway vehicle community a long-overdue opportunity for additional motorized recreation at the Carnegie State Vehicular Recreation Area. Assembly Bill 1086, introduced in the last days of the legislative session, was a "gut and amend" bill that used language from the failed Senate Bill 767. Both bills would have declared the 3,100-acre Alameda-Tesla Expansion Area to be surplus property, making it available for sale. Newsom's veto message cited a lack of evidence regarding mismanagement of the property. The agency that oversees the property has procedures in place for disposing of unneeded property. Carnegie SVRA has been part of the California State Parks system since 1980, when the site was acquired by the California Department of Parks and Recreation. Prior to that, the site was privately owned and was enjoyed by generations of motorized recreationists, including a period when it was operated as a private motorcycle park.

SACRAMENTO, Calif. - Using a $700,000 federal grant, the California Highway Patrol developed the Get Educated and Ride Safe II campaign, or GEARS II, to promote motorcycle safety and awareness. The GEARS II goal is to reduce the number of crashes and crash victims. With the grant, the regions with the highest number of motorcycle incidents will see increased safety operations. A year-long series of safety education campaigns, including the "May is Motorcycle Safety Awareness Month," is planned. The campaigns will promote the use of motorcycle helmet that meet U.S. Department of Transportation standards and will work to increase motorists' awareness of motorcyclists on the road. The campaigns will also focus on the most dangerous traffic violations, including speeding, improper turning and driving under the influence of alcohol or drugs. Funding came from the California Office of Traffic Safety through the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration.

AUGUSTA, Maine - Steve Salisbury, AMA government relations manager for off-highway issues, attended the fourth of six planned meetings of the Maine Governor's ATV Task Force in October. The task force is charged with six tasks, primarily considering ATV trail funding and the size and weight of vehicles allowed on Maine's state-administered 6,500-mile ATV trail system, nearly all of which is on private land. Before the task force meeting, Salisbury huddled with members of the AMA-chartered Pine Tree Trail Riders and with Maine AMA State Chapter coordinator John Painter. The state's off-highway motorcycle riders are concerned, because two influential task force members suggested revising the ATV definition to exclude OHMs, ending riders' legal access to the trails. During the public comment portion of the task force meeting, Salisbury described the AMA's familiarity with private land issues, highlighted misconceptions around OHM trail use, addressed best management practices for OHM trails, noted the available OHV ethics messaging and strongly supported OHM registration options that would encourage club membership.

ANNAPOLIS, Md. - Ninety-two percent of those commenting on a proposal to reduce tolls for motorcyclists favored the idea. Seven percent opposed it. And 1 percent were neutral. The Maryland Transportation Authority has proposed reducing tolls for motorcycles by 50 percent, among other changes. Of the 287 comments received, 167 addressed the motorcycle proposal. The AMA put out a call in July to support the proposal and also urge officials to simply eliminate the tolls for motorcycles. A final decision on the proposal is expected by the end of the year. The MTA report is available for download at https://mdta.maryland.gov/sites/default/files/Files/Documents/TollModernization/Toll_Moderization_Public_Comments_Final_Report.pdf

ALBANY, N.Y. - The Adirondack Council filed a lawsuit Oct. 7 against the town of Clare in St. Lawrence County over its use of a road through a forest preserve as an all-terrain vehicle trail. The lawsuit seeks to overturn a law passed this year by the town that authorized the use of the road by ATVs. The Grass River Wild Forest holds about 14,000 acres of forest preserve, which is managed with three conservation easements-Grass River, Tooley Pond and Long Pond-for a total of more than 125,000 acres of public access. Some ATV use is allowed on the conservation easements, according to a report by NNY360.com.

International News

Brussels - The Brussels government plans a study to determine whether motorcycles should be banned from the Capital Region, based on the amount of fine dust and greenhouse gases emitted in 2020. The Capital Region is Brussels' low-emissions zone. A report in The Brussels Times states that a recent French study showed motorcycles emit as much as 11 times the carbon monoxide and six times as much nitrogen as cars. New motorcycles fall under the Euro 4-norm, while cars must meet the Euro 6-rating. The car and motorcycle federation Febiac said the idea is "pure provocation" and called a motorcycle ban "simplistic reasoning." "It has been proven that daily traffic jams could be reduced 40 percent if only 10 percent of drivers would choose a motorcycle instead of a car," said Febiac Chairman Philippe Dehennin. "We invite the Region to look at mobility in a different way instead of announcing a ban."

VARANO MELEGARI, Italy - Carboni e Metalli, a startup manufacturer, has produced a "composites-intensive concept motorcycle" that pays homage to the U.S. Apollo missions, according to a report at CompositesWorld.com. The Lunar Project motorcycle won the "Best of Show" award for best motorcycle at the 2019 Wildays in Italy. The motorcycle is based on a KTM 250GS. It uses the bike's original steel frame and engine, with a carbon fiber composite sub-frame, a rear swingarm built from a combination of carbon fiber and 3D-printed titanium. "In 1969, mankind first stepped on the moon. Now, 50 years later, we wanted to pay homage to that historical achievement doing what we do best in the part of the world: combining unique materials and advanced technologies with artisanal craftsmanship and passionate design," said Massimo Bercella, co-founder of Carboni e Metalli.

Industry News

AUSTIN, Texas - Porsche Taylor, Alisa Clickenger, and Robyn Kocienski have joined the Women Riders Now Leadership Board. The board also includes co-chairwomen Erin Sills and Sarah Schilke. The WRN Leadership Board will help guide the strategic direction of WomenRidersNow.com, which was founded in 1999 by 2019 AMA Bessie Stringfield Award winner Genevieve Schmitt. Taylor is the founder of Black Girls Ride magazine, an online publication serving African-American riders. Clickenger is a motorcycle journalist and tour leader. Kocienski is a motorcycle tour guide with Motoquest Tours.

CHARLOTTETOWN, Prince Edward Island, Canada - Havoc Motorcycles, the makers of Canada's Performance Supercruisers, has announced details of its newest muscle bike to be released for the 2020 model year. The Havoc 127 Voodoo sports a 2.081 liter (127ci) V-Twin producing 140 horsepower and 140 pound feet of torque. With 1960s styling, the 127 Voodoo is a retro-themed bike, including a hidden shock frame, springer front end, thick spoke wheels, sprung solo saddle and high tracker pipe. The company is taking orders for spring delivery. Pre-order pricing is $22,500. Get more information at www.havoc-motorcycles.com/127-voodoo.html.

VARESE, Italy -MV Agusta, a producer of premium motorcycles, has announced its five-year business plan, with funding provided by the Sardarov family, MV Agusta's shareholder. The business plan calls for reaching a sales volume of more than 25,000 motorcycles in the five-year time frame and includes investments in a new premium and medium-capacity range bikes. The company's plan also provides for an investment in its global distribution network, focused primarily on Europe, Asia and the United States.

MATTIGHOFEN, Austria - KTM Industries AG successfully concluded negotiations with Black Toro Capital-the owners of GASGAS Motorcycles-for future industrial cooperation with GASGAS under the lead of KTM Industries AG. New models will be developed alongside the Trial and Enduro bikes of GASGAS. As part of the Joint Venture the production of GASGAS products and TORROT electric vehicles will be continued in Girona/Spain. GASGAS will be added-alongside KTM and HUSQVARNA Motorcycles & eBikes-to the sales network of the KTM Industries group, which will soon change its name to PIERER Mobility group. The deal is subject to antitrust authorities' approval.

COVENTRY, United Kingdom - Arc Vehicles Ltd., which planned to produce the $114,000 Arc Vector electric motorcycle, has entered administration, the British equivalent of filing for bankruptcy. The motorcycle was expected to produce 95 kW (127 horsepower), with a top speed of 150 mph. And the company claimed a range of 362 miles, with a recharge time of 45 minutes.

AMA News

PICKERINGTON, Ohio - Get your tickets and make your plans to be at Mid-Ohio Sports Car Course in Lexington, Ohio, July 10-12 for 2020 AMA Vintage Motorcycle Days. AMA members can purchase discounted tickets now at www.amavintagemotorcycledays.com/tickets. AMA members save an additional $5 off the already discounted early bird pricing. AMA members can also call (614) 856-1900 to order their tickets. A fundraiser for the AMA Motorcycle Hall of Fame, AMA Vintage Motorcycle Days showcases classic motorcycles of all makes and styles, and honors the riders who made them famous. Activities at the event include the AMA Vintage Grand Championship, which features road racing, motocross, hare scrambles, trials and flat-track racing. In addition, North America's largest motorcycle swap meet is packed with parts, bikes and memorabilia from all eras. There are shows with examples of some of history's most beloved motorcycles. Attendees are entertained by stunt shows, demo rides of current production bikes and live music, while seminars on numerous topics by noted motorcycling experts keep them informed. Non-AMA members and those reserving RV spaces must purchase tickets through Mid-Ohio Sports Car Course. These tickets will be available in December online at midohio.com or by calling (419) 884-4000. AMA Vintage Motorcycle Days is a family-friendly event. Children 12 and under get in free with a ticketed adult. Free parking is also available on site.

PICKERINGTON, Ohio - The 2019 AMA Legends & Champions Weekend is Dec. 6-7 at the Hilton Columbus Downtown in Columbus, Ohio. The AMA Hall of Fame Induction Ceremony on Dec. 6 will welcome the Hall of Fame Class of 2019: rights advocate Mark Buckner, off-road racing champion Kurt Caselli, motocross champion Ron Lechien, trials pioneer Wiltz Wagner and museum founder Dale Walksler. On Dec. 7, the 2019 AMA Championship Banquet which honors the national champions in all disciplines sanctioned by the AMA. In addition, the hotel will host AMA Congress on Dec. 6-7, where AMA Commission members will discuss rules governing AMA-sanctioned events. Tickets for AMA Legends & Champions Weekend are available now at http://events.constantcontact.com/register/event?llr=vw9ldxbab&oeidk=a07egk6666t3e98bda6. Tickets also can be purchased over the phone at (800) 262-5646. Reservations can be made at the Hilton Columbus Downtown at https://book.passkey.com/event/49921089/owner/9521521/home.

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AMA News & Notes is a monthly publication compiled and edited by the American Motorcyclist Association. Designed to inform motorcyclists of rights-related issues and events in the United States and around the world, AMA News & Notes welcomes your input. Suggestions and editorial contributions can be sent to AMA Managing Editor Jim Witters at jwitters@amacycle.org.

Sign up and stay informed: AMA News & Notes keeps motorcyclists up-to-date on hot topics, news affecting the motorcycling community and opportunities to communicate with elected officials. Click here to check the "Sign me up for News & Notes" box.

AMA Action Alerts notify motorcyclists when and how to make a difference on important issues. Click here to see the most recent AMA Action Alerts, or to sign up and receive them.

Readers also may sign up for other AMA e-newsletters, including Hall of Fame Insider, which focuses on the AMA Motorcycle Hall of Fame. To subscribe, click here.

Protect your right to ride! Volunteering is easy, and it's rewarding. To learn how you can help, visit us online.

Follow the AMA on Facebook at www.facebook.com/AmericanMotorcyclist, on Twitter @ama_rights, @ama_riding and @ama_racing and on Instagram at @ama_riding and @ama_racing.

Tell your representative to support H.R. 2540 today

H.R. 2540, the bipartisan Food and Fuel Consumer Protection Act of 2019, introduced by U.S. Reps. Bill Flores (R-TX) and Peter Welch (D-VT), would cap the volume of ethanol blended into the nation's fuel supply at 9.7 percent of the total volume of gasoline. The American Motorcyclist Association supports this bill and other efforts to reform the Renewable Fuel Standard.

This bill would stop the federal government from forcing E15 fuel (15 percent ethanol by volume) into the market. Capping the ethanol mandate helps ensure the availability of safe fuels, such as E10, and a continuing place in the market for ethanol-free gasoline (E0) for older motorcycles.

The AMA, along with other partners on Capitol Hill dedicated to protecting consumers adversely affected by E15, is working to generate more support for this bill and others at a time when E15 is set to become more available throughout the country, thanks to rule changes by the Environmental Protection Agency that allow its sale year round.

None of the estimated 22 million motorcycles and all-terrain vehicles in use in the United States is certified by the EPA to operate on fuel containing more than 10 percent ethanol. Inadvertent use of E15 in vehicles not designed for its use can damage fuel system and engine components and void manufacturer's warranties.

Tell your representative to support H.R. 2540 by sending a prewritten message by clicking the "Take Action" button.

Take Action

National and Regional News

WASHINGTON, D.C. - The federal highway bill introduced July 29 in the U.S. Senate contains a provision calling for a study of funding levels for the Recreational Trails Program, which the AMA believes has been underfunded for years. The program receives revenue from the sale of fuel for nonhighway use. That money helps pay for recreational trails for motorized and nonmotorized use. Typically, annual funding is about $84 million. But the Recreational Trails Coalition-which includes the AMA-believes the trail fund should receive more than $270 million a year.

WASHINGTON, D.C. -The Office of United States Trade Representative has proposed 100 percent tariffs on motorcycles imported from countries in the European Union with an engine size between 500cc and 700cc, along with parts and accessories. The AMA is joining others in the motorcycling community to oppose the latest ill-conceived proposal -- part of a dispute over aircraft subsidies -- which would cause serious, and potentially irreversible, harm to American small- and medium-sized business owners selling the motorcycles, parts and accessories. To register your opinion, go to https://tinyurl.com/y2x7oq8m.

WASHINGTON, D.C. - The federal government has closed about 42 square miles of the Bears Ears National Monument in Utah to motorized recreation, much less than the 184 square miles targeted for closure by anti-access advocates and tribal officials. The U.S. Bureau of Land Management plan for the monument says that the historic sites most at risk will remain off limits to motorized access.

WASHINGTON, D.C. - The U.S. Bureau of Land Management plans to move its headquarters from Washington, D.C., to Colorado to put more agency officials closer to the land they oversee. About 4 percent of BLM employees live in D.C., according to a report in The Hill. The move would leave just 60 of the nearly 400 BLM employees in the nation's capital. Twenty-seven BLM employees will be transferred to the new headquarters in Grand Junction, Colo., while others will be in Utah, Nevada and other existing local BLM offices. The agency has about 10,000 employees. The House Committee on Natural Resources has scheduled a Sept. 10 hearing about the proposed move.

State News

FOLSOM, Calif. - The city has installed new traffic signals that use high-definition cameras that can tell how fast vehicles are approaching, triggering the light to change according to traffic flow. Six of the lights were installed along Empire Ranch Road, where city officials say drivers frequently were speeding. The lights change their timing, so someone driving faster than the posted speed limit will be stopped at several red lights. City officials say the lights will not be used for law enforcement.

TRACY, Calif. - Senate Bill 767, which encourages the sale of the Carnegie expansion property, known as the Alameda-Tesla Expansion Area, was approved by the California State Assembly Committee on Accountability and Administrative Review. The land in question was purchased using funds from the Off Highway Vehicle Trust Fund, and adjacent landowners agreed to the future use of the land for motorized recreation. Subsequently, extensive work was undertaken to correct previous neglect and to bring the property up to the environmental standards mandated by state law. However, the current bill seeks to deny the OHV community a long overdue opportunity for increased motorized recreation, penalizing Californians who enjoy recreation on state-owned public lands. The AMA opposes this bill and urges all riders and their supporters to contact their elected officials.

OCEANO, Calif. - The California Coastal Commission rejected a staff recommendation on July 11 and voted to keep the Oceano Dunes State Vehicular Recreation Area open for responsible motorized recreation. In a June 21 report, the staff said the change is needed because of issues regarding "air quality and public health, rare and endangered species and habitats, environmental justice, and tribal concerns." The report is part of the State Parks effort to develop a new long-term plan for its programs, facilities, campgrounds and OHV areas at Oceano Dunes. The AMA applauds the commission decision.

UKIAH, Calif. - The South Cow Mountain OHV Management Area has reopened to the public following repairs related to 2018's Mendocino Complex fires. Fire damage was worsened by winter rains. Some motorized-use trails will remain closed because of burned bridges, washouts and hazard trees. Visitors are cautioned to pay attention to signs and stay off of closed routes for safety and to protect natural resources. Visitors should use only designated roads and trails and avoid driving on bulldozer fire lines. The South Cow Mountain OHV Management Area provides more than 100 miles of trails for riders and drivers of all abilities using motorcycles, all-terrain vehicles, four-wheel-drive trucks and utility vehicles. Visitors can expect to see fallen trees on some trails.

ANNAPOLIS, Md. - Motorcycle tolls would be cut in half under a plan to modernize Maryland's toll system in 2020. A public comment period begins today, Aug. 1, for the new tolling options proposed by the Maryland Transportation Authority board. The public comment period ends at 5 p.m. Oct. 3. A final report will be submitted Oct. 31 for review by the MDTA board and will be posted at mdta.maryland.gov for additional public comment. The board is scheduled to vote on a final recommendation at its Nov. 21 meeting. Gov. Larry Hogan said the toll relief package would save Marylanders more than $28 million over five years.

CONCORD, N.H. - A memorial is being planned for the seven motorcyclists killed in a June crash caused by a pickup truck that crossed the centerline. American Legion Post 82 in Gorham hopes to create the memorial near the crash site in Randolph, N.H. The memorial would include a granite slab with the Jarheads Motorcycle Club logo on it, as well as benches, the U.S. Marine Corps logo and a parking area. The Jarheads is a New England motorcycle club that includes Marines and their spouses. The pickup driver, 23-year-old Volodymyr Zhukovskyy, of West Springfield, Mass., has pleaded not guilty to negligent homicide. Officials say Zhukovskyy's license should have been suspended because of a previous drunken driving arrest.

PORTLAND, Ore. - The state Parks and Recreation Department is seeking volunteers for two upcoming vacant positions on the All-Terrain Vehicle Advisory Committee. Successful candidates will also serve on the ATV Grant Subcommittee. The committees review crashes and fatalities resulting from ATV recreation; review changes to statutory vehicle classifications for safety considerations; review safety features of all classes of OHVs; and recommend safety requirements to protect child and adult OHV operators. To apply for one of the open positions, visit www.oregon.gov/oprd/ATV/Pages/ATV-Advisory-Committee.aspx and click the "Committee Interest Form" at the bottom of the page. Applications will be accepted until 5 p.m. Aug. 30. For more information, contact Jeff Trejo, OPRD ATV safety education coordinator, at jeff.trejo@oregon.gov or (503) 986-0585.

OLYMPIA, Wash. - Fines increased July 28 for repeat offenders and new fines became effective for those violating the high-occupancy-vehicle lane law by using dummies to cheat the rules that require two or more occupants per car. The maximum fine is $536. Motorcycles are permitted in Washington's HOV lanes whether the rider is carrying a passenger or not.

MADISON, Wis. - ABATE of Wisconsin reports that two state senators are circulating a draft bill that would allow retailers to dispense all blends of fuel through one pump nozzle. The bill (LRB 2170/P1) would apply to fuel blends up to 15 percent ethanol (E15). The AMA joins ABATE of Wisconsin in opposing this bill, which would dramatically increase the likelihood of inadvertent misfueling by motorcyclists. No motorcycles or ATVs sold in the United States are certified by the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency to operate on fuel containing more than 10 percent ethanol (E10).

International News

LONDON - Drivers who cause someone's death as a result of looking at their phones while driving could face life in jail. The current maximum penalty is 14 years. Last year, 122 people were sentenced for causing death by dangerous driving and a further 21 people were convicted for killing someone when under the influence of drink or drugs. British Transport Secretary Chris Grayling backs the plan to make the punishment better fit the crime.

Industry News

MILWAUKEE - The Harley-Davidson Motor Company is offering two years of free charging for its LiveWire electric motorcycle at ChargePoint stations at participating Harley dealers. The company also is providing 500 kWh of charging service at Electrify America stations. The LiveWire is Harley's first electric motorcycle, claiming a range of 140 miles of city driving per charge.

MILWAUKEE - The Harley-Davidson Museum's new exhibition, "Daredevils: A Century of Spine-Tingling Spectacles," shines a new light on daredevil shows. The oldest artifacts on display include the "Globe of Death" from 1912; photos of the Parry Sisters in action from around 1915; and old show posters. Covered are the exploits of Buffalo Bill Cody, Evel Knievel, Super Joe Einhorn, Matt MacDuff, Debbie Evans, Dar Robinson, Bubba Blackwell, Joey Chitwood, and others. There are motorcycles, costumes, posters, photographs and videos to see.

IRVINE, Calif. - Bonnier Motorcycle Group has launched a digital media brand focused on electric mobility called Cycle Volta. The digital brand covers electric-assist bicycles, micromobility and electric motorcycles across digital, video (including YouTube) and social media platforms. Additional e-bike information will be distributed through content-syndication partners.

AMA News

PICKERINGTON, Ohio - Tens of thousands of motorcycle enthusiasts spent July 5-7 reveling in the vintage motorcycling experience at Mid-Ohio Sports Car Course, where they found racing, entertainment, the world's largest vintage motorcycle swap meet, seminars, a bike show and more during 2019 Honda AMA Vintage Motorcycle Days, presented by Avon Tyres. The three-day event in Lexington, Ohio-organized and promoted annually by the American Motorcyclist Association-raises funds to maintain the AMA Motorcycle Hall of Fame museum in Pickerington, Ohio. For a full recap of the event, see the September issue of American Motorcyclist magazine.

PICKERINGTON, Ohio - Cameron Krezman and Levi Leutz won the 250cc Class and 150cc Class titles at the 2019 AMA Youth Speedway National Championship at Fast Friday's Motorcycle Speedway in Auburn, Calif., on July 12. The event pitted the nation's best speedway racers, 17 years old or younger, against each other in two competition classes. The 2019 national championship event featured 26 riders vying for AMA No. 1 plates. Read more at www.americanmotorcyclist.com/Home/AMA-News-And-Press-Releases/krezman-leutz-named-class-champions-at-2019-ama-youth-speedway-national-championship-1.

PICKERINGTON, Ohio - Fourteen riders won 21 class titles during the 2019 AMA Flat Track Grand Championship, which featured short track, TT and half-mile competition July 23-26 in Ohio. The top performer was Trevor Brunner, a 16-year-old from Aurora, Ind., who claimed four AMA No. 1 plates. He won eight main events and finished runner up in seven to capture the 251cc-500cc DTX, 450cc Modified, 450cc-Open Singles and 450cc-Open Modified class titles. Brunner also was named the 2019 Nicky Hayden AMA Flat Track Horizon Award winner. Established in 1997, the award is designed to recognize riders who are about to move from the youth ranks into amateur racing and from the amateur ranks into pro competition. Also named at the event was the winner of the 2019 Fast Brain Award, 10-year-old Ryder Reese of Elmira, N.Y. The AMA Fast Brain Award is an educational scholarship that is funded by contributions from AMA Motorcycle Hall of Famer Bill Werner of Bill Werner Racing, Zanotti Racing's Dave Zanotti and flat track and road racing team owner Tim Estenson.

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