Bill to protect California’s Johnson Valley from takeover advances in U.S. House

PICKERINGTON, OH – May 16, 2013 – (Motor Sports Newswire) – A bill to block a U.S. Marine Corps takeover of California’s Johnson Valley off-highway vehicle recreation area was approved by the U.S. House Committee on Natural Resources on May 15, the American Motorcyclist Association reports.

The bill, H.R. 1676, introduced by Rep. Paul Cook (R-Calif.), now goes to the full House for consideration.

The measure would designate Johnson Valley as a national off-highway vehicle recreation area, protecting it from a takeover, but would authorize limited military use of the area.

Several years ago, the U.S. Department of the Navy began the formal process to take over some 365,906 acres of public land near San Bernardino to use for live-fire training for the Marines.

The move threatens the Johnson Valley Off-Highway Vehicle Riding area, a long-standing and popular area that is across the San Bernardino Mountains from Los Angeles.

The Navy filed an application with the U.S. Interior Department seeking control of the public land in question, which is now under the jurisdiction of the U.S. Bureau of Land Management. The Navy also is seeking to control some 72,186 acres of non-federal land in case one day it is acquired by the federal government.

The land, which equals about 658 square miles, borders the Marine Corps Air Ground Combat Center at Twentynine Palms, and includes a large portion of land in the 189,000-acre Johnson Valley area.

Ultimately, Congress will decide whether the Navy should get control of the land.

About the American Motorcyclist Association

Founded in 1924, the AMA is a not-for-profit member-based association whose mission is to promote the motorcycle lifestyle and protect the future of motorcycling. As the world’s largest motorcycling rights and event sanctioning organization, the AMA advocates for riders’ interests at all levels of government and sanctions thousands of competition and recreational events every year. The AMA also provides money-saving discounts on products and services for its members. Through the AMA Motorcycle Hall of Fame in Pickerington, Ohio, the AMA honors the heroes and heritage of motorcycling. For more information, visit www.americanmotorcyclist.com.

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American Motorcyclist Association opens registration for banquet honoring 2013 champions

PICKERINGTON, OH – May 15, 2013 – (Motor Sports Newswire) – The American Motorcyclist Association has opened registration for the 2013 AMA Championship Banquet. This year’s AMA national champions in motorcycle and all-terrain vehicle competition will be honored Jan. 18, 2014, at the Aladdin Shrine Center in Columbus, Ohio.

“One feature that makes AMA-sanctioned competition stand out is the diversity of our disciplines,” said AMA Vice President of Operations Jeff Massey. “From the woods to the ice to near-vertical assents to tracks on a range of surfaces, AMA racers compete everywhere. And that variety is on display for all to see at the annual AMA Championship Banquet.”

The event honors the top three national championship finishers in disciplines ranging from land-speed racing to motocross to woods racing and everything in between. The banquet includes dinner, door prizes, refreshments and a bike show.

Class champions will receive medals and No. 1 plates at the banquet, while second- and third-place finishers will also receive awards. The winners of special annual awards, such as the AMA Grand Championship Athlete of the Year and the AMA National Championship Athlete of the Year awards, will be announced as well.

“The annual championship banquet is also when we highlight the good works of our best and hardest-working clubs and promoters,” Massey said. “We will recognize AMA organizers from competition and recreational road and off-road events, as well as those who excelled in media coverage and as ambassadors of the sport.”

Columbus’ Aladdin Shrine Center, located a short distance from the expansive Easton Town Center shopping complex and only 20 minutes from AMA headquarters and the AMA Motorcycle Hall of Fame, offers free parking, easy access to Interstate 270 and is a short drive from Port Columbus International Airport.

For more information about AMA National Championship events and series, see www.americanmotorcyclist.com > Racing.

About the American Motorcyclist Association

Founded in 1924, the AMA is a not-for-profit member-based association whose mission is to promote the motorcycle lifestyle and protect the future of motorcycling. As the world’s largest motorcycling rights and event sanctioning organization, the AMA advocates for riders’ interests at all levels of government and sanctions thousands of competition and recreational events every year. The AMA also provides money-saving discounts on products and services for its members. Through the AMA Motorcycle Hall of Fame in Pickerington, Ohio, the AMA honors the heroes and heritage of motorcycling. For more information, visit www.americanmotorcyclist.com.

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American Motorcyclist Association announces winners in Helmet House product giveaways

PICKERINGTON, OH – May 8, 2013 – (Motor Sports Newswire) – Several lucky motorcyclists will receive new riding gear and other products from Helmet House, manufacturer of Cortech and Tour Master and exclusive distributor for Shoei Helmets, thanks to drawings held by the American Motorcyclist Association.

The AMA sponsored AMA Go Ride! Month in April to celebrate the motorcycling lifestyle with on- and off-highway motorcyclists across the country. The month-long event featured a number of contests that promoted the fun of riding, educated riders about threats facing motorcycling and encouraged motorcyclists to think about the extraordinary gas mileage their motorcycles achieve compared to their cars and trucks.

During AMA Go Ride! Month, qualifying AMA members in all the various contests were entered into a May 3 drawing for a Shoei helmet, a Tour Master Intake jacket and Cortech tank bags.

The winners, and what they won, are:

• Randall Beecham of Bellville, Ohio: Shoei GT-Air helmet
• Trevor Payne of South Plainfield, N.J.: Tour Master Intake jacket
• Phil Perry of Howell, N.J.: Cortech tank bag
• Lee De Leonard of Roswell, N.M.: Cortech tank bag

AMA Go Ride! Month was also a perfect way to lead into Motorcycle Awareness Month in May, when the AMA and scores of cities, states and organizations urge the motoring public to watch for motorcyclists on the nation’s roads and highways. Motorcyclists can also be prepared by taking rider training and wearing appropriate riding gear.

To learn more about Cortech, Tour Master and Shoei products, visit www.cortechperformance.com, www.tourmaster.com and www.shoei-helmets.com.

For more information about AMA Go Ride! Month, Motorcycle Awareness Month and membership in the AMA, visit www.americanmotorcyclist.com.

About the American Motorcyclist Association

Founded in 1924, the AMA is a not-for-profit member-based association whose mission is to promote the motorcycle lifestyle and protect the future of motorcycling. As the world’s largest motorcycling rights and event sanctioning organization, the AMA advocates for riders’ interests at all levels of government and sanctions thousands of competition and recreational events every year. The AMA also provides money-saving discounts on products and services for its members. Through the AMA Motorcycle Hall of Fame in Pickerington, Ohio, the AMA honors the heroes and heritage of motorcycling. For more information, visit www.americanmotorcyclist.com.

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Deadline approaching for AMA member discount on AMA Vintage Motorcycle Days tickets

AMA Vintage Motorcycle Days: July 19-21

PICKERINGTON, OH – May 6, 2013 – (Motor Sports Newswire) – Time is running out for American Motorcyclist Association members to buy discounted tickets to AMA Vintage Motorcycle Days, the country’s premier vintage motorcycling bash, set for July 19-21 at the Mid-Ohio Sports Car Course in Lexington, Ohio.

AMA members can purchase a weekend pass for $45 or a one-day pass for $25. Both prices reflect a $5 savings off the regular advance rate and are in addition to the regular $10 savings on advance ticket purchases. Additionally, there is no service charge for AMA members when purchasing through the AMA.

These discounted prices, available through May 27, are only available by calling the AMA directly at (800) 262-5646. In addition to these ticket savings, kids under 12 will be admitted free with a paying, supervising adult.

“AMA Vintage Motorcycle Days has everything — amazing motorcycles from all eras, vintage racing, seminars, AMA Motorcycle Hall of Famers and good friends,” said Jeff Massey, AMA vice president of operations. “This is one event that no serious motorcyclist wants to miss, and we welcome all AMA members headed to Mid-Ohio Sports Car Course this July 19-21 to take advantage of this offer.”

A fundraiser for the AMA Motorcycle Hall of Fame, AMA Vintage Motorcycle Days features classic motorcycles of all makes and styles, and honors the riders who made them famous. Activities include the AMA Vintage Grand Championships, which include amateur national championship roadracing, motocross, hare scrambles, trials and dirt-track; North America’s largest motorcycle swap meet; a motorcycle field meet; bike shows and awards; stunt shows; demo rides of current production bikes; and seminars on a number of topics by noted motorcycling experts.

Members are also invited to participate as swap meet vendors, including free on-site primitive camping. If you have some vintage parts, bikes or memorabilia that you would like to sell while immersing yourself in AMA Vintage Motorcycle Days experience, you’re encouraged to do so. Swap meet vendor applications are available at www.amavintagemotorcycledays.com > Vendor and Swap Meet Info.

For updates about events and activities, as well as information about past AMA Vintage Motorcycle Days, visit www.amavintagemotorcycledays.com.

If you’re not an AMA member, join today at www.americanmotorcyclist.com > Join the AMA. As a member, you can take advantage of this special event pricing and numerous other offers available to AMA members. These include AMA Roadside Assistance, which covers your bike, cars and trailers from breakdowns on the road; numerous product and service discounts; the opportunity to compete in AMA-sanctioned competition and recreational events; and the knowledge that you’re supporting your right to ride and race through the AMA’s advocacy efforts on behalf of motorcyclists.

About the American Motorcyclist Association

Founded in 1924, the AMA is a not-for-profit member-based association whose mission is to promote the motorcycle lifestyle and protect the future of motorcycling. As the world’s largest motorcycling rights and event sanctioning organization, the AMA advocates for riders’ interests at all levels of government and sanctions thousands of competition and recreational events every year. The AMA also provides money-saving discounts on products and services for its members. Through the AMA Motorcycle Hall of Fame in Pickerington, Ohio, the AMA honors the heroes and heritage of motorcycling. For more information, visit www.americanmotorcyclist.com.

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American Motorcyclist Association congratulates AMA Supercross champions, thanks partners for 2013 season

PICKERINGTON, OH – May 5, 2013 – (Motor Sports Newswire) – The American Motorcyclist Association congratulates the three riders who claimed AMA No. 1 plates by the time the dust settled on the 2013 AMA Supercross season: Ryan Villopoto, 450SX champion; Wil Hahn, 250SX East champion; and Ken Roczen, 250SX West champion.

“Once again, AMA Supercross delivered some of the best motorsports racing on the planet, with a 2013 season for the record books,” said AMA President and CEO Rob Dingman. “I’m confident I speak for all motorcyclists when I congratulate three of our most talented AMA members — Ryan Villopoto, Wil Hahn and Ken Roczen — on a job well done. Standing triumphantly at the end of one of the world’s most-demanding, competitive and highest-profile racing series is no small task. What they have accomplished is truly historic.”

Dingman added that AMA Supercross would not be what it is without the cooperation of some of the AMA’s most dedicated partners.

“Feld Motor Sports has been an excellent promoting partner as AMA Supercross has grown over the years,” Dingman said. “I would like to congratulate them on another stellar season. In addition, the participation of the Fédération Internationale de Motocyclisme continues to bolster our championship on the world stage, and I would like to thank the FIM for their contributions, as well.”

Another group important to success of AMA Supercross is the Asterisk Mobile Medical Center, which provided a range of emergency medical care for riders throughout the 2013 season.

Villopoto, from Seattle, Wash., locked up his third straight AMA Supercross premier class title in the series’ penultimate round, clinching in Salt Lake City. In so doing, Villopoto joined Ricky Carmichael and AMA Motorcycle Hall of Famers Jeremy McGrath and Bob Hannah as the only riders with three consecutive championships. For the 2013 season, Villopoto claimed 10 main event wins in the 17-race series, including the Las Vegas finale. Villopoto races for Monster Energy Kawasaki.

Hahn, from Decatur, Texas, won the 250SX East Championship. Hahn finished third in Las Vegas, behind Tyler Bowers and Marvin Musquin. The finish gave Hahn the points he needed to top Musquin by three championship points, 198 to 195. For the season, Hahn had two wins and four runner-up finishes in the nine-round regional championship. Hahn races for the GEICO Honda team.

Roczen, from Murrieta, Calif., won the 250SX West Championship. Roczen finished second in Las Vegas, behind his championship rival Eli Tomac. The runner-up finish saw Roczen end the season with 185 points to Tomac’s 183. Roczen had three wins over the course of the nine-round regional championship. Roczen races for Red Bull KTM.

The 2014 AMA Supercross season kicks off in Anaheim, Calif., next Jan. 4. The complete 2014 series schedule is below. For updates, see the AMA’s official series website www.amasupercross.com and the official AMA series Facebook page www.facebook.com/AMASupercrossChampionship.

Date	Venue	City
January 4	Angel Stadium	Anaheim, Calif.
January 11	Chase Field	Phoenix
January 18	Angel Stadium	Anaheim, Calif.
January 25	O.Co Coliseum	Oakland, Calif.
February 1	Angel Stadium	Anaheim, Calif.
February 8	Qualcomm Stadium	San Diego
February 15	Cowboys Stadium	Arlington, Texas
February 22	Georgia Dome	Atlanta
March 1	Lucas Oil Stadium	Indianapolis
March 8	Daytona International Speedway	Daytona Beach, Fla.
March 15	Ford Field	Detroit
March 22	Rogers Centre	Toronto
March 29	Edward Jones Dome	St. Louis
April 5	Reliant Stadium	Houston
April 12	CenturyLink Field	Seattle
April 26	MetLife Stadium	East Rutherford, N.J.
May 3	Sam Boyd Stadium	Las Vegas

 

About the American Motorcyclist Association

Founded in 1924, the AMA is a not-for-profit member-based association whose mission is to promote the motorcycle lifestyle and protect the future of motorcycling. As the world’s largest motorcycling rights and event sanctioning organization, the AMA advocates for riders’ interests at all levels of government and sanctions thousands of competition and recreational events every year. The AMA also provides money-saving discounts on products and services for its members. Through the AMA Motorcycle Hall of Fame in Pickerington, Ohio, the AMA honors the heroes and heritage of motorcycling. For more information, visit www.americanmotorcyclist.com.

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Motorcycle Awareness Urged by American Motorcyclist Association in May

Motorcycle Awareness Month begins May 1

PICKERINGTON, OH – (Motor Sports Newswire) – The month of May is Motorcycle Awareness Month — one of the most important months of the year for the safety of all road users and especially motorcyclists, according to the American Motorcyclist Association.

The AMA is the largest motorcycling rights and event-sanctioning organization in North America.

“Motorcycle Awareness Month serves as a seasonal reminder to all road users to look around, check their mirrors and consciously look for motorcycles,” said AMA President and CEO Rob Dingman. “Motorcyclists are now getting out on the road in greater numbers across the nation, and it’s vital that road users watch for them to avoid crashes.

“Unfortunately, many drivers aren’t always mindful of other road users, and an annual reminder is helpful for them to recognize the flow of motorcycles in traffic,” Dingman said. “By consciously looking for motorcycles in May, we hope this will grow into a habit that will last the rest of the year, and longer.”

AMA board member and actor, Perry King, is featured in a public service announcement campaign produced by the AMA called “Think. Ride. Watch for Motorcycles.” Video and audio messages can be downloaded at www.americanmotorcyclist.com/Rights/Resources/PublicServiceAnnouncements.aspx.

“One of the leading causes of motorcycle crashes is the fact that drivers don’t see motorcycles,” Dingman said. “Drivers tell themselves to watch for cars, trucks, buses and pedestrians, but they don’t always tell themselves to look for motorcycles. We want to change that.”

Drivers can avoid crashes with motorcyclists by taking extra care and looking twice to spot motorcycles in traffic — especially at intersections — respecting the motorcyclists’ space on the road and by not following too closely.

The AMA recognizes that distracted or inattentive driving has become a major concern for all road users. Far too many cases have been documented of motorcyclists being injured or killed as the result of other vehicle operators being distracted or inattentive.

The AMA also strongly encourages motorcyclists to wear appropriate safety gear and practice safe riding techniques.

The AMA has long advocated that local and state governments maintain or increase funding for motorcycle rider education and motorist awareness programs — two highly effective strategies to reduce the likelihood of motorcycle crashes.

To view AMA position statements on distracted and inattentive vehicle operation and rider education, as well as other subjects, visit www.americanmotorcyclist.com/rights/positionstatements.

About the American Motorcyclist Association

Founded in 1924, the AMA is a not-for-profit member-based association whose mission is to promote the motorcycle lifestyle and protect the future of motorcycling. As the world’s largest motorcycling rights and event sanctioning organization, the AMA advocates for riders’ interests at all levels of government and sanctions thousands of competition and recreational events every year. The AMA also provides money-saving discounts on products and services for its members. Through the AMA Motorcycle Hall of Fame in Pickerington, Ohio, the AMA honors the heroes and heritage of motorcycling. For more information, visit www.americanmotorcyclist.com.

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Support the 2013 International Six Days Enduro American squad with purchase of a U.S.A. team shirt

PICKERINGTON, OH – April 30, 2013 – (Motor Sports Newswire) – The American Motorcyclist Association is pleased to make the 2013 International Six Days Enduro fund-raising shirts available for purchase.

Proceeds from the shirts support the U.S. effort in the ISDE in Sardinia, Italy, Sept. 30-Oct. 5. To buy a shirt, just visit the AMA’s online store at www.americanmotorcyclist.com > ISDE Team Info > Buy An Official T-Shirt.

“Competing in the ISDE is a major logistical effort, and it’s very expensive on both a rider and team level,” said AMA Off-Road Manager Chuck Weir, who also serves as the team’s jury delegate to the Fédération Internationale de Motocyclisme for the event. “All fans who would like to be part of the effort to get our best riders to this historic event are encouraged to purchase a 2013 fund-raising shirt and back our run at the world title.”

In addition to the World and Junior World Trophy Teams, the United States sends several club teams to compete at the ISDE. These riders, from whom the women’s and senior teams also will be selected, earn a spot on the team by competing in one of two ISDE qualifiers. More information about the qualifiers and the selection process are available at www.americanmotorcyclist.com.

About the American Motorcyclist Association

Founded in 1924, the AMA is a not-for-profit member-based association whose mission is to promote the motorcycle lifestyle and protect the future of motorcycling. As the world’s largest motorcycling rights and event sanctioning organization, the AMA advocates for riders’ interests at all levels of government and sanctions thousands of competition and recreational events every year. The AMA also provides money-saving discounts on products and services for its members. Through the AMA Motorcycle Hall of Fame in Pickerington, Ohio, the AMA honors the heroes and heritage of motorcycling. For more information, visit www.americanmotorcyclist.com.

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AMA Go Ride! Month Wraps Up

PICKERINGTON, OH – April 30, 2013 – (Motor Sports Newswire) – AMA Go Ride! Month in April 2013 concludes today after a month-long celebration of the motorcycling lifestyle with on- and off-highway motorcyclists across the country.

In addition to providing AMA members and riders with event and riding information, the AMA also conducted numerous weekly contests and on Friday, May 3, will announce the winners of a drawing for prizes from AMA partner Helmet House.

“We’ve had a lot of fun engaging AMA members and riders with AMA Go Ride! Month,” said Rob Dingman, AMA president and CEO. “Even where the weather has been less than cooperative, motorcyclists across America have demonstrated, once again, our passion for riding is strong and enduring.”

Dingman noted that each day in April the AMA posted news, fun facts and questions on the association’s website and Facebook page, generating over 1.5 million impressions from the AMA’s social network of 53,000 Facebook fans and their friends.

“AMA Go Ride! Month is also a great way for us to kick off Motorcycle Awareness Month in May, when we urge the motoring public to watch for motorcyclists as we take to the roads and highways in pursuit of the freedom we experience on every ride,” Dingman added.

During each week of AMA Go Ride! Month, the AMA focused on a special motorcycling theme. Week 1 was “AMA Go Ride Your Way!” week and tapped into the individualism of motorcycling on favorite roads and trails. Week 2, “AMA Go Ride Together!” week, showcased the fun of riding with family, friends and co-workers, including AMA clubs and the online motorcycle community. The theme for week 3 was “AMA Go Ride for a Cause!” and spotlighted events and activities where motorcyclists celebrate their love of riding to support worthy causes and help others less fortunate. The final week, “AMA Go Ride Safely!” week, promoted rider training, skills development and selecting the proper riding apparel to ensure a safe and enjoyable experience on every ride.

Numerous promotions took place during AMA Go Ride! Month. The AMA Up, Down, All-Around Flash Tour photo contest invited participants to submit photographs of trips to the highest, lowest or most remote part of their state, or an historical or cultural landmark unique to the state. Each week a winner was selected to receive a Helmetlok next-generation lock and cable set.

Another weekly photo contest, Freedom Friday, alerted riders to important issues that pose threats to motorcycling freedoms. Four weekly themes were highlighted: health-insurance discrimination, motorcycle bans, the safety of E15 fuel and distracted driving. Entrants submitted photos illustrating the weekly issue and the best photos earned AMA members an AMA gift bag and a BikeBandit.com gift card.

A third contest was sponsored by Choice Hotels. Entrants emailed their name, AMA number, and the difference between the gas mileage of their bike and their car or SUV. The winner was awarded a $100 gas card and two nights’ stay at a Choice Hotel.

Qualifying AMA members in all contests have been entered into a May 3 drawing for great prizes from Helmet House, including a Shoei helmet, Tour Master Intake jacket and Cortech tank bags.

For more information about AMA Go Ride! Month, including contests, visit www.americanmotorcyclist.com/Riding/GoRide.aspx.

About the American Motorcyclist Association

Founded in 1924, the AMA is a not-for-profit member-based association whose mission is to promote the motorcycle lifestyle and protect the future of motorcycling. As the world’s largest motorcycling rights and event sanctioning organization, the AMA advocates for riders’ interests at all levels of government and sanctions thousands of competition and recreational events every year. The AMA also provides money-saving discounts on products and services for its members. Through the AMA Motorcycle Hall of Fame in Pickerington, Ohio, the AMA honors the heroes and heritage of motorcycling. For more information, visit www.americanmotorcyclist.com.

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AMA gears up for 2013 International Six Days Enduro World Trophy hunt

PICKERINGTON, OH – April 30, 12013 – (Motor Sports Newswire) – The International Six Days Enduro is one of the longest-running world championship motorsports competitions. Each year the American Motorcyclist Association sends a team of talented and seasoned racers to compete for the ISDE World Trophy — the sport’s most-coveted and prestigious team award. For 2013, the contest will take place in Sardinia, Italy, Sept. 30-Oct. 5.

“The ISDE is the pinnacle of world off-road competition, and it has long been an American dream to stand atop the World Trophy podium at this prestigious event,” said AMA Off-Road Manager Chuck Weir, who also serves as the team’s ISDE jury delegate to the Fédération Internationale de Motocyclisme. “Our goal for 2013 is to make that dream come true and, for the first time in history, loft the ISDE World Trophy.”

In addition to the World and Junior World Trophy Teams and the Women’s World Cup Team, the United States sends several club teams to compete at the ISDE. These riders, from whom a senior team also is selected, earn a spot by competing in one of two ISDE qualifiers.

U.S. ISDE qualifiers are being organized by the Appalachian Dirt Riders May 25-26 in Wellston, Ohio, and the Boise Ridge Riders June 1-2 in Idaho City, Idaho. Details for the Ohio event are at www.adrohio.org. More information about the Idaho event can be found at www.boiseridgeriders.com. To be considered for a club team, a qualifying rider also must file a Letter of Intent with the AMA. More information about filing the LOI can be found at www.americanmotorcyclist.com or by calling (614) 856-1900.

For 2013, Antti Kallonen and Robert Pearce join Weir on the U.S. ISDE management team as team directors. Kallonen is KTM North America’s off-road team manager, and Pearce is KTM North America’s vice president of operations. Hall’s Cycles owner Jay Hall will serve as team manager. The assistant team manager will be Paul Bucher. Bruce Wakeley will be the service out-check manager and Mandi Mastin will be the container manager.

“Each year, we learn more about competing at this World Championship event and how to get better as a team,” said Kallonen. “I expect 2013 to be no different as we build on last year’s successes and improve on other areas. We’re excited for the 2013 qualifiers to get under way. In addition to our World Trophy, Junior Trophy and Women’s Trophy teams, we want to send the strongest possible contingent we can, and the qualifiers help ensure that. Plus, they are a great way for local riders, whether or not they intend to advance to the ISDE, to come out and experience the unique format of the World Enduro Championship.”

Kallonen added that he’s confident the 2013 management team will provide exceptional support.

“With last year being the first year with some operational changes, we have put together another great team of experienced support staff for this year,” Kallonen said. “Each member of the team brings years of experience and will be great asset to reach our goals. Our goal is to provide the smoothest operation possible so the riders can focus on racing and winning.”

The International Six Days Enduro is the world’s largest annual off-road motorcycle competition. Since 1913, countries have sent their best off-road racers to exotic locations around the world to be tested on everything from sandy beaches to rocky crevices to deep woods to motocross tracks for the event’s top prize: the ISDE World Trophy. In addition to the World Trophy Team, each year the AMA sends a contingent that includes America’s top junior, women, vet and amateur off-road racers, racing for team awards, individual honor and American pride.

The AMA’s ISDE effort would be impossible without the support of various companies. In addition to riders’ individual manufacturer and product sponsors, direct team sponsors include Wellard, Arai, Worldwide Material Handling Products, Spectro, Motion Pro, Radiant Global Logistics and Moose Racing.

About the American Motorcyclist Association

Founded in 1924, the AMA is a not-for-profit member-based association whose mission is to promote the motorcycle lifestyle and protect the future of motorcycling. As the world’s largest motorcycling rights and event sanctioning organization, the AMA advocates for riders’ interests at all levels of government and sanctions thousands of competition and recreational events every year. The AMA also provides money-saving discounts on products and services for its members. Through the AMA Motorcycle Hall of Fame in Pickerington, Ohio, the AMA honors the heroes and heritage of motorcycling. For more information, visit www.americanmotorcyclist.com.

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Distracted Driving is the Theme of American Motorcyclist Association’s Freedom Friday, April 26

PICKERINGTON, OH – April 26, 2013 – (Motor Sports Newswire) – Distracted driving is the focus of the American Motorcyclist Association’s “Freedom Friday” on April 26.

Injuries to motorcyclists resulting from drivers who are distracted and/or inattentive continue to be a major issue for the AMA and its members. In particular, the AMA is concerned that many automobile, SUV and truck drivers who seriously injure or kill motorcyclists are only cited for traffic infractions. While the AMA believes that banning cellphone use and texting while driving is a positive step, that action alone is not enough. The association maintains that all vehicle operators must be held accountable.

“The AMA advocates for enhanced penalties for violations resulting in injury or death to other roadway users,” said Danielle Fowles, AMA grassroots coordinator. “Enhanced penalty options, to be determined by the courts, should include increased fines, operator’s license suspension, points assessed on an operator’s record, community service and imprisonment, to name a few.”

The Freedom Friday call-to-action is part of AMA Go Ride! Month during April. AMA Go Ride! Month encourages AMA members and riders nationwide to renew their passion for riding on the street and in the dirt. It’s a month-long celebration of riding that features stories, photos, contests and more.

Freedom Friday is a special campaign to alert motorcyclists about important issues that pose a threat to motorcycling freedoms. Riders can take part in a contest related to the issue and win prizes. Each week’s Freedom Friday photo contest asks AMA members to send a photo of themselves, preferably with their bike, near a symbol of the current topic.

The contest that kicks off today focuses on distracted and inattentive driving. The issue can be illustrated with a photo that includes a motorcycle and a car or truck. Photo(s) and the AMA member number should be sent to grassroots@ama-cycle.org to be entered in the contest. For entry details, visit www.americanmotorcyclist.com/riding/goride/contestdetails.

Freedom Friday contest entrants have two chances to win. Two photo winners will be announced and each will receive an AMA gift bag and a BikeBandit gift card. Contest entrants will also be entered in a month-end drawing with great prizes, including a Shoei helmet, Tour Master Intake jacket, and Cortech tank bags, courtesy of AMA partner Helmet House.

Go to www.americanmotorcyclist.com and www.facebook.com/americanmotorcyclist for more details about Freedom Friday and the 2013 AMA Go Ride! Month.

About the American Motorcyclist Association

Founded in 1924, the AMA is a not-for-profit member-based association whose mission is to promote the motorcycle lifestyle and protect the future of motorcycling. As the world’s largest motorcycling rights and event sanctioning organization, the AMA advocates for riders’ interests at all levels of government and sanctions thousands of competition and recreational events every year. The AMA also provides money-saving discounts on products and services for its members. Through the AMA Motorcycle Hall of Fame in Pickerington, Ohio, the AMA honors the heroes and heritage of motorcycling. For more information, visit www.americanmotorcyclist.com.

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