Statistics show that small donations, like $10, can collectively lead to significant contributions towards charitable causes. According to a report by Giving USA, individual donations accounted for over 68% of total charitable giving in the U.S. in 2020. This goes to show that every dollar, no matter how small, truly makes a difference.

Imagine the possibilities when we come together each Tuesday to support the BMW MOA Foundation. Your $10 donation can provide rider training opportunities through programs such as the Paul B. Safety Training Grants program. A small incentive might be just thing a fellow rider needs to seek out professional rider training.

Are you ready to be a part of something bigger? To participate in $10 Tuesdays and make an easy donation, visit the $10 Tuesday Giving page. For more info about the BMW MOA Foundation’s initiatives and how you can qualify for rider training, visit bmwmoaf.org, where skills accelerated equals riding elevated!

Congratulations to the following winners of the Beemmer Bonanza Sweepstakes

Grand Prize
BMW X5, Gray Wolf Travel Trailer & BMW Motorcycle
Bryan Lewis

2nd Runner Up
EpiCo Colombia South America Motorcycle Trip
William Eppley

3rd Runner Up
Motorcycle Gear Package
Richard Lewis

National Rally Win an M Winners
Timothy Murphy
Tony Clasen
Cory Ziegler

After giving away three M-series motorcycles at the Ridin’ to Redmond National Rally, the winning continues in the Beemer Bonanza Sweepstakes. The Grand Prize of the fundraiser to benefit the MOA Foundation and Motorcycle Relief Project includes a 2024 BMW X7 M60i SUV, an 18RR Gray Wolf Black Label Toy Hauler, and choice of a new BMW motorcycle. The winner of the Grand Prize will have their choice between the Grand Prize package valued at approximately $175,000 or $100,000 in cash.

Tickets to enter the Beemer Bonanza Sweepstakes are on sale now for $25 each, or buy five for $100. MOA members can purchase tickets online at bmwmoa.org/bonanza or contact the membership team at (864) 438-0962 to enter through November 30, 2024.

A Grand Prize winner will be announced December 7, 2024, during a live winner’s broadcast. Proceeds from the Beemer Bonanza Sweepstakes benefit several charities including the BMW MOA Foundation and Motorcycle Relief Project. Learn more about the Beemer Bonanza Sweepstakes and enter to win at bmwmoa.org/bonanza.

Congratulations

Eric Esswein of Conifer, Colorado

You Won!

November 8 UPDATE
DRAWING NUMBERS POSTED

Tickets for the One Ticket & You Pick It fundraiser are on sale now through November 6, 2022. A winner will be announced live on November 12 at the fall BMW MOA Board of Directors meeting in Greer, South Carolina. You do not have to be present to win, but you must purchase a ticket to be included in the drawing. 

Proceeds from the One Ticket & You Pick It fundraiser benefit the rider training initiatives of the BMW MOA Foundation. With your support, the Foundation will fund over 400 Paul B. Training Grants, dozens of group training opportunities, and all rider training activities at the 2023 National Rally. With every ticket purchased, you are making a difference in the lives of MOA members through rider training. 

Tickets are $25 each or five for $100. Purchase tickets online or call the BMW MOA membership office at (864) 438-0962.

CONTEST RULES

1. Raffle ticket sales begin September 1, 2022 and end November 6, 2022. All ticket orders must be RECEIVED on or before November 6, 2022. Prize drawing to be held November 12, 2022. Ticket buyers do not have to be present to win.
2. Raffle tickets may be ordered online, by calling (864) 438-0962 or by mailing a ticket order blank downloaDED from the website or posted in the BMW Owners News. You must be 18 years of age or older to purchase a ticket. Multiple ticket purchases by a single buyer are permissible.
3. Confirmation of ticket orders will be returned via email. A complete list of ticket buyers, along with drawing number, will be published at bmwmoaf.org before the drawing on November 12, 2022.
4. Odds of winning depend on final number of tickets sold. Complete winners list will be posted at BMWMOAF.ORG. Winners claiming their prize must present photo identification and ticket purchase will be verified. Winners are subject to all applicable taxes. Consult your local tax professional for exact tax liability.
5. Maximum prize value $37,500.The BMW MOA Foundation reserves the right to replace, substitute or exchange any of the prizes listed with a similar prize of equal or greater value. 
6. BMW MOA Foundation Board members, BMW MOA and Foundation employees, contractors and their immediate families are ineligible to win. Immediate family is defined as spouse and dependent children. The BMW MOA, BMW MOA Foundation, their officers, directors, employees, volunteers, sponsors or any person or organization affiliated with BMW MOA will not assume any liability for any loss, injury, claim or otherwise resulting from any prize obtained through the sale of a ticket. By submitting an order for a raffle ticket and receiving a drawing number, the buyer acknowledges this limitation of liability and assumes any liability and will hold harmless the BMW MOA, BMW MOA Foundation or any affiliate for any liability resulting from the purchase of this ticket or any prize resulting therefrom.

Congratulations Daniel Levenson

You are the second winner in the Foundation's Summer Speed Raffle.

NUMBERS FOR SATURDAY, JUNE18 DRAWING

Stay tuned for our second winner's drawing Saturday night at approximately 8:30 pm Central Time. Our first winner chose the 1973 R75/5, which means tonight's winner will take home the 1974 R90/6. Good luck to everyone and thank you for supporting the BMW MOA Foundation.

Congratulations Jeff McCullough

You are the first winner in the Foundation's Summer Speed Raffle. Stay tuned on Saturday night to find out who wins dawning number two. Tickets are still available. Buy your tickets before 5pm Central on Saturday June 18 for a chance to win the second vintage BMW motorcycle.

Drawing Numbers for Friday, June 17 Drawing

The initial 3,000 tickets have been sold and will be included in the Friday night drawing. Stay tuned for the winner's announcement later tonight at approximately 8:30 pm Central. Tickets sold at the national rally are listed in order of drawing number. Tickets sold online are listed by the buyer's first and last name.

The first 3,000 tickets listed, along with any additional tickets sold before 5pm Central, Saturday, June 18, will be included in the Saturday night drawing.

The BMW MOA Foundation will raffle two vintage BMWs at the “Wander Farther” National Rally in Springfield, Missouri. The first is a 1973 R 75/5 in Granada Red and the second is a 1974 R 90/6 in Polizei White. Both motorcycles were beautifully restored by notorious builder and MOA member John “Dutch” Lammers. 

Deemed a “Speed Raffle,” the first drawing will take place Friday, June 17 and include the first 3,000 tickets sold.  The winner of the first drawing will have their choice of either bike, leaving the second to be awarded during a drawing at the close of the Rally. The second drawing will include every ticket sold, giving early ticket buyers two chances to win!  

Tickets will be on sale for one week only, June 11-18, 2022, at the MOA Foundation’s Rally booth and online. All MOA members are eligible to enter. Tickets are $25 each or five tickets for $100. 

CONTEST RULES

1. Raffle ticket sales begin June 11, 2022 and end June 18, 2022. All ticket orders must be purchased on or before June 18, 2022. Prize drawings will be held June 17 and June 18, 2022. Ticket buyers do not have to be present to win.
2. Raffle tickets may be ordered online at BMWMOAF.ORG, or in person at the Foundation booth at the Wander Farther National Rally in Springfield, Missouri. You must be 18 years of age or older to purchase a ticket. Multiple ticket purchases by a single buyer are permissible.
3. Confirmation of ticket orders will be returned via email. A complete list of ticket buyers, along with drawing number, will be published at bmwmoaf.org before the drawing on June 17, 2022 and updated before the drawing on June 18, 2022.
4. Odds of winning depend on final number of tickets sold. Complete winners list will be posted at BMWMOAF.ORG. Winners claiming their prize must present photo identification and ticket purchase will be verified. Winners are subject to all applicable taxes. Consult your local tax professional for exact tax liability.
5. The BMW MOA Foundation reserves the right to replace, substitute or exchange any of the prizes listed with a similar prize of equal or greater value.
6. BMW MOA Foundation Board members, BMW MOA and Foundation employees, contractors and their immediate families are ineligible to win. Immediate family is defined as spouse and dependent children. The BMW MOA, BMW MOA Foundation, their officers, directors, employees, volunteers, sponsors or any person or organization affiliated with BMW MOA will not assume any liability for any loss, injury, claim or otherwise resulting from any prize obtained through the sale of a ticket. By submitting an order for a raffle ticket and receiving a drawing number, the buyer acknowledges this limitation of liability and assumes any liability and will hold harmless the BMW MOA, BMW MOA Foundation or any affiliate for any liability resulting from the purchase of this ticket or any prize resulting therefrom.
   

Sometimes, fewer words are better. Especially when the subject matter speaks for itself. Such is the case with the MOA Foundation’s latest creation. It is completely custom, simply stunning and it can be all yours. But you can't win if you don't enter and time is limited.

Tickets for the Completely Custom fundraiser are on sale through May 9, 2022. A winner will be announced live on May 21, 2022. You do not have to be present to win, but you must purchase a ticket to be included in the drawing. Tickets are $25 each or buy five for $100. All proceeds from the event benefit the rider safety, education and training initiatives of the BMW MOA Foundation.

Read the feature article about Completely Custom bike builder and MOA member, Zack WitkowskY

CONTEST RULES

1. Raffle ticket sales begin March 1, 2022 and end May 9, 2022. All ticket orders must be RECEIVED on or before May 9, 2022. Prize drawing to be held May 21, 2022. Ticket buyers do not have to be present to win.
2. Raffle tickets may be ordered online at BMWMOAF.ORG, by calling (864) 438-0962 or by mailing a ticket order blank download form the website or posted in the BMW Owners News. You must be 18 years of age or older to purchase a ticket. Multiple ticket purchases by a single buyer are permissible.
3. Confirmation of ticket orders will be returned via email. A complete list of ticket buyers, along with drawing number, will be published at bmwmoaf.org before the drawing on May 21, 2022.
4. Odds of winning depend on final number of tickets sold. Complete winners list will be posted at BMWMOAF.ORG. Winners claiming their prize must present photo identification and ticket purchase will be verified. Winners are subject to all applicable taxes. Consult your local tax professional for exact tax liability.
5. The BMW MOA Foundation reserves the right to replace, substitute or exchange any of the prizes listed with a similar prize of equal or greater value.
6. BMW MOA Foundation Board members, BMW MOA and Foundation employees, contractors and their immediate families are ineligible to win. Immediate family is defined as spouse and dependent children. The BMW MOA, BMW MOA Foundation, their officers, directors, employees, volunteers, sponsors or any person or organization affiliated with BMW MOA will not assume any liability for any loss, injury, claim or otherwise resulting from any prize obtained through the sale of a ticket. By submitting an order for a raffle ticket and receiving a drawing number, the buyer acknowledges this limitation of liability and assumes any liability and will hold harmless the BMW MOA, BMW MOA Foundation or any affiliate for any liability resulting from the purchase of this ticket or any prize resulting therefrom.
   

Frederick, Maryland

Ticket 6785

WINNER'S DRAWING
DECEMBER 18, 2021

The winner of the One Ticket & You Pick It fundraiser will be announced Saturday, December 18, 2021 during the live winner's drawing at Motoworks Chicago. The festivities kick off at noon with an unveil of our custom airhead that will be featured in our 2022 Custom Bike raffle. At 1pm CST, we'll draw the winning number for our 2021 fundraiser and someone will ride away on the bike of their dreams!

Join us in person at Motoworks Chicago, located at 1901 S Western Ave, Chicago, Illinois or watch the drawing live on Facebook. We'll also post the winner on this page as soon as possible after the drawing.

Have Tickets in the Drawing?
See Your Drawing Numbers Here

One ticket! That's all it takes to win the BMW motorcycle of your dreams in the BMW MOA Foundation's "One Ticket & You Pick It" fall fundraiser. On December 18, one lucky MOA member will ride away on the grand prize - any BMW motorcycle in the 2022 lineup including the winner's choice of factory installed options.

Is the new BMW M 1000 RR your heart's desire? How about a new R 18 Transcontinental? Or, possibly you are the traditionalist and want a loaded R 1250 GS Adventure with all the goodies? Any of these can be yours when you win! But you can't win if you don't enter and time is limited.

Tickets for the One Ticket & You Pick It fundraiser are on sale through December 6, 2021. A winner will be announced live on December 18, 2021. You do not have to be present to win, but you must purchase a ticket to be included in the drawing. Tickets are $25 each or buy five for $100. All proceeds from the event benefit the rider safety, education and training initiatives of the BMW MOA Foundation.

Someone will ride away on the bike of their dreams. It could be you! 

CONTEST RULES

Drawing #1 Ticket 0358

Ron Martyn, Blackstock, ON

2021 BMW F 900 R

Drawing #2 Ticket 0481

Glen Ingold, Bel Air, MD

2021 BMW S 1000 R

Drawing #3 Ticket 3458

Douglas Christensen, Lake Worth, FL

2021 S 1000 RR

Drawing #4 Ticket 3128

Marc Williams, Whiting, NJ

2021 BMW S 1000 XR

Drawing #5 Ticket 3843

John Daly, Calgary, AB

2021 BMW F 900 XR

Drawing #6 Ticket 1566

Todd Goeringer, Newell, SD

2021 BMW G 310 R

Friday, June 25 Winners' Drawing

Drawing #7 Ticket 2083

Brett Baldi, Fairview Park, OH

2021 BMW R 18

Drawing #8 Ticket 0889

Ed Apelian,Cahrlotte, NC

2021 BMW R nine T Pure

Drawing #9 Ticket 3850

Larry Mawson, Stuart, FL

2021 BMW R 1250 RT

Drawing #10 Ticket 4902

Douglas Moffitt, Fallsington, PA

2021 BMW R 1250 RS

Drawing #11 Ticket 1662

Rajeev Thomas, Bensalem, PA

2021 BMW R 1250 GS

Drawing #12 Ticket 2641

Robert Gould, Contoocook, NH

2021 BMW R 1250 R

Saturday, June 26 Winners' Drawing

Drawing #13 Ticket 2865

Douglas Ashworth, Nashville, TN

2021 BMW G 310 GS 40th Anniversary Edition

Drawing #14 Ticket 1978

Tom Gregg, New Franklin, OH

2021 BMW F 750 GS 40th Anniversary Edition

Drawing #15 Ticket 2961

Toby Gabriel, Victoria, BC

2021BMW F850 GS 40th Anniversary Edition

Drawing #16 Ticket 4011

John Hubbard, Flower Mound, TX

2021 BMWF 850 GS Adventure 40th Anniversary Edition

Drawing #17 Ticket 3428

Kevin Nixon, Oro Valley, AZ

2021 BMWR nine T Urban GS 40th Anniversary Edition

Drawing #18 Ticket 4171

Edward Bonfoey, Aromas, CA

2021 BMW R 1250GS 40th Anniversary Edition

Final Grand Prize Drawings

Drawing #19 Ticket 4720

Brian Holm, San Francisco, CA

2021 BMW K 1600  B

Drawing #20 Ticket 3116

Scott Weiler, 

2021 BMW R 1250 GS Adventure 40th Anniversary Edition

TICKET BUYERS & DRAWING NUMBERS

The world’s largest BMW motorcycle giveaway is back for 2021. The BMW MOA Foundation’s popular fundraiser, the Superstakes, returns this year and BMW MOA members have a chance to win twenty new BMW motorcycles, including two grand prizes – a 2021 K 1600 B and a 2021 40th Anniversary edition R 1250 GS Adventure.

The winning begins on Thursday, June 24 at the Saddle Up & Ride National Rally in Great Falls, when the Foundation will draw six winning numbers in the first flight of giveaways all about the RRRRRRRs. Prize motorcycles on the first day of winning include an S 1000 RR, S 1000 R, S 1000 XR, F 900 R, F 900 XR and a G 310 R.

Day two of winning features a little something for the more traditional BMW motorcycle enthusiast. The Foundation will draw another six winning numbers on Friday, June 25 and award a 2021 R 18, R 1250 RT, R 1250 RS, R 1250 GS, R 1250 R and a 2021 R nine T Pure.

The winning continues Saturday, June 26, when we celebrate the 40th anniversary of the GS and give away six 40th Anniversary edition GSes, including an R 1250 GS, F 850 GS Adventure, F 850 GS, F 750 GS, R nine T Urban GS and a G 310 GS. Later in the evening, two grand prizes will be awarded on the entertainment stage. Two winners will ride home on either a new K 1600 B or a 40th Anniversary R 1250 GS Adventure.

Could this year be the first for a repeat winner in the Superstakes? Possibly, since every ticket is included in all 20 drawings and you do not have to be present in Great Falls to win a new BMW motorcycle!

Superstakes tickets are on sale through June 1st, 2021 for $100 each and can be purchased online, by mail or by calling the BMW MOA membership office at (864) 438-0962. There is no limit to the number of tickets that can be purchased and the odds of winning depend on the final number of entries.

Proceeds from the sale of Superstakes tickets support the Foundation’s mission to advance rider safety, education, and training. For more information about the BMW MOA Foundation and its work to support rider safety, visit bmwmoaf.org.

CONTEST RULES

1. Superstakes ticket sales begin March 15, 2021 and end June 1, 2021. Tickets may also be purchased at the National Rally, June 24-26, 2021. 
2. All ticket orders must be RECEIVED on or before June 1, 2021.
3. Superstakes tickets may be ordered online at BMWMOA.ORG/SUPERSTAKES, by calling (864) 438-0962 or by mailing the Superstakes order blank posted in the BMW Owners News.  Tickets will also be available for purchase at the National Rally.
4. Complete prize list is available online at bmwmoaf.org.
5. TICKET HOLDER NEED NOT BE PRESENT TO WIN – ALL PRIZES WILL BE AWARDED.
6. Multiple ticket purchases by a single buyer are permissible.
   
7. You must be 18 years of age or older to purchase a ticket.
8. Any ticket number can win more than one prize.
9. Odds of winning depend on final number of tickets sold.
10. All winning numbers will be drawn between Thursday, June 24 and Saturday, June 26, 2021.
11. Complete winners list will be posted at BMWMOAF.ORG.
12. Winners claiming their prize must present winning number and PHOTO IDENTIFICATION.
13. Winners are subject to all applicable taxes. Consult your local tax professional for exact tax liability.
14. The BMW MOA Foundation reserves the right to replace, substitute or exchange any of the prizes listed with a similar prize of equal or greater value.
15. BMW MOA Foundation Board members, BMW MOA employees, contractors and their immediate families are ineligible to win. Immediate family defined as spouse and dependent children.
16. The BMW MOA, BMW MOA Foundation, their officers, directors, employees, volunteers, sponsors or any person or organization affiliated with BMW MOA will not assume any liability for any loss, injury, claim or otherwise resulting from any prize obtained through the sale of a ticket. By submitting an order for a Superstakes ticket and receiving a drawing number, the buyer acknowledges this limitation of liability and assumes any liability and will hold harmless the BMW MOA Foundation or any affiliate for any liability resulting from the purchase of this ticket or any prize resulting therefrom.

FAQ

When can I buy Superstakes tickets?

Tickets are available for purchase between March 15, 2021 and June 1, 2021. Any orders for Superstakes tickets must be RECEIVED by these dates.

How do I purchase a Superstakes ticket?

Tickets can be purchased on the website at BMWMOA.ORG or by calling (864) 438-0962.  Order blanks will also be available through the BMW Owners News with a return mailing address.

Are you going to send me an actual ticket?

No. United States Postal Service regulations prohibit mailing lottery or raffle tickets. Buyers will receive an email with a link to print the actual ticket receipt. Ticket buyers who do not have an email address will receive an order confirmation of their ticket purchase. The original order will be kept on file at the BMW MOA Foundation office.

How many tickets can I purchase?

You may purchase as many tickets as you like. 

I purchased a Superstakes ticket and I have not received anything in return. How can I check on my purchase?

Please allow 2 – 3 weeks to process your order. Buyer names and ticket numbers will be listed in alphabetical order at bmwmoaf.org. If you do not have any confirmation, you can email SUPERSTAKES@BMWMOAF.ORG.

Can I purchase tickets online?

Yes. You can purchase tickets online at BMWMOA.ORG.

Can I sell my ticket to someone else?

No. Tickets are not transferable.

How much are the tickets?

Single tickets are $100 each.

Are there any discounts on multiple tickets?

Tickets are $100 each and there are no discounts for multiple tickets; however, you can purchase as many tickets as you like.

What are the prizes this year?

The prize pool for the Superstakes is as follows:

All About the RRRRRRRs, Thursday June 24, 2021

• Drawing #1: 2021 F 900 R, $8,995 prize value
• Drawing #2: 2021 S 1000 R, $14,995 prize value
• Drawing #3: 2021 S 1000 RR, $16,995 prize value
• Drawing #4: 2021 S 1000 XR, $17,945 prize value
• Drawing #5: 2021 F 900 XR, $11,695 prize value
• Drawing #6: 2021 G 310 R, $5,045 prize value

BMW Heritage Day, Friday June 25, 2021

• Drawing #7: 2021 R 18, prize value $17,495
• Drawing #8: 2021 R nine T Pure, $10,995 prize value
• Drawing #9: 2021 R 1250 RT, $19,695 prize value
• Drawing #10: 2021 R 1250 RS, $15,695 prize value
• Drawing #11: 2021 R 1250 GS, $17,995 prize value
• Drawing #12: 2021 R 1250 R, $14,995 prize value

Celebrating the 40th Anniversary of the GS, June 26, 2021

• Drawing #13: 2021 G 310 GS Anniversary edition, $6,195 prize value
• Drawing #14: 2021 F 750 GS Anniversary edition, $11,395 prize value
• Drawing #15: 2021 F 850 GS Anniversary edition, $13,945 prize value
• Drawing #16: 2021 F 850 GSA Anniversary edition, $14,945 prize value
• Drawing #17: 2021 R nine T Urban GS Anniversary edition, $15,995 prize value
• Drawing #18: 2021 R 1250 GS Anniversary edition, $19,745 prize value

Grand Prize Drawings, Saturday, June 26, 2021

• Grand Prize Drawing #1: 2021 K 1600 B, $23,195 prize value
• Grand Prize Drawing #2: 2021 R 1250 GSA 40th Anniversary edition, $21,895 prize value
  

How many prizes are available?

Twenty prizes are available.

Can I win more than one prize?

Yes!  Every ticket number is included in every drawing.  All tickets numbers have an equal chance of winning.  You can purchase multiple tickets for better odds of winning.

What are the odds for winning?

Actual odds depend on the number of tickets purchased.  The more tickets you purchase, the better your odds of winning.

When is the drawing?

Winning tickets will be drawn Thursday, June 24; Friday, June 25; and Saturday, June 26, 2021 at the BMW MOA National Rally in Great Falls, Montana. 

Do I have to be present to win?

No. Winners will be contacted by phone, email or registered mail within 14 days of the drawing.

If I win the motorcycle, are you going to ship it to me?

No. Winners are responsible for all delivery costs and arrangements. 

Is the first service (or any service) included as part of the prize for the motorcycle?

No. Maintenance costs will be the responsibility of the winner.

I don’t live in the United States. Will the winning motorcycle be legal in my country?

All motorcycles will be US specification models. You should check with your local governing body to determine if that model can be imported into your country. We will do our best to accommodate non-US winners, but prize value may be affected.

I can’t import a US specification motorcycle into my country. Are you going to buy me a motorcycle that meets my country requirements?

No, but you can opt for a cash value prize as specified in the prize list.  The motorcycle prizes awarded in the Superstakes are US specification motorcycles.  

I don’t want the motorcycle or any of the other prizes. Is there a cash option?

Yes. The cash value of each prize is specified in the prize list.

Do I have to pay taxes on the prize?

Yes. Any federal, state and local taxes are the responsibility of the winner.

How much are the taxes on the prize?

Tax liability depends on the prize won and your geographical location. IRS rules require collecting a 24% income tax withholding on each prize. You should contact a local tax professional for a specific amount of your tax liability.

Are you sending tax forms at the end of the year?

Yes. You will receive the appropriate tax forms.

I have other questions. Who should I contact?

You may submit questions through the contact form on the Superstakes page at bmwmoaf.org or contact the BMW MOA Foundation by email.

One ticket! That's all it takes to win the BMW motorcycle of your dreams in the BMW MOA Foundation's "One Ticket & You Pick It" fall fundraiser. On November 21st, one lucky MOA member will ride away on the grand prize - any BMW motorcycle in the 2021 lineup including the winner's choice of factory installed options.

Is a new BMW R 18 your heart's desire? How about the K 1600 Grand America? Or, maybe a new R 1250 GS Adventure with all the goodies is more your style? Any of these can be yours when you win! But you can't win if you don't enter and time is limited.

Tickets for the One Ticket & You Pick It fundraiser are on sale through November 8, 2020. A winner will be announced live on November 21, 2020. You do not have to be present to win, but you must purchase a ticket to be included in the drawing. Tickets are $25 each or buy five for $100. All proceeds from the event benefit the rider safety, education and training initiatives of the BMW MOA Foundation.

Someone will ride away on the bike of their dreams. It could be you! 

CONTEST RULES

1. Raffle ticket sales begin August 24, 2020 and end November 8, 2020. All ticket orders must be RECEIVED on or before November 8, 2020. Prize drawing to be held November 21, 2020. Ticket buyers do not have to be present to win.
2. Raffle tickets may be ordered online at BMWMOAF.ORG, by calling (864) 438-0962 or by mailing a ticket order blank download form the website or posted in the BMW Owners News. You must be 18 years of age or older to purchase a ticket. Multiple ticket purchases by a single buyer are permissible.
3. Confirmation of ticket orders and ticket numbers will be returned via email. A complete list of ticket buyers will be published at bmwmoaf.org before the drawing on November 21.
4. Odds of winning depend on final number of tickets sold. Complete winners list will be posted at BMWMOAF.ORG. Winners claiming their prize must present photo identification and ticket purchase will be verified. Winners are subject to all applicable taxes. Consult your local tax professional for exact tax liability.
5. One Ticket & You Pick It prize options limited to new 2020 or 2021 BMW motorcycles including the C 400 X, C 650 GT, F 750 GS, F 850 GS, F 850 GS Adventure, F 900 R, F 900 XR, G 310 GS, G 310 R, K 1600 B, K 1600 Grand America, K 1600 GT, K 1600 GTL, R 1250 GS, R 1250 GS Adventure, R 1250 R, R 1250 RS, R 1250 RT, R 18, R nineT, R nineT /5, R nineT Pure, R nineT Scrambler, S 1000 R, S 1000 RR, S 1000 XR and available BMW factory installed options. The value of the chosen model and installed options may not exceed $35,000. The BMW MOA Foundation reserves the right to replace, substitute or exchange any of the prizes listed with a similar prize of equal or greater value.
6. BMW MOA Foundation Board members, BMW MOA and Foundation employees, contractors and their immediate families are ineligible to win. Immediate family is defined as spouse and dependent children. The BMW MOA, BMW MOA Foundation, their officers, directors, employees, volunteers, sponsors or any person or organization affiliated with BMW MOA will not assume any liability for any loss, injury, claim or otherwise resulting from any prize obtained through the sale of a ticket. By submitting an order for a raffle ticket and receiving a drawing number, the buyer acknowledges this limitation of liability and assumes any liability and will hold harmless the BMW MOA, BMW MOA Foundation or any affiliate for any liability resulting from the purchase of this ticket or any prize resulting therefrom.
   

We’ve all heard the old saying, "There’s no such thing as a free lunch." Right? The old "free lunch" adage is generally true, but not always. Such was the case in October when I signed up online for an "off road" riding improvement course sponsored by Alamo BMW (in Boerne, TX) last month and then, with just a few more keystrokes, applied for a Paul B. Scholarship offered to MOA members to improve their riding skills through the MOA Foundation. Within a week of paying the course tuition to Alamo BMW, I received an email from the MOA Foundation approving my scholarship. Thank you, MOA!!! My paid tuition was going to be reimbursed by the MOA Foundation AND the course tuition included lunch at a nice restaurant near the training site. Now, that is what I would call getting a free lunch!

When Alamo BMW hosted its Annual Open House on October 26th, they gave it an "Off Road" theme. In addition to providing their visitors and customers refreshments and a complimentary lunch on the grounds of the dealership, Alamo hired Shawn Thomas and Louise Powers, well-known adventure riding instructors, to conduct clinics throughout the day on topics of specific interest to adventure riders. Shawn and Louise’s clinics included how to safely pick up a fallen motorcycle, what to look for in adventure riding gear, advancements in BMW motorcycle technology, general discussions on off-road riding techniques, and also specific concerns & challenges for women riders. The indoor instruction on Saturday was just the warm up for what was to come the following day – off road instruction on a small ranch in Bulverde, TX.

Alamo’s first attempt to sponsor such off-road training was back in 2012, but it rained so hard on the scheduled training day that the off-site riding had to be canceled and some basic riding skills were taught instead on the go kart track at the dealership (in pouring rain). But this year, Mother Nature cooperated and 31 riders on various BMW GSs (and a few "other" bikes) showed up in Bulverde at 8:00 am on Sunday, ready and willing to get dirty and (unfortunately) get some practical experience on how to pick up a fallen bike.

A few days of rain earlier in the week made the training grounds quite muddy and soft. We knew the day was going to be challenging when two riders dumped their bikes just trying to negotiate the "off road" entrance to the ranch. But after everyone had made it safely on to the grounds and signed the liability waivers, we ventured slowly to the higher ground of the ranch and assembled for pre-ride instructions and minor modifications of the bikes, such as airing down tires to optimum pressure (which we learned depends upon the year and model of your bike), adjusting the handlebar tilt, and removing side cases and bulky tank bags.

The first teaching objective of the day was how to pick up a fallen bike. Shawn let Louise do the heavy lifting during this demonstration. She used the technique of putting her backside to the bike, grabbing a handlebar grip with one hand and the rear frame with the other hand and then lifting and walking backwards to upright the bike. She made it look easy. Then Shawn asked for a few male volunteers to show the rest of the class how to do it. Talk about added pressure!! How would you like to be a guy huffing and puffing to lift a new 550 pound R1250GS that had just previously been lifted up by a 5’ 4’ woman weighing about 130 pounds? Not me!! But a few others stepped forward and managed the task. Then Shawn demonstrated another lifting technique by cupping his hands under the end of the handlebar and walking/lifting the bike up while facing the bike. Both instructors also demonstrated the proper technique for helping someone else pick up their bike. This instruction would come in handy for several riders later that morning. The instructors asked us to beep our horns if we saw someone drop their bike so they would know if someone needed help. (We would hear a lot of horns beeping later in the morning while the grounds were still wet and slippery.)

After instruction on lifting a downed bike came a general discussion of riding technique, such as why adventure riders stand up on the foot pegs while riding; the importance of light pressure on the grips, letting the bike’s momentum create its track without trying to over control its path; proper weight distribution riding uphill, downhill, and in turns; and keeping your head up and eyes forward, focusing ahead on the track you want to ride. In fact, Shawn said we would probably get tired of hearing him yell, "Keep your eyes looking up and ahead!! Stop looking down!!!"

Finally, after about two hours of setting up the bikes, demonstrations on how to pick up bikes, and discussion of proper riding techniques, the grounds had dried off sufficiently to fire up the bikes and start riding. One of the first tasks on the agenda was to create our riding track.

Since the ranch was mostly uncultivated fields, Shawn used us to create the training track. We all got into a single file and rode behind him as we "carved" a long elongated oval, with one lane of the elongated oval running parallel to the entrance lane into the ranch. Three laps around the oval with 33 motorcycles tamping down the brush and grass was enough to get our track started. Most of the remaining training would be accomplished on this makeshift track. A mostly flat open area on the high ground adjacent to the track was used as an assembly area to park the bikes and gather around the instructors to discuss techniques and to demonstrate the next exercise.

Exercises included slow riding using constant throttle while varying the clutch to control speed, slow riding using only throttle to control speed (both in first gear and then in second gear), slow riding with "eyes focused forward and head up" while instructors created distractions (such as jumping out in front of us and grabbing the back of our bikes as a tree branch might do in rough terrain), riding with weight distribution forward during acceleration and weight distribution back during deceleration, locking up the rear brakes (with ABS off) to control bike without rear traction, and "hill stops" (and starts) without putting a foot down, and slow speed maneuvering through cones. During the hill stops demonstration, Shawn stopped and balanced his bike for a full 3 seconds before accelerating forward, a feat he said was "pretty good, even for him." Each exercise was practiced during 3 laps around the track, with both instructors watching and critiquing.

The last exercise of the day was the most challenging, although Shawn didn’t introduce it that way. He set out a series of small cones about two feet apart, extending out in front of us in a straight lane for about 30 yards and told us that all we had to do was ride through this "gauntlet" of cones three times without knocking any of them over. Easy, peasy, right??? Not exactly! The first pass through was indeed easy, but while we were out on the track and coming back around for the second pass, he quickly rearranged the cones. On our second pass the cones were still two feet apart, BUT no longer formed a straight lane. They formed a zig zag course that involved sharp turns left, then back to the right, then back to left, etc., and required us to use the slow speed maneuvering skills previously taught and practiced, such as throttle and clutch control, proper weight shift during turns, and keeping our head up with eyes and attention focused forward. Some riders handled it quite well; some others mangled Shawn’s cones. .

After the last riding exercise, we were treated to a final demonstration of Shawn’s skills using three weight shift techniques during turning – neutral, "hip swish," and "toe turn." Neutral involved just slight leaning during turns, "hip swish" involved shifting hips noticeably toward the opposite direction of the turn to balance the center of gravity of the bike and rider, and the "toe turn" (for extremely tight turning) involved shifting almost all weight from the center axis of the bike to the foot peg opposite the direction of the turn. During this last demonstration, Shawn swung his right leg over the back of the bike and completed the right turn with all of his weight on the left foot peg and his body entirely on the left side of the bike when he came to a full stop and deployed the side stand all in one smooth motion.

Finally, the sun was low in the sky and it had been a long, tiring day of riding, listening, observing, and building confidence in new skills learned. No one was injured and no bikes were significantly damaged. We had a few minutes to relax, ask more questions, and just chat with Shawn and Louise about their riding experiences and background. Shawn is a BMW Brand Ambassador, a former Raw Hyde Adventures instructor, and a Certified BMW Riding Instructor (having completed the demanding BMW off road instructor course in France to earn that distinction). He’s from California. Louise is a full-time costume designer and part-time professional riding instructor from Denver CO. Both Shawn and Louise are well-known in the adventure riding community. Both were charismatic, entertaining, and very effective in helping us improve our skills and confidence in off road riding.

There are a lot of opportunities to improve riding skills through similar dealer-sponsored riding improvement courses, the BMW U.S. Rider Academy, and other commercial schools. The MOA Foundation’s Paul B. scholarship program is one of many MOA membership benefits you can use to defray the expense of a training course that will help make you a safer and more confident rider. So, sign up for a course and apply for an MOA Foundation Paul B. Scholarship. In my case, it really was a free lunch!

The 1977 BMW R 100 RS. Built by BMW. Expertly restored by BMW MOA member John “Dutch” Lammers. Hand signed by Hans Muth. It is completely vintage, and it could be yours!

Often referred to as the "first edition" of the RS, the Foundation's latest treasure has been expertly restored to serve as the grand prize in the Spring 2020 Completely Vintage raffle to raise funds for rider safety, education and training.

Tickets for the Completely Vintage R100RS are on sale through April 5th. The winner of this beautiful, one-of-a-kind restoration will be announced April 25, 2020 at the BMW MOA Fontana Weekend Getaway. You do not have to be present to win.

The restoration of this first edition R 100 RS is a labor of love completed by BMW MOA member Dutch Lammers. Detailed in the February issue of the BMW Owners News, the restoration is the result of six months of hard work and dedication to detail. The R 100 RS represents a true 100-point restoration that any BMW enthusiast would be proud to own.

Among some of the unique features of the bike are a pair of blue anodized front brake calipers and the silver anodized spoke rims, only used on the ’77 model.

The glass headlight cover on the fairing uses the now unavailable original fastening system attaching the headlight to the fairing from the inside and showing no hardware on the outside, as later models did. The bike features solid lowers surrounding the motor and mirror stems painted in the original body color, just as the bike originally had.

The bike also uses a matte paint finish. Though initially disliked by BMW purists at the time who would often polish the paint to a gloss shine, a matte finish was how BMW delivered the motorcycle. Finally, the bike was beautifully and perfectly pinstriped by Mark Weld. And, maybe most unique to the Completely Vintage R 100 RS, the gas tank is hand signed by the original designer of the R 100 RS, Hans Muth.

For a chance to win the Completely Vintage R 100 RS, MOA members can purchase raffle tickets online for $25 each or five for $100. Proceeds from the Completely Vintage raffle support the BMW MOA Foundation's efforts to improve rider safety, education and training. For details about the Foundation's current safety and training initiatives, including the Paul B. Scholarship, please visit bmwmoaf.org.

CONTEST RULES

1. Raffle ticket sales begin February 1, 2020 and end April 5, 2020. All ticket orders must be RECEIVED on or before April 5, 2020. Prize drawing to be held April 25, 2020. Ticket buyers do not have to be present to win.
2. Raffle tickets may be ordered online at BMWMOAF.ORG, by calling (864) 438-0962 or by mailing a ticket order blank posted in the BMW Owners News. You must be 18 years of age or older to purchase a ticket. Multiple ticket purchases by a single buyer are permissible.
3. Confirmation of ticket orders and ticket numbers will be returned via email. A complete list of ticket buyers will be published at bmwmoaf.org before the drawing on April 25.
4. Odds of winning depend on final number of tickets sold. Complete winners list will be posted at BMWMOAF.ORG. Winners claiming their prize must present photo identification and ticket purchase will be verified. Winners are subject to all applicable taxes. Consult your local tax professional for exact tax liability.
5. The BMW MOA Foundation reserves the right to replace, substitute or exchange any of the prizes listed with a similar prize of equal or greater value.
6. BMW MOA Foundation Board members, BMW MOA and Foundation employees, contractors and their immediate families are ineligible to win. Immediate family is defined as spouse and dependent children. The BMW MOA, BMW MOA Foundation, their officers, directors, employees, volunteers, sponsors or any person or organization affiliated with BMW MOA will not assume any liability for any loss, injury, claim or otherwise resulting from any prize obtained through the sale of a ticket. By submitting an order for a raffle ticket and receiving a drawing number, the buyer acknowledges this limitation of liability and assumes any liability and will hold harmless the BMW MOA Foundation or any affiliate for any liability resulting from the purchase of this ticket or any prize resulting therefrom.
   

“Our first raffle effort was nearly ten years ago, and the Foundation has used those funds to provide important rider safety initiatives like our Paul B. Scholarship program,” Manley said. “If we had started the SafeMiles Endowment at the same time, we would have a $1 million nest egg today to fund our training efforts forever.”

Manley also said the Foundation is looking for donors at all levels, including a handful of key donors willing to make an annual commitment to the SafeMiles Endowment. “Fifteen MOA members have stepped up and committed long term donations to get the fund off the ground,” said Manley. “We have commitments for $150,000 in donations toward the million dollar goal, but we’ve tried to make it very easy for MOA members to donate at any level.”

Donors to the SafeMiles Endowment can receive Foundation incentives such as saddlebag medallions, Foundation polo shirts, one-year membership renewals and even automatic entries for Foundation raffles. To learn more about the SafeMiles Endowment and the various options for giving, MOA members can visit bmwmoaf.org. 

“Our $250 donation level was very popular at the rally because it includes automatic entry into the various Foundation raffles, a one-year membership renewal and several other incentives that MOA members deserve,” commented Manley.

With the announcement of the SafeMiles campaign and the ability to automatically enter Foundation raffles, the Foundation also unveiled two custom R nine T Urban GSs that will be the prizes in the fall Custom Bike raffle. SafeMiles donors can receive an automatic entry to the Fall raffle as well as next year’s Completely Vintage raffle and the 2020 Superstakes by donating now at SafeMiles Endowment donation page.

“It is a very exciting time for the Foundation with lots of activity,” said Manley, “but, I am especially excited for future BMW MOA members who will benefit from these efforts.”

Norman McLeod, YOu WOn!

The BMW MOA Foundation is back with another unique find for the the 2019 Completely Vintage Raffle. The popular fundraiser for the Foundation features a very special 1967 R60/2 acquired from the BMW Museum at Bob's BMW. Tickets for the Completely Vintage Raffle will be available online through March 31, 2019.

This expertly restored motorcycle featuring, nearly 100% period correct NOS parts, is truly an exceptional example of vintage BMW motorcycles. Bob Henig of Bob's BMW acquired this flawlessly restored example of BMW’s sturdy, dependable motorcycle over 15 years ago. It came to him from a friend intimately involved in restoring classic BMW motorcycles and is one of the finest and most accurately restored R 60/2 motorcycles you will ever see. The restoration, which took place from 1995-97, utilized as many new old stock (NOS) BMW parts as possible. Even the paint and pinstriping are correct for the period.

At the time of restoration, the bike was all original, had only two previous owners, and had just over 20,000 original miles on it. This specific machine underwent a full stripped-frame restoration. All driveline components were rebuilt including new bearings, seals and gaskets. The crank was done over, and the engine blueprinted. New original BMW pistons were used along with NOS valves, guides and seats to fully rebuild the heads. All cases and covers were painstakingly blasted with walnut shells to return them to the exact same luster as when the bike left Berlin. Special hardware was reused as long as all edges and faces were perfect; these were all sent out to be cadmium plated to the exact appearance of what BMW provided in the 1960s.

The details really make this restoration shine, things like axles, Europa handlebars, bar risers and pinch bolts, bar end turn signals and harness, the main and rear wiring harnesses, ignition switch plate, switch assembly, chrome hardware, ignition coil, plug caps and boots, lenses for the headlamp and tail lamp plus the internals and chrome trim rings, left and right control switches, wheel bearing retainers, chromed steel rims plus spokes and nipples and the painted hub caps, internal clutch assembly components, the header pipes with exhaust nuts and cross over, the factory side stand and a standard bench seat. The standard width bench seat and the optional 6.5-gallon sport tank are the perfect visual combination. Even the control cables and adjustors are original BMW and from the correct era. Inside the engine under the oil pump gear inspection cover is a BMW tach drive gear in case the new owner hunts down and adds that rare option in the future.

There are a few more NOS parts included and installed, but they are not original BMW items; they are period correct accessories or options offered through Butler & Smith and Flanders Corporation, the two authorized U.S. importers from that time period. This includes items like the Bowman cast aluminum deep oil pan, stainless steel mufflers, KONI heavy duty front and rear shocks, finned exhaust nut covers and the Albert left-hand mirror. Wheel rims and spokes, NOS to start with, are also perfect, as is the exhaust system, all chromed and plated parts, fasteners, hardware, rubber, cables, adjustors and springs.

All the paint and expertly applied hand pinstripes of the correct size and location were done utilizing the factory-correct Glasurit Avus black materials. The machine has always been stored in a temperature-controlled environment and is always parked on wood or carpeted floors. It has never been in the rain since the restoration, and it has seen regular dustings, shines and the occasional bath and re-wax.

The rubber parts are perfect. A NOS original battery strap from Bob’s personal stash will also be included. Not one drop of oil has collected under this machine over the years, and while it has been over a decade since it was last ridden, it was expertly pickled for long-term storage. The fuel tank is clean and dry, and there are fresh oils in all driveline components.

This machine is supplied with additional items such as an original owner’s manual, a complete original tool kit in the pouch, a rare original BMW shop rag, the correct tire repair kit in the small tin and one black knob key, one flat spare key plus one special square key to fit the tool compartment on top of the sports tank. There is simply not another BMW R60/2 available anywhere on this planet that one could acquire that is as perfect as this machine.

Tickets are on sale through March 31, 2019. Purchase online at bmwmoaf.org, by calling (864) 438-0962 or by mailing an entry blank and payment to the Foundation. The winning raffle ticket will be drawn at Bob’s BMW in Jessup, Maryland, on April 27. You do not have to be present to win. Tickets are $25 each or five for $100. 

CONTEST RULES

1. Raffle ticket sales begin February 1, 2019 and end March 31, 2019. All ticket orders must be RECEIVED on or before March 31, 2019. Prize drawing to be held April 27, 2019 at Bob's BMW. Ticket buyers do not have to be present to win.
2. Raffle tickets may be ordered online at BMWMOAF.ORG, by calling (864) 438-0962 or by mailing a ticket order blank posted in the BMW Owners News. You must be 18 years of age or older to purchase a ticket. Multiple ticket purchases by a single buyer are permissible.
3. Confirmation of ticket orders and ticket numbers will be returned via email. A complete list of ticket buyers will be published at bmwmoaf.org before the drawing on April 27.
4. Odds of winning depend on final number of tickets sold. Complete winners list will be posted at BMWMOAF.ORG. Winners claiming their prize must present winning number and PHOTO IDENTIFICATION. Winners are subject to all applicable taxes. Consult your local tax professional for exact tax liability.
5. The BMW MOA Foundation reserves the right to replace, substitute or exchange any of the prizes listed with a similar prize of equal or greater value.
6. BMW MOA Foundation Board members, BMW MOA and Foundation employees, contractors and their immediate families are ineligible to win. Immediate family defined as spouse and dependent children. The BMW MOA, BMW MOA Foundation, their officers, directors, employees, volunteers, sponsors or any person or organization affiliated with BMW MOA will not assume any liability for any loss, injury, claim or otherwise resulting from any prize obtained through the sale of a ticket. By submitting an order for a raffle ticket and receiving a drawing number, the buyer acknowledges this limitation of liability and assumes any liability and will hold harmless the BMW MOA Foundation or any affiliate for any liability resulting from the purchase of this ticket or any prize resulting therefrom.
   

Regrettably, I had passed my initial opportunity to pull over at the Falls. By the time I could turn around on the twisty, curve-filled road and go back (5 minutes), the small pull-off was filled with vehicles, and I had no room to park my motorcycle safely. It was about 10:30 in the morning on the 3rd of November, 2018, a Saturday, and the fall color travelers were out in full force. I didn’t know it, but I was on a portion of the road called “The Mountain Waters Scenic Byway.”

Bob (right) and Zeb Congdon on North Carolina Rt.#28, Fontana Lake, just before Tail of the Dragon.

It is a National Forest Scenic Byway in the Nantahala National Forest in Western North Carolina. To quote Wikipedia, “The Cullasaja River Gorge offers a spectacular scenic drive along the Waterfall Byway between the towns of Franklin and Highlands, North Carolina. The tallest falls are the Cullasaja Falls, which drop 250 feet in the Nantahala National Forest, Nantahala Ranger District, 90 Sloan Road, Franklin, NC 28734, (828)-524-644.”

The entire route runs from Lauda to Franklin to Highlands, North Carolina. I was on the portion from Franklin to Highlands on Route 28/64. This route, as mentioned above, follows the Cullasaja River Gorge, one spectacular mountain road featuring many waterfalls, including Bridal Veil Falls, Dry Falls, Quarry Falls and Cullasaja Falls.

Before this trip to experience “The Tail of the Dragon,” I began researching a fall ride in the Great Smokies National Park-Nantahala National Forest in Western North Carolina and Eastern Tennessee. As this would be my first multi-day adventure on a newly acquired 2011 F 650 GS, I wanted to ensure a memorable ride (Most of my long-distance riding has been on a 1972 R 75/5, purchased new in Germany while in the military.)

The first smart thing I did was post on the BMW Motorcycle Owners of America Facebook page looking for recommendations. The response was instantaneous. Several riders mentioned the Whiskey Highway and that anywhere along the highways of 28 and 64 in North Carolina was great riding.

The Dry Falls, North Carolina Route 28/64, known as the Mountain Waters Scenic Byway.

The responses were understated. This route, which is known as the Mountain Waters Scenic By-Way was a dynamic, spectacular, color-filled drive. The ride goose bumped me and had my head shaking in awe continuously with “Whoa” coming out of my mouth. Not only were the falls spectacular but the entire twisties route with the Cullasaja River alongside was a ride not quickly forgotten.

Keep in mind when you are on a motorcycle, you feel the crispness of the air, the chill, the thermoclines, and all the elements of Mother Nature while experiencing the visual feasts. You are a part of the environment. That is a purpose of being on a bike; it’s the journey, in most instances, not the destination. This was a great journey. I appreciated being alive.

What made this particular ride so spectacular was I had just spent three days traversing the Smokies, including a couple of days fishing the Raven Fork Trophy Trout Waters in Cherokee. I had driven the Cherohala Skyway, the Blue Ridge-iced up, the Dragon, the Whiskey Highway, and the Foothills Parkway. The entire experience was filled with visual treats, but this stood out.

I contemplated combining this route in an article about the entire trip but believed this road deserved a special treatment. You don’t see a combination of raw beauty and a fun motorcycle ride like this every day. The Tail of the Dragon is fun, technical, but not for gazing. Portions of this ride reminded me of “The Road to the Sun” in Glacier National Park-just not as cold or high.

The colors were as spectacular as I have seen in years. Being a huge fan of the White Mountains in New Hampshire and Maine for fall color, I was caught unawares that such color could exist outside those mountainous New England areas. I had been in awe of the color for the past two days, from Cherokee to Gatlinburg, to Deal, to Franklin. But the combination of this winding route and the dramatic river drops abutting the road were in a league all their own. It is a ride I will take again, with a better awareness of the views and geographic wonders ahead of time. I will fire up the GoPro.

When one heads to the Smoky Mountains (the most visited National Park in the U.S.), Gatlinburg, Dollywood, Ashville and the Biltmore grab the big headlines. But for scenic beauty, unbelievable fall colors, and spectacular backdrops, the Cullasaja River Gorge is a “must-do” fall road for anyone heading to the Smokies in Western North Carolina. Do yourself a favor, don’t miss it. I know I won’t. I will be heading back to fish the Raven Fork, while enjoying one spectacular, color-filled ride.

Bucholtz' name was drawn from 2,896 entries for a fully restored 1999 R1100R. A crowd of 120 MOA members witnessed the drawing and live phone call to relay the good news. 

The R1100R Sweepstakes benefited the MOA Foundation's Built for All of Us awareness campaign. Over 1,400 MOA members made a donation to the campaign, generating $54,000 for motorcycle awareness.

Establishing the right physical stance often begins with the human "ready" position. The ready position applies to countless human physical contests including Tom Brady under center, Tiger Woods addressing his ball, Roger Federer awaiting a serve, Cael Sanderson on the mat at the start of every NCAA wrestling match, and even Mike Smith riding Justify to the Triple Crown.

The ready position begins with a person perched mostly on the balls of the feet. Additionally, knees are bent, and the subject is in a slight crouch and leaning forward at the torso. Arms are outstretched, elbows bent and hands are open, palms are facing each other. Finally, eyes are wide open, alert and expecting the unexpected.

Astride your more upright sport-touring motorcycle (as opposed to the exaggerated lean far-forward position of a race bike,) let’s establish this ready position.

Take a deep breath, exhale and sit upright. Initially, let your arms dangle at your sides. Now slide the balls of your feet back so they are centered squarely on the foot pegs. Your knees should be comfortably bent. Then, gently arch your spine and imagine it joining at the hips to form a 90-degree angle. Now relax and lean forward at the crease of your hips. Finally, rest your hands lightly on the hand rests. Think hand RESTS, not hand GRIPS!

Gravity and your thighs are your primary means of keeping you on your motorcycle. Use your core muscles to hold your torso in place. This is not to say that you won't use your hands to hang on. But from now on, rely mostly on gravity and your thigh muscles as the primary means for gripping the motorcycle. Emphasize using your arms and hands for their control function instead for than for primary support. Any time you feel tense or feel the need to hang on tighter, clench the tank with even greater emphasis while deliberately keeping your upper body, arms and hands loose. In other words, express any tension with your legs, and force yourself to keep your arms and hands loose.

Lean forward such that your elbows are slightly bent and pointed down. That’s the point—bent elbows! As you ride, focus on leaning forward slightly and keeping those elbows bent. Let gravity assist. Drop your elbows straight down. Don’t splay them out to the side.

Leaning forward with elbows bent keeps your forearms loose, loose, loose, almost floppy-like. Bent elbows are the best antidote to stiff-arming. For God’s sake, don’t stiff-arm! The goal is for your elbows and forearms to remain loose so that they act as upper torso shock-absorbers and stabilizers as you roll over surface irregularities and lean into challenging curves. Leaning forward facilitates this. When the going gets tough, the tough lean farther forward and they've released and rejected that death grip forever. Discipline your hands to rest softly on the hand rests while operating the controls.

When your hands are soft, tactile awareness magically extends from your palms and fingertips through the handlebars and into the whirring “heart” of your motorcycle. You will genuinely feel the machine. What are you feeling for? Feel for smoothness. Develop smoothness in every phase of the ride. Over time and with continuous practice, you and your bike will motor harmoniously as one. The goal is to fuse with your machine—like the mythical centaur.

Never slam, stomp, jam, whack, crack, crank or yank motorcycle controls. You will feel nothing. Instead, reflect on the sensuous. When detecting a fresh aroma, don't your nostrils flare and lightly sniff? When you taste, doesn't your tongue gently massage whatever crosses your pallet? With that high dollar glass of wine—you sip, not gulp, right? A feathery lightness gives your senses the heightened awareness necessary to distinguish the important characteristics you're trying to discern. Tactile awareness is no different.

Pretend your controls are hollow eggshells. Handle them with similar awareness. Then preside over them with a balance of delicate—yet firm—pressure. As you coax the controls, imagine three single silken threads delicately extending from your clutch, brake, and throttle, each disappearing into its appropriate housing within your motorcycle. Use whisper-light pressure on these threads. Infuse them with smoothness. Think smooth. Feel smooth all the while! As you think, as you feel—so you become.

Overall, good motorcycle form looks a little like a jockey on a racehorse, just not quite as extreme. Whenever you approach anything challenging, assume your "ready position," and sit more like a jockey. Lean forward, stay relaxed and loose. Loose as a goose! Finagle it, fake it, force it, do what you have to, but do it!

Set and reset this ready position regularly. Remember, the journey toward becoming a better rider is a journey of change. By simply improving your seating technique as necessary, you’ve taken a major step on the journey—just like that!

It happened while going around a corner with a diminishing radius turn and severe road surface damage. I walked away with a broken left clavicle and four broken ribs. After surgery and three-month recovery I got back on the bike, but things didn’t feel right. I felt awkward and was nervous. I knew I needed training.

I decided the best place to start would be the beginning. I’ve never had any formal training when I started riding so I wanted a fresh start and to learn properly from the ground up. I enrolled in a Motorcycle Safety Foundation Beginning Rider Course.

I chose a weekend, filled out the online forms and began the three hours of online coursework. Beginning with the basics including the parts of the motorcycle, I also learned about more complex concepts such as turning and braking. While all good information for a newbie, I wondered if I had chosen too simple a class.

The weekend of the class we met at the Albuquerque BMW dealership at 5:30 p.m. There were six students and only two of us with any riding experience. Beginning in a classroom, our lessons involved some of what was covered online as well as situation identification of intersections and roads and discussing problems, determining potential escape routes and what our actions might be. We also discussed accident survivability, gear vs. no gear, and the stupidity of drinking and riding. After five hours, we were dismissed and instructed to meet at the range the next morning by 7:30 a.m.

It was chilly the next morning as I stood with five other students in front of a collection of 250cc motorcycles. After I picked out a sleek, gray Suzuki TU250x, I was ready to roll. Except, we didn’t roll. First, we discussed the parts of the motorcycle and how they worked. Then, we learned the proper way to mount a motorcycle – from the left side with our right hand on the front brake lever. With those steps completed, we could then swing a leg over.

From there we learned how to use the clutch correctly and how to get the bike into neutral and finally, how to start it. Our repeated actions lead to skill proficiency and also to the development of muscle memory. I reminded myself that this was a beginner course and my goal was to learn from the ground up.

Ready to move to the next phase, we started the bikes and practiced working within the friction zone and before long, we finally got to ride across the range. Seeing the new riders displaying their new skills proved how well this program works. Then there was me who, with 35 years of riding, just wanted to relearn the right way. The rest of the day was spent repeating progressively more challenging skills.

Our final day reinforced what we had already learned while adding new skills involving turn situations. This was where I realized the bad habits I developed over the years. Working with our coach, we spent a lot of time on the course making sweeping turns, tight turns, U-turns, and more. We also practiced obstacle avoidance drills, lane changes with signal and head turn as well as  emergency braking.

A couple of bad habits I had been using over the course of my 35 years of riding opened my eyes. I learned I tended to lean to my right when stopping and taking my foot off the rear brake pedal too soon while not allowing me to use my right hand while keeping the bike still and the brake light on. I also learned I wasn’t using good clutch control in turns and that I use some racing techniques in turns that are not part of the MSF course.

At the end of the day, we all passed. I realized I fixed some bad habits and learned some better techniques. If you have never taken any training I recommend starting at the beginning. I plan on continuing with other courses with the MSF, and other training centers.

I also highly recommend applying for a Paul B scholarship through he MOA Foundation to become a better and safer rider.

UPDATE: RICHARD BUCHOLTZ ANNOUNCED AS WINNER OF  R1100R SWEEPSTAKES

The BMW MOA Foundation launched a broad-based motorcycle awareness campaign at the National Rally in Des Moines. The “Built for All of Us” campaign is designed to increase awareness of motorcycle traffic in areas where BMW MOA members gather.

MOA members can support the "Built for All of Us" initiative by purchasing campaign stickers, saddlebag medallions and polo shirts along with a chance to win a fully restored 1999 BMW R 1100 R, donated by James DeWoskin of Warrensburg, Missouri, and restored by Gateway BMW Motorcycles.

Donations of any amount will be entered into the drawing for the R1100R.  Donations of $10 or more receive two Built for All of Us campaign stickers and a chance to win the motorcycle. Donors at the $25 level receive a custom Built for All of Us saddlebag medallion along with a chance to win the R1100R. And, donations of $100 receive the saddlebag medallion, an MOA Foundation polo shirt and five entries into the R1100R drawing.

To support the Awareness Campaign and have a chance to win the R1100R, visit the Foundation's AWARENESS CAMPAIGN DONATION page or call the BMW MOA office at (864) 438-0962. A winner will be announced November 10 at the MOA's Weekend Getaway in Kerrville, Texas. To be included in the drawing, donations must be received by November 4, 2018.

RULES AND DETAILS

1. Entries must be received by November 4, 2018. No purchase necessary. Void where prohibited. One entry into R1100R drawing per person unless otherwise specified.
   
2. Donations can be made online through the Foundation's Donation page, by calling (864) 438-0962 or by mailing the campaign order blank posted in the BMW Owners News.
   
3. Ticket holder does not have to be rpesent to win. All prizes will be awarded to the winner.
   
4. Odds of winning depend on final number of donations.
5. Winner will be drawn Saturday November 10, 2018.
6. Winner will be posted at BMWMOAF.ORG.
7. Winner claiming their prize must present PHOTO IDENTIFICATION.
8. Winners are subject to all applicable taxes. Consult your local tax professional for exact tax liability.
9. The BMW MOA Foundation reserves the right to replace, substitute or exchange any of the prizes listed with a similar prize of equal or greater value.
10. BMW MOA Foundation Board members, BMW MOA employees, contractors and their immediate families are ineligible to win. Immediate family defined as spouse and dependent children.
11. The BMW MOA, BMW MOA Foundation, their officers, directors, employees, volunteers, sponsors or any person or organization affiliated with BMW MOA will not assume any liability for any loss, injury, claim or otherwise resulting from any prize obtained through the sale of a ticket. By submitting a donation and entry into the drawing, the buyer acknowledges this limitation of liability and assumes any liability and will hold harmless the BMW MOA Foundation or any affiliate for any liability resulting from the purchase of this ticket or any prize resulting therefrom.

FAQ

Will I receive confirmation of my donation?

Yes. Confirmation of your donation is available online or by email. If you do not have an email address, confirmation will be mailed by regular mail. You can request confirmation of your donation by calling the Foundation office at (205) 821-7205.

Will I an actual ticket and ticket number?

No. Donors will receive an email with confirmation of their donation and entry into the drawing. You can request confirmation of your donation by calling the Foundation office at (205) 821-7205.

I made a donation by mail and I have not received anything in return. How can I check on my donation?

Please allow 2 – 3 weeks to process your donation by mail. Donor names and sweepstakes entries will be listed in alphabetical order at bmwmoaf.org. If you do not have any confirmation, you can email the Foundation and your donation will be verified.

What are the odds for winning?

Actual odds depend on the number of donations. 

When is the drawing?

A winner will be drawn at random, November 10, 2018 at the MOA Weekend Getaway in Kerrville, Texas. 

Do I have to be present to win?

No, the winner will be contacted by phone, email or registered mail within 14 days of the drawing.

If I win the motorcycle, are you going to ship it to me?

No, the winner is responsible for all delivery costs and arrangements. 

Is the first service (or any service) included as part of the prize for the motorcycle?

No.  Maintenance costs will be the responsibility of the winner.

I don’t live in the United States. Will the winning motorcycle be legal in my country?

The prize motorcycles is a US specification model. You should check with your local governing body to determine if that model can be imported into your country.

I don’t want the motorcycle or any of the other prizes. Is there a cash option?

A cash option is not available.

Do I have to pay taxes on the prize?

Yes, any federal, state and local taxes are the responsibility of the winner.

How much are the taxes on the prize?

Taxes depend on the prize won and your geographical location.  You should contact a local tax professional for a specific amount of your tax liability.

Are you sending tax forms at the end of the year?

Yes, you will receive the appropriate tax forms.

I have other questions. Who should I contact?

You may submit questions through the contact form on the Superstakes page at bmwmoaf.org or contact the BMW MOA Foundation by EMAIL.

To celebrate the arrival of the riding season, the MOA is giving away a Superstakes ticket every Friday to someone registered for the National Rally in Des Moines. Between May 11 and June 29, we'll draw one winner each Friday from the names of everyone registered. If you already registered for the National Rally, you're all set - your name is automatically included in the Friday drawings. If you haven't registered, don't wait. The sooner you register, the more chances you have to win.

The Superstakes is back for 2018 and it’s bigger than ever with $250,000 of new BMW motorcycles in the prize pool. The popular raffle that supports the BMW MOA Foundation will include 25 new BMW motorcycles including a new R 1200 GS Adventure, R 1200 RT or K 1600 GT for the grand prize winner. And, we've added a cash option this year. Want to use your prize as a down payment on the bike of your dreams? No problem!

Buy Superstakes Tickets Now

But that’s not all. For 2018, every ticket will include the buyer's choice of an MOA Icons series t-shirt. Eight classic designs are available of the BMW R32, R12, R69S, R90S, R80GS, R100RS, K1 and R1100RS. This year, every ticket is a winner!

But, that's still not all! The 2018 Superstakes will benefit the Paul B. Scholarship fund. The MOA Foundation is guaranteeing $100,000 in funding for the popular scholarship program that grants $250 awards to MOA members for the rider  training of their choice. 

MOA members can PURCHASE TICKETS for $100 each between May 1 and July 7, 2018. Every ticket has 25 chances to win. Odds of winning depend on the number of tickets sold, but you definitely have 25 chances to win. Winning tickets will be drawn July 14, 2018 at the BMW MOA National Rally in Des Moines, Iowa.

Winner's LIST

• Drawing #1: Donald Varlamos, Anchorage, AK : 2018 R 1200 GS or $16,500 cash!
• Drawing #2: David Reinecke, Marion, IA : 2018 G 310 GS or $5,000 cash!
• Drawing #3: Turin Atol, PAsadena, CA :  2018 F 800 R or $10,000 cash!
• Drawing #4: Cliff Dowdy, St. Simmons Island, GA : 2018 G 310 R or $5,000 cash!
• Drawing #5: Glenn Kalmowitz, Deale, MD : 2018 R nine T Urban GS or $12,500 cash!
• Drawing #6: Michael Heeremans, White River Junction, VT : 2018 G 310 GS or $5,000 cash!
• Drawing #7: Olaf Reinhartz, Oakland, CA : 2018 S 1000 XR or $16,500 cash
• Drawing #8: Todd Bishop. Orem, UT : 2018 G 310 R or $5,000 cash!
• Drawing #9: Patrick Peyton, North Beach, MD : 2018 R 1200 RS or $15,000 cash!
• Drawing #10: Lance Raber, Sun Lakes, AZ : 2018 G 310 GS or $5,000 cash!
• Drawing #11: Jean-Andre Corpuz, New York, NY : 2018 R nine T Scrambler or $12,500 cash!
• Drawing #12: Dan Myers, Reno, NV : 2018 G 310 R or $5,000 cash!
• Drawing #13: John Kirchner, Austin, TX : 2018 F 800 GS Adventure or $13,500 cash!
• Drawing #14: David Hammer, North East, PA : 2018 G 310 GS or $5,000 cash!
• Drawing #15: James Sterling, Smithville, TX : 2018 R 1200 R or $14,000 cash!
• Drawing #16: Sidney Jacobs, Greensboro, AL : 2018 G 310 R or $5,000 cash!
• Drawing #17: Chris Williams, Yorktown, IN : 2018 R nine T Pure or $12,500 cash!
• Drawing #18: Dave Nichols, Drayton Valley, AB : 2018 G 310 GS or $5,000 cash!
• Drawing #19: Bob Skeffington, Davenport, IA : 2018 S 1000 RR or $16,000 cash!
• Drawing #20: Ricardo Villar, San Francisco, CA : 2018 G 310 R or $5,000 cash!
• Drawing #21: Daniel Farson, Godfrey, IL : 2018 F 800 GS or $12,000 cash!
• Drawing #22: Thomas Tremblay, Oak Pint, TX : 2018 G 310 GS or $5,000 cash!
• Drawing #23: David Bright, Coalfax, CA : 2018 R nine T or $15,000 cash!
• Drawing #24: William Grieb, Aurora, CO : 2018 G 310 R or $5,000 cash!
• Grand Prize: Allan Kaplan, Ashford, VA : Winner's choice of a 2018 R1200 GS Adventure, R1200 RT, K 1600 GT or $22,000 cash!

For complete rules and frequently asked questions, visit bmwmoaf.org

Follow the link or click on the banner to activate donations for the BMW MOA Foundation when you shop at Amazon. Shop as you normally would and each quarter, Amazon sends a check to the MOA Foundation for the donation amount. It couldn't be any easier when shopping on Amazon.

The BMW MOA Foundation is a registered 501(c)3 charitable organization. Donations to the Foundation may be tax deductible and support rider safety, education and training for BMW MOA members. For more information about current programs from the BMW MOA Foundation, visit bmwmoaf.org

CongratuLAtioNS Dave Cowgill of Clayton, Delaware! YOU won!

The BMW MOA Foundation's R90S raffle ended Saturday night at the MOA Getaway Fontana. Dave Cowgill of Clayton, Delaware was announced as the lucky MOA member in front of a crowd of over 160 MOA members at the Getaway. Dave will ride away on the perfectly restored R90S motorcycle.

Over 3,000 MOA members purchased raffle tickets for Tomorrow's R90S raffle, making it the most successful fundraising effort to date for the MOA Foundation. The raffle of the restored R90S raised over $100,000 for the Foundation's Paul B. Scholarship fund, GEARS program and Motorcycle Awareness campaign. For more information about the Foundation's safety, education and training programs, please visit BMWMOAF.ORG

Need to verify your ticket purchase or check your ticket numbers? Follow the link below to an alphabetical list of ticket buyers ordered by last name, city and state for purchases through March 27, 2018. 

VERIFY YOUR TICKET PURCHASE AND NUMBERS HERE

Tomorrow has arrived. That's what BMW said about the new R 90 S in 1974. In 2018, we say tomorrow has arrived because the MOA Foundation is giving one away. A 1974 BMW R 90 S - expertly restored by Chris Canterbury of Boxer Metal. This one is pristine, perfect and ready for tomorrow.

Photo courtesy of Rebecca Canterbury of Boxer Metal

You can win this all original BMW R90S with the purchase of a $25 RAFFLE TICKET or get a deal on five tickets for $100. Proceeds from the raffle go straight to the BMW MOA Foundation for the advancement of motorcycle rider safety, education and training. Drawing to be held April 21, 2018. You do not have to be present to win.

PURCHASE RAFFLE TICKETS HERE

CONTEST RULES

1. Raffle ticket sales begin February 1, 2018 and end March 31, 2018. All ticket orders must be RECEIVED on or before March 31, 2018. Prize drawing to be held April 21, 2018 at the MOA Getaway Fontana. Ticket buyers do not have to be present to win.
2. Raffle tickets may be ordered online at BMWMOAF.ORG, by calling (864) 438-0962 or by mailing a ticket order blank posted in the BMW Owners News. You must be 18 years of age or older to purchase a ticket. Multiple ticket purchases by a single buyer are permissible.
3. Confirmation of ticket orders and ticket numbers will be returned via email. A complete list of ticket buyers will be published at bmwmoaf.org before the drawing on April 21.
4. Odds of winning depend on final number of tickets sold. Complete winners list will be posted at BMWMOAF.ORG. Winners claiming their prize must present winning number and PHOTO IDENTIFICATION. Winners are subject to all applicable taxes. Consult your local tax professional for exact tax liability.
5. The BMW MOA Foundation reserves the right to replace, substitute or exchange any of the prizes listed with a similar prize of equal or greater value.
6. BMW MOA Foundation Board members, BMW MOA and Foundation employees, contractors and their immediate families are ineligible to win. Immediate family defined as spouse and dependent children. The BMW MOA, BMW MOA Foundation, their officers, directors, employees, volunteers, sponsors or any person or organization affiliated with BMW MOA will not assume any liability for any loss, injury, claim or otherwise resulting from any prize obtained through the sale of a ticket. By submitting an order for a raffle ticket and receiving a drawing number, the buyer acknowledges this limitation of liability and assumes any liability and will hold harmless the BMW MOA Foundation or any affiliate for any liability resulting from the purchase of this ticket or any prize resulting therefrom.
   

Think back to when you first rode a motorized, two-wheel machine. Close your eyes for a moment and try and picture where you were at, what you were doing and whom you were with. Go ahead, I’ll wait. Didn’t that feel good going down memory lane for a minute, recalling why you have (insert machine name here) in the family and why you go to (insert place or activity with machine here) on such a frequent basis. That initial feeling learned on that magical machine of two wheels became a part of your life, even if it was only in your dreams for a time.

Fast forward a bit, and now you’ve made it past the initiation to motorcycling: the first bike. The hardest of the critics (the one in the mirror) has been appeased, and now you have graduated to being a seasoned motorcyclist on your second (third, fourth, etc.) bike. Each machine has become a bit more specialized, like how your life has become. Some days you may have opened a bottle of (insert favorite beverage here), just to walk into the garage and stare at that machine(s); to dream of rides that were and rides yet to come. But the glass of (insert favorite beverage here) is now empty and the lights must go off, for tomorrow is a new day and more memories to create.

The days do not go as easy as they once did. Falls hurt more, your body takes a few more days to get back to normal than it once did, and just doing the normal jobs takes its toll on you. But the energy to go forward is found in the little victories of life. You keep going everyday for various reasons, and the recent AARP article, which shows a study that their members who ride motorcycles have the lowest rate of vehicle mishaps, live longer and live stronger, helps justify the daily commute of the long way back home from the coffee shop. Then when cleaning out the (insert room here), you happen upon a picture of (insert relative who rode motorcycles here) on his (insert motorcycle here) from 1947. The image of the half-smile, confident person on the motorcycle bears a striking resemblance to the picture of yourself on the (insert motorcycle here) taken last fall. You also see that the mirror is showing the hair has a tinge of grey to remind you that the end of this trip is coming near. Time to make the best of each opportunity available to you.

Some of the memories are not solely made on the ride; some of the memories also were created by the time spent wrenching on motorcycles over the years. Walking to the edge of the garage, past the row of bikes, to the toolbox, brings back many good memories spent in that area. Opening that box, scanning over each tool, picking each one up to feel its heft, it’s familiar feel and what you learned using it on your personal machine. Then the old half-fairing you mounted on the wall catches your eye. You put the tools down and look longingly at it, remembering that long-gone motorcycle, and the journeys you took on it. On those journeys, you learned who you really were and what you can be capable of. Then, that little movement you’ve seen before catches your eye.

The little guy/gal, so many years ago, was just a shadow behind you. Mimicking you, crying after you as you rode out of the driveway and screaming in joy as you returned. There was so much you wanted to tell them, to get them to learn what you had learned, but sometimes they had to learn it on their own. You where there when they fell down to lift them up, to give them another view when they had that hard choice to make, and even when they didn’t take your advice, you gave them 100 percent backing so they could have the possibility to be successful.

Maybe their choice of career was not what you wanted; but they did it with a passion to be the best, just like you taught them to do in all their endeavors. Now, they are bigger than you, smarter than you and working on creating their own life, just like you did when you where their age. Remember back to that person who got you that very first motorcycle ride, that ride which started you on this path to who and what you are today. It might be time to repay that act with one of your own.

Originally published in BMW Owners News in October 2013.

The Camp started on Friday with “Intro to Nomenclature,” about a two-hour overview of the GS and GS Adventure electronic controls and systems. We learned how to set up the bike to fit each rider properly for height and weight, and how to change the programming for suspension and ride modes. I recommend this, as there are many tricks of the trade to learn that aren’t in the owner’s manual.

Following that, we did the “Pre-Training Clinic.” This four-hour session focused on throttle, clutch and brake control, with an afternoon spent working the motorcycle through its paces with multiple exercises like how to balance the motorcycle with one hand, walking the motorcycle up a hill while standing beside it, and how to pick up the motorcycle. I rented one of RawHyde’s GS Adventures for the event, and it was an excellent time to get a feel for the bike and get it dialed in for me. I recommend this clinic because it’s a good opportunity to let the body clock adjust a bit and get to know the folks you’ll be riding with. It’s also a chance to get in some early work on skills.

The formal training took place on Saturday and Sunday. We did a lot of off road riding with hills, sand, figure-eights, whoops, mountain climbs to the cell tower, digging the bike out of the sand, and more.

The instructors were excellent--patient, friendly and very professional. The instructor/student ratio varied by the different stages, but there was usually one instructor for five or so students, and they were all excellent coaches. The staff is very friendly, accessible and professional. At the end of each training day we did a recap of what our highs and lows were and found most of the group faced similar challenges and accomplishments.

The facility created a great atmosphere of friendship and camaraderie, especially with the open bar after training to add to the atmosphere. First class refreshments and hors d’oeuvres were served as well as excellent meals, which were accompanied by some of Jim Hyde’s wine selections. Jim is a great host, and he and his team made us all feel part of the family. There was even Live entertainment provided by The E&O Medicine Show—two of the instructors with guitar and electric violin!

While I have been riding motorcycles for 40 years, I have no off-road experience, and, wanting to do some adventure riding, I picked up a 2014 GSA to complement my ’15 RT. I took the BMW road course training in Spartanburg, South Carolina, and wanted to get proper training for off-road riding. RawHyde exceeded my expectations for training, and I now have a great tool box to practice from to put the skills I learned to their proper use.

I unconditionally recommend RawHyde Adventures for anyone looking to learn how to properly ride off road or to just take a couple of days to play in the mountains. There are some things one cannot put a price tag on, and this training is one of them. It’s priceless to learn skills to keep my hide intact! That I could offset the cost of the training with the Foundation’s Paul B Scholarship is an added bonus to the whole thing.