Generated by All in One SEO v4.9.6.2, this is an llms.txt file, used by LLMs to index the site. # Demenshea - Ride Like a Girl A blog for women motorcyclists ## Sitemaps - [XML Sitemap](https://demenshea.com/sitemap.xml): Contains all public & indexable URLs for this website. ## Posts - [Bikes and Babes: The Female Rider-- an enigma defined by the riders themselves...](https://demenshea.com/2011/07/12/bikes-and-babes-the-female-rider-an-enigma-defined-by-the-riders-themselves/) - photo credit/chickthatrides What is the quintessential female rider? In fact how do we define women riders in general? Who are those women that decide to reject standard female roles for a less common practice. Are they adventurers, enlightened or just plain mad? The population of female riders is expanding and with that expansion, come women - [REPOST: Bike and Babes: The Female Rider...who is she and why does she ride a motorcycle?](https://demenshea.com/2013/12/10/bikes-and-babes-the-female-rider-who-is-she-and-why-does-she-ride-a-motorcycle/) - photo credit/chickthatrides What is the quintessential female rider? In fact how do we define women riders in general? Who are those women that decide to reject standard female roles for a less common practice. Are they adventurers, enlightened or just plain mad? The population of female riders is expanding and with that expansion, come women - [BMW Recalls Nearly 49K Motorcycles; Rear Wheel Can Loosen!! CHECK YOURS!!](https://demenshea.com/2015/03/29/bmw-recalls-nearly-49k-motorcycles-rear-wheel-can-loosen-check-yours/) - Google Image 49K BMW Bikes Recalled - [Another BMR (Big Money Rally) comes to a close](https://demenshea.com/2015/05/26/another-bmr-big-money-rally-comes-to-a-close/) - Well, I simply didn't have the time this year to make the most of the Big Money Rally, the only motorcycle rally I have ever ridden, but still I was able to finish the rally and even get into the "BRONZE" point values! Yippie for me! ;) I gained NO points for this shot. Shame - [And along came a Spyder...Tyler Risk's Adventures!](https://demenshea.com/2015/05/27/and-along-came-a-spyder-tyler-risks-adventures/) - My riding buddy Tyler Risk was a major influence on me when I first started riding 11 years ago. She had met my husband via the internet and he suggested I try to get ahold of her so I might ride with her. I did and was thrilled to meet another female rider with as - [A Miata Walkabout...CA, NV, ID, OR, WA...nope no motorcycles involved!](https://demenshea.com/2015/06/13/a-miata-walkabout-ca-nv-id-or-wa-nope-no-motorcycles-involved/) - As I was loading the boot of the Miata, I quickly realized there really isn't much more room than on my BMW R1200R, but weight distribution to the lowest point was now for convenience rather than solely performance. I had all the essentials for a "walkabout" including a newly found Zin that had a great - [Flat Track Racing is alive and well in Sacramento!](https://demenshea.com/2015/06/18/flat-track-racing-is-alive-and-well-in-sacramento/) - The Sacramento Mile 2015 Dynamite article!!! My friend Walt Fulton brought this to my attention. It's quite the well written article and Johnny, the author, holds a warm place in my heart with his pure and simple ethics. I too like a good whisky on the rocks and a finely tuned sports car. ;) I - [Yvonne Stagg and Dreamland revisited by Lois Pryce](https://demenshea.com/2015/06/21/yvonne-stagg-and-dreamland-revisited-by-lois-pryce/) - Photo from The Independent 17 June 2015 My fellow rider and friend Lois Pryce has written a wonderful article on Yvonne Stagg, who owned and rode Dreamland's Wall of Death. She was, incidentally the first and only female owner of the attraction although she had a team of other riders who entertained the crowds at - [Riding the Grease: Antelope Canyon, AZ](https://demenshea.com/2009/05/18/riding-the-grease-antelope-canyon-az/) - Antelope Canyon is simply amazing. I have seen plenty of desert canyons, but nothing to compare to this. I must add, though, that the Navajo Tribe, though doing a fabulous job preserving the site, does not aptly prepare those wanting to see the canyon. It is steep, narrow, descending approximately 100 stairs, and they what - [The Vincents HRD...it just keep getting better!](https://demenshea.com/2009/06/26/the-vincents-hrdit-just-keep-getting-better/) - Click to view full-size poster... - [A somber reminder...](https://demenshea.com/2009/06/29/a-somber-reminder/) - The weekend was a beautiful one in Walker, CA located in the desert east of the Sierras, but on Saturday evening, I received a somber reminder of our fragility, as I discovered that one of my dear friends had been in a horrible motorcycle accident while touring across Idaho. Tyler Risk, tour owner and operator - [Old Indians Never Ever Die--Trailer to a new film](https://demenshea.com/2009/12/01/old-indians-never-ever-die-trailer-to-a-new-film/) - "On the 24th and 25th July 2009 the second Old Indian Never Die rally took place at Traquair House in Pebbleshire, Scotland. The Rally was possibly the largest collection of vintage Indian Motocycles gathered in Europe. This is a trailer from the forthcoming 1 hour long documentary from Watermill." At least the bikes are way - [Can't beat the old "elf yourself" for the holidays!](https://demenshea.com/2009/12/12/cant-beat-the-old-elf-yourself-for-the-holidays/) - http://elfyourself.jibjab.com/view/8nUCzYF04cVG73gE - [May 7th--Just Ride--International Female Ride Day!](https://demenshea.com/2010/05/05/may-7th-just-ride-international-female-ride-day/) - The first Friday of every May has been deemed International Female Ride Day by Motoress. The idea is simply for all female riders to just get out there and ride!! Well day after tomorrow is that day, so girls, get out there and just do it!! - [Follow up--Why Women Ride](https://demenshea.com/2010/11/23/follow-up-why-women-ride-2/) - [Bikes and Babes: The Original Female Stunters](https://demenshea.com/2011/03/13/bikes-and-babes-the-original-stunters/) - Romanticized as both sexy and dangerous, female stunt riders through the ages have been admired. Typically in the past the beautiful babe had been relegated to the sidelines, either waving a flag or donning an umbrella while scantily dressed. Here she is protected and strutting her sexuality. However, a few women have successfully crossed the - [The Best Motorcycle Roads Ever!!! What's Your Favorite Road?](https://demenshea.com/2011/03/15/your-favorite-road-difficult-to-narrow-to-one/) - The latest issue of the AMA magazine listed the best roads in the US for motorcycling as polled by members. I must say, I totally agree with most they listed, but each one of us covets our own favs. With that spirit, I am asking what your favorite riding road is, so that I may - [Losing Liz...Elizabth Taylor dies at 79](https://demenshea.com/2011/03/23/losing-liz-elizabth-taylor-dies-at-79/) - When I was a kid, I grew up seeing Liz Taylor in my mother. I always felt that if anyone could come close to competing with Liz's beauty, it was my mom. From my earliest memories both Liz and my mother mesmerized me by their stunning beauty and gorgeous eyes. I saw nearly every movie - [Now were're talking!!! Honda Crossrunner VFR800](https://demenshea.com/2011/07/01/now-werere-talking-honda-crossrunner-vfr800/) - Honda revealed its all-new Crossrunner model at the EICMA Milan Bike Show merging two of my favorite riding styles, an upright seating position on a naked rugged performance machine. I can't wait to try this one out! The Crossrunner brags of melding the best possible worlds of motorcycling together, the smooth power surge of sport - [Salves and scrubs for awesome skin...](https://demenshea.com/2012/04/06/salves-and-scrubs-for-awesome-skin/) - [Best places to ride in California](https://demenshea.com/2012/04/23/best-places-to-ride-in-california/) - As the riding season is upon us and the beautiful pass roads are opening up, it's high time to make some suggestions for exemplary rides in California. I feel so fortunate to live in a state where one can ride somewhere, all year with no worry about seasonal changes. Yes, it gets a bit chilly - [Shedding the "bad biker" image...](https://demenshea.com/2012/05/24/shedding-the-bad-biker-image/) - [A clear your mind, sort of ride...](https://demenshea.com/2012/08/31/a-clear-your-mind-sort-of-ride/) - View Larger Map - [A local shake out the cobwebs ride...](https://demenshea.com/2012/08/31/5428/) - I don't know if you have noticed, but the last few weeks I have been off the radar. My youngest grandson has been diagnosed with Aplastic Anemia a condition where the bone marrow does not replace the necessary platelets or blood cells. This is a very rare disease and not easily treated. He's 6 and - [Last journey with a friend...](https://demenshea.com/2013/02/17/last-journey-with-a-friend/) - Many of you already know that I lost my riding buddy and pal Syd FishWitch Sheppard on January 21. She died in her sleep at the tender age of 58. Yesterday I said an official goodbye to my pal. Though many of you didn't know her, I thought I would share her. If you haven't - [Riding the Grease: Gary's take on the scenery!](https://demenshea.com/2009/06/02/riding-the-grease-garys-take-on-the-scenery/) - Gary's take on Riding the Grease! So, Donna’s told the tale of a fabulous ride and she suggested I post some of the pix I took on the trip. Indeed, she said I oughta post my top 10 pix from the trip… Top 10… outta 650? Mhmm, I’ll remember that when she’s getting ready to - [Riding the Grease: Page to Cortez](https://demenshea.com/2009/05/19/riding-the-grease-page-to-cortez/) - Page AZ to Cortez, CO and Mesa Verde didn't provide many miles but we did go through Monument Valley and some totally awesome country. Every pic you have seen of Monument Valley can't help but display the "real" thang. There is almost no way to get a bad pic, much like the Grand Canyon. I - [Vincent Black Lightning...](https://demenshea.com/2009/06/05/vincent-black-lightning/) - I had only seen one ever...and then I heard this and was even more intrigued. Richard Thompson--Vincent Black Lightening 1952 I had to find more, know more. Where did these beautiful sexy machines rise from. Who was responsible for this wondrous exciting piece of motorcycle history. I was off on a research journey. Vincent Motorcycles - [Coming Home...](https://demenshea.com/2009/07/02/coming-home/) - My injured friend Tyler is coming back to CA tomorrow, pictured here with her sister Cyn. This is the beginning of some extensive treatments to repair the crushed skin on her legs from being run over by a tractor trailer. She is a miracle girl proving the power from positive healing energy of the masses - [Map One of riding in Espana!](https://demenshea.com/2010/06/19/im-back-day-one-map-of-riding-in-espana/) - 395k which turned into 8 hours of ride time! The roads in Spain are amazing. Stay tuned for official ride report!! View Larger Map - [There's nothin' like good service from your moto-dealer!!](https://demenshea.com/2011/01/08/theres-nothin-like-good-service-from-your-moto-dealer/) - PCP Motorsports is the local Suzuki dealership that I have come to LOVE and cherish in my newly formed relationship. I depend upon their integrity to fix both minor issues and major services. They have treated me honestly, have made reasonable estimates and have been quick to respond with price and service matching. I can - [When out riding, don't forget to LOVE your skin](https://demenshea.com/2011/03/19/when-out-riding-dont-forget-to-love-your-skin/) - No, this isn't an advertisement, but a serious recommendation. When we ride in the wind and weather our skin suffers, even with the protection of a full face helmet. After my first year of riding, and no longer possessing youthful skin, I noticed that I had more than normal weathering around my eyes, cheeks and - [The Great Canada Adventure...Red Lodge to Seely Lake MT](https://demenshea.com/2011/08/01/4285/) - So, I'll pick up where I left off... From Red Lodge to Seely Lake. We left on the edge of a storm, but from the weather service it looked like we'd be skirting the worst of it and so it was. A drop of two feel along the way, but nothing much. Our intention was - [Advice for NEW RIDERS from those with years and (s)miles! Part 2](https://demenshea.com/2012/05/04/advice-for-new-riders-from-those-with-years-and-smiles-part-2/) - Continuing on from Advice for New Riders from those with years and (s)miles. We have so much valuable information to share, I'm not even sure where to begin! But today I'll start with Astir, a member of TWF forum who has ridden a number of years, and even rode with her husband up to Alaska - [Part 5--California Chicks Converge on Canada](https://demenshea.com/2012/07/09/part-5-california-chicks-converge-on-canada/) - I awoke early on Castlegar departure morning to look out side and see that torrents of rain had taken over the outer world. The ground had rivers running across it and I knew this was definitely going to be a test of my FirstGear riding suit. I have no rain gear per se but the - [HOT HOT HEAT or Heading to the Southwest in Aug/Sept!](https://demenshea.com/2011/08/30/hot-hot-heat-or-heading-to-the-southwest-in-augsept/) - [Site news from the web admin](https://demenshea.com/2011/09/02/site-news-from-the-web-admin/) - Regular visitors probably noticed that Demenshea's blog was off line for a bit this week. Our web host deactivated the site several times when the server "overheated". I've been working with the hosting company to address possible causes for poor performance in the engine that powers this blog. A new "caching" feature is now up - [Nolan N104 Helmet Review](https://demenshea.com/2013/11/14/nolan-n104-helmet-review/) - I'm finally getting around to a helmet review of my new Nolan N104. First off, I have to say what a HUGE improvement this helmet is over the Nolan N103. The shape alone was enough to draw me to spend the money for a new helmet as my N103 never did fit my head quite - [Onward to Canada, Two California Chicks Converge on Canada!](https://demenshea.com/2012/07/05/onward-to-canada-a-dual-adventure-from-two-girly-riders/) - I am unsure why, but this has been the longest it has taken me to put together a ride report of a recent journey. Whether it was the thought provoking visit with my aging dementia ridden father the first day, or the fact I spent nearly every evening visiting with my riding buddy giving absolutely - [Bikes and Babes--Women Motorcyclists Riding into History](https://demenshea.com/2011/01/29/bikes-and-babes-women-motorcyclists-riding-into-history/) - Continuing my study of Bikes and Babes, we'll take a look at women motorcyclists that made history in the early years. In 1915 Avis and Effie Hotchkiss, a mother and daughter team, rode from New York to California to attend the San Francisco World’s Fair while making themselves the first female riders to cross the - [Shelter from the Storm...](https://demenshea.com/2015/03/28/shelter-from-the-storm/) - I recently watched the amazing film, "St Vincent" starring Bill Murray. Without any spoilers, I feel the need to share this wonderful closing with Bill accompanying the great Bob Dylan on the song Shelter from the Storm, which has always been one of my favorite Dylan songs. Songs once filled my helmet as I rode but - [Back in the Saddle!!](https://demenshea.com/2015/03/27/back-in-the-saddle/) - First off, I feel the need to apologize to my brilliant readers and followers. It's been a pretty crazy year so far and it makes me wonder if that's just going to be what it is like every year as we get older. I remember thinking that, "geeze, I'm so ready to have a new - [BMW Unscripted--Tiffany Coates ENJOY!](https://demenshea.com/2015/02/07/bmw-unscripted-tiffany-coates-enjoy/) - I love finding these little web treats. Hope you enjoy it! http://youtu.be/SCaCl-G3RFg - [Not a Motorcycle, but just as exciting, the Miata sees the SW...](https://demenshea.com/2015/01/11/not-a-motorcycle-but-just-as-exciting-the-miata-sees-the-sw/) - It was a holiday of indifference. Not that I don't enjoy the company of my two sons, but without the grandboys, Christmas just didn't seem like Christmas. Gary, who decided to make it difficult for all other husbands, gifted a 2010 Miata to me for my being "a very good girl". He had two mandatory - [I must have been a very good girl... ;)](https://demenshea.com/2014/12/20/i-must-have-been-a-very-good-girl/) - I just received my Christmas present from the world's most amazing husband. I should have guessed it, but enough time has passed since he inquired about my MX5 passion. Since I'm a motorcyclist first hand, my recently acquired passion for MX5 Miata came as a bit of a surprise to almost everyone. So rascal that - [Wet WET Weather Alert!](https://demenshea.com/2014/12/04/wet-wet-weather-alert/) - Here in California we are finally getting some rain, and when I saw this cruisin' the web this morning, it made me think how many of my riding buddies are feeling exactly like Kermit! ;) - [2015 BIG MONEY RALLY!! A new reason to ride!!](https://demenshea.com/2014/12/03/2015-big-money-rally-a-new-reason-to-ride/) - It's been a relatively quiet year for me this year. Not particularly for any reason or maybe for a thousand reasons, but my bike has seen more garage time this year than ever before and it breaks my heart. I am such an enthusiast, a traveler, an explorer, a visitor and not least of all, - [Memorial for Bruce Laidlaw--Brickus Turkus](https://demenshea.com/2014/10/09/memorial-for-bruce-laidlaw-brickus-turkus/) - I know that many of you live in the SoCal area, so I wanted to let you know that there is a memorial for Bruce being held. Details follow. Bruce's memorial service will be held on Saturday October 11th, 2pm at St. Martin-in-the-fields church, 7136 Winnetka avenue, Winnetka, Ca. 91306. RSVP to BruceLaidlawMemorial@gmail.com. Please include - [A trip to Southern OR to meet friends and make new ones! ](https://demenshea.com/2014/09/17/a-trip-to-southern-or-to-meet-friends-and-make-new-ones/) - The catalyst was losing another dear friend. When my moto-pal, Bruce Laidlaw died and I realized that I needed to spend more time nurturing friendships and creating some new ones. I have spent years on the motorcycle forum Pashnit, yet had not met but a handful of other riders in person and the few that - [Tribute to a friend...RIP Bruce Laidlaw](https://demenshea.com/2014/09/09/tribute-to-a-friend-rip-bruce-laidlaw/) - The motorcycle community has lost a great guy, an active rider, a good mentor and a fine photographer. Bruce Laidlaw was a friend to all that knew him. He had a riotous sense of humor and a big heart and last week he died. Without dissecting how he died, his friends should reflect on how - [REVIEW: FIRSTGEAR Contour Mesh Jacket for Women](https://demenshea.com/2014/08/08/review-firstgear-contour-mesh-jacket-for-women/) - I recently had the wonderful opportunity from Motorcyclehouse.com to review a jacket made by Firstgear. As many of you already know, Firstgear is one of my very favorite gear companies for women's gear. They not only think of amenities for all riders, but have a very good conceptual design for female bodies. This gear fits - [The annual Pashnit Girly Ride...Crazy as ever!](https://demenshea.com/2014/08/07/the-annual-pashnit-girly-ride-crazy-as-ever/) - Here I swore to you that I'd do better at posting, but then I realized that I had very little to post! But post I will! 2014 Pashnit Girly Ride came together for July 11-13 with the usual attrition in the numbers. It didn't dampen the spirits of those in attendance and we had our - [HAPPY 4th of JULY! ](https://demenshea.com/2014/07/04/happy-4th-of-july/) - David Uhl - [Lois on the Loose...IRAN VIDEO](https://demenshea.com/2014/06/29/lois-on-the-loose-iran-video/) - Lois is brilliant, irreverent, hilarious and a wonderful all around talented woman. I can't say enough good, but I'd like to share to little look at her, and you can be the judge. I'd give just about anything to be able to join her on a ride!! If you haven't already, do yourself a favor - [Elspeth Beard--RTW Adventurer, Architect and WOMAN! ](https://demenshea.com/2014/06/28/elspeth-beard-rtw-adventurer-architect-and-woman/) - Photo Credit Peter Orme Every now and again, I find something on the web that completely fascinates me and that's what I found in this post from facebook! Among all the amazing photographs was this shot of Elspeth and it spoke volumes. Here is a woman who is studying to become an architect who drops - [A little slice of Americana WA/ID...warning no motorcycles in this post, just beautiful country!!](https://demenshea.com/2014/06/20/a-little-slice-of-americana-waid-warning-no-motorcycles-in-this-post-just-beautiful-country/) - I took a trip with my mom and best friend to a family wedding in Idaho. We took our time and stayed in a beautifully scenic place in Washington, called Dayton. It's an old historic town with one of the oldest original standing train depots. We had a blast in this place and could have - [But it's HOT out!](https://demenshea.com/2014/06/18/but-its-hot-out/) - Well summer is here in full swing which places many motorcyclists in the dilemma of choosing a proper protective riding jacket. I know their are triple digits out there, but we still need to ride fully protected or our skin will end up looking like the soil above or worse!! There are many great choices - [Highlights of the Big Money Rally 2014 or Quirky America!!](https://demenshea.com/2014/06/17/highlights-of-the-big-money-rally-2014-or-quirky-america/) - Well, after all it was my first rally, but I finished it and even got into the Bronze catagory, so I'm feeling pretty good about it. I await my swag. ;) I wanted to share the highlights of this rally. In pursuit of points, I discovered things I didn't even know were there and areas - [Absent but alive and kicking!](https://demenshea.com/2014/06/16/absent-but-alive-and-kicking/) - I am so sorry fellow readers and riders. Regarding my absence; I have had so much family shite going on that I have had nearly zero time to ride let alone blog about it. I plan on trying to do better over the next month as I actually have some rides planned and some country - [Nevada and the Big Money Rally...still scoring the points on my first rally ending in two weeks!](https://demenshea.com/2014/05/10/nevada-and-the-big-money-rally-still-scoring-the-points-on-my-first-rally-ending-in-two-weeks/) - In an endless pursuit of the elusive bonus points for the Big Money Rally I droned a short 3 day jaunt over the somber Nevada desert. Unlike many, I adore riding through my childhood state, over the never ending straight highways that seem to lead to yet another town oddly named with legal brothels and - [The final leg of the Big Money Rally Run to the SW!!!](https://demenshea.com/2014/04/14/the-final-leg-of-the-big-money-rally-run-to-the-sw/) - Ok...finally let's wrap this journey up!!! I grabbed the first motel in Holbrook which happened to be an American's Best Value. I wasn't expecting much, but it ended up being super clean, crazily painted, and had a great bed. What more can one expect, all that and for under 60 bucks. They provided a voucher - [Big Money Rally continues across NM into AZ and UT](https://demenshea.com/2014/04/09/big-money-rally-continues-across-nm-into-az-and-ut/) - The next chapter! I actually slept in a bit and didn't get up until nearly 8am. The wind was already blowing, although without nearly the power that would come later in the day. I geared and packed up and headed to my friend's home 30 miles east of Albuquerque but stopped on the way to - [The Big Money Rally continues...](https://demenshea.com/2014/03/31/the-big-money-rally-continues/) - I've been visiting friends. The first was a moto-pal in Edgewood 30 miles east of Albuquerque, and now I'm in Truth or Consequences with some wonderful pals from my days of living in Alaska. I am fortunate to have some great places to stay along my journey. I didn't get many BMR shots in Albuquerque - [Big Money Rally...CA, NV, AZ, NM, TX as weather allows!](https://demenshea.com/2014/03/26/big-money-rally-ca-nv-az-nm-tx-as-weather-allows/) - I never thought I'd need motivation to go for a motorcycle ride, however this winter has been one where even though the weather wasn't bad, I just wanted to hole up and vegetate. I haven't been motivated to do art, to do much knitting or even to get into some fine cooking, so when I - [How effective is rider training??](https://demenshea.com/2014/03/14/how-effective-is-rider-training/) - Streetmasters Precision Cornering Workshop I read an interesting article in MCN last month by Ken Condon who is a well known MSF RiderCoach as well as the author of Riding in the Zone: Advanced Techniques for Skillful Motorcycling. He stresses the importance of of safety and measuring risk then riding within that measure. I enjoyed - [People wanna know when I first started riding!! ](https://demenshea.com/2014/03/13/people-wanna-know-when-i-first-started-riding/) - As I recall, I think I was fairly young. Looks like I began riding solo from the start. ;) - [Love those Vintage Post Cards!](https://demenshea.com/2014/03/11/love-those-vintage-post-cards/) - Sorting through an old box of ephemera, I discovered a stack of old postcards. Some of these were from my grandmother's collection, but others were ones that I have found through the years. What made them interesting to me was not only the old colorized artwork, but searching to find if the places were still - [When is a photographic image no longer representative of life?](https://demenshea.com/2014/03/10/when-is-a-photographic-image-no-longer-representative-of-life/) - An altered postcard I found while traveling in Idaho. As an artist using photoshop, I am able to adjust a sunset, enhance a seascape, or allow a subject a quick 10 lbs weight loss, but knowing all this, how far do I allow myself to go before the adjustment is no longer the viewed reality? - [Choosing a BEGINNER BIKE!](https://demenshea.com/2014/03/02/choosing-a-beginner-bike/) - I have always been an advocate of starting small and working your way up to a larger displacement motorcycle. It's how I began riding and usually, for those successful and ongoing riders, starting small was indeed the factor. I can't stress enough just how much confidence one can get on a machine that can easily - [Fabulous VINTAGE photographs of female motorcyclists! ](https://demenshea.com/2014/03/01/fabulous-vintage-photographs-of-female-motorcyclists/) - Surfing Facebook the other day I found this wonderful article full of historic photos of women on motorcycles. As much as I don't usually just blog another site, I felt this was truly an article to be seen. I do hope you enjoy it as much as I did! 32 Badass Vintage Photographs of Women - [What a long strange trip it's been...](https://demenshea.com/2014/02/25/what-a-long-strange-trip-its-been/) - This morning out of nowhere, the Grateful Dead appeared in my head's musical archive and I began humming "Truckin" for no good reason. It seems my psyche is torn, between heading for the open road or hanging in the safety of my home studio thinking about all the art I haven't been doing. "Sometimes the - [Meerkat rides!!](https://demenshea.com/2014/02/10/meerkat-rides/) - My friend Lois Pryce posted this adorable photo of FB this morning and I just couldn't believe how cute it was and had to share. I believe it needs a caption. Got any ideas?? - [BMW Motorrad motorcycle assembly 2014 Berlin plant: one 1200GS coming right up!](https://demenshea.com/2014/02/05/bmw-motorrad-motorcycle-assembly-2014-berlin-plant-one-1200gs-coming-right-up/) - They make it look so easy...but then look at the place, the tools and the manpower. I don't believe I saw one women in the entire 9 minute video, not working nor draped 1/2 naked over the bike. Oh ya, that comes later. ;) http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Cs8AphvMv1M#t=203 - [Big Money Rally Winter Ride...continues](https://demenshea.com/2014/02/03/big-money-rally-winter-ride-continues/) - The sunset in Monterey was truly gorgeous and I shot a 1/2 million shots from the bike as I headed for my motel to get one that was actually in focus! :D It was odd, as I got to the beachfront Best Western, I was certain Gary and his family would be ahead of me, - [Viajar por España – Part 4](https://demenshea.com/2010/07/01/viajar-por-espana-part-4/) - An early start was a very difficult thing in Spain since one never eats until well past 10pm and then after walking off dinner, I found myself getting back to the motel near midnight and then I simply had to view the day's photos. I don't believe I ever got to bed much before 1-2 - [The Big Money Rally and a reason for a winter ride!](https://demenshea.com/2014/01/31/the-big-money-rally-and-a-reason-for-a-winter-ride/) - Well, we don't have much winter in CA. In fact this year we have had almost none, so trying to create a "reason" to ride is like trying a new wine or a new meal, I mean why not?? As I read about the Big Money Rally, I was keen to give it a go, - [YEA....it's a NEW YEAR! Hooray for 2014](https://demenshea.com/2014/01/05/yea-its-a-new-year-hooray-for-2014/) - Well, I'm thrilled to have begun a new year and hope that this season brings more riding than last season, but time will tell. I did decide to take on the Big Money Rally, which will actually be my very first rally. This is no easy rally being it's set for winter riding with some - [Merry Christmas to all!!](https://demenshea.com/2013/12/24/merry-christmas-to-all/) - I hope you all have a wonderful holiday season, and however you celebrate, do it with STYLE! Now we each need to figure out where we are riding in 2014! Myself, I'm going to sit with a hot toddy and some maps and get to dreaming! ;) - [Riding the World...2013 A year of contrasts and loss](https://demenshea.com/2013/12/18/riding-the-world-2013-a-year-of-contrasts-and-loss/) - A ponderous year, 2013, full of poignant moments, sadness and bliss. I lost some wonderful friends this past year as well as my father, all of which broke my heart bit by bit. Thank the stars for the gift of travel and the renewal I receive from the journey. Gladly, I move into the new - [A Happy Thanksgiving and good eats day to all!!](https://demenshea.com/2013/11/27/a-happy-thanksgiving-and-good-eats-day-to-all/) - No Turducken this year... This will be the first year that I haven't cooked a big ol' turkey dinner. It's just Gary and me and we're eating Italian food and going to a movie. It's gonna be a bit of a quiet year and I'm still not sure how I feel about that, but this - [Alex Chacon--A Modern Motorcycle Diaries--82,459 miles](https://demenshea.com/2013/11/27/alex-chacon-the-modern-motorcycle-diaries-latin-america-in-250-days/) - Alex is from El Paso, TX USA but feels at home just about anywhere in the world as you'll see by his video! https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=85VErvTqgWc I throughly enjoyed this particular travel video, although his right hand passes made me quite nervous as well as some of the crazy narrow cliffside roadways. The photography is stunning and - [Photographs of my Grandmother's 1922 motorcycle trip in California astride a Harley Davidson with a sidecar](https://demenshea.com/2011/01/31/photographs-of-my-grandmothers-1922-motorcycle-trip-in-california-astride-a-harley-davidson-with-a-sidecar/) - I began a post a day ago regarding the history of women in motorcycling, and ended it with a couple of photographs that my mother and I had found of my grandmother. She was in moto-garb and astride an old Harley Davidson. Amazed when we found these, it was a total surprise to both my - [Support Artist and Motorcyclist Guenevere Schwien...Every DONATION, no matter the size will help!!!](https://demenshea.com/2013/11/21/support-artist-and-motorcyclist-guenevere-schwien-every-donation-no-matter-the-size-will-help/) - Motorcyclist Guenevere Schwien radiates color and style every time she steps up to her easel. The outcome of her passion for the last eight years has been some of the most gorgeous photorealist motorcycle paintings you'll ever see including her most famed; a HUGE 9' by 6' Ducati which was purchased by a private party. - [Installing a frost/fog insert in you helmet with pinlocks...](https://demenshea.com/2013/11/19/installing-a-frostfog-insert-in-you-helmet-with-pinlocks/) - I love my Nolan N104 and was fortunate enough to have a frost/fog insert lens included with my helmet purchase. For those of you that don't and have a pinlock shield on your brand of helmet, you can purchase your frost/fog insert lens separately, for around $30bucks. They work well and will actually keep your - [Moto-Camping Beer/Soda Can Stove!! Coolest how-to ever!!](https://demenshea.com/2013/11/16/moto-camping-beer-can-stove-coolest-how-to-ever/) - https://vimeo.com/64726512 To find fuel for your newly created stove. - [Winter is right around the corner...and for some it's already shown it's icy face!](https://demenshea.com/2013/11/13/4581/) - Every approaching winter season I try to post a good article on winterizing your bike, for those unlucky folks that live where to bike is garaged for several months while the snow flies! Everyone has their own "winterizing" system, but I felt this was a pretty good overview and good enough to repost! This year's - [Lois Pryce--Adventuresse! ](https://demenshea.com/2013/11/07/lois-pryce-adventuresse/) - What a delight to have found this interview of Lois Pryce to follow up my last posting. Lois was able to sum up the attributes of a motorcycle adventure aptly having gained her writing skills as a by-product of her adventure. I love that she personifies her "matter of fact attitude" and is able to - [Finding Balance...](https://demenshea.com/2013/10/19/finding-balance/) - Tioga Pass I don't know, maybe it's where the moon sits in the sky or where the stars are all located or maybe it's just because I have another impending birthday that leads me to my 62nd year of dulling patina. I can't pinpoint any singular cause, but I feel like I've been spinning circles - [Australia's TAC presents Motorcycle Safety with POSITIVE messages!! ](https://demenshea.com/2013/10/14/australias-tac-scores-points-with-a-great-safety-campaign/) - For more video from the TAC check Tarsnakes. A+ for some positive messages to keep both riders and non-rider aware! - [Riding the NV/CA mountains with no particular place to go! ](https://demenshea.com/2013/10/03/riding-the-nvca-mountains-with-no-particular-place-to-go/) - Hugo coerced me, made me pack all the wrong stuff, took me the cold way and then didn't allow my gerbing to heat. How's that for a third date and does that make the romance a one sided type? Oh dear, I had a lot to consider as I attempted to scoot through a huge - [Riding the NV/CA mountains with no particular place to go! Part 2](https://demenshea.com/2013/10/05/riding-the-nvca-mountains-with-no-particular-place-to-go-part-2/) - I was up early, but the chill of the morning made me reconsider an early start. Instead, I sat on my bed and sorted photos deciding what was worthy posting and those that were less so, as I awaited the rising temperature. Before long it was in the 60s and I was ready to head - [Why We Ride....trailer for a new film!](https://demenshea.com/2013/10/04/why-we-ride-trailer-for-a-new-film/) - http://vimeo.com/75545684 I can't wait to see this film...it's visually stunning and looks compelling!! Why We Ride Website - [Lanakila Macnaughton--The Womans Motorcycle Exhibit](https://demenshea.com/2013/09/26/lanakila-macnaughton-the-womans-motorcycle-exhibit/) - I had posted earlier this year regarding Lanakila Macnaughton's Womans Motorcycle Exhibit that was held in Portland, OR. She is an OR rider and photographer that prides herself in showing "real women riders" not just the sexy female prop draped over a beautiful motorcycles. Lanakila likes the more gritty, fun, raucous, presentation of REAL female - [Rachael Clegg--TT Artist and Model](https://demenshea.com/2013/09/12/rachael-clegg-tt-artist-and-model/) - Photo credit--Rachael Clegg on Vimeo Rachael Clegg, the daughter of the TT racer Noel Clegg and granddaughter of Clubman's TT racer, Tom Clegg, Rachael came by her passion naturally. She was raised on the milk of the TT, having "clock" watched from a very young age. The clocks are single hand mechanisms that are operated - [Roadtrippers...what a jewel](https://demenshea.com/2013/09/06/roadtrippers-what-a-jewel/) - Every now and again we find something of tremendous value on the web and for me this was finding Roadtrippers.com. Roadtrippers is a place for travelers who are not only seeking a road less traveled but also the nearest home made castle along the route, or a well regarded diner, or a gas station representing - [Bloody Hell!!! Washington Rider Struck by Lightening!](https://demenshea.com/2013/09/05/bloody-hell-washington-rider-struck-by-lightening/) - (Courtesy: Washington State Patrol) The Photo is of the inside of the helmet worn by motorcycle rider struck by lightning near Chehalis on Sept. 5, 2013. Wow, they say "shit happens", but if it's a lightening storm, I'm off the bike seeking shelter. This is certainly why! Maybe my friends won't give me so much - [2013 Pashnit Girly Ride...LOVE and Laughter! ](https://demenshea.com/2013/08/29/2013-pashnit-girly-ride-love-and-laughter/) - Sarah and Liz--two of my partners in crime. ;) And mother and daughter, now how cool is that?? Every year I organize a woman only ride from my home forum of pashnit.com. This year we had 27 female riders and one pillion making a grand total of 28 females spending the weekend together for some - [Final goodbye to a fellow Girly Rider..Syd "FishWitch" Sheppard](https://demenshea.com/2013/08/29/final-goodbye-to-a-fellow-girly-rider-syd-fishwitch-sheppard/) - Well, we did it. The pashnit Girly Riders all got together rode some amazing roads, had many a good laugh and a tear or two as we said goodbye to our riding buddy Syd "FishWitch" Sheppard. Standing at the beach wondering exactly how to do this, Sarah was making footprints in the sand and had - [It's that time of year again...the 5th Annual Pashnit Girly Ride](https://demenshea.com/2013/08/21/its-that-time-of-year-again-the-5th-annual-pashnit-girly-ride/) - 2012 Girly Ride Weaverville-Forks of Salmon-Crescent City-Shelter Cove It's that time again, when the women of the pashnit.com motorcycle forum get together and do a ride and gathering. This year it begins Friday August 23-25th and will be in Cambria, CA. Every year I put forth a destination, and in the past have made routes - [The Lincoln Highway...will the real one please stand up!](https://demenshea.com/2013/08/12/the-lincoln-highway-will-the-real-one-please-stand-up/) - Two wonderful books, I have found to use as resources!! I have fallen for the travel bug once again. However, where it's taking me is still being discovered. I knew that the Lincoln Highway has the western terminus here in CA, but was not sure where. I have discovered it's located in San Francisco quite - [Great Stickers for Lane Splitting in CA...](https://demenshea.com/2013/08/05/great-stickers-for-lane-splitting-in-ca/) - Google Image Well, we finally have some legal standing for lane splitting here in CA. I do hope it's passed soon in OR too as I can't tell you how badly I wanted to split on my last trip to the NW. Today while perusing Facebook, my friend Kurt brought these stickers to my attention. - [An evening of humor and humanity...2Ride The World.](https://demenshea.com/2013/08/03/an-evening-of-humor-and-humanity-2ride-the-world/) - Gary called and had locked his keys in the car. Come on we've all done it at one point or another, but here I am at home donning my walking shoes ready to embark on my 3 mile morning walk. I believe the conversation went something like this... "NOOOOO, you didn't" "well ya, come on, - [BMWMOA Rally-Salem OR...the final chapter](https://demenshea.com/2013/07/30/bmwmoa-rally-salem-or-the-final-chapter/) - I nearly forgot that I also took a seminar on GPS routing and knew but was still disappointed to discover they my Garmin 276C is no longer being supported. They aren't doing any more map upgrades for this unit, nor is it able to use the newest mapping system Basecamp. It's looking more and more - [Hugo ventures to find his own...BMWMOA OR Rally Part 2](https://demenshea.com/2013/07/26/hugo-ventures-to-find-his-own-bmwmoa-or-rally-part-2/) - Well, I have said over and over that I'm not a camper and try as I may, I failed tent 101. I had a hell of a time just getting out of it the first morning! Then there is that whole thing about trying to dress etc and we all know you can easily see - [Hugo ventures to find his own...BMWMOA Rally--Salem, OR](https://demenshea.com/2013/07/25/hugo-ventures-to-find-his-own-bmwmoa-rally-salem-or/) - I have always said that I didn't want to belong to any club that would have me as a member, however that all changed when I bought my first BMW motorcycle. Suddenly, I wanted to join a club in the hope that I could gain boundless knowledge from other beemer owners, hanging out consuming high - [Taking the long way to the BMWMOA...](https://demenshea.com/2013/07/11/taking-the-long-way-to-the-bmwmoa/) - Well, I can't help myself. I'm super excited to get out and put some miles on my new bike. For those of you that are just reading this, I got a new to me 07 BMW R1200R and it's one sweet machine. So, that said, I decided to sign up for the BMWMOA Rally being - [Bell Helmet Revolver EVO...moderately priced Modular Helmet](https://demenshea.com/2013/07/10/6737/) - Bell's Revolver EVO--nice aggressive styling, so I don't feel like I simply have a huge head!! It was just over one year ago when I first got my Bell Revolver helmet and I posted this review. Well, it's time to do a follow up. Sadly this helmet is a perfectly fitting helmet for my head - [Going to the BMWMOA International Rally July 18-21 in Salem, OR](https://demenshea.com/2013/07/09/going-to-the-bmwmoa-international-rally-july-18-21-in-salem-or/) - Well, I'm a BMW owner now, so why not go the the biggest event of the year, the BMW Motorcycle Owners International Rally? As I gazed over the seminars and the vendors, my eyes glazed and I realized that this would be a great way to familiarize myself with my new motorcycle and others that - [First new BMW farkle...not so easy! ](https://demenshea.com/2013/07/07/first-new-bmw-farkle-not-so-easy/) - It's been horribly hot here in Sacto and yesterday on the 4th of July, Gary and I decided to put on my newly acquired windscreen not without duress. Certain we could use the same brackets, we attempted to put on the new sport screen. But noooooo, i believe that maybe when they are manufactured it - [Well, it only took uh, how many years?](https://demenshea.com/2013/06/29/well-it-only-took-uh-how-many-years/) - I finally pulled the trigger. It must not have been an easy thing to do, considering I've talked about it for the last several years. Many of you know that I have been a dyed in the wool Suzuki Bandit rider for about 120Ks worth of pavement and even a few hundred miles of not - [A day of demo riding....BMWs at Cycle Specialities Modesto!](https://demenshea.com/2013/06/26/a-day-of-riding-dealer-bikes-bmws/) - OK, I had one fine day of riding other peoples bikes. ;) Actually my friend Gail Weaver is the sales manager at Cycle Specialities BMW Triumph Modesto. He allowed me a wonderful day of test riding beemers!! Here are my thoughts on the bikes I rode. First off let me say I'm hard pressed to - [Flat Track Racing or Auburn's Fast Fridays...what a BLAST!](https://demenshea.com/2013/06/23/flat-track-racing-or-auburns-fast-fridays-what-a-blast/) - I have attended motorcycle racing before but nothing prepared me for how much fun I would have watching flat track racing at Auburn's Fast Friday. What a hoot!! Ok, I am new to this and was surprised how small the front tires were almost like bicycle tires. Also, I assume there are no brakes and - [Walkabout...two daughters celebrating a Dad's Life](https://demenshea.com/2013/06/05/walkabout-two-daughters-celebrating-a-dads-life/) - My sister and I decided we needed some calm after our father's death. A space somewhere to celebrate the life our father had shared with us. He always loved the outdoors, the Sierras, ghost towns, and good food. We jumped in the Subaru and went for a "ride" into the mountains. We had nothing in - [I lost my father...11.20.1925 - 5.24.2013 ](https://demenshea.com/2013/06/02/i-lost-my-father-11-20-1925-5-24-2013/) - A Eulogy for my father... Carson City is a much quieter place now. Our father, John Bettencourt Williams, who livened up this western town with his shenanigans, has passed on to another place that needed his special touch. He was the last of eight wild and lively Portuguese children with the surname of Williams and - [NEW RIDERS NOTICE-Beginner's guide to motorcycling!](https://demenshea.com/2010/11/19/new-riders-notice-beginners-guide-to-motorcycling/) - An excellent compendium of knowledge by Total Motorcycle to assist new riders on their quest for the "perfect motorcycle", gear and new rider tips to perfect their ride. I hope that many new riders take the time to read before they hit the road. Knowledge is power. Live long and prosper or Ride well and - [Get me outta here to some good weather!!](https://demenshea.com/2011/04/25/get-me-outta-here-to-some-good-weather/) - You can follow along via the spot link to the right. Am currently in Tucson visiting an old friend. The weather here is perfect and unbelievable. ; ) I was so ready for some fine warm weather. Leaving Sacramento three days ago proved tedious, with terrible weather, snow flurries, and clouds all the way to - [Riding In High Wind...how to make it tolerable](https://demenshea.com/2012/04/14/riding-in-high-wind-how-to-make-it-tolerable/) - Photo Credit: Desertcrops My last distance ride gave me serious insight regarding techniques for "riding the wind". Much of the 2600 mile ride was plagues by high winds and cold weather. Cold one can dress for but unfortunately wind can not be dealt with as easily. So, let's talk wind. I don't mean those little - [Part 2--Visiting some Desert Rats my solo journey across NV, UT, AZ, NM, CO, TX](https://demenshea.com/2012/10/21/part-two-visiting-some-desert-rats-my-solo-journey-across-nv-ut-az-nm-co-tx/) - Monticello was a bit chilly as I was arriving and I pleased to be off the bike. I had found a cute old strip motel on the web and made a reservation. I checked in with a grin when asked if I had a reservation, I replied, ìyep, only I'm a day early.î She chucked - [I have hope...](https://demenshea.com/2012/11/07/i-have-hope/) - Last night's presidential election left me with a sense of hope and President Obama said it best with the closing of his wonderful election night speech. "America, I believe we can build on the progress we’ve made and continue to fight for new jobs and new opportunities and new security for the middle class. I - [Think Bike, Look Twice!](https://demenshea.com/2013/05/01/think-bike-look-twice/) - May is Motorcycle Safety month but truly every month should be motorcycle safety month. This shows why!! https://www.youtube.com/watch?feature=player_embedded&v=SXI8-_9FrB4 Be an aware driver and look twice for bikes!!! - [Think...Test Your Awareness](https://demenshea.com/2013/04/29/think-test-your-awareness/) - I love these! I am always amazed at how I miss the obvious which is the paint here. The mind is focused on what it usually sees so can easily miss something new, which is why we as motorcyclists are constantly told, "I just didn't see you". http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ubNF9QNEQLA When you watch this short video concentrate - [A new Look and Streetmasters Motorcycle Workshop's First Graduate Reunion in San Luis Obispo, CA](https://demenshea.com/2013/04/21/a-new-look-and-streetmasters-motorcycle-workshops-first-graduate-reunion-in-san-luis-obispo-ca/) - My friends at Streetmasters have been busy! Only a few weeks ago, their training center at the Horse Thief Mile at Willow Springs raceway was ravaged by high winds and all of their tents and awnings destroyed, which prompted a facelift. This was provided as a surprise by the Easter Bunny!! Imagine Walt and Nancy's - [Women motorcycling alone and why every female should try it...](https://demenshea.com/2013/04/15/women-motorcycling-alone-and-why-every-female-should-try-it/) - This morning I read an article in the Huff Post entitled "Why Every Woman Should Travel Alone (At Least Once in Her Life)". Though I find a good many of the Huff Post's women's section articles pretty darned trite, I did find this one quite interesting, even though it was not geared to motorcycle rides - [Feel like Royalty with a Triumph 'Royal Wedding' Bonneville circa 1981](https://demenshea.com/2013/04/13/feel-like-royalty-with-a-triumph-royal-wedding-bonneville-circa-1981/) - How sweet is this bike?? Not only is it a piece of history but it's an amazing reissue of the 1977 Bonneville only this one has a chromium gas tank and electric starter. One recently sold at Bonham's for £3,680. Seems like a fair price. I'd love to ride one and have to wonder if - [Desert Fever--Part 5 to home!](https://demenshea.com/2013/04/09/desert-fever-part-5-to-home/) - Today's map between Bullhead City and Big Pine. 416 miles Laughlin is a strip of casinos along the river. I rode by on the opposite side and got this shot. Not great, but you get the idea. Hwy 163 out of Bullhead City heading to LV is a blast. It's a bunch of big sweepers - [Why we ride...just in time for International Female Ride Day!](https://demenshea.com/2013/05/02/why-we-ride-just-in-time-for-international-female-ride-day/) - Photo credit: chickthatrides Since International Female Ride Day is tomorrow, I thought it was the perfect time to repost an article I wrote a couple of years ago, where I interviewed several female riders with the question, "why ride a motorcycle?". I got some amazingly varied answers as well and several that bordered on channeling - [Welcome to Demeneshea's Ride Like a Girl!](https://demenshea.com/2009/03/16/724/) - I began motorcycle riding in 2004, a time when many people found it an odd or adventurous challenge for a woman no longer a glowing youth. My glow may be a bit tarnished, but my patina flowed into my second or third childhood! I found myself searching everything I could find to read and re-read - [Desert Fever--Part 4](https://demenshea.com/2013/04/09/desert-fever-part-4/) - The VLA is an interesting place. Anyone who has seen the movie Contact with Jody Foster will recognize the place. It's used for radio astronomy. You can read all about it here. The wind was howling out there, more so that I have experienced before, but the sky was clear as a bell. The - [Desert Fever--Part 3](https://demenshea.com/2013/04/09/desert-fever-part-3/) - Sheesh, day three became day four and five and and... So, let me move back in time to catch up to where I am now. I left the hot springs and headed to Truth or Consequences, NM. My plan was to ride to Lordsburg and then go up into the mountains and take one of - [Desert Fever--part 2](https://demenshea.com/2013/04/09/desert-fever-part-2/) - Day 2 Today I was going to iron butt as close as I'll ever get. I rode 600 miles by the time I arrived at the Essence of Tranquility Hot Springs and not without some light evening full moon action. ; ) The Map from Beatty, NV to Safford, AZ Gotta love NV Lots of - [Desert Fever...a ride into the SW yet again!](https://demenshea.com/2013/04/09/desert-fever-a-ride-into-the-sw-yet-again/) - My grandson has spring break this week which means grandma is off the time clock and can take a quick jaunt to the desert for needed fix of pure high desert air. It seems I can't go over a month without some sort of desert exposure. It's funny, some people think of Sacramento as - [Riding the SW...](https://demenshea.com/2013/03/29/riding-the-sw/) - I'm out riding the great SW of America. I'll be posting a RR as soon as I can, but for now here's a couple of teaser shots! Caples Lake in the Sierra Nevada range. Arizona check back!! - [Another reason to love Cafe Racers...](https://demenshea.com/2013/03/21/another-reason-to-love-cafe-racers/) - https://vimeo.com/33535331 https://vimeo.com/42305030 We are talking beautiful and soulful. Enjoy!!! - [The PANTS trip and a little ride into Yosemite...](https://demenshea.com/2013/05/06/the-pants-trip-and-a-little-ride-into-yosemite/) - I purchased a new to me pair of Olympia Airglide 3 pants from a woman rider who had them listed on ebay. Since she lived in Modesto, I asked if I might wave the shipping fee and take a quick ride down to pick them up Sunday morning, thus giving us a chance to meet. - [It's better in the Wind! ](https://demenshea.com/2013/03/17/its-better-in-the-wind/) - For those that love motorcycle video...here's some great footage!! https://vimeo.com/31288625 - [Waiting out Winter...brought to you by http://castandsalvage.com/](https://demenshea.com/2013/03/16/waiting-out-winter-brought-to-you-by-httpcastandsalvage-com/) - "A homage to all craftspeople who spend their winters tucked inside their workshops waiting for better weather." https://vimeo.com/59380598 - [A non-riding journey to Scotland to say a final goodbye to a friend.](https://demenshea.com/2013/03/12/a-non-riding-journey-to-scotland-to-say-a-final-goodbye-to-a-friend/) - 2013 creeped silently into my life bringing with it some sadness and introspection. As I grew another year older I had the sad news that I had lost two of my friends. One very special friend, who was living in Scotland, died after losing a short battle with lung cancer in February. Though I know - [Boy, ain't it the truth???](https://demenshea.com/2013/02/20/boy-aint-it-the-truth-2/) - The Natural Law of Motorcycling... - [Time to Repost....WHY WOMEN RIDE](https://demenshea.com/2013/02/21/time-to-repost-why-women-ride/) - Now a couple of year later, my question is probably more like, why don't MORE women ride? I think this is a GREAT read for those that may have missed it. WHY WOMEN RIDE... - [Another gem from the Selvedge Yard! ](https://demenshea.com/2013/02/22/another-gem-from-the-selvedge-yard/) - The Selvedge Yard is one of my favorite online sources for cool old motorcycle info as well as other Americana icons. He has an aesthetic I not only share but adore. I visit his site ofter, and am gloriously rewarded. Here is another jewel, The HD Archives. Along with it I found this wonderful video, - [Celebrating a life in Scotland...](https://demenshea.com/2013/03/02/celebrating-a-life-in-scotland/) - So far this year has been tough. I have lost two very dear friends and the latest was my close bro William Robinson who after a short bout of cancer died February 22. 2013. He is someone that I never thought would ever die, as silly as that sounds since he was so full of - [I gotta go at least once....IOM](https://demenshea.com/2013/03/08/i-gotta-go-at-least-once-iom/) - [Daylight Savings Time...yet again!](https://demenshea.com/2013/03/10/daylight-savings-time-yet-again/) - [Sacrilege....I bought a new car! ](https://demenshea.com/2013/01/18/sacrilege-i-bought-a-new-car/) - Gary and I have been fighting with our 04 Grand Prix for several years now and to no avail. Time to off the machine!! Saturday, we went to Carmax in Roseville and spent the day. I drove 6 automobiles and found satisfaction in only one, and 06 Subaru Outback and let me tell you, I'm - [Lane Splitting in CA is LEGAL!!! Finally some guidelines.](https://demenshea.com/2013/01/18/lane-splitting-in-ca-is-legal/) - google image Lane Splitting in CA - [I lost a friend... : (](https://demenshea.com/2013/01/24/i-lost-a-friend/) - A cherished friend, Sydney Sheppard, died on Monday in her home. It seems she died in her sleep. She was a rider and a pillar in the Victory Motorcycle Community. No matter what happened, she could be found with a glorious smile on her face. She will be missed by many. RIP Syd...I miss you - [MORE on Lane Splitting in CA....best video I have seen yet!!! Take the time to watch, please!](https://demenshea.com/2013/02/10/more-on-lane-splitting-in-ca-best-video-i-have-seen-yet-take-the-time-to-watch-please/) - These guys do the best explanation I have ever seen regarding lane splitting and why it absolutely should be legal in states other than CA. - [2013 Moto Guzzi V7 Racer....drool....](https://demenshea.com/2013/02/14/2013-moto-guzzi-v7-racer-drool/) - Though MCCN sez it isn't a racer and gives so much technical info it made my head spin, I did read that all in all "without being as fast as it looks, it's "still a lot of fun". I am completely jazzed about the look of it and can't wait to ride one, but apparently - [A little Winter Adventure to the Southwest...](https://demenshea.com/2013/02/03/a-little-winter-adventure-to-the-southwest/) - My mind was fully occupied. I was humming Canned Heat's, “on the road again” and melding with the pavement beneath my wheels and all the while keeping heads up for crazy automobile drivers talking on phones, texting or eating their morning meal. Yep another day touring America! I had it in my mind to seek - [A very Merry Christmas to you and yours!!](https://demenshea.com/2012/12/23/a-very-merry-christmas-to-you-and-yours/) - I hope you all have a wonderful Holiday Season in whatever you celebrate and I hope that more paths will cross next year when we are all out riding the gorgeous countryside. Here's to good health and lost of miles of smiles! Cheers!! Now can someone explain the cute little "devil" in the stash sack?? - [HAPPY NEW YEAR!!!](https://demenshea.com/2012/12/31/5617/) - Well, it's another new year's eve and the sun is shining but it's clear and chilly and I'm sitting in a local coffee house talking to two people confined to wheelchairs and counting my blessings. As I look to 2013 I am compiling a list of what I like to call fact or fantasy for - [January 6, 2013 and it's pouring and dark...do you know where your bike is?](https://demenshea.com/2013/01/06/january-6-2013-and-its-pouring-and-dark-do-you-know-where-your-bike-is/) - Well, my bike is in the garage drinking from a trickle charger as it too awaits spring. I can barely stand this weather, but know that it's necessary for the reservoirs to fill providing a drought free summer and a verdant rich spring. I spent yesterday posting to one of my favorite motorcycle forums, Motorcyclist - [BEST RIDES EVER!!! Now where shall we go in 2013???](https://demenshea.com/2012/12/28/best-rides-ever-now-where-shall-we-go-in-2013/) - That snowman in the background is not the one you are looking for... Baby, it's cold outside and I can't help but venture to my computer for a bit of nostalgic armchair travel to places that I have had the good fortune to visit on my motorcycle. But what stands out most from what I - [If you love Cafe Racers...you'll love this documentary!](https://demenshea.com/2012/11/11/if-you-love-cafe-racers-youll-love-this-documentary/) - Photo of Sarah T from Benjie's Cafe Racer. This documentary is found on YouTube in four parts, but if it's something you enjoy please purchase the DVD at jokermachine. Wonderful film footage and motorcycle history found in this video series! Here is part one. http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=5-NsYKM0n3I The rest of the series can be found here. - [A little Thanksgiving Humor...](https://demenshea.com/2012/11/22/a-little-thanksgiving-humor/) - Hope you all have a Happy Holiday! - [Solvang Motorcycle Museum and Ride...](https://demenshea.com/2012/12/02/solvang-motorcycle-museum-and-ride/) - After a crazy couple of weeks adjusting to the arrival of my son and grandson who will be staying with us indefinitely, I decided I needed to unwind via motorcycle and open roads. Well, it almost happened. :) As it was, winter decided to actually pay CA a visit in the form of liquid falling - [2012 Holiday Gift Suggestions for Moto-Babes!!](https://demenshea.com/2012/11/29/2012-holiday-gift-suggestions-for-moto-babes/) - Every year I attempt to make some suggestions for gifts for those women/men in your life that are motorcycle enthusiasts. Often times I find myself with a ton of fine items to give, but this year I decided to be more discriminating and only post those that I myself would like to have. Here is - [Riding the World...2012](https://demenshea.com/2012/11/30/riding-the-world-2012/) - Every year I like to do a culmination slide show of the year of riding. This year I was fortunate enough to have the opportunity to ride with one of my best pals, Tyler Risk. We did a 3500 mile ride up to the great Northwest and Canada in the summer, seeing some absolutely gorgeous - [Continued Holiday Gift Items!](https://demenshea.com/2012/12/05/continued-holiday-gift-items/) - How cool are these?? A mere $25 and a set can be yours. - [Gyro-stabilized electric motorcycle?? ](https://demenshea.com/2012/12/11/gyro-stabilized-electric-motorcycle/) - I can't really consider this a motorcycle, but it's a two wheeled enclosed car that will be priced at $24,000 after it's initial $60,000 introduction. Wow, I'm not sure about you but I have sticker shock. I like the idea of smaller more fuel efficient vehicles, but safety still looms foremost in my mind. As - [2013 Royal Enfield Cafe Racer!! How cool is that?](https://demenshea.com/2012/12/16/2013-royal-enfield-cafe-racer-how-cool-is-that/) - The new model from Royal Enfield, a cafe racer, looks like q winner. I can't wait to read some performance reviews. If one shows up locally, I believe I'll simply have to do a test ride!! - [Survey for Female Motorcyclists and Pillions!!](https://demenshea.com/2012/10/31/survey-for-female-motorcyclists-and-pillions/) - Vintage photo from google Here's your chance to speak up, girly riders and pillion riders. A women completing her doctorate degree is doing some academic research and is asking for your help with a survey she is doing involving female motorcyclists and women who ride behind other riders. It will take you a bit of - [Honda and Bond...what's not to like!!](https://demenshea.com/2012/11/05/honda-and-bond-whats-not-to-like/) - [15 Awesome tips for Riding in and with Traffic](https://demenshea.com/2012/11/09/15-awesome-tips-for-riding-in-and-with-traffic/) - Motorcyclistonline posted some wonderful riding tips for riding in and with traffic. I have listed them here, but please go to the link to read the details. 1. Watch driver's heads and mirrors. 2. Trust your mirrors but not totally. 3. Never get between a vehicle and an offramp. 4. Cover your brakes. 5. Be - [Part 4--Visiting some desert rats–A solo journey across NV, UT, AZ, NM, CO, TX](https://demenshea.com/2012/10/21/part-4-visiting-some-desert-rats-a-solo-journey-across-nv-ut-az-nm-co-tx/) - The following morning, I packed the bike heading across West Texas and into New Mexico in some of the most windy riding ever. On to see friends in Truth or Consequences, NM I wanted to ride toward NM without getting back onto I40, so instead I went through several small working farm towns and once - [Part 5–Visiting some desert rats–A solo journey across NV, UT, AZ, NM, CO, TX](https://demenshea.com/2012/10/21/part-5-part-4-visiting-some-desert-rats-a-solo-journey-across-nv-ut-az-nm-co-tx/) - I was up early considering I had gone to bed early, I wasn't too surprised. I got the bike packed and left Holbrook after some coffee and a quick bite at the motel around 8 am. It was a bit chilly, so I donned my Kilmanjaro jacket and called it good. I knew it would - [Visiting some desert rats--A solo journey across NV, UT, AZ, NM, CO, TX](https://demenshea.com/2012/10/21/visiting-some-desert-rats-a-solo-journey-across-nv-ut-az-nm-co-tx/) - As journeys go, this has been one challenge after another to organize and set to motion. It began with my grandson, Eli who is ill and in the hospital with Aplastic Anemia, a disease of the bone marrow. He is now being treated and his plight can be followed on his Facebook page. He is - [Part 3--Visiting some desert rats–A solo journey across NV, UT, AZ, NM, CO, TX](https://demenshea.com/2012/10/21/part-3-visiting-some-desert-rats-a-solo-journey-across-nv-ut-az-nm-co-tx/) - For the next few days, I hung out with Dave, Betty and Don and we explored that which only West Texas can offer, like the esoteric Cadillac Ranch for one! Don generously offered to drive me around to see the sights, which was perfect so we could talk and I was able to garnish the - [ROADTRIP!!! Off to the SW](https://demenshea.com/2012/10/05/roadtrip-off-to-the-sw/) - I'll be leaving tomorrow for an extended journey over the SW heading to Amarillo, TX. The weather is beginning to change and little hints of fall/winter are flowing. My first stop will be Ely, NV where the morning temperatures are in the 30s, so heated gear is a must. My route can be found here - [What "women" ride...](https://demenshea.com/2012/10/30/what-women-ride/) - Anke-Eve Goldman According to Cycle Trader, the following is a LIST of what we "female riders" ride. I found it interesting and a very small cross section of female riders in general. I believe it is a purely American trend, as in Europe it certainly isn't true. Women ride a much broader selection of machines - [10 Glorious Years together...an anniversary tale](https://demenshea.com/2012/10/03/10-glorious-years-together-an-anniversary-tale/) - Nope it's not a moto post, but I figured my readers would enjoy the photos of New Orleans!! Actually 15 if you count the unmarried years, living in sin while raising two smart and cunning lads. Yep, it was our 10 year anniversary Sept 21 and we had talked about trying to take a riding - [Following up the AMA International Women and Motorcycling Conference with a survey!](https://demenshea.com/2012/08/02/following-up-the-ama-international-women-and-motorcycling-conference-with-a-survey/) - "This survey is designed to examine both aspects for women motorcyclists and also co-riders (passengers). Here you can give voice to your opinions about what women riders think, need, and want. By contributing your thoughts and opinions through this survey, you can express your power, and show that your opinions -- and those of thousands - [Best find ever...Ebook on how to ride offroad!!](https://demenshea.com/2012/08/22/best-find-ever-ebook-on-how-to-ride-offroad/) - Though it relates to many of the products sold by the company owner, David Peterson of BestRest Gear, this ebook shares some amazing advice for those interested in taking their large dual sport bikes off road. Check it out!!! Thanks, David for your altruistic helpful book as it certainly gave me some insight. If I - [I must be a total idiot...](https://demenshea.com/2012/09/07/i-must-be-a-total-idiot/) - Well, don't comment on that! I finally posted on the Versys Forum and asked WHY my kickstand foot would not lay flat on the ground. It's been tipsy wherever I park, and I have to think ahead each time I stop the bike. Well, I got a response, "Dude, this is an easy fix. Just - [Check out this BEAUTIFUL short film...](https://demenshea.com/2012/09/26/check-out-this-beautiful-short-film/) - Every now and again, I find something really awesome on the web...Enjoy. LONG LIVE THE KINGS - Short film documentary - from SAGS on Vimeo. Thanks JP at the Selvedgeyard. You have provided yet another shining jewel! - [I bought myself a gift...](https://demenshea.com/2012/07/23/i-bought-myself-a-gift/) - I'd love to take Reg's class, however this was the best I could do at the moment. I figure reading his book can't hurt. I also bought myself a RoadID. I decided on a dog tag style, so I could add it to the other goodies my lovely mother donated to the cause. I believe - [AMA International Women and Motorcycling Conference](https://demenshea.com/2012/07/30/ama-international-women-and-motorcycling-conference/) - Well, sadly I missed this year's event, having a full house of family visiting, but thoughts have been rolling in from those that attended and I can't help but have an opinion. What a surprise, eh?? I attended the last conference in 2009 which was held in Keystone, CO. The setting could not have been - [Protection, grace and beauty...](https://demenshea.com/2012/08/16/protection-grace-and-beauty/) - Ok...who's stepping up to purchase this for me. ;) http://vimeo.com/41327350 - [Part 3--2012 Girly Ride](https://demenshea.com/2012/07/21/part-3-2012-girly-ride/) - We arose to morning fog and cold and coffee seemed to be in order, before considering anything else. The Curly Redwood Lodge was the perfect motel, clean and comfortable with parking right in front of our room and fresh coffee in the office! They even provided a tray so that I could deliver fours cups - [Edible coffee cup?? uh wow....](https://demenshea.com/2012/07/27/edible-coffee-cup-uh-wow/) - Ok...i'm game to give it a shot!! Venezuelan designer Enrique Luis Sardi created a coffee cup you can completely eat, for Italian coffee brand Lavazza. - [Part 2--2012 Pashnit Girly Ride](https://demenshea.com/2012/07/19/part-2-2012-pashnit-girly-ride/) - We were to leave the motel, eat breakfast, gas up and meet at the station at 8:30. I arrived on the money and was surprised how many were already there, ready and raring to go! We got our group shot, divided into groups, and embarked on the day's journey to Crescent City. I, desiring to - [5th Annual Pashnit Girly Ride!!!](https://demenshea.com/2012/07/11/5th-annual-pashnit-girly-ride/) - Woohoo...Tomorrow is the start to the Annual Pashnit Girly Ride. This year is the largest ever with 27 women and 25 riders. This is a three day event with the first official day of riding beginning on Friday July 13. ;) The route is over these amazing NorCal roads on day one and over the - [Part 6--California Chicks having converged on Canada come home! ](https://demenshea.com/2012/07/10/part-6-california-chicks-having-converged-on-canada-come-home/) - We spent a couple of lovely "off bike" day in Portland, giving me a chance to see my son, my sister and my mother. It was wonderful time spent. Tyler had an old friend living in Lake Oswego, right south of Portland, so she and I spend a few days away from each other. Tyler - [Part 1--2012 Pashnit Girly Ride...what a weekend it was!](https://demenshea.com/2012/07/18/2012-pashnit-girly-ride-what-a-weekend-it-was/) - This is the 5th annual Girly Ride and every year is wonderful, but this year's ride will stand out foremost as the "best one ever". I simply can't imagine it being any better, ever! I mean the roads this year were amazing and the areas where we rode outstanding and memorable, however it's the riders - [Part 2--California Chicks Converge on Canada](https://demenshea.com/2012/07/06/part-2-california-chicks-converge-on-canada/) - Well, I have thus far neglected to impress what it's like traveling with a celebrity. By celebrity, I mean the CanAm, what else did you think I meant?? At quite every stop, someone will approach saying, "wow, I've never seen one of these up close". That's just for openers, as what follows is consistent to - [Part 3--California Chicks Converge on Canada](https://demenshea.com/2012/07/07/part-3-california-chicks-converge-on-canada/) - Leaving Grangeville was a wee bit chilly as the morning temps were barely 48 degrees. I was still stunned that since leaving Nevada we encountered very little "summer". Bundled up with my heated gear we headed to Montana. Tyler, bundled like a kid in a snowsuit! All the wild flowers were in bloom on this - [Mods Vs Rockers Vintage Motorcycle and Scooter Rally--Chicago June 15th and 16th! ](https://demenshea.com/2012/06/06/mods-vs-rockers-vintage-motorcycle-and-scooter-rally-chicago-june-15th-and-16th/) - Damn, I wish I lived closer to Chitown as Mods vs Rockers sounds like an awesome event. If you are nearby, you may want to pencil this in on your calendar! Visit SteelToePress for schedule of events and register to attend! - [On the Road...](https://demenshea.com/2012/06/21/on-the-road-2/) - My friend Tyler and I made it to Alberta and BC. We are heading to Castlegar today. I will post some photos, and a RR as soon as I am able. Cheers all and ride safely! - [We are into July...Happy Independence Day!!](https://demenshea.com/2012/07/04/we-are-into-july/) - Now did that bag fit perfectly or what?? Oh my, where has the time gone! I got home a few days ago from my Canada adventure and after sorting photos, chatting with friends and making a pedicure appointment, I'm ready to embark on a writing frenzy. We had an awesome ride to the Pacific Northwest, - [For you Keith Code Fans...Bike Cornering Bible Video](https://demenshea.com/2012/05/31/for-you-keith-code-fans-bike-cornering-bible-video/) - Excellent Video from Keith Code and well worth the time it takes to watch!! - [This weeks BEST BUY on gear!!](https://demenshea.com/2012/06/10/this-weeks-best-buy-on-gear/) - I found some outstanding deals from Girl Gear Apparel on women's moto jackets. Whether you need your first jacket or to add another to the gear closet, these certainly seem like a great buy with wonderful features. Here are the stats: Another color combination So, if you are in need of a new moto-jacket, don't - [Gotye-Hearts a Mess](https://demenshea.com/2012/05/26/gotye-hearts-a-mess/) - Ever now and again, I feel the need to share a music video that I truly adore. Gotye-Hearts a Mess is no exception. I hear shades of the Police, with a modern melodic touch. I'm a huge fan. - [Bell Helmet Farkling...giving gender where there was none! ](https://demenshea.com/2012/05/28/bell-helmet-farkling-giving-gender-where-there-was-none/) - I purchased a new helmet this season, a Bell Revolver, which now has been replace by the Bell Revolver EVO helmet. The EVO worked out what the manufacturers considered the bugs in the first rendition of the Revolver, however must say, other than the fact it's noisy, I have no complaints. I always wear ear - [More Riding Tips from another Veteran Rider with Skills to Share!!](https://demenshea.com/2012/05/29/more-riding-tips-from-another-veteran-rider-with-skills-to-share/) - I am fortunate to have some very talented rider pals that have contributed some wonderful information to put to print. The object is to make new riders aware of potential problems as well as keep ua experienced riders from becoming complacent. Stuart Pauly is an avid sportbike rider that rides both street and track. He - [The BEST RIDE ever...The Pashnit Girly Ride 2012!](https://demenshea.com/2012/07/16/the-best-ride-ever-the-pashnit-girly-ride-2012/) - We have had them in the past, in fact four others, but this was the "best ever" girly ride. I was in bed by 10pm last night, totally spent but very content. Even the traffic jam on Hwy 101 couldn't take the smile off my face. I'll be sorting the few photos I got and - [Memorial Day Salute to Women Riders during Wartime...](https://demenshea.com/2012/05/25/memorial-day-salute-to-women-riders-during-wartime/) - The subject of women's roles in WWI and WWII history seemes an appropriate topic to enter into this Memorial Day weekend. In a previous post, Bikes and Babes-Women Motorcyclists Riding into History, I tried to chronicle women rider's historic contributions. For today's post I revisited a couple of the women who had contributed to the - [Motorcycling meets High Fashion! ](https://demenshea.com/2012/06/01/motorcycling-meets-high-fashion/) - Last week I found this really fun fashion collage site called Polyvore and I've spent lots of free time playing with it. You can go to any website and clip a picture and build a collage with the clippings. Being I was a hairdresser for a mere 18 years, I still have my inclination toward - [Trying to shed Hollywood's "bad biker" image!!](https://demenshea.com/2012/05/23/trying-to-shed-hollywoods-bad-biker-image/) - Forever motorcyclists have been portrayed as bad asses by Hollywood in a plethora of "B" movies. For those of us that find passion in riding it's difficult to shake the self-fulfilling prophesy of outlaw as portrayed by film. The 1960s and 70s gave birth to a subculture of aspiring bad-ass biker wannabes. "The Mini-skirt Mob" - [BOOK REVIEW--LIVE FULL THROTTLE by Tamela Rich](https://demenshea.com/2012/05/30/book-review-live-full-throttle-by-tamela-rich/) - Being cynical by nature, I always scoff at "self help" or "inspirational" books. I feel that bookstores and digital media are bulging with inspirational books but the world in which we live seems so gritty and unchanged by this phenomena. I knew Tamela was a rider but also an outsource communications specialist and I wondered - [Am I wrong??](https://demenshea.com/2012/05/22/am-i-wrong/) - Well, all I can hear is Walter in the Big Lebowski asking the Dude, Am I wrong? Am I wrong? But I have to ask, when is a helmet NOT a helmet? I know that Motoress is an awesome site, dedicated to promote motorcycling for women and I am a fan and supporter, however I - [Come on Hon, it's only $90 bucks...](https://demenshea.com/2012/05/19/come-on-hon-its-only-90-bucks/) - Squirrel on a motorcycle - [May is Motorcycle Awareness Month!](https://demenshea.com/2012/05/20/may-is-motorcycle-awareness-month/) - The MSF has this valuable advice directed to both drivers and riders. If we all heed these simple thoughts and ideas, we will ALL be safer. For Riders 1. Get Properly Trained and Licensed – Half of all riders today have never taken a proper safety class such as the Motorcycle Safety Foundation’s Basic RiderCourseSM. - [My woes at the California DMV or the 10th Circle of HELL! ](https://demenshea.com/2012/05/17/my-woes-at-the-california-dmv-this-is-unbelievable/) - I went to DMV yesterday to renew my plates and surrender my dmnshea plate since Gary doesn't love riding the Bandit with my personalized plate. In my wisdom, I got numeric plates for both bikes so we can switch off. Anyway... The DMV woman tells me I have a parking ticket in SF that needs - [Advice for NEW RIDERS from those with years and (s)miles! Part 4](https://demenshea.com/2012/05/18/advice-for-new-riders-from-those-with-years-and-smiles-part-4/) - For the final submission from experienced riders sharing knowledge with new riders, we have five women with lots of experience and miles. Susan Garza has been riding for years. She has ridden several different formats of machine, but seems to prefer the sportbike. She's an ATGATT rider who makes riding look effortless. Susan sez: Pay - [Advice for NEW RIDERS from those with years and (s)miles! Part 3](https://demenshea.com/2012/05/08/advice-for-new-riders-from-those-with-years-and-smiles-part-3/) - May is motorcycle awareness month so today let's get back to some more amazing advice from advanced riders sharing their knowledge and experience with new riders. As others have said, experience is the best teacher, having a good basis of knowledge to draw from and a great introduction to motorcycling from and MSF course, every - [Today's the day...JUST RIDE!!](https://demenshea.com/2012/05/04/todays-the-day-just-ride/) - I hope you get out today for this wonderfully coordinated event! There will be women riders from all over the world joining you! - [Hanging at the OR coast with my grandsons!!](https://demenshea.com/2012/05/11/hanging-at-the-or-coast-with-my-grandsons/) - A little lull will be oncoming as I am on the Oregon coast with my grandsons looking for sea serpents and magic sea shells. Wish us luck!! - [Home again, home again...](https://demenshea.com/2012/05/16/home-again-home-again/) - Made it back from OR and a visit with my grandboys. Wow, what an amazing week. The weather could not have been better and the boys more fun. We went and investigated tide pools, swam in the hotel pool and ate. Now what could be better?? A couple of shots from the weekend and then - [RYNO one-wheeled motorcycle or Uni-moto?](https://demenshea.com/2012/05/21/ryno-one-wheeled-motorcycle-or-uni-moto/) - Would you ride one?? Vehicle production company RYNO Motors is pulling out all the stops in the motorized retail market this year. Based in Portland, OR, they have developed a vehicle that redefines the traditional scooter. They are in the middle of building a series of 50 hand built limited edition pre-production bikes. Called ‘Micro-Cycle’ - [Amazing and gorgeous photograph by Oscar Papayaco](https://demenshea.com/2012/04/25/amazing-and-gorgeous-photograph-by-oscar-papayaco/) - Wow, I wish I had been there! Photo credit: Oscar Papayaco - [Lonely Planet's 10 Best US Motorcycle Roads by Carla King](https://demenshea.com/2012/04/24/lonely-planets-10-best-us-motorcycle-roads-by-carla-king/) - All motorcyclists are seeking the not only scenic roads but roads that offer some fun challenge, great twisties and beautiful vistas. Carla King queried her blog readers to help her select the best motorcycle roads in the US and they decided on these! I haven't ridden all of them, but there's still time! ;) Lonely - [International Female Ride Day-May 4th](https://demenshea.com/2012/04/26/international-female-ride-day-may-4th/) - Join the celebration in San Francisco with music, dancing, and motorcycles (and maybe a bit of mayhem!) at MotoShop You can also find information posted on Facebook. International Female Ride Day introduced by Vicki Gray at Motoress in 2007 “connecting women with motorcycling”. It began as a National event with the goal of becoming an - [Steampunk motorcycle, anyone??](https://demenshea.com/2012/04/29/steampunk-motorcycle-anyone/) - Read all about Isabels's transformation here. All I can say is WOW... - [Some things are just too strange for words...](https://demenshea.com/2012/05/01/some-things-are-just-too-strange-for-words/) - Man sues BMW and Corbin for priapism (long term erection). There are simply no words to express. - [International Female Ride Day...I did my bit! ](https://demenshea.com/2012/05/06/international-female-ride-day-i-did-my-bit/) - Well, I participated in the day, but it was a solo venture riding from my house to the house of a friend in Orinda, which is near San Francisco. I traveled over the Sacramento Delta, but I'll further elaborate on that later. We had big plans to get out on the obscure hills of the - [15 minutes of fame provided by a blogging buddy!](https://demenshea.com/2012/04/17/15-minutes-of-fame-provided-by-a-blogging-buddy/) - I got my 15 minutes of fame today at Helmet or Heels. But please don't stop with that one post, read all the others from a diverse set of female riders! It's awesome to read these interviews and see what makes each of us a "rider". Check the entire blog here and enjoy the tales! - [Thoughts...repealing helmet laws as two steps backwards?](https://demenshea.com/2012/04/18/two-steps-backward-repealing-helmet-laws/) - Bob Marantette of the Forbidden Wheels Club in Brighton expresses his joy Friday over the repeal of the helmet law. (Daniel Mears / The Detroit News) I read the other day that Michigan had repealed it's helmet law and how abate and supporters were thrilled with the born-again freedom to ride helmet free. Some of - [10 WISE Things all cars and trucks should know about MOTORCYCLES!](https://demenshea.com/2012/04/19/10-things-all-cars-and-trucks-should-know-about-motorcycles/) - Please share with all your friends and relatives, especially those that don't ride!! 1. There are a lot more cars and trucks than motorcycles on the road, and some drivers don't "recognize" a motorcycle; they ignore it (usually unintentionally). Look for motorcycles, especially when checking traffic at an intersection. 2. Because of its small size, - [T-Mobile out does all the other moto-related ads! Meet No more Mr. Nice Girl...](https://demenshea.com/2012/04/20/t-mobile-out-does-all-the-other-moto-related-ads-no-more-mr-nice-girl/) - A babe, a Ducati and lots and lots of PINK, highlighting T-mobiles magenta in her closet and on hear HOT leathers!! What's not to like? Here is some interesting back info regarding the commercial and the star, Carly! More on Carley, the adorable T-Mobile spokeswoman. - [Motorcycle Safety Essentials especially for NEW RIDERS...](https://demenshea.com/2012/04/21/motorcycle-safety-essentials-especially-for-new-riders/) - I posted this way back when, but seeing there are so many new riders on the roadways, I thought it apropos to bring it back! Safety is NO JOKE, and all of us need to practice our skills and practice them again!! Ride Safely, everyone!! Being a huge fan of David Hough's Proficient Motorcycling and - [Advice for NEW RIDERS from those with years and (s)miles!](https://demenshea.com/2012/05/03/advice-for-new-riders-from-those-with-years-and-smiles/) - As we get more versed at riding, it's nice to be able to help those that are just beginning. I fondly remember my first days of riding like it was yesterday. I remember the difficult times I had stopping on a hill, making a sharp right turn, braking, passing, riding in wind, and as silly - [Motorcycle Mama...](https://demenshea.com/2012/04/27/motorcycle-mama/) - My friend Christina reminded me today of a great old song that's actually covered by many, but I really enjoyed this version. I hope you do too! - [View from my street...Friday the 13th](https://demenshea.com/2012/04/15/view-from-my-street-friday-the-13th/) - Well this Friday the 13th brought an amazing sky show in the form of a double rainbow following an awesome thunder storm. I attempted to get a photograph, the wide angle was difficult but the end result was lovely! - [Scram Africa--upcoming video riding classic and neoclassic machines in the desert! ](https://demenshea.com/2012/04/15/scram-africa-upcoming-video-riding-classic-and-neoclassic-machines-in-the-desert/) - This trailer has me awaiting with great interest!! ;) Scram Africa advert from Fuel Bespoke Motorcycles on Vimeo. Follow Fuel Bespoke Motorcycle for further info. - [Rewind...some of the best stuff is worth seeing again! ](https://demenshea.com/2012/04/16/rewind-some-of-the-best-stuff-is-worth-seeing-again/) - Here are a few of my absolutely favorite riding photos! Dona and Sarah...look ma, no hands! ;) Roxanne and Diesel My little mishap caught on camera and tweaked in photoshop. Riding great roads makes me smile! Tioga Pass..at the perfect time of day after a storm. Capitol Reef National Park (if only I could live - [Season of the Bike by Dave Karlotski--A Fun Read!](https://demenshea.com/2012/04/11/season-of-the-bike-by-dave-karlotski-a-fun-read/) - Season of the Bike There is cold, and there is cold on a motorcycle. Cold on a motorcycle is like being beaten with cold hammers while being kicked with cold boots, a bone bruising cold. The wind's big hands squeeze the heat out of my body and whisk it away; caught in a cold October - [How the Kawasaki Versys Performs for me...](https://demenshea.com/2012/04/06/how-the-kawasaki-versys-performs-for-me/) - Well after a 2600 mile trip on the new bike, I can sort of formulate my thoughts on how the Versys performs. Most of you know that I am coming off a 1250 Bandit which is probably one of the most underrated motorcycles of all time. I loved riding my Bandits and the combined miles - [AMA Women in Motorcycling July26-29 2012--Carson City, NV](https://demenshea.com/2012/04/23/ama-women-in-motorcycling-july26-29-2012-carson-city-nv/) - DON"T FORGET, if you are an AMA member and sign up before April 30th your admission to the entire event is only $125!! Do it now, don't wait. I'll see you there!! "If you're not an AMA member, there's no better time to become one of the group. AMA membership is just $49 a year. - [Bell REVOLVER Helmet Review](https://demenshea.com/2012/04/10/bell-revolver-helmet-review/) - Well, after nearly two weeks of riding with my new Bell Revolver Helmet, I finally feel like I can give a fair review for other riders considering a new helmet purchase. I have been using a Modular Nolan N102 for the past few years, and it was high time for me to consider replacing it, - [A week of Firsts...New Bike, New & Old Faces, New Ride Report](https://demenshea.com/2012/03/27/a-week-of-firsts-new-bike-new-old-faces-new-ride-report/) - The drive to SoCal to pick up the new bike was trying at best, being we got into some horrid LA traffic, not knowing any better. Friday afternoon is not a good time to take any sort of freeway travel, and here we thought we'd make up some time and ended up in what appeared - [Two of the BEST motorcycle ads ever!!](https://demenshea.com/2012/04/07/best-motorcycle-ads-ever/) - Bajaj Bikes Pulsar 220 ad from India...amazing stunting!! Now here is some awesome stunt riding! Check it out and then let's see who is willing to partner up and replicate this performance! ;) The Commute by KLR Everyone's commute should be such an adventure!! - [View from my window 4.12.12](https://demenshea.com/2012/04/12/view-from-my-window-4-12-12/) - Looks like a good day to watch a sappy romantic films or do artwork. What would you do? - [A Week of Firsts...New Bike part 2](https://demenshea.com/2012/03/29/a-week-of-firsts-new-bike-part-2/) - Better sunsets than the desert are difficult to imagine. It's a gift that begins with a sharpened sky-line as the unwrapped details emerge from nowhere. Suddenly the fence in the distance is defined making even the wire more noticeable. Colors you can't even imagine in nature become commonplace. A desert sunset can only compare to - [A Week of Firsts...New Bike part 3](https://demenshea.com/2012/04/01/a-week-of-firsts-new-bike-part-3/) - I left Taos fairly late since the a temperature was a brisk thirty five degrees. I can't believe how much time I spend being cold on this trip. Yes, it was the first time I have been without my heated gear this time of year as it's still a bit early to take to the - [A Week of Firsts...New Bike part 4...the final leg](https://demenshea.com/2012/04/04/a-week-of-firsts-new-bike-part-4-the-final-leg/) - Leaving Cedar City was best described as chilly at 47 degrees but I truly had no idea just how cold I was about to be. Even the GPS seemed confused wanting to take me north to Beaver before heading west and I'm sure it too was too cold to think. ;) I combed over the - [Brittany Morrow Rocks the GEAR!!](https://demenshea.com/2012/03/18/brittany-morrow-rocks-the-gear/) - No one plans on crashing so, I hope you are like me and Brittany and ALWAYS remember ALL THE GEAR ALL THE TIME! Never leave home without gear...it only takes one time and it's a choice. How much risk are you willing to take? For more on Brittany and Rock the Gear. How to Avoid - [CONGRATULATIONS: Elena Myers making Daytona history!](https://demenshea.com/2012/03/19/congratulations-elena-myers-making-daytona-history/) - PHOTO BY BRIAN J. NELSON Motorcycle racer Elena Myers became the first female to win a professional motorsport race at Daytona International Speedway, March 17, 2012. Meyers first accolade was won in 2010 when she staked claim at Infineon Raceway winning an AMA road race. She is hopeful in becoming the first female MotoGP rider. - [Want to drool over some European photos??](https://demenshea.com/2012/03/19/want-to-drool-over-some-european-photos/) - On one of my forums, Twowheelfemales, I found a link to a ride report from Portugal with some of the most gorgeous photos ever as the riders visited: Portugal Spain France Germany Switzerland Italy Austria Please view if you've ever dreamed of riding in Europe. It's in Portuguese, but even if you can't read the - [Test your skills...electronically!](https://demenshea.com/2012/03/22/test-your-skills-electronically/) - The Motorcycle Safety Foundation has a great little test program for rider perception. It's not difficult, but really tests your visual acuity. You are able to adjust the speed at which it displays the test. Try it first on the medium setting. I did quite well on the road signs test, but I missed one - [Photo History of a section of US Hwy 60 in AZ...](https://demenshea.com/2012/03/21/photo-history-of-a-section-of-us-hwy-60-in-az/) - I love finding old and new photos of an area to compare and this section of old Hwy 60 is no exception. On the left a photo now and right an old tinted postcard. US Hwy 60 was one of the first east-west transcontinental highways. It was commissioned in 1926, stretching from Virginia Beach, Virginia - [NEW BIKE!!](https://demenshea.com/2012/03/26/new-bike/) - I picked up the new Versys on Friday March 23 after a harrowing trip with Gary to Yucca Valley though the worst of the LA traffic on the 210, but more on that later. Here are a couple of teaser shots of the bike and us, and in the next couple of days I'll post - [Searching for the "perfect" machine...](https://demenshea.com/2012/03/01/searching-for-the-perfect-machine/) - As many of you already know, I have been searching for a new bike, after my husband decided he loved my Bandit so much that it was time for him to ride it as his daily commuter. Now, since I basically usurped his Bandit several years ago when he sent me to Los Angeles to - [I took a bite of the green apple...](https://demenshea.com/2012/03/14/i-took-a-bite-of-the-apple/) - And man did it taste good!! Here is my new machine, to be picked up next week....more to come! - [To heat or not to heat...](https://demenshea.com/2012/03/16/to-heat-or-not-to-heat/) - Ok got the Versys and the extra farkles ordered, but now I am thinking I should go ahead an add the 12volt plug for the heated gear and some heated grips! I mean if you are going for the gusto, why not?? ;) I can call tomorrow and add the goodies or simply wait until - [A hell of a week...](https://demenshea.com/2012/03/09/a-hell-of-a-week/) - It's been a hell of a week on the home front, but we shall overcome!! Sadly my motorcycle search has come to a bit of a halt as I realized I didn't have an endless purse strings and really have little interest in making monthly payments on a motorcycle. With that in mind, I am - [The Pace that Thrills...a little flat track racing for a friday! ](https://demenshea.com/2012/02/17/the-pace-that-thrills-a-little-flat-track-racing-for-a-friday/) - "A woman shouldn't have angles, she should only have curves"...this is such a sexist film it's humorous, but I have to admit, I did enjoy the motorcycling sequences especially the flat track racing. The entire film is found on YouTube. I have only watched part one, but have full intentions of seeing it in its - [Salute to Bessie Stringfield--African American Female Motorcyclist rides into history](https://demenshea.com/2012/02/18/salute-to-bessie-stringfield-african-american-female-motorcyclist-rides-into-history/) - Bessie Stringfield was a true enigma while being female and African American, she championed the sport of motorcycling during tumultuous times. Known as the Motorcycle Queen of Miami, Bessie Stringfield started riding when she was 16. She was the first African-American woman to travel cross-country solo, and she did it at age 19 in 1929, - [Evil evil drugs...a little advice when crossing Canadian borders! ](https://demenshea.com/2012/02/24/evil-evil-drugs-a-little-advice-when-crossing-canadian-borders/) - I learned my lesson this past summer when traveling to Canada with a friend and at the border crossing we were asked, "do you have any prescription drugs", to which we both answered "yes". Well then came the query of how they were packaged. The border patrol was actually very nice, as he informed us - [Norton Commando Transformer!](https://demenshea.com/2012/02/25/norton-commando-transformer/) - Nice fun way to begin a Saturday! ;) http://youtu.be/iKqpvriKZuA - [Fiat's Lingotto factory in Turin with its Rooftop Banked Track!](https://demenshea.com/2012/02/09/fiats-lingotto-factory-in-turin-with-its-rooftop-banked-track/) - Though not necessarily a moto-centric post, one that I believe you will find interesting nevertheless. 1923 marked the completion of the Lingotto Fiat Factory in Turin, Italy. Though not as large as the Ford's River Rouge Factory Complex in Dearborn, Michigan, USA, it was the first of its kind to use a spiral five story - [Illustrated version of how ABS works!](https://demenshea.com/2012/02/10/illustrated-version-of-how-abs-works/) - I found this very enlightening, but what happens when the ECU breaks or is disabled by one thing or another? I believe you have no braking ability at all, however I have had a difficult time establishing this fact. More research is due and I welcome any thoughts that you might have! The argument against - [Happy Cupid Day!](https://demenshea.com/2012/02/14/happy-cupid-day/) - [Lions, motos and ladies...](https://demenshea.com/2012/01/23/lions-motos-and-ladies/) - A continuation of vintage photos, but these suggested by my friend, Sarah! Like the "Wall of Death" wasn't stimuli enought, let's add lions. ;) Just phenomenal I want a lion! Read more on these amazing women here. - [Shutter Speed-A piece of moto film art! ](https://demenshea.com/2012/01/24/shutter-speed-a-piece-of-moto-film-art/) - "The Selvedge Yard presents: a film by Toast. Featuring photographer Scott Pommier and East Side Moto Babe Stacie London. This behind-the-scenes short was commissioned to accompany an exhibition of photographs in March 2011. Shot with a Minolta XL601 in Black & White Tri-X and Velvia color Super 8. Music by Makkusu Ensemble, Paper Tulips, Jake - [We need more Moto-mechanics like the Motomethod!](https://demenshea.com/2012/01/25/we-need-more-moto-mechanics-like-the-motomethod/) - Now this is a good story of community motorcycle repair. At Motomethod they offer expertise, a place to work and all the tools one might need. Whether it be just changing your oil or a complete rebuild, they are there to help and if you join their "community", you can qualify for discounts on parts - [SH*T bikers say...](https://demenshea.com/2012/01/26/sht-bikers-say/) - Bill Dwyer posted this on his blog AtlasRider I found his video highly entertaining and very very apropos. I can't believe how many of those I have actually said, and how funny they all are! Great job, Bill. Enjoy! - [Motorcycles and Art...Georgia O'Keeffe](https://demenshea.com/2012/02/04/motorcycles-and-art-georgia-okeeffe/) - A friend sent me the link to another vintage photo that merges two of my favorite subjects, motorcycles and art. The photo is of Georgia O’Keeffe entitled, "Women who rode away" taken near Abiquiu Ghost Ranch. The famous photo was snappedt by Maria Chabot in 1944. The painter and driver of the motorcycle, Maurice Grosser, - [Time to get the bike and rider in GREAT riding condition!!](https://demenshea.com/2012/02/05/time-to-get-the-bike-and-rider-in-great-riding-condition/) - Ok, it's been a really mild winter here in California, but nevertheless, I have done little riding. Being immersed in family travel and the purchase of a new home, has kept me off the bike, more than I'd like this year. So now, family travel is complete, the new house is lookin' organized and I - [Why do I ride what I ride--a short moto history](https://demenshea.com/2012/02/14/why-do-i-ride-what-i-ride-a-short-moto-history/) - A day or so ago, I answered a query on a moto-forum as to what bike I rode and why. I began thinking that a short moto history would be a good blog post, as choosing a certain bike is as personal as are the reasons we choose them. I began riding my own, after - [Self-Balancing Motorcycle...hmmmm](https://demenshea.com/2012/01/09/self-balancing-motorcycle-hmmmm/) - The C-1 is a proposed fully-electric and fully-enclosed self-balancing motorcycle. Love the concept now I want to see one on the road! More info on gizmag. - [Beware of the Distracted Driver](https://demenshea.com/2012/01/11/beware-of-the-distracted-driver/) - I recently had an awareness moment while my son and I were driving in my Grand Prix. I saw a cat running toward the street from my right as I was making a right hand turn. I swerved a bit to the left and sideswiped a left turning vehicle. I didn't see her. Isn't that - [Gorgeous BMW ad, otherwise know as moto-porn!](https://demenshea.com/2012/01/12/gorgeous-bmw-ad-otherwise-know-as-moto-porn/) - Bravo for amazing camera work and a truly aesthetically beautiful triumph in advertising! - [The APC Rally and a boy's dream...](https://demenshea.com/2012/01/17/the-apc-rally-and-a-boys-dream/) - Meet Marc/Frenchy As my friend Marc, otherwise known as Frenchy gets himself ready for the APC Rally, he has taken up some serious enduro races of the personal kind, running. Now anyone that really knows Marc, knows that he is definitely more about Tex Mex and good tequila, and if running is involved, it's towards - [Vintage Moto Photos from Life Magazine](https://demenshea.com/2012/01/23/vintage-moto-photos-from-life-magazine/) - I stumbled upon some amazing photos that were featured in Life Magazine. I am posting what I can and linking to my favorite shot! Birth of the world's fastest Indian? ;) After coming across my grandmother's 1922 moto trip, I have been motivated to find other, vintage shots, especially those of female riders. There aren't - [Another awesome Vintage pic...motocross girly rider!](https://demenshea.com/2012/01/27/another-awesome-vintage-pic-motocross-girly-rider/) - Thanks go to my friend Geoff, for sharing this beauty!! Lots o' mud there, but she appears to be powering through. I love these vintage photographs and motorbikes. - [Mad Skills!!](https://demenshea.com/2012/02/03/mad-skills/) - The first thing I noticed was the extreme head turns as the rider cranes his neck to look through the turns!! Walt at Streetmasters would be proud! The rider has total trust in his judgement. Awesome stuff!! On another note....I wonder if I can get my husband or any of my friends to try this - [If only more people would remember this...](https://demenshea.com/2011/11/19/if-only-more-people-would-remember-this/) - Bravo...point taken. - [CONFIRMED! AMA International Women and Motorcycling Conference!](https://demenshea.com/2011/12/04/confirmed-ama-international-women-and-motorcycling-conference/) - Well, it's confirmed. The AMA is sponsoring the 2012 International Women and Motorcycling Conference in Carson City, NV July 26-29 2012. I'll be there...what about you??? - [Scooter chaos!! Vietnam...wow!!](https://demenshea.com/2011/12/11/scooter-chaos-vietnam-wow/) - Traffic in Frenetic HCMC, Vietnam from Rob Whitworth on Vimeo. - [2011...Riding the World, my end of year slide show!](https://demenshea.com/2011/12/12/2011-riding-the-world-my-end-of-year-slide-show/) - Another awesome year of motorcycling comes to an end, but there will always be next year! I do hope you enjoy seeing where I've been as much as I've enjoed going...well almost as much! ;) Cheers and Happy Holidays to you all!! - [MERRY CHRISTMAS!](https://demenshea.com/2011/12/25/merry-christmas/) - [HAPPY NEW YEAR!](https://demenshea.com/2011/12/31/happy-new-year-2/) - I hope 2012 bring all of you joy, smiles and lots of time to get out and ride!!! Now where to ride this season... - [A Wee Bit of Moto History...The Wall of Death and the Ken Fox Troupe](https://demenshea.com/2012/01/01/a-wee-bit-of-moto-history-the-wall-of-death-and-the-ken-fox-troupe/) - And a very interesting bit it is... Spend the 14 minutes and get to know the last remaining traditional family of daredevil wall riders traveling Europe and the British Isles. - [Seating positions...Standard, Cruiser, Sport](https://demenshea.com/2011/11/20/seating-positions-standard-cruiser-sport/) - I have often been asked, what is the most comfortable seating on a motorbike or what is the difference between bike styles. Well it's not as easy a question to answer as one would think and much of what we perceive, we have read or heard from other riders. Each and every rider will prefer - [Finally...a new place to park my motorcycle, one that I'll call home!](https://demenshea.com/2011/11/06/finally-a-new-place-to-park-my-motorcycle-one-that-ill-call-home/) - Daylight savings time ended early this morning proving that winter is finally settling in on this the sixth day of November. Scanning my personal website, I notice I've been more than casually remiss on my blog posting and for this I feel guilty, but honestly I have to tell you that I have been totally - [Valencia pay tribute to Marco Simoncelli...this is fantastic!](https://demenshea.com/2011/11/06/valencia-pay-tribute-to-marco-simoncelli-this-is-fantastic/) - [KTM 350 Freeride](https://demenshea.com/2011/11/09/ktm-350-freeride/) - The bike is certainly flickable and powerful, but do you have cojones enough to do with these guys do!! I don't! ;) - [Make mine electric...KTM FREERIDE E ](https://demenshea.com/2011/11/14/ktm-freeride-e/) - KTM's highly anticipated Freeride E electric off-road motorcycle was unveiled this week at EIMCA, complete with a swappable battery pack. The battery lasts for about an hour of some hard riding, but can easily be completely recharged in just 90 minutes or swapped out for another fully charged "ready to go" spare! Eat your heart - [Inside all of us is an artist...KEEP DRAWING!](https://demenshea.com/2011/11/15/inside-all-of-us-is-an-artist-keep-drawing/) - More than one viewing is required to see all the detailed nuances of the work...beautiful! Found on Andrew Sullivan's The Dish Thank you, Andrew. keep drawing from studio shelter on Vimeo. - [Rumor has it...AMA Women in Motorcycling](https://demenshea.com/2011/11/26/rumor-has-it-ama-women-in-motorcycling/) - I have gotten word from a couple of dependable sources that the AMA has finally announced the date and place for the next Women in Motorcycling Conference, as being held in Carson City, NV on July 26th-29th 2012. I'll post more information as it becomes available but you can also follow WomenRidersNow.com for information. - [RIP Steve Jobs: Genius, Entrepreneur and Rider](https://demenshea.com/2011/10/06/rip-steve-jobs-genius-entrepreneur-and-rider/) - I was talking to my mother on my iPhone when she told me about Steve Job's death. I was shocked, but not surprised given the depth of his illness. Nonetheless, it was like the loss of an old friend, one that years before immersing in Apple, rode an old Beemer. Though I have no history - [Absolutely nothing to do with motorcycling...Detektivbyrån a musical phenomenon!](https://demenshea.com/2011/10/20/absolutely-nothing-to-do-with-motorcycling-detektivbyran-a-musical-phenomenon/) - But Detektivbyrån are amazing musicians that always make me smile... - [We mourn his loss...RIP Marco Simoncelli ](https://demenshea.com/2011/10/25/we-mourn-his-loss-rip-marco-simoncelli/) - roadracingworld.com provided this excellent article, which basically sums up Marco's spirit and his measure of risk. We each assume our own level of risk. You'll be missed, Marco and our hearts go out to your family and friends. - [The Scooters of Italy...](https://demenshea.com/2011/10/09/the-scooters-of-italy/) - On our European vacation we had the pleasure of observing quite the variety of scooter riders in Italy. These riders were full of bravado and amazing skills. For all the scooters perusing the roadways, you see very few close calls and less incidents. This seems truly amazing to me, coming from America where no one - [Another birthday and I'm HOW old???](https://demenshea.com/2011/10/23/another-birthday-and-im-how-old/) - Well, let me tell you, tomorrow I have another birthday. Now to choose an age to celebrate! 48 was a good year, one I'll remember and even if I didn't, I'd claim its fame and move on to 49, because you must move on and 49 sounds good, though not as good as 39, but - [6 Over...new moto film teaser](https://demenshea.com/2011/09/13/6over-new-moto-film-teaser/) - Whether interesting or mundane, it certainly looks entertaining! 6 Over - Teaser from Wild Honey Productions on Vimeo. - [MotorParade.blogspot.com--CHECK IT OUT!!](https://demenshea.com/2011/09/16/motorparade-blogspot-com-check-it-out/) - My friend Sarah, send me this link to MotorParade.blogspot.com and I have been fascinated ever since. This is a wonderful moto blog worthy of a daily check in! I have enjoyed the posters and the advertising, and all else moto, immensely. This is one of the first posters that caught my eye. The caption reads: - [Machine](https://demenshea.com/2011/10/17/machine/) - This passionate video was posted over on helmethair I thought that my readers would also enjoy the aesthetics and thoughts of motorcycle builders as artists! MACHINE from matt machine on Vimeo. - [Hot HOT HEAT...part 3](https://demenshea.com/2011/09/10/hot-hot-heat-part-3/) - After lots of deliberation and tire scanning it was decided that there was no way I was leaving the MCB&B without a new front tire. I knew I was going to need one when I returned, but I didn't realize how quickly those last few tire miles would be used up. Oh well, luckily Dean - [Hot HOT HEAT...part 4](https://demenshea.com/2011/09/11/hot-hot-heat-part-4/) - After a substantial breakfast of MzPam's doing we went for a nice ride up to Alpine, AZ. Getting ready to go *shot by Frenchy Dean's amazing GT Me on my Bandito2 * Being the Labor Day weekend, I was surprised how little traffic was traversing the roadways. The weather was still warm, but there were - [A non riding holiday in Italy and Germany! ](https://demenshea.com/2011/10/05/a-non-riding-holiday-in-italy-and-germany/) - I feel a bit remiss being absent from my blog for nearly three weeks now, but I was traveling in Europe with family and the wifi connections were simply not adequate to get my photos uploaded and to follow though with a post. It's been a bit crazy, traveling with my mother-in-law and sis-in-law as - [Hot HOT HEAT...part 5: the final chapter!](https://demenshea.com/2011/09/11/hot-hot-heat-part-5-the-final-chapter/) - Well, it was a delightful visit at the MCB&B in Show Low, AZ, but now it was time to ride home to CA, only now I was taking the more scenic route riding through southern Utah. I couldn't miss a couple of photo opportunities along the way. The last time I was in Show Low, - [Bikes and Babes...in Canada](https://demenshea.com/2011/09/15/bikes-and-babes-in-canada/) - While riding the Great Canada Adventure, this summer visiting friendd in Castlegard, I was presented with some wonderful historic photos of women riders in Canada. Sadly there was nothing written down about these babes, so I have nothing but some wonderful photos. Still I thought that I would share! I don't know if there are - [Hot HOT HEAT, riding the SW in September](https://demenshea.com/2011/09/07/hot-hot-heat-riding-the-sw-in-september/) - One of my favorite forums the Motorcyclist Cafe, was having a fall get together in Show Low, AZ and I knew there was no way I could miss meeting many of my pals. We had every intention of Gary attending this soiree, but alas the vacation time would be put to use on his mother's - [Hot HOT HEAT...part 2](https://demenshea.com/2011/09/08/hot-hot-heat-part-2/) - Leaving Pahrump early didn't save me from roasting. By the time I arrived in Las Vegas it was already 87degrees. My full camelbak, helped as did my cooling vest, although it would only stay wet for about 30 minutes, but it was 30 of the most comfortable minutes I could have enjoyed! I was trying - [Yep, that's the 60s!! Motorcycles/scooters and fashion!](https://demenshea.com/2011/08/14/yep-thats-the-60s-motorcyclesscooters-and-fashion/) - "Fashion comes and goes, but your head is here to stay!" G - [Name three moto-related items, you never leave home without!! ](https://demenshea.com/2011/08/16/name-three-moto-related-items-you-never-leave-home-without/) - When I take off on a journey, there is an entire tank bag of goodies that I absolutely must have. So undoubtedly, for me the tank bag is the number one item I never leave home without. My bike is the first one with the Cortech tank bag filled to the brim! Here it is - [A new place to park my motorcycle...](https://demenshea.com/2011/08/25/a-new-place-to-park-my-motorcycle/) - I have been immersed in the haze of searching for a new abode. Gary and I have been renting for three years now, and with prices and interest rates so low, we are entertaining a new home, but boy not without trials and tribs. We went through a house inspection yesterday only to discover that - [Heading to the gorgeous Southwest!!](https://demenshea.com/2011/08/29/heading-to-the-sw/) - I am getting ready to take off to the Motorcyclist Cafe B&B this week and in order to prepare for the trip, I needed to replace my broken turn signal and my clutch lever which I broke off on a 0speed drop on a very challenging dirt road in the back country of OR on - [Female Moto-riders and the fashion trend...](https://demenshea.com/2011/08/13/female-moto-riders-and-the-fashion-trend/) - Fashion tried to define motorcycling...YA... In the near seven years I have been riding, I have been a visual voyeur as the fashion industry has show us many incarnations of motorcycle gear gone couture. The crazier the fashion, the higher the price tag and the more likely to be seen in either magazine or on - [Riding Lessons for life...beautiful video](https://demenshea.com/2011/08/22/riding-lessons-for-life-beautiful-video/) - [The Great Canada Adventure...Castlegar to Enterprise](https://demenshea.com/2011/08/06/the-great-canada-adventure-castlegar-to-spokane/) - We geared up and got ready to leave Castlegar but with reservations, as I have never had such a bonding with a group of like minded riders. A couple of cups of coffee and I was ready for the road. Bill and Mitch, Endo...two handsome devils! We decided to ride with Geoff over some of - [I found this amusing...](https://demenshea.com/2011/08/11/i-found-this-amusing/) - [The Great Canada Adventure...Salmon ID to Red Lodge MT](https://demenshea.com/2011/07/27/the-great-canada-adventure-2/) - I had to step back and add a couple of photos that I skipped previously. We are still on the road and I have been so busy riding I have had little time to post to the blog, but I am grounded in Portland visiting my family and thought it prudent to get back online - [The Great Canada Adventure...Canmore to Miette Hot Springs near Jasper](https://demenshea.com/2011/08/04/the-great-canada-adventure-continues/) - The mighty fine Garmin GPS wasn't quite up to being fine or any sort of asset on this trip for in order for it to be mighty fine one needs to load the necessary maps onto the unit. This, I admit, I forgot to do, so the GPS was virtually useless on nearly all of - [The Great Canada Adventure...Miette Hot Springs to Castlegar](https://demenshea.com/2011/08/05/the-great-canada-adventure-miette-hot-springs-to-castlegar/) - While at Miette, I met an awesome couple. He was a rider and she a rider to be. She had ridden a small 250 and was bitten by the bug and couldn't wait to do some more riding. This is one of the things I love most about touring, seeing the glow in another female's - [The Great Canada Adventure...Detroit Lake, OR to home, the end of an epic ride! ](https://demenshea.com/2011/08/10/the-great-canada-adventure-detroit-lake-or-to-home-the-end-of-an-epic-ride/) - I was actually up early, had coffee with my mom and the bike packed and ready to go. My intention was to meet Bill in Detroit by 10 and I knew it was about an hour and one half ride there from the Tigard area of Portland, so I was off at 8:29, how's that - [Let's get this Friday started right!!!](https://demenshea.com/2011/07/08/lets-get-this-friday-started-right/) - [The Great Canada Adventure...Slogging CA to Boise let the real roads commence!](https://demenshea.com/2011/07/18/the-great-canada-adventure/) - It began as an inquiry on my home motorcycle forum, pashnit.com as to routes and sights not to be missed in Canada. I wanted to ride farther north than I had in the past and see some new country. Well, as the posted advice came across, one heavily detailed post caught my eye posted from - [The Great Canada Adventure--Enterprise to Portland to Detroit and reuniting with my riding partner!](https://demenshea.com/2011/08/08/the-great-canada-adventure-enterprise-to-portland-to-detroit-and-reuniting-with-my-riding-partner/) - Riding solo after so many days of riding with Bill seemed odd. I was so used to seeing him and his KTM in my vision ahead, that I felt a bit loss not seeing him. I have had the pleasure of Gary's company on some longer journeys, but never anyone else. A few days collaboration - [GearChic sez...](https://demenshea.com/2011/07/02/gearchic-sez/) - My friend Joanne Donn otherwise know as GearChic, posted this on her blog/website and I loved it soooo much, I had to share it. Bravo, Joanne. Gearchic sez.... Always check Joanne's site for the latest reviews on motorcycle gear for women as well as a plethora of other information for female riders!! photo by gearchic.com - [Stay tuned for the follow up with words and photos of the Bikes and Babes: Quintessential Female Riders...](https://demenshea.com/2011/07/03/stay-tuned-for-the-follow-up-with-words-and-photos-of-the-bike-and-babes-quintessential-female-riders/) - My Grandmother, Vera Evangeline War I began thinking about this post a while ago and finally am about to actually let the women who ride, speak for themselves. Bikes and Babes–What constitutes the quintessential female rider? Who are those women who ride? What are they thinking? Next week you'll be able to answer that question - [Seat Alteration at Spencers Motorcycle Seat Mods and Suspension adjustment at Catalyst Reaction Suspension Tuning](https://demenshea.com/2011/07/08/seat-alteration-at-spencers-motorcycle-seat-mods-and-suspension-adjustment-at-catalyst-reaction-suspension-tuning/) - Jim Williams at Catalyst Reaction Well, I finally got some riding on my new tweaked seat from Spencer's Motorcycle Seat Mods and am loving what I am feeling or not feeling! My arse is certainly much happier now and the bonus joining that smiling arse, is that I can actually get both feet firmly planted - [Do we ever ride our motorcycles to their potential? ](https://demenshea.com/2012/06/04/do-we-ever-ride-our-motorcycles-to-their-potential/) - All this time, I haven't ridden my new Versys up to its potential. Do we ever ride a bike to its potential? Watch this amazing video. - [A ride approaches...](https://demenshea.com/2012/06/07/a-ride-approaches/) - Kootenay Lake, BC, Canada As many of you know, I tend to be a distance rider and less of a daily rider. I'm quite content to wile my day away swimming in the backyard pool, or creating a fashion collage. I have even been know to do an original piece of artwork or a fine - [Part 4--California Chicks Converge on Canada](https://demenshea.com/2012/07/08/part-4-california-chicks-converge-on-canada/) - On our way to Elkford, BC. This was to be my third trip to the Nelson area, the first being in 2007 when I made my epic solo journey covering seven states and two provinces. I had only been riding for three years and was excited to take such a long and adventerous journey. I - [Think you've got slow speed maneuvers down...ya, really?](https://demenshea.com/2011/06/13/think-youve-got-slow-speed-maneuvers-down-ya-really/) - Check it out!! - [How to make an EXCELLENT U-Turn--Tighten yours up today with the help of STREETMASTERS!](https://demenshea.com/2011/06/15/how-to-make-an-excellent-u-turn-tighten-yours-up-today/) - My friend Walt Fulton from Streetmasters presented me when requested, with these pointers on how to make the perfect U-Turn. "Hard to believe, but many of our students have exactly the same issue. Seems that the heavier and taller the bike the bigger the problem. I think the bags shouldn't have that much effect except - [Stay a Hero, Stay Safe](https://demenshea.com/2011/06/14/stay-a-hero-stay-safe/) - Every now and again, I find something regarding motorcycle safety that really moves me. This is one such piece! - [HAPPY FATHER'S DAY to all dad's out there!!](https://demenshea.com/2011/06/19/happy-fathers-day-to-all-dads-out-there/) - [Be responsible...protect your passenger!!](https://demenshea.com/2011/06/24/be-responsible-protect-your-passenger/) - silly google exaggerated image (but not really...) I haven't had a seat for my motorcycle for several days now, and as I await its delivery, I have been driving my car and have noticed many motorcyclists out on the roads carrying passengers skimpily dressed. I don't get it. I am a female and would never - [Another cool moto site for surfing!](https://demenshea.com/2011/07/04/another-cool-moto-site-for-surfing/) - I have a visiting Canadian friend who showed me this site belonging to one of his mates from Nelson, British Columbia, Canada. It's a fun site that I felt compelled to share with my readers! ENJOY! Check out the the alexander project a motorcycle-surf journey through the Baja, Mexico and Central America - [San Francisco--a beautiful day in a beautiful city!](https://demenshea.com/2011/06/30/san-francisco-a-beautiful-day-in-a-beautiful-city/) - On Saturday Gary and I went to San Francisco. We didn't ride but instead drove since we were meeting friends from Canada. We couldn't have chosen a better day!! The drive down was the usual freeway schlug from Sacramento, but as we approached the city the sun was brightly shining and once across the Bay - [Riding to Canada--Three weeks o' riding bliss](https://demenshea.com/2011/06/04/riding-to-canada-three-weeks-o-riding-bliss/) - Several weeks ago, I posted on pashnit, my home motorcycle forum a query for taking a summer ride up to Canada with the intention of riding some roads that I hadn't previously ridden. I got a few thoughts and ideas but one forum buddy living in Scotland, jumped on and had an absolute wiki of - [My friend Karen--Adventurer Extraordinaire!!](https://demenshea.com/2011/06/08/my-friend-karen-adventurer-extraordinaire/) - When one of my riding buddies went across country on a solo adventure, I didn't think much about it. She's an outstanding rider and no stranger to solo travel. But knowing this didn't distill the surprise I had when I pasted in the query of "women in motorcycling" and one of the first returns was - [How Harleys gets to Sturgis? ; ) ](https://demenshea.com/2011/06/09/how-harleys-gets-to-sturgis/) - I don't know why this cracked me up so much, but it did. Do Harley riders do distance? I know we are all on two wheels, but it seems many of us are on four first, then two for the image. Does trailering really take less time or money? I simply don't understand. - [Are we really that difficult to see?](https://demenshea.com/2011/06/11/are-we-really-that-difficult-to-see/) - albqsusieq from Albuquerque showing what I and others would consider "perfect" riding apparel. I just read an article written by a women, who purported to have a near collision with a motorcycle that she simply "did not see". I am mulling this around in my brain asking myself, what more can we do to be - [Finally, the riding season is upon us!](https://demenshea.com/2011/06/17/finally-the-riding-season-is-upon-us/) - Well, it's been a long ass winter, but it appears those of us located in CA are finally getting a dry spell and the ability to get out and ride. My bike's seat is being tweaked to make it better suited for distance riding and will be back in about another week and I'll be - [Sex sells...](https://demenshea.com/2011/06/01/sex-sells/) - I found this official Harley ad entitled Legs, which was run in Brazil in 2001. The ad campaign was never used here in the USA. Though offended by the stereotype, I am also confused by the visual presentation. The motorcycle is as comfortable as an office chair? One's crossed legs are denied the freedom of - [I hear the riding season is upon us...really? ](https://demenshea.com/2011/06/03/i-keep-hearing-the-riding-season-is-upon-us/) - Well, it's June 3rd and it's still raining in central CA. This is not the usual season that's for sure. There has been recent snowfall in the Sierra passes and all of the fun pass roads, Hwy 108 Senora Pass, Hwy 4 Ebbetts Pass and Hwy 120 Yosemite, remain closed. The road into and across - [Memorial Day bonding with da' Bandit on goat! ](https://demenshea.com/2011/05/30/memorial-day-bonding-with-da-bandit-on-goat/) - After spending yesterday doing household chores that I have ignored for months, I decided this morning with coffee that I needed to pay attention to my new Bandit with more conviction than I had cleaning the mold out of the shower. So after a second cuppa joe and synapses jazzed, I donned my riding gear - [Riding the wind...literally!](https://demenshea.com/2011/05/21/riding-the-wind-literally/) - No one likes feeling out of control and when you are traveling with extraordinary cross winds, you feel just that! Those of us with many miles under our belts are still stupefied at times when a big 50mph gust lets us have it, like a very cross parent. There are some simple steps to remember - [Trial and Error...](https://demenshea.com/2011/05/26/trial-and-error/) - The culprit You can see from this side shot, that the clearance between the rack and where the seat snaps in is small. Well, the seller of the Corbin Holeshot seat was kind enough to use the "motorcycle code of trust" and allow me to bring the seat home and try it on my bike... - [Bikes and Babes--What constitutes the quintessential female rider?](https://demenshea.com/2011/05/28/bikes-and-babes-what-constitutes-the-quintessential-female-rider/) - google image By breaking the stereotype of the biker babe with our new female rider demographic, I believe we are changing the face of the female motorcycle community. We are succeeding in re-branding exactly how female riders are now perceived. But it comes with a new challenge: who is the new moto-female and how can - [The Zombie Jungle...](https://demenshea.com/2011/06/02/the-zombie-jungle/) - Today while running errands via motorbike I discovered that as much as I love riding, I don't love riding through the ether induced masses. Some of the self-important indulgences of cagers are simply not acceptable and riding with an armor of vigilance seems the only way to not be added to the local traffic statistics. - [Bandito finds a new home!](https://demenshea.com/2011/06/07/bandito-finds-a-new-home/) - After much deliberation, I finally placed my 00 12sBandit on Craigslist and after culling through several silly inquiries, I got one that was genuinely interested and decided to come and take a look. The bike has some touring miles on it, but is otherwise a flawless example of Japanese motorcycle ingenuity. The bike heats up - [Vincent Black Lightening...posted earlier, but good enough to post again for those that missed it.](https://demenshea.com/2011/05/26/vincent-black-lightening-posted-earlier-but-good-enough-to-post-again-for-those-that-missed-it/) - I had only seen one ever...and then I heard this and was even more intrigued. Richard Thompson--Vincent Black Lightening 1952 I had to find more, know more. Where did these beautiful sexy machines rise from. Who was responsible for this wondrous exciting piece of motorcycle history. I was off on a research journey. Vincent Motorcycles - [Way to Learn...Bandit riding over Ebbetts Pass](https://demenshea.com/2011/06/12/way-to-learn-bandit-riding-over-ebbetts-pass/) - I realized today that I'd be sending my seat off tomorrow to Florida and I am unsure just how long it's going to take to get it back even though, Frank or Spencer as he's known, told me he'd tweak the seat in a 24 hour turn around. It still has to travel across the - [Ashley Fiolek--a riders' rider and inspiration to all! ](https://demenshea.com/2011/05/16/ashley-fiolek-a-riders-rider-and-inspiration-to-all/) - This young woman is a total inspiration to overcoming obstacles and finding your dreams. I had the pleasure of meeting her at the AMA Women in Motorcycling conference in 2009. She continues to fine-tune her skills and to keep winning. She is an awesome rider and an amazing woman! KUDOS AHSLEY, you are one badass - [Lighter, shorter, flickable, but enough power? Suzuki Gladius](https://demenshea.com/2011/05/17/lighter-shorter-flickable-but-enough-power-suzuki-gladius/) - As I turn my sights to smaller displacement and lighter motorcycles, I recently found the Suzuki Gladius. This motorcycle is one you will either love or hate when you see it. Many critics have said that the styling is too "female" with its rounded edges, flowing lines and friendly ergos, like any of that is - [Time to buck up, Opy....or getting your bike to fit you](https://demenshea.com/2011/05/20/time-to-buck-up-opy/) - Does this bike look to fit me?? It seems so in my estimation but I've got to say my arms look very tense!! After much consideration and soul-searching, I need to sit and soul search just why me and my 07 Bandit are having a difficult time bonding. One of the things that I need - [Tomorrow...a new seat for my Bandit! The farkling for fit begins...](https://demenshea.com/2011/05/24/tomorrow-a-new-seat-for-my-bandit-the-farkling-for-fit-begins/) - I am in the process of trying to tweak my 07 Bandit to fit me better. So, to begin I amazingly found a new Corbin Holeshot seat on Craigslist and tomorrow I am going to go and pick it up. I have read a ton on these seats which will lower me by one inch, - [Gear Review--FirstGear HT Overpants - 2011 for Women, the FG Kilimanjaro Jacket 4.0 and the FG Contour Mesh-The perfect touring package!!](https://demenshea.com/2011/05/15/gear-review-firstgear-ht-overpants-2011-for-women-the-fg-kilimanjaro-jacket-4-0-and-the-fg-contour-mesh-the-perfect-touring-package/) - Well, I finally got to use my new gear and I first off want to say just how successful both garments are in terms of comfort and protection. I give both the pants and jacket two serious thumbs up!! The FirstGear HT Overpants are the first I have owned that are perfect fitting. They are - [My bike history and where to next?? Any suggestions for this rider?](https://demenshea.com/2011/05/18/my-bike-history-and-where-to-next-any-suggestions-for-this-rider/) - My first bike: a 250cc Honda Rebel...cute eh? I began riding when I was easily considered to be too old to begin riding. :) But I did it anyway. Gary had decided to start riding and after being a pillion a couple of times, I opted for "riding my own". I took the MSF class - [Miles of friendship: Ride to the Southwest to see old friends--Part One](https://demenshea.com/2011/05/01/miles-of-friendship-ride-to-the-southwest-to-see-old-friends-part-one/) - Being primarily a solo rider, the thought of travel with an old friend was both stimulating and daunting. I knew it would be wonderful to share some riding with my friend, Dave, but I also knew that I would have to make some compromises to my usual mode of travel. I decided at once that - [Miles of friendship: Ride to the Southwest to see old friends--Part Five](https://demenshea.com/2011/05/05/miles-of-friendship-ride-to-the-southwest-to-see-old-friends-part-five/) - When leaving TorC we carefully considered our route choices, yet somehow still ended up on a dead ending Hwy 181, so we ultimately had to brave the freeway. Dave was way less than thrilled since he not only doesn't enjoy freeway riding, but with the wind whipping us left and right and the cross winds - [Test your skills...](https://demenshea.com/2011/05/11/test-your-skills/) - MSF site has this nice monthly set of motorcycle riding questions. I missed three...See how you do and do all of them. Knowledge is power!! Every month is Motorcycle Awareness Month when you are a rider!! - [What were you doing for International Female Ride Day?](https://demenshea.com/2011/05/12/what-were-you-doing-for-international-female-ride-day/) - I guess the question is simple...did you ride? I hope all of you that wanted to get out and ride did just that!!! *fingers crossed* I was returning from my trip to the southwest and the last few miles from Carson City to Sacramento were absolutely awesome, with sunshine, no wind, ahhhhhh HOME. I guess - [Miles of friendship: Ride to the Southwest to see old friends--Part Four](https://demenshea.com/2011/05/05/miles-of-friendship-ride-to-the-southwest-to-see-old-friends-part-four/) - Under the watched eye of both Dave and me, we decided that his rear tire was finished. I believe the last several miles of chip seal over Hwy 180 finished it off and before we rode over Hwy 152, one of NM's premier twisty roads, it needed replacing. Dave had called Albuquerque and there wasn't - [Miles of friendship: Ride to the Southwest to see old friends--The final leg home!](https://demenshea.com/2011/05/08/miles-of-friendship-ride-to-the-southwest-to-see-old-friends-the-final-leg-home/) - Dave camped in Bluff and I continued on to Torrey, UT. My plan was to go over the Mokee Dugway and down the scenic Hwy 95 to Hanksville then into Capitol Reef NP to Torrey. The scenery on those roads is amazing. I left Bluff at 5pm and knew that riding the 200 miles to - [1978 Kawasaki KZ 650SR--One awesome motorcycle...but what to do?](https://demenshea.com/2011/05/14/1978-kawasaki-kz-650sr-one-awesome-motorcycle-but-what-to-do/) - I have this beautiful old bike that now lives in our garage. Gary bought it three years ago and used it for commuting from Reno to Sacramento after his FZ1 was stolen. The ol' boy ran like a top but was always difficult to start. Now it won't start so lives in our garage. The - [Motorcycle Wind Chill Chart](https://demenshea.com/2011/04/21/motorcycle-wind-chill-chart/) - As I get ready for a road trip, I like seeing what weather I will be anticipating and often wonder how my combined speeds and that of the air temperature create wind chill. The results are sometimes surprising! - [Streetmasters 2011: Precision skills for the challenging world of motorcycling ](https://demenshea.com/2011/04/19/streetmasters-2011-precision-skills-for-the-challenging-world-of-motorcycling/) - The past weekend was spent at Streetmasters Cornering Workshop on one of the best weekends that it could have been held. The sun glowed, the wind kept at bay and the Horse Thief Mile offered up a perfect riding surface. This was my second year at Streetmasters, but after two months of rainy winter weather, - [Miles of friendship: Ride to the Southwest to see old friends--Part Two](https://demenshea.com/2011/05/02/miles-of-friendship-ride-to-the-southwest-to-see-old-friends-part-two/) - Off to Rhyolite and Death Valley with smiling sun-loving faces. Today's weather is warm and wind free, much different from yesterday's cloud cover and low temps. Dave has never seen Rhyolite, so a quick visit is in order then we'll cruise through DV via Hwy 178 and head to Needles, CA. Why Needles you ask, - [Miles of friendship: Ride to the Southwest to see old friends--Part Three](https://demenshea.com/2011/05/04/miles-of-friendship-ride-to-the-southwest-to-see-old-friends-part-three/) - Tucson to Silver City, NM, took us north to go south and finally a day of awesome riding. Getting out of Tucson was via the interstate which neither of us love, providing a means to an end. On the interstate it's a quick jaunt of 200 miles, but we wanted to ride the infamous Devil's - [Confessions from a Gear Nazi](https://demenshea.com/2011/04/17/confessions-from-a-gear-nazi/) - I always enjoy a good read and the International Journal of Motorcycle Studies or the IJMS always delivers. The Spring issue has an excellent article regarding helmets and gear written by Wendy Moon. The article is entitled, "Riding Half-Naked (Or The Conversion of a Safety Nazi)". Wendy had previously had long heated discussions with her - [UUUUH, DUH...](https://demenshea.com/2011/04/20/uuuuh-duh/) - Well...my Suzuki mechanic at PCP Motorsports called me today to let me know what he discovered was wrong with my bike since it wouldn't start on my way home from Streetmasters. The conversation went sort of like this... "Hey Donna, how's your afternoon?" Uh fine. So do I need to be sitting down? "Well, you - [Drive SANELY, after all this is Nevada! More old maps...](https://demenshea.com/2011/04/15/drive-sanely-after-all-this-is-nevada/) - The old Nevada maps were a blast to peruse. The first was from 1954. Nevada 1960 ... wazup with the cover photo? They couldn't find anything better for a cover photo? I mean the Sierra Mountains are lovely but that photo is NOT. A better subject might be Pyramid Lake, Lake Tahoe, Walker Lake, Virginia - [Return to Streetmasters!](https://demenshea.com/2011/04/12/return-to-streetmasters/) - This weekend will mark nearly one year since my last Streetmasters course, only this year it's even more crucial that I take the class since I have spent so much time off the bike this past winter. I was trying to remember the last ride I took with any sort of substance and can't for - [Riding with an ol' friend... an un-solo adventure!](https://demenshea.com/2011/04/13/riding-with-an-ol-friend-an-un-solo-adventure/) - Next week I'll be embarking on my first adventure of the season, riding to AZ and NM with Dave, an ol' friend from Alaska who just purchased a Wee-Strom. In the last few months he has been touring Thailand on a cute little 250, riding 2 up with his girl friend, so the Suzuki 650 - [Old Maps... an amazing source of delight](https://demenshea.com/2011/04/14/old-maps-an-amazing-source-of-delight/) - While having my auto smogged last week, I discovered an estate sale and, to my delight, a stack of old maps. Now, some people love antique stuff, and I am no stranger to finding some amazing deals at estate and garage sales, but I am mostly limited to purchasing ephemera, or old paper products. Whether - [Sunday Sunday...](https://demenshea.com/2011/04/03/sunday-sunday/) - I can't believe how gorgeous it is out today and here I sit at my computer writing this post! I wish I could say why I am not out on my bike, but I believe it's due to the fact it's Sunday and I know the roads will be glutted with a million motorcyclists who, - [So many helmets, so which do I buy?](https://demenshea.com/2011/04/07/so-many-helmets-so-which-do-i-buy/) - Everyone should ride with a helmet. Statistics dictate that a helmet is likely to save your life if you fall with your motorcycle. That's enough info for me, but if you look over the motorcycle consumer magazines and motorcycle shops, you find there there are a plethora of helmets to choose from. So what is - [Don't miss this amazing and passionate video! And some very cool bikes!! WOW...](https://demenshea.com/2011/04/08/dont-miss-this-amazing-and-passionate-video-and-some-very-cool-bikes-wow/) - [Bikes and Babes just keeps giving! ](https://demenshea.com/2011/04/10/bikes-and-babes-just-keeps-giving/) - It wasn't long ago that I did a post on More Bikes and Babes: Women in advertising and history of motorcycling. In that post was a photo of Keira Knightley filming a Coco Chanel perfume commercial. In this filmed commercial she is clad in a slick beige cat suit custom designed by Karl Lagerfeld, together - [Humor for the weekend...French motorcycle safety sign](https://demenshea.com/2011/03/25/humor-for-the-weekend-french-safety-sign/) - Translation... "To MEN The first testicle protector was used for ice hockey in 1874 ... and the first motorcycle helmet in 1974. So it took 100 years for men to finally understand that their heads are also important. Signed: a WOMAN" - [British Artist Grayson Perry takes a trip](https://demenshea.com/2011/03/26/british-artist-grayson-perry-takes-a-trip/) - Grayson Perry, a 51 year old artist from London, England who has been awarded the Turner Prize in 2003 for his ceramics, built a motorcycle as a tribute to his Teddy bear, Alan Measles. 50 years after first receiving the bear, Perry decided to pay homage to his life long friend by building an ornate - [Kawasaki Versys, worth a serious look!](https://demenshea.com/2011/03/28/kawasaki-versys-worth-a-serious-look/) - I have a friend who has a Kawasaki Versys and loves it! I probably should have ridden hers, but hindsight is always 20/20. I love the fact that wet, this bike only weighs #450 and I am feeling weak these days. I plan on taking a better look at this machine and will report back - [AMA Get Out and Ride Month Begins April 1st](https://demenshea.com/2011/03/31/ama-get-out-and-ride-month-begins-april-1st/) - AMA Get Out and Ride! Month officially launches on April 1, when a special web page on AmericanMotorcyclist.com, plus Facebook and Twitter feeds, will provide daily details, including themes for each week: * April 4-10: AMA Get Out and Ride Your Way! Week highlights everything from AMA Grand Tours to solo riding on favorite trails - [Couple of new T-shirts on Zazzle](https://demenshea.com/2011/04/01/couple-of-new-t-shirts-on-zazzle/) - I just got done creating a new shirt for demenshea.com and one for the pashnit.com girly ride. I am liking both designs and hope that you do, too!! It's t-shirt weather today in Sacramento, the first day of April, and looking like an ideal day for some spring riding. Hope everyone can get out today!! - [I don't want a pickle... or do I??](https://demenshea.com/2011/04/02/i-dont-want-a-pickle-or-do-i/) - Ok... my friend Dave sent me this link and I simply had to share it...Webbikeworld pickle chain cleaning. How many of you have tried the "pickle" chain cleaning method??? Come on now, do tell... I do think WD40 might be easier to transport and since they supply this link in the article to Spiffy spokes, - [Sweet Video/Sweet Bike](https://demenshea.com/2011/04/04/sweet-videosweet-bike/) - Pipeburn Video: Bonita from Pipeburn.com on Vimeo. Honda 1971 CB450 Cafe Racer. - [For Drivers: Watch out for motorcycles!!](https://demenshea.com/2011/04/09/for-drivers-watch-out-for-motorcycles/) - * As the spring weather approaches so does the potential for accidents. There are more drivers on the roads as well as more bikes out for a nice sunny ride. Keep a rider's day sunny by remembering to "watch out for motorcycles". The MSF or Motorcycle Safety Foundation now has a site for car drivers - [The only American made motorcycle to win the Isle of Man TT](https://demenshea.com/2011/04/11/the-only-american-motorcycle-to-win-the-isle-of-man-tt/) - The UK Isle of Man TT is one of the most anticipated races of the year and this year is no exception. The race first occurred in 1907 on the original St. Johns route, however, in 1911 it was re-routed to the present 37-3/4-mile Mountain Course. It was in 1911 that the Indian Motorcycle won - [Guys just wanna have fun...BMW GS Ride Down Under](https://demenshea.com/2011/03/21/guys-just-wanna-have-fun-bmw-gs-ride-down-under/) - For all of us awaiting some decent riding weather! These guys seem to be having a great time on and off-road. - [Pashnit Girly Ride 2011 comes together!](https://demenshea.com/2011/03/22/pashnit-girly-ride-2011-comes-together/) - Last Years 2010 Group shot in Ojai, CA. Each year on pashnit.com, I put together a women's ride where we get together exploring some great roads, hanging out, and doing a lot of kibitzing. Every year it's a blast and I don't expect this year to be much different except instead of riding in CA, - [Pashnit Girly Ride 2011 T-shirts](https://demenshea.com/2011/03/24/pashnit-girly-ride-2011-t-shirts/) - Got 'em done! This year's ride shirts! One with vintage cheesecake design and, for those that are put off by that, here's another design featuring an ol' skool 4 aces tat design. They are listed on Zazzle.com for purchase. We also have stickers and magnets! Check 'um out! Design close up: Alternative design - [Can we explain why we ride? Motorcycles and moms...](https://demenshea.com/2011/03/18/can-we-explain-why-we-ride-motorcycles-and-moms/) - Me, my mom and best friend. I am the rider in the group. Funny, I try to explain why I ride to non-riders and I get that stare, you know the one. It's sort of a blank look, a questioning stare, an empty glass in need of refilling. I talk about motorcycles, the roads, the - [Los Angeles...home to the Watts Towers](https://demenshea.com/2011/03/23/los-angeles-home-to-the-watts-towers/) - Combining my motorcycle and art addiction makes touring a very stimulating and rewarding experience, especially when seeing something as brilliant as the Watts Towers, by Simon Rodia. An Italian immigrant, Simon began construction on the Watts Towers in 1921 and for 34 years he worked single-handedly to build his towers without benefit of machine equipment, - [It's music to my ears...](https://demenshea.com/2011/03/05/its-music-to-my-ears/) - I never thought that I'd need anything but the open road and my keenly tuned motorcycle, but I have found enjoyment in riding with music. I know that many people talk about how music distracts them and they are unable to enjoy riding and partaking in the fantastic sounds of (fill in the blank!). Each - [Finally, some signs of Spring](https://demenshea.com/2011/03/06/finally-some-signs-of-spring/) - Well, I guess March showers bring April flowers, or so it seems this morning in Sacramento. The sky opened up last evening and began refilling the swimming pool. At least I got a good walk in every day last week, and took a camera with me the last dry day to try and capture a - [I drank the koolaid!](https://demenshea.com/2011/03/07/i-drank-the-koolaid/) - Yep, Demenshea can now be found on twitter. Tweet me! - [Squidville](https://demenshea.com/2011/03/08/squidville/) - Though this photo has nothing to do with the following tale, it's appropriate nevertheless, showing that sadly squids are found wherever one rides. This one was spotted on Hwy 36 in NorCal which is one of the most awesome roads ever, especially when properly dressed! Yesterday while taking my son to American River College, we - [The Strange Bimoto Mantra](https://demenshea.com/2011/03/09/the-strange-bimoto-mantra/) - I love looking at concept motorcycles and motorcycle designs, especially those that move into the realm of ART, but it's a rare treat to see a crazy design that is actually manufactured. The Bimoto Mantra as that sort of machine and one that continues to turn heads. Mantra in Sanskrit means capable of "creating transformation" - [Today's MC Safety Tips](https://demenshea.com/2011/03/10/todays-mc-safety-five-things-to-practice-as-a-rider/) - Here are five easy suggestions to keep you moderately safe while riding! Be visible and dress for the fall. No one wants to fall ever, but if you use that mantra you can considerably raise your changes of survival and lessen injury in a motorcycle accident. Nothing will keep you completely safe but wearing proper - [Bikes and Babes: Modern Female Stunters](https://demenshea.com/2011/03/14/bikes-and-babes-modern-female-stunters/) - The 80's brought out some serious talent in female motorcycling and one that stands above many is the California girl, Debbie Evans Leavitt. In an amazing testament to her skill at age 40, she came out of retirement after 18 years away from the sport to compete in the unofficial Women’s World Trials Championship and - [A social network collective...resistance is futile](https://demenshea.com/2011/02/22/a-social-network-collective-resistance-is-futile-2/) - Well, maybe I simply fell for the chatter, but this seemed like a good aggregate for gathering all my social network information and housing it quite attractively in one professional looking package. Thoughts? - [Woman riding solo: Reflected](https://demenshea.com/2011/02/24/woman-riding-solo-reflected/) - I've had lots of time this winter to contemplate the solo tour, of which I have been partaking the last several years. In looking back I found some old blog posts that pretty well summed up the solo ride, at least for my purposes and I believe they speak to many. Riding Solo: A Woman's - [Riding: A Pillion Perspective! ](https://demenshea.com/2011/02/26/riding-a-pillion-perspective/) - A friend asked me about taking his wife riding, saying she was less than thrilled when he had attempted it before. Well, I have to say there are those that will NEVER enjoy riding as a pillion, but then there are those that simply don't know how to be a pillion and are chilled at - [Awesome, Vintage BMWs and Fashion!](https://demenshea.com/2011/03/01/awesome-vintage-bmws-and-fashion/) - The Academy of Fashion and Design AMD recently combined forces with the BMW Museum in Munich for an elaborate display of fashion surrounded by the extensive glory of bygone years of BMW. A brilliant combination of nearly all the principles and elements of design. This show encompassed unity, harmony, balance, rhythm as well as line, - [Non moto-related, but some amazing artwork for winter gazing! ](https://demenshea.com/2011/03/03/non-moto-related-but-some-amazing-artwork-for-winter-gazing/) - Wow... love this guy's spontaneous sense of design and earth art. I love that it's ephemeral and ever-changing as the day descends into night. Bravo Jim Denevan! The Art of Jim Denevan For those with more interest in the process check out The Anthropologist and Jim's massive sculpture in Siberia. - [Web surfing...Fuzzygalore's Moto Photo Blog-O-Rama Meme: Trees](https://demenshea.com/2011/02/16/web-surfing-fuzzygalores-moto-photo-blog-o-rama-meme-trees/) - Doing some needed web surfing today and I found a link to a link to a link and discovered another female rider/blogger (of which there are probably many... but I guess I don't get out much!). Today's gem was found at Fuzzygalore.com. While reading through Rachael's delightfully spunky site, I found a Moto Photo Blog-O-Rama - [GoGo Gear-Protective Riding Gear for Motorcycle and Scooter Riders](https://demenshea.com/2011/02/20/gogo-gear-protective-riding-gear-for-motorcycle-and-scooter-riders/) - When I can't ride, I love websurfing, casting my net for any gems in the copper sea. Yesterday I found GoGo Gear who at first glance seemed to create highly implausible safety gear. But after watching the videos, reading about the products, I am convinced that they carry some beautiful and highly fashionable motorcycle/scooter gear. - [You can tour on a small displacement motorbike!](https://demenshea.com/2011/02/21/you-can-tour-on-a-small-displacement-motorbike/) - I have been asked repeatedly about outgrowing a 250cc bike and whether or not one can actually take a tour on such a small motorcycle. Well, the answer is, it depends upon the rider. Obviously there are some challenges riding such a small bike on the freeway or riding where you would have to spend - [Ducati Diavel...You be the judge!](https://demenshea.com/2011/02/27/ducati-diavel-you-be-the-judge/) - I watched this video and thought to myself... now this is one bike I'd like to demo ride! ; ) YA!! http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=9Cfuv63Y0ec Sexy eh?? - [9 Foot Ducati Painting Process-A Video by Guenevere Schwien](https://demenshea.com/2011/02/09/9-foot-ducati-painting-process-a-video-by-guenevere-schwien/) - Simply Awesome... - [Kudos A&S BMW and Gerbing Heated Clothing...](https://demenshea.com/2011/02/10/kudos-as-bmw-and-gerbings-heated-clothing/) - I purchased heated gear at least 3 seasons ago from A&S BMW. I bought a Gerbing jacket liner, gloves and a dual controller to be able to adjust each individually. They have served me well until this winter when one one of the gloves decided it was tired of "giving it up" and no longer - [Triumph Datona Ad, featuring a woman rider!](https://demenshea.com/2011/02/10/triumph-datona-ad-featuring-a-woman-rider/) - Well, in the world of motorcycle advertising, you don't see much female representation, so hats off to Triumph for recognizing the female rider and putting her on a brilliant sport bike!! http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=SHT9tFD_Gy0 - [First Lady of British Sportbikes](https://demenshea.com/2011/02/15/first-lady-of-british-sportbikes/) - Jenny Tinmouth will achieve her finest breakthrough yet - by becoming the first woman ever to compete in the British Superbike Championship (with Splitlath Motorsport). Jenny has established a reputation for herself as the world's fastest female motorcycle racer. But she's preparing to push the boundaries back even further over the coming months. She has - [Are you ready for the spring riding season??](https://demenshea.com/2011/02/18/are-you-ready-for-the-spring-riding-season/) - Time to get the bike off the trickle charger and road worthy as the spring riding season opens up. With all those great riding days ahead, this is the perfect time to get everything ready to go, so you don't waste a moment of that great riding weather! For those wondering what they need to - [Happy Valentine's Day! ](https://demenshea.com/2011/02/14/happy-valentines-day/) - "We come to love not by finding a perfect person, but by learning to see an imperfect person perfectly." unknown author A photo-shopped valentine filled with possibilities. ; ) - [In all this talk about spring riding, the bike is ready, but am I? ](https://demenshea.com/2011/02/19/in-all-this-talk-about-spring-riding-the-bike-is-ready-but-am-i/) - Ok, I have been sitting on my arse for over a month now, without a hint of ever having ridden before except for the fading memories of the last awesome ride. Time to get offa the couch and get into some sort of shape for taking on a 500 lb. motorcycle. I have some free - [British Pathe 1944 Film Clip on Girls Motorbikes-"Fearless but Still Feminine!"](https://demenshea.com/2011/02/07/british-pathe-1944-film-clip-on-girls-on-motorbikes-fearless-but-still-feminine/) - I love coming across these wonderful old historic films and this one seems particularly apropos considering all the recent posts on vintage motorcycling women! This one is of the National Fire Service motorcycle dispatch riders in training. Check out the rigorous training course. These girls are definitely fearless riders and still "feminine" according to the - [Don't Forget: Sunday March 13, 2 AM bringing us closer to Spring riding!!](https://demenshea.com/2011/03/12/dont-forget-sunday-march-13-2-am/) - [Bikes and Babes...Women and the illustrious bad-ass motorcycle film](https://demenshea.com/2011/02/03/bikes-and-babes-women-and-the-illustrious-bad-ass-motorcycle-film/) - As a continued chronicle of women and motorcycling, I have to include a post on several asinine movie posters I found. How can one do a complete chronicle of women in motorcycling without the irreverent as well as the sublime? Here we have the irreverent. "Hog straddling females on the prowl" "Kitten on wheels" "Leather - [New Enough.com becomes MotorcycleGear.com](https://demenshea.com/2011/02/04/new-enough-com-becomes-motorcyclegear-com/) - This is an FYI post to the many that shop at NewEnough. I discovered a couple of weeks ago when ordering that they had changed their name. I am unsure how long it will redirect, so make note that the new addy is http://www.motorcyclegear.com/. - [Another vintage ad...one I nearly forgot!](https://demenshea.com/2011/02/12/another-vintage-ad-one-i-nearly-forgot/) - I have always loved this ad. Plus, I frequently ride just like this... ; ) - [Bikes and Babes-Art and the Female Rider](https://demenshea.com/2011/02/06/bikes-and-babes-art-and-the-female-rider/) - Well, now this subject was a bit more difficult to research and find any "real" art featuring women riders. Mostly I found either cult like pieces of women on motorcycles or bikini clad calendar girls draped over bikes. But here is the offering from this research including some very relevant credible female rider artists! Unknown - [Viola-tor's take on music and motos...AWESOME READ! ](https://demenshea.com/2011/01/21/viola-tors-take-on-music-and-motos-awesome-read/) - I have been following an ADVrider post from Viola-tor called VIOLA-TING AMERICA-Chasing the dream of music and motos for a while now, and find this guy not only inspiring but well spoken and written. This single post created an emotional response of joy and satisfaction. His take is a true money shot and excites the - [Honing Skills! ](https://demenshea.com/2011/01/24/honing-skills/) - NOTE KEY 5 The MSF(Motorcycle Safety Foundation) is a perfect introduction to the basic world of motorcycling as well as great way to get your motorcycle endorsement on your driving license, however the most you will gain from this course are the basic and I mean BASIC skills to ride upon a motorcycle. The course - [A San Francisco weekend...Good for the soul!](https://demenshea.com/2011/01/25/an-san-francisco-weekend-good-for-the-soul/) - No, it didn't involve motorcycle riding, but none the less I got a weekend in San Francisco, when the sun was shining the temperatures were in the 60s and the sky was fog free. Always a pleasure! Now this looks like a great way to see the city! Blues skies and skyscrapers Hallway at the - [Tunnel of Love--1997 short film featuring the music of Joe Stummer](https://demenshea.com/2011/01/28/tunnel-of-love-1997-short-film-featuring-the-music-of-joe-stummer/) - How can you beat a Norton, a Norton rider, (Eddie Tenpole former member of the Sex Pistols) a beautiful blonde, (Tamara Beckwith) and great music by Joe Strummer? All this in one 12 minute film, complete with some footage from The London Aces Cafe! This is a must see, for any aficionado of vintage motorcycles - [More Bikes and Babes: Women in advertising and history of motorcycling ](https://demenshea.com/2011/01/27/vintage-motorcycle-girls-in-advertising-and-history/) - After yesterday's post I decided to do some more research to share more information on women in historic motorcycling context, motorcycle films, motorcycle advertising and motorcycles in general. I believe I will now file them categorically so we get a better idea of who was when and where! I can't think of a better way - [Protect the Ta-tas... ](https://demenshea.com/2011/02/03/protect-the-ta-tas/) - *Disclaimer* Sorry, it was difficult to keep a straight face while posting this and I realize how valuable the tata's can be, however, I had to laugh once or twice while posting! I recently found that Dainese makes a chest protector for women riders. Though many see this as humorous, it's actually a very serious - [My Grandmother's 1922 Moto trip--Ongoing discovery](https://demenshea.com/2011/02/11/my-grandmothers-1922-moto-trip-ongoing-discovery/) - After posting my grandmother's photo album on my blog, I have been approached by a few people with some great advice to assist with identifying the other riders in the album and the route they possibly took crossing the Sierra Nevada Range out of Yosemite. So here's some additional information that I recently received. My - [See m'friends, you can ride a sportbike anywhere...](https://demenshea.com/2011/01/14/see-mom-you-can-ride-a-sportbike-anywhere/) - http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=yEVYFrs58ms My friend Com3 taught me early on that if you have the cojonas, you can take any bike just about anywhere. For me cojonas is the key here, as I seem to be lacking them in more ways than one. ; ) Enjoy this video and many other of his totally awesome videos found - [When did going round the world on a motorcycle become bland?](https://demenshea.com/2011/01/17/when-did-going-round-the-world-on-a-motorcycle-become-bland/) - As many of us aspire to the dream of "riding around the world", the dream is slowly diminishing in power and allure. I spend more hours than I care to admit on ADVrider and the more I read the more jaded I have become. What we seem to have created is a "buy a GS - [Norse Motorcycle Union--Full Control](https://demenshea.com/2011/01/18/norse-motorcycle-union-full-control/) - All the way from Norway comes a wonderful downloadable book on motorcycle riding techniques or as they say, "A guide for precise and efficient machine control". The book is produced by the Norse Motorcycle Union. Wonderful find, enjoy!! - [True PASSION](https://demenshea.com/2011/01/19/true-passion/) - I just got done reading a great blog post on 4theriders and found that Kevin is indeed correct that the word passion is thrown around all too freely. Best described as a "burning desire" passion is something you experience from the gut, something raw and tugging. Passion can be found in different places for different - [First ride of 2011--the Figure 8 ride](https://demenshea.com/2011/01/20/first-ride-of-2011-the-figure-8-ride/) - Sitting at my computer this morning I watched the full moon disappear into oblivion. The bright orb shown like glowing christmas bulb hanging from the neighbors trees and within moments was no longer visible from my vantage. With the fading of that moon came a beautiful sunny morning, clear and crisp. I could feel a - [Bikes and Babes...](https://demenshea.com/2011/01/27/bike-and-babes/) - They just go together! Motorcycles and advertising paired to a perfect duo, check out these wonderful vintage ads from bygone years! - [It ain't no joke...U-Turns](https://demenshea.com/2011/02/17/it-aint-no-joke-u-turns/) - We've all been there and joked about the 3 point, 5 point or 7 point U-turn, but it's no longer funny. Time to perfect the U-turn. A true pleasure is watching my friend Dona flip a quick U-turn on her big ol' BMW RT. She is absolutely awesome to watch doing this maneuver and I - [Now this is one impressive tale--Son Steals Dad's Old Norton to restore for Christmas!!! You go boys!!!](https://demenshea.com/2011/01/10/now-this-is-one-impressive-tale-son-steals-dads-old-norton-to-restore-for-christmas-you-go-boys/) - What a wonderful heart tugging tale!! - [Got commute? How about a transformer? ](https://demenshea.com/2011/01/11/got-commute-how-about-a-transformer/) - If you have a small commute or need a campus bike, this may be your answer...the Uno III! "Benjamin Gulak and his BPG Motors company may challenge that stereotype, however, with the sleek and impressive Uno III. The adaptable vehicle actually morphs from an upright "Segway-like" mode into a horizontal, street-cycle position. Even better: it - [Revisiting old photos...](https://demenshea.com/2011/01/13/revisiting-old-photos/) - Sometimes I shuffle through my old files taken from bygone times, open a file and play! Today I was treated to a couple of moto-photos I thought were quite fun. I decided to alter them a bit with photoshop and post them for scrutiny! Whatever your thoughts, I think feel they're cool!! Our first bike, - [Happy 2011!!! So, where are we going this year??](https://demenshea.com/2011/01/01/happy-2011-so-where-are-we-going-this-year/) - Yesterday marked another first for me, installing a new turn signal and some new levers after the Frenso drop of Bandit2 in my friend Larry's driveway. Well, I do need to get a manual, as I am certain it would remove some of the guess work I was using while trying to install. ; ) - [Follow up: WHY WOMEN RIDE...](https://demenshea.com/2011/01/02/follow-up-why-women-ride/) - In response to "Why Women Ride" an article written by a man found in HelmetHair magazine, I decided to poll my female riding buddies and see what their actual response was to this very query. All in all, there probably is no real difference between why women ride and why men ride, however since there - [Geared up for the New Year Twenty Eleven...](https://demenshea.com/2011/01/03/geared-up-for-the-new-year-twenty-eleven/) - I was one lucky rider this holiday season as I secured an entire new riding wardrobe for the cold season. First addition was a pair of the new FIRSTGEAR HT overpants. Wow, are these nice!! They have added a new feature of zipped venting in the crotch so when seated you can get some air - [Death of a Tree...Hwy 50 Shoe Tree cut down by vandals! ](https://demenshea.com/2011/01/05/death-of-a-tree-hwy-50-shoe-tree-cut-down-by-vandals/) - Today we morn the loss of the Highway 50 Shoe Tree to death by vandals. In an article found in the SFGate, I sadly read the news. I have to say the depth that humanity dives is astounding. Why, cut down an old tree that was another roadside attraction. To what end was this means? - [Gotta find some new territory for touring--Credo for 2011! ](https://demenshea.com/2011/01/06/gotta-find-some-new-territory-for-touring-credo-for-2011/) - Same road, different time of year, different riders, but seems I'm having Déjà-vu!!! Beautiful Capitol Reef NP. - [Update on the Nevada Shoe Tree Murder...](https://demenshea.com/2011/01/09/update-on-the-nevada-shoe-tree-murder/) - Taken from about.com. "The vandal(s) may not have known it at the time, but they committed a federal crime by downing the Shoe Tree. It stood on Bureau of Land Management (BLM) public land within the U.S. 50 right-of-way held by the Nevada Department of Transportation (NDOT). That means both federal officers and the Churchill - [Heads up....Solstice Lunar Eclipse!](https://demenshea.com/2010/12/17/heads-up-solstice-lunar-eclipse/) - On December 21, the first day of northern winter the full Moon will pass almost dead-center through Earth's shadow. For 72 minutes an eerie amber light will be cast across any snow covered surfaces and bask our skin tones in reddish umber. The best viewing time according to NASA, will be at 12:17 PST. Hopefully, - [Guenevere Schwien-Photorealistic Motorcycle Artist ](https://demenshea.com/2010/12/18/guenevere-schwien-photorealistic-motorcycle-artist/) - Guenevere Schwien paints lots of subjects but the most impressive is a new painting she has done on a commission for a patron. The work looks to be about 9'x5' and shows the undercarriage of a red Ducati 1098. She bagan by taking many photos of the bike, and studied different compositions before embarking on - [A bit o' holiday humor....](https://demenshea.com/2010/12/19/a-bit-o-holiday-humor/) - The amazing strom seems to have found a new friend. However this friend seems to have spent too much time alone...; ) - [2010 the MOST AWESOME RIDING Year Yet--A year end synopsis slideshow](https://demenshea.com/2010/12/20/2010-the-most-awesome-riding-year-yet-a-year-end-synopsis-slideshow/) - http://vimeo.com/18026388 - [Some days the bear get you...Thanks Dude...](https://demenshea.com/2010/12/21/some-days-the-bear-get-you-thanks-dude/) - Well when it rains it pours and that's exactly what it is doing right now, pouring. I am down two bikes with necessary repairs on both due. Bandit1 needs a new chain and sprocket but has new tires and could be ridden anywhere, once the chain and sprocket are repaired. Bandit2 is in need of - [NOOOOOOO, say it isn't so!!!](https://demenshea.com/2010/12/22/nooooooo-say-it-isnt-so/) - I just discovered that Paris Hilton is about to launch a new motorcycle racing team called SuperMartxe VIP or so she said in a press conference in Madrid. The SuperMartXe VIP Motorcycle Team is scheduled to compete in the 2011 125cc World Championship motorcycle competition using an Aprilla RSA 125. The two confirmed riders are - [Happy New Year!](https://demenshea.com/2010/12/31/happy-new-year/) - Wow...so it's again that time...ringing in a New Year and reflecting on the past year. It's been an amazing year for me, one full of living and introspection. What about you? Have you thought about what is ahead and what you left behind? It's odd to consider that I could have less left in my - [Best holiday gifts for a female rider](https://demenshea.com/2010/12/02/best-holiday-gifts-for-a-female-rider/) - As the holiday season approaches, it's nice to have a list of gift items that every rider would enjoy if they don't already have and use them! I tried to compile a list of items that all riders can use when the weather is less than agreeable and the cold gets to one, even on - [Why I wear a helmet](https://demenshea.com/2010/12/03/why-i-wear-a-helmet/) - Yesterday, my friend Joe posted this image on facebook. I truly felt this best illustrated why I wear a helmet and why it might be best for you to as well. - [My first attempt at a MOTO SLIDE SHOW...revisited](https://demenshea.com/2010/12/05/my-first-attempt-at-a-moto-slide-show/) - Shameless self-indulgence documenting my first three seasons of moto-travel with Iggy Pop's help. http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Vhc_VS4ipms Time to make another...; ) - [BUSTED T-shirt now for sale!!](https://demenshea.com/2010/12/10/busted-t-shirt-now-for-sale/) - Just in time for the holidays, a couple of new zazzle shirts...and this one is special! ; ) Busted - [I love the Sierras...the desert and the long way home.](https://demenshea.com/2010/12/16/i-love-the-sierras-the-desert-and-the-long-way-home/) - I love holiday parties and my best high school buddy’s annual party is always exceptional. Mike lives in NV so I knew I could combine a party weekend with a visit to my dad in his new assisted living center. The weather report predicted a cloud proof sky. Well, hmmm, they aren’t very dependable are - [Bravo Tricia...what she said!](https://demenshea.com/2010/11/12/bravo-tricia-what-she-said/) - Read her article here: Roadbike Motorcycle Cruising "Tricia Szulewski has been RoadBike's Art Director/Staff Writer since 1999. She has a Bachelor's degree in Graphic Design from FIT and is a certified MSF Instructor to boot. She lives in Bethel, CT and has been accused of falling in love with too many motorcycles too easily." Roadbike - [BMW Concept C: the ultimate riding experience for urban mobility...](https://demenshea.com/2010/11/17/bmw-concept-c-the-ultimate-riding-experience-for-urban-mobility/) - NICE....Now that's one sexy scooter!! http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=1-6S0z_lwfY - [I found what I want this holiday!! *wink wink*](https://demenshea.com/2010/11/23/i-found-what-i-want-this-holiday-wink-wink/) - Ebay for the gift i'll have to buy for myself...no one else would consider me this twisted...hahahah - [Well hell...no one bought me the Squirrel for the holidays...](https://demenshea.com/2010/11/29/well-hell-no-one-bought-me-the-squirrel-for-the-holidays/) - Guess I'll have to keep looking. - [Metropolitan Police Service of London held Women's Motorbike Day with the help of BMW Motorrad: New Recruits in mind!](https://demenshea.com/2010/11/30/metropolitan-police-service-of-london-held-womens-motorbike-day-with-the-help-of-bmw-motorrad-new-recruits-in-mind/) - The imbalance of women to motorbike officers at the Met has historically been 30 to 1. It seems that may be changing, said Don Smith, Head of the Driver Training School, "we held this event in 09 and hope to hold it again in the coming years to encourage female officers to find out more - [NEW Ride like a Girl T-SHIRT at Zazzle](https://demenshea.com/2010/12/08/new-ride-like-a-girl-t-shirt-at-zazzle/) - Zazzle - [2011 BMW F800 ST...powerful enough for a woman ; )](https://demenshea.com/2010/11/07/2011-bmw-f800-st-powerful-enough-for-a-woman/) - The BMW F800 ST is on my list of must ride asap. I have longed looked at this gorgeous machine and have spoken to friends that own them and espouse their golden traits, but I have yet to drink the kool-aid, but look forward to the opportunity. Sitting on my friend Ken's I first discovered - [2011 Honda CBR250R--Great to see a new entry level motorcycle with style and grace and power enough for 2-up??](https://demenshea.com/2010/11/04/2011-honda-cbr250r-great-to-see-a-new-entry-level-motorcycle-with-style-and-grace/) - Straight from the Honda site. 'If you’re looking for an affordable, smart, capable and fun way to enjoy life on two wheels—have we got a bike for you: the all-new Honda CBR250R! The new, fuel-injected CBR250R offers everything you want in a first-time bike: Light weight. A powerband that’s immensely user-friendly. Excellent fuel economy. Unmatched - [Now this is funny! Ok so maybe Harley riders won't see the humor...but hey, it is creative humor!!](https://demenshea.com/2010/11/08/now-this-is-funny-ok-so-maybe-harley-riders-wont-see-the-humor-but-hey-it-is-creative-humor/) - http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=PHpa0kE86MA - [The new Harley XR1200X](https://demenshea.com/2010/11/09/the-new-harley-xr1200x/) - After yesterday's Harley wise crack, I was compelled to to a review of the new Harley XR1200X. This is Harley Davidson's latest attempt at making a bike to cross over into sport bike territory, since they stop making the Buell. I have not ridden this bike, but fully intend to check it out. I have - [Interesting web find: Why Women Ride-A Man's Perspective by Steve Briscoe published by helmethairmagazine.com](https://demenshea.com/2010/11/11/interesting-web-find-why-women-ride-a-mans-perspective-by-steve-briscoe/) - I found this article insightful and published by Helmet Hair Magazine where I have seen other well thought out articles. I was compelled to re-post a link to the article with full credit as due. The article created things to ponder and question yet was stimulating enough to motivate my asking that very question as - [Motorcycles as ART](https://demenshea.com/2010/11/14/motorcycles-as-art/) - Motorcycles, to a rider are nearly always observed as art, in that we like the shape, the color, the chrome, the gizmos, the chain, sprocket, lever design, performance, etc. But it isn't often recognized as art by the art world itself. Though the designs of motorbikes has been an obvious industrial design that has flourished - [What will it take for a rider to choose a helmet over injury?](https://demenshea.com/2010/11/18/what-will-it-take-for-a-rider-to-choose-a-helmet-over-injury/) - The feds have finally decided that all states should require motorcycle helmets to try and reduce the surge in motorcycle fatalities. I think it's sad that it takes a federally induced rule to make people protect themselves from obvious harm. I realize many argue the freedom to choose is forthright, however as insurance rates soar - [Things learned on his first day of riding...a very astute and self-aware post from pashnit.com](https://demenshea.com/2010/10/11/things-learned-on-his-first-day-or-riding-a-very-astute-and-self-aware-post-from-pashnit-com/) - I saw this today in the "becoming a better rider" forum of pashnit.com and was totally impressed that a new rider could have such a perfect enlightened day and be able to verbalize it into a very readable post. Thank you Derek for a wonderful read!! Things I Learned on my First Riding Day I - [Tron Wear 2010](https://demenshea.com/2010/10/12/tron-wear-2010/) - Get your, “his and hers” matching TRON motorcycle suits. Made by UD Replicas, these are limited edition reproductions of the suits worn by characters Sam Flynn and Quorra. The TRON motorcycle suits feature CE-approved body armor, reflective accents, stretch spandex inserts, silicone hexagon print and form-molded leather detailing. Now all you need is a sleek - [Wow...Triumph 800 cc Tiger XC](https://demenshea.com/2010/11/01/wow-triumph-800-cc-tiger-xc/) - 799cc Triple Switchable ABS Chain drive 6 speed Adjustable preload 5 Gallon Tank 473 Lbs Start Your Adventure - [New Rider? 10 don'ts to be aware of placed in random order...](https://demenshea.com/2010/11/02/new-rider-10-donts-to-be-aware-of-placed-in-random-order/) - You can't help but begin as a new rider, however we can all take from the experience of others in being aware of what "NOT" to do and in doing so, increase our learning curve, protect ourselves and become better riders! 1. Don't ride unprotected. Get the gear and use it. Helmet, jacket, gloves, boots - [For those that have to STORE their motocycles for winter...](https://demenshea.com/2010/11/03/for-those-that-have-to-store-their-motocycles-for-winter/) - I found this great article in Total Motorcycle regarding winter storage for your motorbike. Fortunately, in CA, we can ride year round, but many others can't. This is for you, so your machine is properly stored until next season. - [To charge or not to charge...](https://demenshea.com/2010/11/05/to-charge-or-not-to-charge/) - After visiting my pal Dean in Show Low, who has all his motorcycles connected to trickle chargers, I was compelled to ask him why. His reply was that if you keep a battery at an even charge it will last nearly forever. Hmmm...i pondered this as I had just replaced my battery on my original - [Deal of the Week...get a new flip-face helmet by HJC at New Enough!](https://demenshea.com/2010/11/10/deal-of-the-week-get-a-new-flip-face-helmet-by-hjc-at-new-enough/) - Do you know someone in need of a new helmet? This could be an excellent holiday gift for the right price as New Enough has the HJC Sy-Max ll on sale for $159, delivered! What an awesome deal. You can read a review of the helmet here on Webbikeworld. Ok...don't waste any time since these - [As fall approaches, so does some of the BEST riding and time to contemplate some MOTORCYCLE SAFETY](https://demenshea.com/2010/10/06/as-fall-approaches-so-does-some-of-the-best-riding-and-time-to-contemplate-some-motorcycle-safety/) - As fall is upon us, we find ourselves compelled to ride out and see the beautiful fall colors, smell the fresh clean air, and enjoy a less crowded roadway. Some of my favorite riding is done this time of year as the Sierra passes change from verdant green to orange, ocher and umber and the - [Goin’ South–A female tale from the desert of the Southwest USA Pt.3](https://demenshea.com/2010/10/02/goin-south-a-female-tale-from-the-desert-of-the-southwest-usa-pt-3/) - The ride to the actual Lees Ferry took me into the Glen Canyon National Recreation Area, a sparsely visited park for more serious outdoor sports enthusiasts, which in of itself is ironic, since that certainly doesn’t describe me! The Colorado River is disguised in this area as a lamb, tame and braying softly. I found - [Goin’ South–A female tale from the desert of the Southwest USA Pt.4](https://demenshea.com/2010/10/03/goin-south-a-female-tale-from-the-desert-of-the-southwest-usa-pt-4/) - The MC B&B is awesome. Dean and Mz Pam are not only good friends but amazing hosts. Pam had just returned from a diving trip in the Caribbean but didn’t hesitate to put together a delicious peach pie! We shared travel tales as Dean listened to two crazy women laughing and enjoying each other’s company. - [Goin’ South–A female tale from the desert of the Southwest USA Pt.5 ](https://demenshea.com/2010/10/03/goin-south-a-female-tale-from-the-desert-of-the-southwest-usa-pt-5/) - I did have some time to ponder the situation with my dad and remember the good times moving the current horror to the back burner. My dad was a kind dad, fun, who taught us skiing, which was how he met our mom. He also taught us to ride horses, took us ghost town exploring - [Goin’ South–A female tale from the desert of the Southwest USA Pt.7](https://demenshea.com/2010/10/04/goin-south-a-female-tale-from-the-desert-of-the-southwest-usa-pt-7/) - My cow buddies...and here I thought there was at least 100 animals braying all night and I discover when it was light out, that there were only 8 or so babies. Poor guys!! If you note, there is a beefalo among them. I was told that National Geographic did a story on this little guy, - [Goin’ South–A female tale from the desert of the Southwest USA Pt.6](https://demenshea.com/2010/10/04/goin-south-a-female-tale-from-the-desert-of-the-southwest-usa-pt-6/) - Adventure took shape from my childhood dreams about aliens and space monsters, space ships and space travel. I discovered only a few miles from TorC lay VLA or Very Large Array, a radio astronomy observatory located on the Plains of San Augustin, between the towns of Magdalena and Datil, The movie Contact, with Jody Foster - [The vintage styled bikes come of age...2011 Kawasaki W800](https://demenshea.com/2011/01/04/the-vintage-styled-bikes-come-of-age-2011-kawasaki-w800/) - http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=IAl5DO8BcuE Kawasaki Europe has launched a new retro motorcycle, the 2011 W800 that was introduced at the 2010 Intermot Motorcycle Show in Cologne, Germany. With the “old is new again” motorcycle trend, Kawasaki aims to satisfy with the release of the W800, the latest evolution of Kawasaki's W series motorcycles. Kawasaki’s W series can be - [Goin' South! ](https://demenshea.com/2010/09/17/goin-south/) - Another road trip ensues...this time on my NEW bike!!! Follow along with SPOT link. I'll post as able. - [Nora Naraghi: Iran's Female Motorcross Champion](https://demenshea.com/2010/09/29/nora-naraghi-irans-female-motorcross-champion/) - Women exposing any body part beyond the hands and face can be sentenced to up to 70 lashes and two months in prison. Most women are barred from inheritance and the right to initiate a divorce, while men can hold multiple wives. Public buildings often have separate entrances for women and men. Iran is not - [Todays odd find: Steampunk Whirlygig Emoto--ART ON TWO WHEELS](https://demenshea.com/2010/10/22/todays-odd-find-steampunk-whirlygig-emoto/) - A Steam Electric Hybrid Motorcycle built by Tom Sepe in August 2007. Full photographs can be seen on Tom's flickr Page Some other interesting steampunk vehicles can be found here on Adventures in Anachronism. - [Goin' South--A female tale from the desert of the Southwest USA Pt.1](https://demenshea.com/2010/09/30/goin-south-a-female-tale-from-the-desert-of-the-southwest-usa-pt-1/) - Another great adventure began...one of “what comes next”, as I stood helpless watching the State of NV take my father to be evaluated. Well, I guess not helpless, as I could have gone and gathered him up and brought him to live with Gary and me, only life as we know and enjoy it would - [Goin’ South–A female tale from the desert of the Southwest USA Pt.2](https://demenshea.com/2010/10/01/goin-south-a-female-tale-from-the-desert-of-the-southwest-usa-pt-2/) - Ride ideas are sometimes altered. Beatty to LV was miserable, hot, straight and boring, but from LV to St. George was even worse. I believe that every bad driver in both NV and UT were on the interstate. I could hardly wait to get off onto Hwy 89 and then after a few miles of - [Rye, AZ--Collecting gone wild!](https://demenshea.com/2010/11/16/rye-az-collecting-gone-wild/) - In the warm dry heat of Rye, AZ sits one of the largest outdoor collections of motorcycles owned by Ron Adler. The treasure trove is called All Bike Sales, but from what I've been told that's an oxymoron because Ron isn't much of a salesman. He believes there are at least 9000 motorcycle stashed there - [Could this really work???](https://demenshea.com/2010/08/28/could-this-really-work/) - hit-air Shock Buffering System * As soon as the rider is thrown from the motorcycle, the airbag inflates and protects rider's neck,back, chest, sides and hip. * Hit-air is rider's wear containing shoulder, elbow and back padding (back padding is only for vests) and airbag system. * Shock-buffering protection system will be activated immediately after - [Cee Lo Green Video...](https://demenshea.com/2010/08/29/cee-lo-green-video/) - This is one highly entertaining video...and an excellent song! ; ) Cee Lo Green - FUCK YOU http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=CAV0XrbEwNc - [A reminder...October is Breast Cancer Awareness Month](https://demenshea.com/2010/09/01/a-reminder-october-is-breast-cancer-awareness-month/) - My new Bandito(a) not sure yet, needed registration and I spend a morning last week at the local DMV. Earlier, I scanned the online site only to discover that I was unable to do anything "online" and appointments were about 3 weeks out, so I saddled up to the counter of the DMV, filled out - [Repost of some very essential safety tips!! ](https://demenshea.com/2010/09/02/repost-of-some-very-essential-safety-tips/) - I posted this way back when, but seeing there are so many new riders on the roadways, I thought it apropos to bring it back! Safety is NO JOKE, and all of us need to practice our skills and practice them again!! Ride Safely, everyone!! Being a huge fan of David Hough's Proficient Motorcycling and - [One solid Vespa!! WOW](https://demenshea.com/2010/09/03/one-solid-vespa-wow/) - You gotta check out how this gorgeous Vespa was made! Carlos Alberta, designer and maker SWEET!! - [WOW...skateboards and motorcycles!](https://demenshea.com/2010/09/10/wow-skateboards-and-motorcycles/) - You be the judge!! Me, I'm impressed! Skating Mountains with Motorcycles from michael amundson on Vimeo. - [Back home from the Southwest ride...sorting photos](https://demenshea.com/2010/09/28/back-home-from-the-southwest-ride-sorting-photos/) - Well, I made it back home and have a zillion pix to sort and then I'll be posting a ride report. I saw some of the most gorgeous country, but then once a desert rat always a desert rat... Teaser... - [From Adversity to experimentation--you can't keep a rider down!](https://demenshea.com/2010/08/03/from-adversity-to-experimentation-you-cant-keep-a-rider-down/) - Lee Bender discovered he had multiple sclerosis in 2007 and knew that as much as he wanted to keep riding skateboards, that it probably wasn't going to happen. Robbed of his foot balance, he found that he could still experience a thrill afterall on the back of a motorbike. This amazing story was run by - [MUST SEE--Girly Ride Video by Tyler Risk](https://demenshea.com/2010/08/14/must-see-girly-ride-video-by-tyler-risk/) - http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Rh8iQm_pwVc - [Bandito ll...am I really going to do this?](https://demenshea.com/2010/08/15/bandito-ll-am-i-really-going-to-do-this/) - Ok...I have been thinking long and hard about a new motorbike and today Gary and I went and looked at a really sweet machine. This bike is a Bandit, of course, a 2007 with 8K miles, givi hard bags, with all the bells and whistles of the newer water cooled, non-carberated model. The only thing - [My new baby!!! Bandito2 ](https://demenshea.com/2010/08/19/2390/) - I picked up Bandit2 late yesterday afternoon and put him to the test. I rode from Windsor over 128 to Spanish Flat, by accident and then onward through Winters making my way via backroads to Sacramento. A lovely inaugural ride, complete with some twistie road, a bit o' freeway and nightfall. He preformed brilliantly!! The - [Big ol' Trucks are our bane](https://demenshea.com/2010/08/23/big-ol-trucks-are-our-bane/) - It was only one year ago, that my friend Tyler Risk was hurt by a semi. It make the awareness of Truckers that much more of a reality for all of us, so when I found this article from 2008, I felt the need to reprint it. Here for all, BEWARE OF BIG RIGS!! Don't - [Thumbs up for the bike--Thumbs down for the ad](https://demenshea.com/2010/08/27/thumbs-up-for-the-bike-thumbs-down-for-the-ad/) - Ducati created a gorgeous new superbike, the 848-EVO. This new bike with all the bells and whistles is the pinnacle of sport bike engineering touting a 140 HP and weighing in at only 369 pounds. In addition to a more powerful engin, the EVO chassis and braking systems have been upgraded. A cross-mounted steering damper - [Girly Ride 2010--Another GREAT ride!](https://demenshea.com/2010/08/12/girly-ride-2010-another-great-ride/) - Girly Ride 2010 came to and end and my face muscles are still sore from all the laughter and smiling! We had a wonderful ride, covered some fabulous CA roads and I personally discovered that if I find the right group to ride with, I quite enjoy a group ride! Group shot taken in Santa - [Going for Montana Floss](https://demenshea.com/2010/08/01/going-for-montana-floss/) - Kluts, who mentioned that he was riding to Montana to see his friend Gurdon (Murph), lit a fire under me. I had to go. I just had to! Following on the shirt tales of my awesome ride in Spain, I figured nothing could compare to those glorious days spent riding southern Espana, that is until - [From Board to Bike](https://demenshea.com/2010/12/04/from-board-to-bike/) - I love stories with a happy ending. I love skateboarding, so I get my full on gratification from this little article found at the NYTimes from the summer. I meant to post earlier, but hey...enjoy it now! - [2010 Pashnit Girly Ride!](https://demenshea.com/2010/08/02/2010-pashnit-girly-ride/) - Well, we are about to embark on another annual Girly Ride via Pashnit Motorcycle Forum! Every year for the past three years, I have organized a ride for the female members of the pashnit forum. This year we will be joined by some of the South Bay Rider women as well as some women I - [Awwww....time to let the ol' boy go](https://demenshea.com/2010/08/18/awwww-time-to-let-the-ol-boy-go/) - Craigslist - [Viajar por España - Part 1](https://demenshea.com/2010/06/22/viajar-por-espana-part-1/) - The most difficult part of my trip to Spain was coming home, though I had missed my husband and looked forward to seeing him and my family. The return flight felt like a blood bank extracting my vital life blood sending it to flow upon the dusty arid plains and mountains of Spain, feeding the - [Viajar por España – Part 3](https://demenshea.com/2010/06/28/viajar-por-espana-part-3/) - The next few days—Granada and the Albaicín I entered Granada hot and tired after a full day of riding the Sierra Nevada Range. The temperatures were rising to a dull 39C / 102F and the traffic of the city made for some confusion and chaos as I tried to negotiate the way to the hotel. - [Viajar por España – Part 2](https://demenshea.com/2010/06/25/viajar-por-espana-part-2/) - Day 3--Motorbiking in Spain The bikes Well, it played out oddly, in that prior to getting the bikes, our rental car's transmission went out with less than 3k on the vehicle and my traveling partner, Ken, had to push it off the roadway as he was alone. In doing so, he injured his back. He - [Map Two of riding Spain](https://demenshea.com/2010/06/20/day-two-riding-map-of-spain/) - View Larger Map - [Map Three of riding in Spain and the longest day--nearly 500k](https://demenshea.com/2010/06/20/third-day-of-riding-and-the-longest-nearly-500k/) - View Larger Map - [Map Four--From Spain to Portugal](https://demenshea.com/2010/06/21/map-four-from-spain-to-portugal/) - View Larger Map - [Countdown to Spain! ](https://demenshea.com/2010/05/13/countdown-to-spain/) - Many of you know that I am about to embark on a trip to Southern Spain, but for those that don't, I'm here to share my excitement!! I have rented a motorcycle from BMW Moto Rental found in several of Spain's larger cities. The bike is a BMW F650GS and the parallel twin should suit - [Travel Gear for Spain! ](https://demenshea.com/2010/05/17/travel-gear-for-spain/) - Well, I leave next week for España! I can't believe how quickly the time has passed, so it's now time to make a test list of gear and pack it into a checked bag for the airport. Here is what it looks like and here is what there is in that mass pile! Riding Stuff - [ATGATT (all the gear all the time!)](https://demenshea.com/2010/05/19/atgatt-all-the-gear-all-the-time-2/) - Once again my friend, AtlasRider, has posted another of his important motorcycle safety videos, ATGATT (all the gear all the time). We hear complaints all the time that it takes too long to gear up or it's too hot, or it's too cold, or it's just too much of a hassle. There is also, the, - [Packing for Spain...amazing!!](https://demenshea.com/2010/05/23/packing-for-spain-amazing/) - I found an article in the NYT that had a flight attendant's demo of packing a carry-on bag. I decided to give it a shot and see if I could pack for a 15 day trip in one bag. It appears that I can! First off, I looked up the airline regulation for the proper - [May 7, International Female Ride Day Ride!](https://demenshea.com/2010/05/08/may-7-international-female-ride-day-ride/) - Up and out with the sun warm on my back, I rode out to Highway 50 wondering where I could ride locally for International Female Ride Day, stay warm and get out of the commuter traffic. Ah, the woes of the unemployed! First stop was at FishWitch Syd's but she was already out. Ok...now it - [STREETMASTERS Precision Cornering Workshop](https://demenshea.com/2010/04/23/streetmasters-precision-cornering-workshop/) - Riders all need improvement as it allows safer more confident riding skills and Streetmasters is the place to get excellent instruction with real world riding experience on the Horse Thief Mile at Willow Springs Raceway in SoCal. I was fortunate enough to have the time on my last tour to drop by and take the - [May (and every other month) is Motorcycle Safety Awareness Month!](https://demenshea.com/2010/05/03/may-is-motorcycle-safety-awareness-month/) - This month, the Motorcycle Safety Foundation would like to remind all riders of a few basic rules to follow to ensure that everyone, riders and non-riders alike, can enjoy a beautiful and safe spring season. 1) Get properly trained and licensed – The best first ride is an MSF RiderCourseSM. Riding is serious fun and - [Friends, Death Valley, Streetmasters and some Awesome CA backroads!](https://demenshea.com/2010/04/21/friends-death-valley-streetmasters-and-some-awesome-ca-backroads/) - They say experience leads to wisdom, however early Tuesday morning, my experience taught me I was lacking in motorcycle maintenance as I prepared to ride off to meet my friend, Bruce in the blooming desert of Southern CA. My battery was as dead as the proverbial doornail. I hadn't ridden the bike for weeks and - [More on the Death Valley Ride](https://demenshea.com/2010/04/24/more-on-the-death-valley-ride/) - The CA Poppy Reserve My travel mate Bruce took some wonderful shots and though I don't usually post other's travel photos, most of these are of me, so why not? This shot was taken as we entered the WildRose Pass area. Amazing how the road seem to just keep going! Riding out toward the Kilns, - [More excellent photos from Streetmasters workshop April 2010](https://demenshea.com/2010/04/25/more-excellent-photos-from-streetmasters-workshop-april-2010/) - I was so impressed with my Streetmastes course, but nothing is better than seeing the fruits of ones labor. Bruce Laidlaw, Streetmasters official photographer got some absolutely wonderful actions shots during the course that I took. He sent me the files, free of charge just for my own enjoyment, however I did think this would - [Best Ride Reports Ever!!](https://demenshea.com/2010/04/05/best-ride-reports-ever/) - My pal Frenchy's ride log, "Riding, Ranting and Repeating. Awesome!", truly is AWESOME! He is simply one of the best writers around and his ride reports border on the edge of hilarity, insanity, and a just plain killer read. Find out for yourself! His latest The Road To Wrestlemania XXVl ENJOY!! - [FIM introduces "Women Ride" campaign promoting women in motorcycling](https://demenshea.com/2010/04/08/fim-introduces-women-ride-campaign-promoting-women-in-motorcycling/) - FIM Fédération Internationale de Motocyclisme (International Motorcycling Federation) has launched a "WOMEN RIDE" video to promote women in motorcycling. This new video highlights Leslie Porterfield (FIM Speed World Record Holder), Livia Lancelot (FIM Women's Motocross World Champion) and Laia Sanz (FIM Women''s Trial World Champion) "This campaign is the fruit of a joint project between - [2010 International Female Ride Day--Just Ride!](https://demenshea.com/2010/04/10/2010-international-female-ride-day-riding-to-success/) - "The 2010 International Female Ride Day is just a few weeks away and women all over the world are getting prepared for the global occasion. More countries are expected to join in and more women are setting up activities for Friday May 7th. “Even more women are riding this year, as you might well imagine, - [Off to Death Valley and a refresher course with Streetmasters!](https://demenshea.com/2010/04/12/off-to-death-valley-and-a-refresher-course-with-streetmasters/) - Tomorrow morning I'll be heading south to DV to do some riding with a friend and then to attend a day of riding the track working on ridding myself of bad habits and polishing up the good with Streetmasters Precision Cornering Workshop. The desert wildflowers are supposed to be opulent and magnificent right now as - [Draggin Jean's new Slix riding jeans for women--nice looking but a stifling price tag! €185.00](https://demenshea.com/2010/04/01/draggin-jeans-new-slix-riding-jeans-for-women-nice-looking-but-a-stiff-pricetag/) - I have to admit I find these draggin jeans Slix for women intriguing, however the price is nearly prohibitive when you consider that it will buy you an excellent pair of touring pants with less fashion flair but more practical safely considerations at €185.00 which translates to us in the US to $249.00. Draggin jeans - [Stop N Go Pocket Tire Plugger...if you have it, you'll NEVER need it!!](https://demenshea.com/2010/04/02/stop-n-go-pocket-tire-plugger-if-you-have-it-youll-never-need-it/) - I have carried a tire plugger kit forever and the ONLY time I have ever needed it, I didn't pack it. So, I believe the way to keep your tires healthy and content is to always carry a plugger kit with you! ; ) The Stop N Go Pocket Tire Plugger is a wonderful tool - [Going to Spain!!](https://demenshea.com/2010/03/26/going-to-spain/) - I'll be motorcycle touring Spain, leaving May 28 and returning June 13. I can't believe it!! I am so fortunate to be able to have this trip of a lifetime, upcoming. As I get ready for this journey, I will be posting routes, gear etc as I go along. First off, I'll be taking a - [CA Govenator offers $1500 rebates on qualifying electric motorcycles!](https://demenshea.com/2010/03/29/ca-govenator-offers-1500-rebates-on-qualifying-electric-motorcycles/) - "Californians will now be eligible to receive a $1,500 rebate when they purchase qualifying electric motorcycles. Last week the Governator, Arnold Schwarzenegger, helped to promote Zero Motorcycles, which are the first electric bikes to qualify for this rebate. This means that the Zero DS dual Sport Motorcycle and the Zero S Supermoto, will be available - [A Harley what? An interesting neighborhood find](https://demenshea.com/2010/03/30/a-harley-what-an-interesting-neighborhood-find/) - I was out today and saw this. It's a one of a kind, made with love according to a pal of the owner. There is certainly lots of interesting stuff going on in the design. I love the bottle caps at the at the top of the forks. - [GearChic--Joanne Donn's website dedicated to providing information and reviews about women's motorcycle gear!](https://demenshea.com/2010/03/28/gearchic-joanne-donns-website-dedicated-to-providing-information-and-reviews-about-womens-motorcycle-gear/) - Joanne Donn is all about giving women the straight dope on motorcycle riding gear. An avid rider who works as an MSF rider coach as well as maintaining a career in the apparel department at Scudaria West, a San Francisco motorcycle dealership. She provides women riders the opportunity to speak their mind on her womencentric - [Lightening: a motorcyclist's nemesis!](https://demenshea.com/2010/03/17/lightening-a-motorcyclists-nemesis/) - I found this article on Think Bike And felt it was worth reprinting here, for those that follow my blog. I was of the false impression that you were relatively safe on a motorcycle in a lightening storm, for what reason? Mostly because of what I had heard about being safe on rubber. Well, as - [ATGATT--All the Gear all the time](https://demenshea.com/2010/03/24/atgatt-all-the-gear-all-the-time/) - Nothing like another excellent example for the Brits regarding all the gear all the time riding. I am an ATGATT rider. I totally believe in protecting myself as well as I am able. Good gear should be part of every riders budget when buying a motorcycle. Once you have it, wear it! Even that little - [My friend FishWitch Sydney's True American Road Trip Video!!! BRAVO and GOOD LUCK!](https://demenshea.com/2010/03/25/my-friend-fishwitch-sydneys-true-american-road-trip-video-bravo-and-good-luck/) - Polaris Industries, the makers of the Victory line of motorcycles is holding a contest contest called "The Great American Road Trip". The judges will evaluate and score all Submissions received based upon the following criteria: quality of idea (50%); creativity of destinations and route traveled (25%); and feasibility of actual execution of the road trip(s) - [Atlas Rider captured an actual DMV skills test to receive an motorcycle endorsement](https://demenshea.com/2010/03/31/atlas-rider-captured-an-actual-dmv-skills-test-to-receive-an-motorcycle-endorsement/) - For those of you that wondered what a DMVmotorcycle license test is like, here is Atlas Rider'sactual exam from Arizona. I must admit, it certainly doesn't encompass many of the skills needed to actually ride a motorcycle on the street. This is the most basic of skills test, just enough to give one a license - [A gentle & lovely first ride of the 2010 season!](https://demenshea.com/2010/03/18/finally-a-real-2010-first-ride/) - I can't believe it is already mid March and I haven't been out riding but for a few short rides. Today, I was on a mission. Let's go see if there are wildflowers in bloom in the foothills since I am seeing CA poppies popping up all over the place. It was a chilly morning, - [What a GREAT first bike for any new rider!](https://demenshea.com/2010/03/02/2036/) - While immersed in personal issues, I have found myself neglecting my blog. My new mantra...I will do better!! I have recently discovered a very good looking beginner bike for all. This bike is a Suzuki TU250X. You can find a good review of the bike in motorcycle.com The bike is an air-cooled, SOHC, fuel-injected, five-speed, - [Back ROADS? Adventure riding in India! Wow!!](https://demenshea.com/2010/03/04/2040/) - This is when i realize that I really don't know *tough* - [Oh those Brits!!! Think Biker](https://demenshea.com/2010/03/07/oh-those-brits-think-biker/) - I swear, we could seriously take a lesson from the British here, on motorcycle safely campaigns. I have seen other safety ads, but none with as much humility and humor as this wonderful "Think Biker" ad. BRAVO!! - [Daylight Saving Time...sez who?](https://demenshea.com/2010/03/14/daylight-savings-time-sez-who/) - Ok, I get it. For the hunter gathers daylight saving time could have been beneficial, that is if they gave a damn about time at all. But for us, in the world of today, what exactly are we saving except time that could have been spend not worrying about changing the time. I swear, I - [Thank You St. Vincent Hospital, Portland Oregon!](https://demenshea.com/2010/01/10/thank-you-st-vincent-hospital/) - One of the most inspiring breast cancer awareness videos ever! Watch and join the fight against breast cancer! - [Heads Up Everyone!!](https://demenshea.com/2010/01/29/heads-up-everyone/) - The AMA just released a new video. Watch and learn!! - [Stop, Signal, Manoeuvre 1960's British Motorcycle Safety Video! ](https://demenshea.com/2010/02/02/stop-signal-manoeuvre-1960s-british-safety-video/) - I don't know...Tom may be safe, but he seems a bit stodgy to me. - [The Art Deco Motorcycle--BMW R7](https://demenshea.com/2010/02/05/the-art-deco-motorcycle/) - The BMW R7 was indeed a treasure demonstrating the sleek styling of the bygone Art Deco area. Crafted in 1934 by design engineer Alfred Böning whose vision was a departure from the "bicycle with motor" design still prevalent in the 1930s. The R7 incorporated sweeping enclosed bodywork, a pressed steel frame, valanced mudguards and then-innovative - [Long winter, or so it seems!](https://demenshea.com/2010/02/12/long-winter-or-so-it-seems/) - Man, it's been a long winter this year, but maybe part of that is because my life has been so full of turbulent storms! My father this year is showing signs of demenshea and my ol' yellow tabby developed diabetes, so I am been immersed in health care of one form or another. Phew. I - [I always dreamed of a "black panther" motorbike!! ](https://demenshea.com/2010/01/05/i-always-dreamed-of-a-black-panther-motorbike/) - Well, I have seen some interesting custom bikes, but this one is just plain bizarre. Looks damn uncomfortable to me, and I can't even imagine the conversations it would stimulate!! - [Couch Potato Ride--Bakersfield to Sacramento--the last leg home](https://demenshea.com/2009/11/25/couch-potato-ride-bakersfield-to-sacramento-the-last-leg-home/) - I arrived in Bakersfield just before nightfall for the second time on this trip. My night riding skills were quickly becoming quite honed. Rigs Law Dawg, Mark, talked me in to his home and I was quickly welcomed my his wonderful family, both human and canine and after a nice meal, I quickly settled in - [Couch Potato Ride--Cambria to Twentynine Palms](https://demenshea.com/2009/11/19/couch-potato-ride-cambria-to-twentynine-palms/) - Santa Rosa Creek Rd Hwy 58 Moto-immates or my friend Mark! My pal Marion had to work but after a nice dinner with Kris at a local Mexican restaurant, I was treated to a “ride along” with Marion in her big “cop” cruiser, got to check out the interior of the local drunk tank, without - [Couch Potato Ride--Twentynine Palms to Salton Sea and Back](https://demenshea.com/2009/11/20/couch-potato-ride-twentynine-palms-to-salton-sea-and-back/) - Up early and hangover free made this rider easily road ready. I wanted to further explore Joshua Tree NP and then make my way to the Salton Sea. I really wasn’t sure what to expect from this diversion, but I was looking forward to seeing some different country and with that I was not disappointed. - [Couch Potato Ride--Twentynine Palms to Death Valley then on to Bakersfield](https://demenshea.com/2009/11/22/couch-potato-ride-twentynine-palms-to-death-valley-then-on-to-bakersfield/) - Morning broke with sunshine and a slight breeze making me extremely pleased, however when I took my first load out to the bike, I was struck by how chilly the air felt. It was a brisk 30 degrees! I broke out the gerbing gear and connected my dual controller to the bike and unconnected the - [Support the AMA Motorcycle Hall of Fame and win a vintage motorcycle](https://demenshea.com/2009/10/25/support-the-ama-motorcycle-hall-of-fame-and-win-a-vintage-motorcycle/) - One way to support the AMA Motorcycle Museum and win a chance of owning a cool vintage motorcycle is by entering one of their raffles. Tickets are $5 bucks each or 5 for $20 bucks. The lucky winner will be chosen in a random drawing during AMA Vintage Motorcycle Days at the Mid-Ohio Sports Car - [MIA--but a GREAT family visit!](https://demenshea.com/2009/11/02/mia-but-a-great-family-visit/) - I haven't posted for the past few days due to my oldest son and family being here for a visit! Here are a couple of shots from the Halloween weekend. First the pumpkins and then the grandboys ready for tricks or treats! - [Motorcycle First Aid](https://demenshea.com/2009/11/07/motorcycle-first-aid/) - For many riders across the country, the time has come to store the bike and dream about the spring, but it is also a good time to restock your first aid kit and check your other emergency motorcycle items like your tools and tire repair kit. The most common motorcycle injuries are burns, abrasions, and - [Italian police riders putting on a motorbike display in the 50s.](https://demenshea.com/2009/11/08/italian-police-riders-putting-on-a-motorbike-display-in-the-50s/) - For those of you that haven't seen this...take a moment and enjoy!! - [Bored? This ought to entertain...](https://demenshea.com/2009/11/10/bored-this-ought-to-entertain/) - Darn, I wish I could find one of these!! Self-assembling and all the while accompanied by Peter Gabriel, now what could be better! - [Gotta get offa my couch!!](https://demenshea.com/2009/11/14/1912/) - Nothin' like your own coffin couch... Well it seems I have been running out of steam lately for blog updates. I suppose the lack of "travel", since this is a travel blog has contributed as well as my tendency to stay indoors as soon as the weather begins to get chilly. I am a serious - [The Couch Potato Ride...](https://demenshea.com/2009/11/16/the-couch-potato-ride/) - Ok, I am really gonna do it. I am getting offa my couch and away from my computer, sort of (since I ride with a laptop) and taking a moto loop through CA. This girl is going to the Salton Sea!! The weather outlook is good. Here are maps to my route: Sac to Salton - [Couch potato Ride--Sacramento to Cambria](https://demenshea.com/2009/11/18/couch-potato-ride-sacramento-to-cambria/) - This has been one of the more difficult ride reports to write, as they usually flow each evening as I retrace my thoughts. However, this oddity of a ride began with my dragging my feet, not literally but metaphorically as I was having a really slow start fraught with bizarre issues beginning with my possessed - [Motorcycling becomes an ART](https://demenshea.com/2009/10/19/motorcycling-becomes-an-art/) - How does one define the art of motorcycling? I suppose one way is by expressing the thrill of the ride with actual motorcycles mounted in a gallery space. That is exactly what Sam Strauss-Malcolm and Tyler Poniatowski decided to do at the 24x3 Gallery located at 26 Broadway, Brooklyn, New York. Is it art? You - [Boardtrack Racing, anyone?](https://demenshea.com/2009/10/20/boardtrack-racing-anyone/) - In reading about Harley Davidson's economic downturn as reported by the Huffington Post, I discovered a little piece of Harley history, that I knew nothing about, Boardtrack Racing! The first competitive venue for Harley was in boardtrack racing where the tracks were made out of wooden boards, and the first one in the country was - [Barack Obama and an Enertia](https://demenshea.com/2009/10/21/barack-obama-and-an-enertia/) - Brammofan sez it all, but I loved the picture whether real or not and had to repost it along with this quote from my hero Michelle Obama, "Although the President could not be reached for a comment, Michelle Obama’s press secretary said that the First Lady does not approve of him not wearing a helmet, - [Bat outa Hell?](https://demenshea.com/2009/10/24/bat-outa-hell/) - I know, i know...it's nearing Halloween so what better time to display the new, "tada" Official Batman Motorcycle Gear! Batman: The Dark Knight Motorcycle Gear Features: - Strong Cordura Mesh Base with Heavy-duty 4 way stretch Spandex inserts. - Removable CE Approved Body Armor in both Jacket and Pants - Highly detailed, removable lightweight interior - [GREAT Buell deals being found!](https://demenshea.com/2009/10/22/great-buell-deals-being-found/) - This price sticker was spotted by Asphalt and Rubber in the SF/Bay Area. So, its a great time to go out and pick up a steal of a deal on a new Buell. Sadly, if there had been more interest in the first place we might still see the Buell being made, but for the - [A sad day for Buell as Erik Buell announces the end of Buell production](https://demenshea.com/2009/10/15/a-sad-day-for-buell-as-erik-buell-announces-the-end-of-buell-production/) - Founder of Buell Motorcycles, Erik Buell, announces the end of manufacturing for the Buell line of American sportbikes such as the Buell 1125R, 1125CR, XB Firebolt, Lightning and Ulysses motorcycles. This comes as a shock to many who found this line of motorcycles the only acceptable bikes now made by Harley Davidson. Erik Buell speaks. - [Support Breast Cancer Research by joining Team Demenshea at the Army of Women!](https://demenshea.com/2009/10/17/support-breast-cancer-research-by-joining-team-demenshea-at-the-army-of-women/) - Support Team Demenshea in the quest to recruit as many women as possible during National Breast Cancer Awareness Month and by doing so help me win a PINK VESPA to be used to promote the Army of Women and chronicle my personal journey to recruit women for the Army of Women as they raise awareness - [Reviewing the Night Ride](https://demenshea.com/2009/10/05/reviewing-the-night-ride/) - As it gets darker earlier now, I thought it a good time to review some facts for better, safer night riding. FACTS: 1) Depth perception, color recognition and peripheral vision are compromised after dark. 2) Perception and reaction times increase. 3) Your normally wide field of vision is narrowed to the field illuminated by your - [Winter Riding Tips](https://demenshea.com/2009/10/08/winter-riding-tips/) - For many winter riding means heading to the garage to straddle a trickle charged motorcycle making vhroom vhroom noises. But many of us are lucky enough to be able to ride all year with only a change in riding gear and an aerosol of winter riding strategies, some of which are found below. Ice or - [New Snell Ratings and a few surprises!](https://demenshea.com/2009/10/09/snell-vs-dot/) - I came across an interesting article regarding motorcycle helmet ratings in the US. One that I must say surprised me! Seasoned riders know that wearing a helmet statistically increases our chances of survival if in an accident by 37% according to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration. Most of us cover our heads with a - [Where's Waldo?](https://demenshea.com/2009/10/10/wheres-waldo/) - I felt much like I was trying to find Waldo when I first saw this group AMA shot. After a moment or two, I did find myself, but I never did find Waldo! Click for full size........ - [Women Riders Only Alps & Lakes Motorcycle Tour With MOTORESS](https://demenshea.com/2009/10/11/women-riders-only-alps-lakes-motorcycle-tour-with-motoress/) - This looks like an amazing tour but is limited to only 12 women. I can't imagine that they aren't already fully booked, but if you are interested, now is the time to contact them. Details can be found on the MOTORESS site or Farewell Travel Service - [MSF course especially created for the US Military sportbike riders!](https://demenshea.com/2009/10/14/msf-course-especially-created-for-the-us-military-sportbike-riders/) - Following on the shirt tales of my previous blog post on motorcycle accidents in the US military and sparked by the comment from SGT Matthew Perry, I decided to do some more research to find out exactly what is out there for our armed forces as far as in depth motorcycle training. I did discover - [Best ever Touring checklist!](https://demenshea.com/2009/09/25/best-ever-touring-checklist/) - Atlas Rider who brought us the most humorous but most frustrated "how to pick up a fallen motorcycle" video, has a wonderful touring check list for the motorcycle traveler. I have seen many lists but nothing as conclusive as this one. I hope his list can help many of you as you gear up for - [Minx the new Draggin' Jeans with protection, stretch and a female fit!](https://demenshea.com/2009/09/27/minx-the-new-draggin-jeans-with-protection-stretch-and-a-female-fit/) - Ok...now their ad photo is a bit much, but I do like seeing new riding pants that are designed specifically with women in mind that are nicely fitted, sexy and lined with Kevlar® and Dyneema® for protection. Draggin Jeans renowned revolutionary fibre technology shines in this new Minx model pant. The new Minx were designed - ["Deal" of the Week!](https://demenshea.com/2009/09/29/deal-of-the-week/) - I thought it would be cool to start putting up a "deal" of the week for moto-gear, books, great meal deals, sex toys, you know...whatever! This week, I found two motorcycle jackets on close out at NewEnough's bargain basement. The first is a Joe Rocket "Jet Set" leather jacket. The price is $149.00 with sizes - [Street Vibrations concludes with dull roar not a bang](https://demenshea.com/2009/09/30/street-vibrations-concludes-with-dull-roar-not-a-bang/) - The 2009 Street Vibration Motorcycle celebration brought both revenue and noise into Reno, but this years conclusion was chalked up as a "peaceful event". The final tally showed 72 arrests with alcohol being a factor in most of the offenses, officials said Monday. I suppose considering there were nearly 25,000 bikes in attendance, that arrest - [BRAMMO: Style, Quality, Savings and Earth Friendly...OK, I'm interested!](https://demenshea.com/2009/10/01/brammo-style-quality-savings-and-earth-friendly-ok-im-interested/) - BRAMMO has recently partnered up with the help Best Buy Venture Capital to release a fully electric motorcycle, the Enertia. This machine is slick in design and definitely leaves less of a carbon footprint, however it does seem a bit more moped than motorcycle according to some critics. The BRAMMO machine's designer Craig Bramscher is - [2010 MV Agusta Brutale: Sex on Wheels](https://demenshea.com/2009/10/02/2010-mv-agusta-brutale-sex-on-wheels/) - Now these guys know how to make a state-of-the-art ad!! Even Wired magazine is enamored by this new Brutale, enough to do a damned amazing review of the new 2010 models. - [Sportbikes are NOT for beginners: our military's thorn at home](https://demenshea.com/2009/10/05/sportbikes-are-not-for-beginners-our-militarys-thorn-at-home/) - The Associated Press has a new article reporting on the increased rate of death and accident to off-duty military personnel. With hundreds of motorcycle deaths in the ranks of off-duty marines, soldiers and sailors over the last several years, the military is requiring rider training classes and organizing racing events for a safe adrenaline rush. - [Demenshea can be found on Facebook!](https://demenshea.com/2009/09/14/demenshea-can-be-found-on-facebook/) - I have been meaning to post that I am now on Facebook for anyone desiring more contact with me as Donna Rees aka Demenshea. Please drop by anytime and send me a friend request and I will be happy to add you to my list of pals. As inane as Facebook seems at times, it - [Anyone wanna join me??](https://demenshea.com/2009/09/18/anyone-wanna-join-me/) - Iron Butt Association National Parks Tour Master Traveler Award This sounds ambitious, but it also sounds like a blast. I have already seen about 15 NP or NM are in the last 3 months that would apply to the 50 required parks. I suppose I could try for another 35 in the next 9 months - [Historic Louise Menzer Scherbyn poster found in Canoga, NY](https://demenshea.com/2009/09/22/historic-louise-menzer-scherbyn-poster-found-in-auburn-ca/) - Doug Holland, an Auburn man who reclaims barn wood to make recycled antique wood flooring found an original poster for AMERICA'S FIRST ALL GIRL MOTORCYCLE SHOW held in September 29th 1940, while he was dismantling a barn last July. “I was dismantling a barn back in July,” Holland said, “It was out on Route 89 - [Hmmm...a sportbike for those that can't shift?](https://demenshea.com/2009/09/24/hmmm-a-sportbike-for-those-that-cant-shift/) - Somehow this seems a tad dangerous and explain to me how a non-seasoned rider would know where to apply these dynamics. "Further, the new transmission delivers the precise acceleration control riders require thanks to electronic control technology that helps ensure smooth, seamless gear changes." I am unsure who this bike is being designed for. I - [Chicks on Bikes: a new book by Christina Shook](https://demenshea.com/2009/09/08/1717/) - When I attended the AMA Women and Motorcycling Conference, I had the privilege of meeting the author Christina Shook whose new book, "Chicks on Bikes" is not only a celebration of female riders, but a candid look at the diversity of women who ride motorcycles. Christina's style flows through the pages, chronicling through candid photographs - [We have all been there, but few of us have filmed it!](https://demenshea.com/2009/09/10/we-have-all-been-there-but-few-of-us-have-filmed-it/) - OK...I know that I have dropped many a bike in nearly impossible situations when riding solo and have had to struggle to get them upright, but I swear nothing quite like what Atlas Rider encounters in this video. I laughed and cried by his predicament only because it was such a human response and trial. - [Day 13 Panaca NV to Carson City, NV--The final leg of a long AMA journey!](https://demenshea.com/2009/09/03/day-13-panaca-nv-to-carson-city-nv-the-final-leg-of-a-long-ama-journey/) - After Randal and Venice gave me a tasty sample of the beauty surrounding them, I decided I needed to get some photos and further explore the area. I got a late start, relaxing all morning, which was wonderful I finally got the bike packed and Randal topped my gas, another wonderful benefit of friendship and - [Day 12--Torrey, UT to Panaca, NV--High Desert](https://demenshea.com/2009/09/01/day-12-torrey-ut-to-panaca-nv-high-desert/) - Day 12—Torrey to Panaca, NV I began fairly early, got the bike packed and was on the road by 8ish, which for me is an accomplishment! Climbing out of Torrey on the scenic Hwy 12, I found the road exhilarating and the bike responsive. I was in my element, sailing free, absorbing the musky aromas - [Days 4 to 8 - AMA Women and Motorcycling Conference...I made it!!](https://demenshea.com/2009/08/27/days-four-to-eight-ama-women-and-motorcycling-conferencei-made-it/) - Redstone to Keystone could have been reached by any number of roadways, but I chose to take Independence Pass, a road that was highly praised by several riders. I chose Hwy 82 to Hwy 24 to Hwy 91 to Hwy 70 getting off on Hwy 6 to Keystone. So, once again I packed up my - [Day 9--Keystone to Cortez, UT](https://demenshea.com/2009/08/28/day-nine-keystone-to-cortez-ut/) - Day Nine—Keystone to Cortez There was a chill in the air as I road out of the 10K foot elevation of Keystone and realized that I would remain in high elevations until I reached the Utah border. Even Mesa Verde area lies between six and eight thousand feet but breathing would be easier than it - [Day 10--Cortez to Torrey](https://demenshea.com/2009/08/29/day-10-cortez-to-torrey/) - Day 10--Cortez to Torrey For some unknown reason I decided to go to Four Corners monument. I had absolutely no idea what was there, but when I arrived and found that the Navaho tribe charged 3 bucks to view the thing, I decided I really didn’t need to see it. It wasn’t that the price - [Day 11--Solace in Torrey](https://demenshea.com/2009/08/30/day-11-solace-in-torrey/) - Day 11—Solace in Torrey I rose to an amazing morning but had heard my phone telling me I had email. I showered and began packing and then went and looked at emails. It was some strange news that had been forwarded so many times that I wasn’t sure what was going on but someone in - [Routing to Keystone, CO for the AMA Women and Motorcycling Conference](https://demenshea.com/2009/08/11/routing-to-keystone-co-for-the-ama-women-and-motorcycling-conference/) - Here are my routes as of today as I ready myself for the AMA conference! The possibilities are nearly endless with so many roads and so little time! I will have a camera full of scenery and the conference and lots to post upon my return. I will do my best to post along the - [Falling into a new career...](https://demenshea.com/2009/08/12/falling-into-a-new-career/) - Ok, now I have heard about actors finding wait person employment as they rung up the career ladder, but this is certainly a new perspective and seems very dangerous and a bit silly, imo. The Times of India released an article on August 2nd about a new MTV show entitled MTV Stuntmania giving stunt women - [Nearly time for the AMA Women and Motorcycling!](https://demenshea.com/2009/08/13/nearly-time-for-the-ama-women-and-motorcycling/) - In preparation for the conference, I got a new camera to document the ride across the country as well as colored highlights in my hair! I be styling now and self-portraits will abound! The camera is a Kodak Z915. It is a clever little camera with a 10X zoom and 10MP. My old Kodak has - [The CO journey begins! Sacramento, CA to Ely, NV](https://demenshea.com/2009/08/15/the-co-journey-begins-sacramento-to-ely/) - Had the bike packed and was on the road by 9am. For those of you that know me, this is a serious feat considering I didn't make my usual 5 trips back into the house for forgotten items! It's amazing when a plan comes together. The one thing I didn't plan was how chilly it - [Day 2--Ely, NV to Moab, UT](https://demenshea.com/2009/08/16/day-2-ely-nv-to-moab-ut/) - The morning came early or maybe I should say the night never ended. Down the hall in the Hotel Ely, a vintage hotel casino, a lively all night party brewed and by 2 am I'd had quite enough. Rather than yell out the door as others had done and been ignored, I put on earplugs. - [Day 3--Moab, UT to Redstone, CO](https://demenshea.com/2009/08/21/day-3-moab-ut-to-redstone-co/) - Since I have a moment...I thought I'd throw up a few more pix! Since I arrived in Keystone and the AMA Women and Motorcycling Conference, it has been a whirlwind of events. Between seminars, test rides, walking in this gorgeous country that winds the heck out of anyone not used to 10K elevations, and meeting - [AMA International Women and Motorcycling Conference--Keystone, CO](https://demenshea.com/2009/08/06/ama-international-women-and-motorcycling-conference-keystone-co/) - Well, it looks as though I will be attending the conference. Now, I have only to route an amazing ride to get there and home. There are soooo many great roads in CO that I can't believe how difficult the task is becoming. I did find this wonderful resource of CO Motorcycle Roads, which is - [Motorcycle Touring on a Budget](https://demenshea.com/2009/08/10/motorcycle-touring-on-a-budget/) - My good friend Anna put together this post on her blog and I wanted to link directly due to the valuable info she has included. She has helped me as I travel with snacks and meals although I don't camp. I am still a motel girl! This is Anna This is her blog with her - [09 Pashnit Girly Ride--Tyler's Purple Ride--The Riders](https://demenshea.com/2009/07/29/09-pashnit-girly-ride-tylers-purple-ride-the-riders/) - Donna aka Demenshea Sarah aka RoxxieRae Keep reading for more pix! Liz--Sarah's amazing MOM! Jamileh DJ aka L2fly Kris aka Viffergyrl Bonnie aka GeoNorski Dona aka One-n Kharon aka Bibendum Holly aka Yikes Susan aka DoubleTrouble Ally aka Ally House Linda aka Tattooed_gal Karyn Suzi aka Girl of Flight Roxanne aka pawprint2104 and her Canine - [09 Pashnit Girly Ride--Tyler's Purple Ride](https://demenshea.com/2009/07/31/09-pashnit-girly-ride-tylers-purple-ride/) - It came and went but was one of the best, most fun, group rides ever and here's the text and pix to prove it. This year’s ride was dedicated to one of last year's ride leaders who, only weeks before this year's ride, was badly injured in a motorcycle accident. When we discovered that "purple" - [Expialidocious](https://demenshea.com/2009/07/09/expialidocious/) - This made my day a little brighter! - [My artistic outlet on the coast!](https://demenshea.com/2009/07/16/my-artistic-outlet-on-the-coast/) - I have been fortunate this week to be able to spend some time at my friend Gurdon's studio in Ft. Bragg. What a treat, an apartment to stay in and an amazing art studio to express myself. I began a painting yesterday...here is the foundation of it. Thus far I am liking where it's going!! - [Girls Recon Ride to Walker over the Sierras](https://demenshea.com/2009/07/10/girls-recon-ride-to-walker-over-the-sierras/) - It began as a simple Recon ride to gather up all the info we might possibly need for the girly ride. I mean, one never knows what one might encounter. The weather was HOT so, let's see how we fair sans the cooling vests!! Holly, Kharon and I left Sacramento late, and decided to slab - [Donna and Gary's Oregon tour!](https://demenshea.com/2009/07/04/donna-and-garys-or-wow-tour/) - After a fairly late start leaving Sacramento, we finally got to Burns OR after staying within the speed limit riding the back roads north bound out of Susanville. We couldn't have had better weather or roads riding Hwy 139 to 299 to 395 but we did see at least 8 CHP on the combination of - [More on Vincents](https://demenshea.com/2009/06/06/more-on-vincents/) - In a attempt to follow up with the Vincent thread, I have some new information to share with you vintage model lovers with a "new twist on an old favorite" as coined by this article. The new Vincent Black Shadow is quite a looker as you can see from the following pix. The Standard Version - [Another Vincent Tidbit](https://demenshea.com/2009/06/10/another-vincent-tidbit/) - In an article in the Los Angeles Times, Susan Carpenter states that vintage motorcycles are being sold at auction, "Now they're paying six figures. And the price increases are happening even as the market for new motorcycles is tanking." Read more here. Even in a down economy, the sexy Vincent shows its class!! This Vincent - [Just back from a tour of OR!](https://demenshea.com/2009/06/26/just-back-from-a-tour-of-or/) - My lack of updates has been nothing intentional. I left for a 12 day stint riding through central OR with my husband Gary. We stopped for a few days in Portland to see family and then met friends near the OR coast for our continued southbound journey. We arrived home only a night ago. We - [10 Hot Weather Riding Myths--BUSTED!](https://demenshea.com/2009/05/29/10-hot-weather-riding-myths-busted/) - Thanks goes to my friend Wild Will at Motorcyclist Cafe for reprinting this important article from Soundrider.com Remember how important it is to stay hydrated and cool when doing summer riding. Get out your cooler gear, but remember to keep covered. ATGATT will not only keep your skin safe but it will reduce sun damage - [You are either in the club or you aren't: Motorcycle Handshakes](https://demenshea.com/2009/09/16/you-are-either-in-the-club-or-you-arent-motorcycle-handshakes/) - You are either in the club or you aren't... Those of you who ride motorcycles will know exactly what I'm talking about here. Those of you who don't - will barely understand this, but just might walk away shaking your head with new knowledge. There seems to be a secret "wave" that oncoming bikers may - [Happy Mother's Day...a bit late](https://demenshea.com/2009/06/01/happy-mothers-daya-bit-late/) - I can't believe I didn't post a special tribute to my mother on Mother's Day, but we were on the road "riding the Grease". Well, damn, I suck but let me post it now as my mom is the BEST and June 1st isn't too late. ; ) Here's to you Mom, the best Mom - [Riding the Grease: UT to NV and the end to a GREAT RIDE](https://demenshea.com/2009/05/25/riding-the-grease-ut-to-nv-and-the-end-to-a-great-ride/) - We knew we needed to do our best to include Bryce NP in this day so after absorbing the complete beauty of Capitol Reef we rode onward toward Bryce. Panguitch was our overnight spot with Kharon's Harold's Place Cabins as our destination. It was a tough job, this trip, and we were doing our best - [Riding the Grease: Colorado to Utah](https://demenshea.com/2009/05/20/riding-the-grease-colorado-to-utah/) - From Cortez and Mesa Verde, we made our way north skirting the west edge of the Rockies. I can only imagine crossing the Rockies, that being a ride in the future. We stopped in Dolores, CO for coffee and encountered yet another restaurant that was about to close. They greeted us with eager enthusiasm, and - [Riding the Grease: Green River, UT to Panguitch, UT](https://demenshea.com/2009/05/21/riding-the-grease-green-river-ut-to-panguitch-ut/) - We left Green River with the wind still howling, but with our tanks full of gas, we felt ready to take it on. Green River is a pretty sad sight of a town that was thriving at one time before the freeway. Now, it is run down, with many closed and boarded up businesses. The - [Riding the Grease: the Great SW Moto Tour](https://demenshea.com/2009/05/13/riding-the-grease-the-great-sw-moto-tour/) - My bike had been packed the previous day, my auspicious exit was, as usual, less than timely. I believe I finally rode out of my “valley of the gods” neighborhood at 1PM riding over Carson Pass to Monitor Pass by way of some fun little Sierra foothill roads. The passes were cold, and I was - [On the Road!](https://demenshea.com/2009/05/12/on-the-road/) - My friends Ara and Spirit reminded me yesterday that I had been off and about and hadn't spoken a word on my blog! The oversight is all mine! I thank you Ara!!! I have been writing behind the scenes but have not yet finished my ride report, but then what is a ride report? I - [Riding the Grease: I get underway...finally](https://demenshea.com/2009/05/14/riding-the-grease-i-get-underwayfinally/) - Well, the bank fiasco was one that ended up taking a serious slice of time and it was nearly noon before I was riding south, heading toward Las Vegas. Lacking the affinity for excitement like Hunter S. Thompson, I was trying to remain high on the highway and the miles simply began to slip by. - [Riding the Grease: Gilbert to Show Low, AZ](https://demenshea.com/2009/05/16/riding-the-grease-gilbert-to-show-low-az/) - Did i want to take the long way or the short way to Show Low? I was dying for twisties after miles of straight roads, but opted for Salt River Canyon up to Show Low and 191 or the windy Coronado Trail for my return to meet Gary in Phoenix. Heading out of Phoenix I - [Riding the Grease: Show Low to Gilbert to Grand Canyon](https://demenshea.com/2009/05/17/riding-the-grease-show-low-to-gilbert-to-grand-canyon/) - I generally rise fairly early so that I may enjoy vibrant colors of daybreak and the morning birds. The air is crisp and clean and unlike any other time of day. I love sitting with my coffee staring into the distance and at the MCB&B the mornings were perfect! Sadly, this was the morning I - [Across the Room sung by Allison Sattinger--WOW!](https://demenshea.com/2009/09/26/across-the-room-sung-by-allison-sattinger-wow/) - Every now and then I hear a musical artist that knocks my socks off. Today was one of those with the angelic, clear and melodic voice of Allison Sattinger. She is a musical force and I am presenting one of her gorgeous melodies, Across the Room. Enjoy!! Thanks go to my British friend, Steve for - [The excitement stirs: 2009 Pashnit Girly Ride](https://demenshea.com/2009/04/23/the-excitement-stirs-2009-pashnit-girly-ride/) - As the excitement stirs for the 2009 Pashnit Girly Ride which is scheduled for July 24-26, I sat revisiting last years ride details and discovered an entire set of photos of which I had never posted. I believe the time has come for these pix to be unveiled! Last year our scheduled route, the details - [Preperation for another epic ride, this one to the great SW](https://demenshea.com/2009/05/04/preperation-for-another-epic-ride-this-one-to-the-great-sw/) - Well, the time has come to go and visit my father in Yerington, NV and with that event another road trip shapes up! To Yerington and back to Sacramento is about a 400 mile round trip and with the beautiful Spring weather, it seems totally appropriate to extend the ride to 3K and take in - [Music I just added to my ipod!](https://demenshea.com/2009/04/29/music-i-just-added-to-my-ipod/) - Thanks to my friend Sarah...i have found the Dresden Dolls. What a delight! The Dresden Dolls - Coin Operated BoyUploaded by Michel_Pougnou - [International Female Ride Day](https://demenshea.com/2009/04/15/international-female-riding-day/) - Motoress.com, a Canadian website for female riders initiated May 1 as a female ride day, a concept to connect women with motorcycling. The dream was to have it grow and become celebrated on an international scale. Well the dream is now being realized and there are thousands of women riders in many countries around the - [Shameless self-indulgence Ride Video](https://demenshea.com/2009/04/16/shameless-self-indulgence-ride-video/) - Random Post Day!! A goofy video view of the culmination of my years of riding!! Plus the accompaniment of Iggy Pop and some of CA's best ever roads!! Woohoo!! - [Agirl's Amazing 2007 Adventure to Alaska](https://demenshea.com/2009/04/18/agirls-amazing-2007-adventure-to-alaska/) - I have always held a respectful fascination for women who take to the road solo. Especially given there aren't many, however when a female rider takes the road to Alaska solo, then she has really gained my undivided attention! Agirl began this journey and for all but two weeks rode alone covering 12K. WOW! I - [Things I hate to see...](https://demenshea.com/2010/12/04/things-i-hate-to-see/) - This pic and video has been circulating around the internet for some time, but just recently i found it captioned as such. Sadly this is classic misogynist behavior, unchecked and unleashed. I can't argue that this woman is highly unprepared to ride a motorbike, but her lesson is difficult enough just by toppling off the - [Face Plant](https://demenshea.com/2009/04/12/face-plant/) - In my web wanderings I come across some pretty interesting items, but this one I felt I must pass on!! It seems that Dainese and AGV have launched what they are calling the MyFace Project. The project allows motorcycle racing fans to make his or her own helmet unique by personalizing it with a photo - [What is art??](https://demenshea.com/2009/04/11/what-is-art/) - Funny, being an artist myself I never thought much about the crossover between my two passions, art and motorcycles, but suddenly I find myself in contemplation. A friend of mine sent me a link to a woman rider who is also an artist by trade. She is a painter. Her latest venture into the art - [I dropped my bike, now what??](https://demenshea.com/2009/04/13/i-dropped-my-bike-now-what/) - Last year, while living in Reno, I decided to take a quick ride, out of the city in the spring sunshine. There aren't many ways to go out of Reno, and really only two fun roads until you get to the Sierras. I was heading to one that led to Virginia City. I made it - [Ready, Set, Go! Bike essentials for a new riding season! ](https://demenshea.com/2009/04/24/ready-set-go-bike-essentials-for-a-new-riding-season/) - Ok...wake up sleepyheads and have a good long stretch. Here on the west coast it's time to rise up from our of our winter slumber and get our bikes ready for a new and wonderful riding season! Here are 5 essential tips to get ready. 1) Change oil and filter. There’s a lot of discussion - [New CMSP Site](https://demenshea.com/2009/04/25/new-cmsp-site/) - The California Motorcycle Safety Program has remodeled its site just in time for the 09 Spring riding season. "The California Motorcyclist Safety Program trained 70,469 students in 2008, an 11 percent increase over 2007, setting what is believed to be the record for most students trained in a year by any state program. The CMSP - [Got Skilz? Try designing a motorcycle...](https://demenshea.com/2009/04/14/got-skilz-try-designing-a-motorcycle/) - BMW Motorcycles is sponsoring a competition as part of a scientific study on innovation processes. There are prizes and money awarded. What they are looking for is the "perfect" motorbike of the future, what features it should have and how much it will cost. "Break free from common conceptions and let your imagination fly! Take - ["How NOT to Crash" by Ianisme ](https://demenshea.com/2009/04/03/how-not-to-crash-by-ianisme/) - OK everyone, as promised here is the follow up article. Taking a cue from the first article, we have decided there are basically 3 types of crash. The highside, lowside and impact. The best form of surviving these crashes is to try and avoid them in the first place. These are a few ideas I - [Interesting site: Lipstick and Wanderlust](https://demenshea.com/2009/04/05/interesting-site-lipstick-and-wanderlust/) - In my web wanderings, I find many interesting items, some motorcycle related others not. Considering this is a motorcycle blog, I try my best to keep everything posted motorcycle-centric. Well, while surfing, I discovered this site Lipstick and Wanderlust by Beth Whitman, offering encouragement, travel-tested information and lighthearted anecdotes drawn from her twenty years (and - [Harley's Financial Woes](https://demenshea.com/2009/04/04/harleys-financial-woes/) - The NYTimes ran an article in the Economy section a couple of weeks ago entitled Harley, You're not getting any Younger. Being interested in all brands of motorcycles, I dove into the article. The story told how Harley's core customers, the aging baby boomers, are currently unwilling to shell out 20K plus for a "big - [Does this bike make my A$$ look fat?](https://demenshea.com/2009/04/06/does-this-bike-make-my-a-look-fat/) - I had a day to consider this post and what it should contain and, after great consideration, say this: What exactly is a "motorcycle for women"? I combed an entire web site only to discover that "motorcycles for women" are distinguished solely by virtue of slick paint jobs and accessories! Huh? I was under the - [See Spot Run](https://demenshea.com/2009/04/07/see-spot-run/) - Yesterday was an odd day. I spent hours and copious amounts of cash at Sears buying tires for our sole car. Our GM vehicle with a mere 40,000 miles awakened one morning last December seized. The GM dealer asked me if I wanted the good news or the bad news. Being the optimist, I asked - [Wanting and Needing](https://demenshea.com/2009/04/09/wanting-and-needing/) - For the past decade I have found myself juggling between wants and needs. I want everything but need little and trying to distinguish between the two is often a bone of contention. In wanting, I seem to think more is better or, as my art studio partner used to say, "too much is not enough". - [International Women and Motorcycling Conference](https://demenshea.com/2009/04/10/women-and-motorcycling-conference/) - This coming August 19-22 Harley Davidson and Buell are hosting the AMA premier event for women in Keystone, CO. This will be the fifth International Women and Motorcycling Conference and will be offering state-of-the-art amenities and world-class riding in the heart of the Rockies. The cost of the four day event is $165 until 8/03/09, - [Need a moto-chair?](https://demenshea.com/2009/03/29/need-a-moto-chair/) - While surfing the web the past couple of days, I discovered that when you do a blanket search into a browser you are playing bingo. You either get more of what you need or something totally unrelated. Either way can be entertaining. I was entertained by what I considered some very interesting home furnishings. Once - [Crashing: Ways to avoid it!](https://demenshea.com/2009/04/01/crashing-ways-to-avoid-it/) - This is going to be part one of a three part post: Today--Crashing: Ways to avoid it Tomorrow--How to Crash Day After--How not to Crash I believe that everyone will take some information from all of these posts with irreverent fun, but serious overtones. How many times have we all heard: it's not if, but - ["How to Crash" by Ianisme](https://demenshea.com/2009/04/02/how-to-crash-by-ianisme/) - Now before some of you start waffling on about not crashing in the first place, this thread is designed to help when fate overtakes desire and you end up tasting tarmac. I plan a followup article with the opposite title. There are several ways to crash but your reactions to all of them will be - [A Motorcycle Ride Back in Time](https://demenshea.com/2009/03/30/a-motorcycle-ride-back-in-time/) - Yesterday four friends braved the spring winds to take a cool jaunt into history. By that I mean we traveled to visit a Civil War Re-enactment preformed in Knights Ferry, about 100 miles south of Sacramento. The route we took was less than direct so we could incorporate some of the twistier roads and avoid - [March - Back roads riding with Gary](https://demenshea.com/2009/03/27/march-backroad-riding-with-gary/) - Today, my general dislike of riding with others had a face lift. I went riding with my husband and had a delightful ride, right in our own backyard. We shot over to the gold country and traversed several back roads crisscrossing between farm country, hillsides, dams and tiny towns. The wildflowers were in full regalia - [Can-Am Spyder: Three wheeled Motorcycle, open air race car, or what?](https://demenshea.com/2011/03/17/can-am-spyder-three-wheeled-motorcycle-open-air-race-car-or-what/) - A friend of mine, Tyler Risk, began riding a Can-Am Spyder about a year ago, after a devastating motorcycle accident, one she was fortunate enough to survive. She surprised everyone as she healed by getting on another steed of her choice: a Can-Am Spyder. She chose this vehicle, one that was more stable than a - [Motorbikes for the height challenged rider](https://demenshea.com/2009/03/23/motorbikes-for-the-height-challenged-rider/) - When looking for a properly fitted motorcycle, the road is ultimately frustrating and endless and any information we can have provided for us truly makes the road less challenging! I have a friend who is experiencing just this dilemma as she searches for a motorbike, that isn't a cruiser styled machine. The motorcycle manufacturers are - [Riding Solo: A woman's perspective](https://demenshea.com/2009/03/24/riding-solo-a-womans-perspective/) - I can't tell you how many times I have heard, "aren't you afraid to ride alone?" Well, the answer to that query is complicated. Though I don't harbor any fears about riding alone, I do try to minimize the risks with proper gear, a charged cell phone and a SPOT GPS tracking device. I keep - [Confessions of a solo female rider...](https://demenshea.com/2009/03/25/confessions-of-a-solo-female-rider/) - Today my husband asked if I wanted to go for a ride up into the Sierra foothills traveling over some of the most fun of our local roads and my knee-jerk reaction was why not? But the more I pondered the route, the roads, the ride, the less interested I became and before I knew - [The amazing SPOT personal satellite tracker](https://demenshea.com/2009/03/19/the-amazing-spot-personal-satellite-tracker/) - After many miles of riding solo, I came across what I consider to be one of the best personal safely devices for anyone who rides the road less traveled. This device is a SPOT personal satellite tracker. Spot functions are as follows: Alert emergency responders to your GPS location Sends and saves locations allowing contacts - [Distance Touring - What to pack?](https://demenshea.com/2009/03/20/distance-touring-what-to-pack/) - I was thinking that with the weather getting better and spring approaching, it was time to rethink how to pack when distance traveling via motorbike. I find my most successful packing experiences are ones that I actually think out and lay out and look at, then cut back by 1/2. Less is better when moto-traveling, for less weight on the bike and less to schlug into wherever you are overnighting. - [Harleys and Women Riders](https://demenshea.com/2009/03/21/harleys-and-women-riders/) - Statistics purport that by virtue of motorcycle sales the Harley Sportster is the motorcycle women choose most often. In 1990, 4% of all Harley-Davidson motorcycles purchased were by women, today women account for nearly 12% of new Harley-Davidson sales in the U.S. Out of the 12% of Harley Davidson’s sold to women, the Sportster is - [Apartments created with motorcyclists in mind!](https://demenshea.com/2009/03/22/apartments-created-with-motorcyclists-in-mind/) - Yukio Asari of Love Architecture. has designed an apartment building in Setagaya, Tokyo specifically for motorcycle riders. The three story steel framed structure has living space and a narrow garage area on the bottom floor, just big enough to fit a motorcycle, or perhaps a bunch of bicycles. I love seeing the open living style - [Motorcycle Safety via David Hough](https://demenshea.com/2009/03/18/motorcycle-safety-stuff-online/) - Being a huge fan of David Hough's Proficient Motorcycling and More Proficient Motorcycling, I am always thrilled to read his articles that appear in different publications. An acquaintance on one of my motorcycle forums recently posted a link to a Soundrider a northwest rider site, posting a monthly article by David Hough. After scanning a - [Gear gear everywhere but seldom found to fit!](https://demenshea.com/2009/03/17/gear-gear-everywhere-but-seldom-found-to-fit/) - In the past 4 years of riding, I have worn nearly every style of ride gear, from the least protective to the comfortably protective. I have yet to buy serious track leathers with back armor, which I consider to be some of the most protective; however, I ride ATGATT (all the gear all the time) - [Riding at Night: The Twilight Zone](https://demenshea.com/2009/03/31/riding-at-night-the-twilight-zone/) - I found this at TriumphRat.net forum and found it very useful. I imagine most of us have found ourselves off schedule a bit and have had to do some night riding. Others choose night riding, preferring the roads less crowded. Either way, the gentleman who wrote this has some wonderful insight into the "twilight zone". - [Riding with Others: Finding your "Pace"](https://demenshea.com/2009/03/26/riding-with-others-finding-your-pace/) - After posting about why I continue to ride solo most of the time, I thought of all the others that completely enjoy riding with others and how, for many, riding together is what riding is about. This post is for you!! In regards to “the group ride”, as a new rider a few seasons ago, - [AGV Stealth Helmet Review](https://demenshea.com/2009/03/16/agv-stelth-helmet-review/) - Well after nearly a year of riding with the ill fitting Nolan N102, I decided that a new helmet was in order. My helmet history has presented the dark side, with my quick to buy uneducated purchases, so this time I was determined to buy with an enlightened perspective and to buy from a local - [Riding for Mother...to Portland OR and back for Mother's Day](https://demenshea.com/2013/05/18/riding-for-mother-to-portland-or-and-back-for-mothers-day/) - A spontaneous ride emerged with the onset of Mother's Day, since it had been several months since I had seen or spent time with my mother. So, In near perfect weather, I packed up the Bandito, routed a quick map in google and asked Gary to clone it onto the GPS and off I went - [Streetmasters Motorcycle Reunion--what a weekend!](https://demenshea.com/2013/05/04/streetmasters-motorcycle-reunion-what-a-weekend/) - This hasn't been an easy event to write up, due to the superstar nature of the speakers, the days of superior riding and the number of brilliant participants. We had David Hough author of Proficient Motorcycling, Fred Rau, author of Motorcycle Touring Bible, Craig Vetter, from the Motorcycle Hall of Fame, and Dana and Nancie - [Stand by Me](https://demenshea.com/2009/04/19/stand-by-me/) - Every now and then I find something so uplifting of the web, I feel the NEED to share with everyone. This video clip of Stand By Me, is one of those rare finds! When I was in NYC about 13 years ago, I had the pleasure of meeting Roger Ridley. He was a jewel. A ## Pages - [Demenshea](https://demenshea.com/) - Donna's classic motorcycle blog. Written by a woman for women riders. - [About Donna](https://demenshea.com/about-donna/) - This WordPress site, once upon a time, was Donna’s motorcycling blog, from 2009 to 2015. With over 600 posts, Donna chronicled her experiences as a solo female motorcyclist in California via a blog titled Ride Like a Girl on demenshea.com. Below is Donna’s charter and mini-bio, the original About Donna post. And don’t miss the - [Contact](https://demenshea.com/contact/) - Contact Have a question, comment, or just want to say hello? Use the form below to get in touch — we’d love to hear from you! Leave a message First Name Last Name Phone Number Email Address Subject Message Submit - [October - Another Birthday Ride](https://demenshea.com/2007-2/october-another-birthday-ride/) - Well, I celebrated another banner year yesterday, the 20th anniversary of my ____birthday. (fill in the blank with whatever you feel is appropriate) I’ll never tell. I had plenty of work piled up, but felt compelled to put it all on hold, play hooky and go riding. After all, the weather begins her change and - [August - New Pony in the Stable](https://demenshea.com/2006-2/august-new-pony-in-the-stable/) - Ok...u want the long or short version? Long you say... After all the money was counted and the paperwork complete, I went to leave on Nigel my new Sprint ST. Ok...i have been riding a V Star for the last year and prior to that a 250 rebel...i was a "cruiser babe" or "biker chick" - [June - Sacramento, CA to Portland, OR](https://demenshea.com/2006-2/june-sacramento-ca-to-portland-or/) - Adventure: Day 1 Sacramento to Portland A trip contrived by my best friend’s 50th surprise birthday and there was simply no doubt that I must attend. No convenient flights, and a very capable bike and rider. My mother, like many, does not approve, but I decided this is from what adventures spawn, and she would - [January - Lola the new VStar´s inaugural ride](https://demenshea.com/2005-2/0105-lola/) - 8 AM, sun beaming that beautiful diffused morning light and I have work that I know I should do. Gotta get that floral sign done, k….how quickly can I do it? Brew a BIG pot of coffee and get to it! Mixing up paint, slapping it on…ok this probably won't be my most quality work - [May - Riding Nirvana--Pool Station Rd.](https://demenshea.com/2006-2/may-riding-nirvana-pool-station-rd/) - The Wizard of Oz monkeys seem to be flying around my life right now, bringing all sorts of devious news. Though nothing, other than waking up in Kansas, or yesterday's ride around my stomping grounds could have contributed more to secure my well being!! I sailed over my most favorite roads and ended up riding - [June - Weekend in Nevada/Lake Tahoe](https://demenshea.com/2007-2/june-weekend-in-nevadalake-tahoe/) - It was a bit of a crazy weekend. Day one: Friday, while Gary worked, I thought it would be fun to ride up to Sand Harbor at Lake Tahoe and sit at the beach and read. The ride up Mt. Rose was spectactular as usual and the weather seemed perfect. Seemed.... After settling down on - [October - Another Birthday Adventure](https://demenshea.com/2007-2/october-another-birthday-adventure/) - Another birthday and another day to celebrate the meaning of life. Monty Python has us ponder biogenesis with a humorous distain in their film “The Meaning of Life”. From birth to death they cheer on humanity as they work out the kinks of existence. I however, see my life as a glass half-full though each - [November - Twofer One: Sonora Pass and Washington, CA](https://demenshea.com/2007-2/november-twofer-one-sonora-pass-and-washington-ca/) - From Reno, every good road sans a couple of local havens, is a stretch of dull. Simply getting through Reno, takes riding dedication as you anticipate the endless twisties of the Sierras and know that they are at least an hour away. Two weekends in a row Gary and I took to the hills. Our - [September - Callelujah!!](https://demenshea.com/2007-2/september-callelujah/) - Day one...Reno to Klamath Falls (short and sweet) I sleepily wandered to the coffee pot squinting into the morning sun. In a dream-state, I fumbled switching the “on” button. I desperately needed a java jump-start. My morning routine addicted to a good strong cup of coffee was followed by 30 minutes of silence.This morning the - [September - Searching for Fall in Nevada](https://demenshea.com/2007-2/september-searching-for-fall-in-nevada/) - In the Nevada desert autumn quietly tiptoes across the wind-swept sage and you wake up one morning to the sure sign of colder weather to come, when the desert sage blooms for miles in every direction. The sullen summer green is replaced by vibrant yellow to ochre hues filling the air with a dusky aroma - [October - Femmoto](https://demenshea.com/2007-2/october-femmoto/) - I almost didn’t go, figuring I would be odd woman out in an event that highlighted track riding. After all, I had never been on a track. My husband, who believes I am able to do most anything, suggested I give it a shot. My head filled with a list of beneficial reasons while I - [July - Seven States, Two Provinces](https://demenshea.com/2007-2/july-seven-states-two-provinces/) - I love motorcycle adventures. I love the anticipation and preparation and the subsequent glow upon returning home after a successful journey. I love the human interaction encountered while traveling and I love the freedom, most of all. The freedom to take a deep breath of daring, exposing the underbelly of desire found sleeping within, then - [February - Death Valley in seach of warmth](https://demenshea.com/2008-2/february-death-valley-in-seach-of-warmth/) - It had been way too long since my poor Bandit was let out of his garage prison. In addition, my friend Tyler was getting ready to ride to Death Valley with a group from SBR, so I thought it was high time to spring my steed from garage hell, and join the fun! Gary helped - [May - Opening the Sierra Passes](https://demenshea.com/2008-2/may-2008-opening-the-sierra-passes/) - Last fall we rode Sonora Pass a day prior to its closing and yesterday we rode the same pass on the second day of its opening. Amazing how different the same ride could be. It seemed like the perfect plan since we rarely get the opportunity to ride together, so we packed up the bikes, - [May - Pashnit Girly Pre-Ride](https://demenshea.com/2008-2/may-2008-pashnit-girly-pre-ride/) - It's all about the passion... A full week off and a daunting plan, were fodder for a BIG adventure, only escape from Reno, didn’t seem in the plan. My antagonist was windy weather and an aging father whose ability to discern between reality and fantasy produces an ever widening gap. Finally on Thursday, I was - [April - Picking up a Motorcycle Bandit Style](https://demenshea.com/2007-2/april-picking-up-a-motorcycle-bandit-style/) - Much like Gilligan’s three-hour tour, my trip to pick up my husband Gary’s 2000 Bandit 1200 was nothing short of an endless adventure. While he was recovering from a broken wrist from a nasty fall on his trusty V-Strom I was assigned the task of traveling to the city of angels, Los Angeles, to pick - [March - Sprint Abuse](https://demenshea.com/2007-2/march-sprint-abuse/) - I never really aspired to riding on dirt until today and the challenge was met with a hearty, “ok, I’m committed”. Of course I honestly never considered that I wasn’t really on a proper bike for such a ride nor in a proper place. Instead, my first dirt ride was a 15 mile stretch of - [February - Renting Bikes in Arizona](https://demenshea.com/2007-2/february-renting-bikes-in-arizona/) - Gary had to go to Phoenix to work last week and I decided after finding a cheap fare,to join in for part of the week. We rented bikes and got together with Renee (Backmarker) and friends for a day of riding. GREAT IDEA! We gathered early at AZride, a bike rental agency in Scottsdale, that - [2007](https://demenshea.com/2007-2/) - Ride Reports from 2007 - [March - Sacramento the long way](https://demenshea.com/2006-2/march-sacramento-the-long-way/) - My son called from Portland and asked if I could manage a trip to Sac to check their mail for the last time before their postal forward went into effect. I said, "sure". I got up the following morning to an incredible sunrise so donned the gear and dusted off Lola and pulled her out - [2006](https://demenshea.com/2006-2/) - Ride Reports from 2006 - [October - Birthday with FishWitch Syd](https://demenshea.com/2005-2/october-birthday-with-fishwitch-syd/) - October 24 – California Today brings yet another anniversary of my 29th birthday. Sigh…. I remember well the sweetness of my 16th birthday and the significance of my 21st as well as all the banner birthdays that define our character and lust for passion and possibility. But damn it, who is that woman I see - [April - Riding without a Destination](https://demenshea.com/2008-2/april-riding-without-a-destination/) - A day off. No kids needing direction, no immediate demands and a decent day weather wise so what better day to take to the road! I packed up the bike with every intention on taking a few days to do some Nevada spring touring. I have longed to travel to eastern NV touring the Great - [August - 1st Pashnit Girly Ride](https://demenshea.com/2008-2/1st-ever-pashnit-girly-ride/) - This wonderful shot taken by my friend Tyler Risk, owner operator of NorthStar Moto Tours epitomizes the fun and camaraderie we had on this two-day ride that I organized, taking us over some of California's most wonderful Sierra Nevada roads. The ride was planned for a two day tour, beginning in Sacramento, CA and ending - [June - Searching California Backroads with Gary](https://demenshea.com/2008-2/june-searching-california-backroads-with-gary/) - Sun shone in Reno and brought with the rays an warm glow. Lizards danced over the rocks in our back yard and though it was early, I deemed it necessary to awaken Gary and coerce him to ride with me, though he has been sick the past few days. "i know you'll feel better after - [September - The Never Ending Excursion-NV, OR, CA](https://demenshea.com/2008-2/september-the-never-ending-excursion-nv-or-ca/) - The time had arrived. The new house had slowly become a home and we were feeling comfortable. We loved our neighborhood, our yard, and most of all we love what we found in the backyard. Ahhhh, content in CA. Now I needed to check on my father in Yerington and that involved whipping the Bandito - [October - Jamileh´s Birthday Ride](https://demenshea.com/2008-2/october-2008-jamilehs-birthday-ride/) - Yesterday, I had the good fortune of meeting Jamileh for a small tour in my area as she headed to NorCal seeking the best of roads from pashnit. It was her Birthday, which I didn't ascertain until later., that little scamp!! :D We met in Marysville, and rode to Quincy via Quincy LaPorte Rd. We - [October - My Birthday Adventures in CA and NV ](https://demenshea.com/2008-2/october-2008-adventure-aging-a-backroad-adventure/) - Of course the plan was spontaneous as I am never one that actually gets out of town in a timely fashion. I had the bike packed with a moderate amount of garbage and was ready to go by noon, not bad in my estimation, especially considering I wasn’t sure I was going anywhere until 10! - [October - A Bittersweet Journey in Nevada](https://demenshea.com/2005-2/october-a-bittersweet-journey-in-nevada/) - My best high school buddy, Mike has had a bad year and I am certain he will be glad as it rolls to a close in December. He lost his mother at the end of the summer and now his father last week. Both events constituted trips for me to visit my old stomping grounds, - [September - Hurricane Relief Ride](https://demenshea.com/2005-2/september-hurricane-relief-ride/) - Wow, I love to ride and what a great day and reason to ride! Knowing that I could get on my motorbike and take an inspiring journey to our beautiful CA coastline while raising money for those whose coastline was ravaged and whose homes and livelihood were destroyed by Hurricane Katrina. I was proud to - [August - Two Funerals and no Weddings](https://demenshea.com/2005-2/august-two-funerals-and-no-weddings/) - An eventful week took me to Carson City, Nevada, and the town where I grew up, for my friend’s mother’s funeral. I decided to make the most of a sad occasion and ride my newly restored bike. I bungeed on my bag and filled my hard bags. With me I had brought my: Purse Credit - [August - A Woman´s 4 Day Art Adventure](https://demenshea.com/2005-2/0805-a-womans-4-day-solo-nv-adventure/) - Day One I’ve got to have some. We are talking peace and quiet that is. After days of chaos, endless relatives, a funeral service, and relatives grappling for the booty, I felt the need to withdraw from nearly everything. My understanding husband gave me my leave and Lola, my 1100 V Star gave me my - [July - 1st Pashnit Gathering and a Ride in the Sierras](https://demenshea.com/2005-2/the-first-pashnit-gathering-and-a-ride-in-the-sierras/) - What a wonderful time I had meeting all of my moto-compadres at our first ever Pashnit gathering. Upon arrival, conversation began flowing and with each introduction, I was delighted to immerse myself in a grand exchange. I have never been so pleased to meet so many like-minded people embarking on new friendships. Thanks, Tim, for - [July - Post Crash Lola Gets New Life! ](https://demenshea.com/2005-2/july-post-crash-lola-gets-new-life/) - First off a HUGE hand for my man, husband, supporter and friend. U da man!!!! Kudos as well for my friends and supporter who helped to give my Lola a new life! Thank you Rob and John! Right now I am going to gear up and take her out on her inaugural ride and let - [June - The Crash](https://demenshea.com/2005-2/0605-the-crash/) - I hate it when that happens. I took my first spill on my motorbike last week and it definitely left me with an impression. Several paragraphs of impressions, to be sure. The ride began at breakfast at 7:00am Wednesday, where the group was discussing why it’s common knowledge among riders that “it’s not IF you - [April - Ride to Death Valley](https://demenshea.com/2005-2/0405-ride-to-death-valley/) - Ride to Death Valley—Truth or Dare The clock is not my friend, not my ally, nor my conscience. No, the clock instead is my bane. Never mind that when I actually attempt to follow a time constraint I am instead foiled by the clock. Not being my friend, the clock has a way of messing - [April - Group Ride or a Bunch o´Fools](https://demenshea.com/2005-2/0405-group-ride-or-a-bunch-ofools/) - Blues began the morning. Joe Bonamassa cried to me, “he hated to see me go”. But I went anyway. My first group ride and I was ready for it, I had my coffee and a shower and was just about to gear up when I woke “da man” to see if he wanted to join - [February - Riding the Zone](https://demenshea.com/2005-2/february-riding-the-zone/) - I really want a cigarette. I mean I REALLY want one. I fondly recall the drifts and swirls reeling around me like a circle of security, creating a protective barrier between the non-smokers world and me. I long for that feeling, however since quitting smoking over five years ago, I instead go for an espresso - [2005](https://demenshea.com/2005-2/) - Trip Reports from 2005 - [November and December - Newbie Thoughts](https://demenshea.com/2004-2/0105-newbie-thoughts/) - thought#1 Ok….things are getting easier or maybe they just seem more natural like using a potholder when u know the pan it hot. I can smoothly take off now and actually come to a stop without the fragile tipsy shake that was ever present earlier on the actual solid stop. I was told, by an - [October - First Rebel Roadtrip in the Sierras](https://demenshea.com/2004-2/1004-rebel/) - Day one Work or ride, almost no decision at all since my job has been less than satisfying recently, requiring little to no work daily or a ton of unorganized ideas thrown in my direction. Ride easily claimed the day. I grabbed a couple of necessities, clean underwear, sweater, moisturizer and lipstick, jammies, a drawing - [July - My Big Fat Moto Tour](https://demenshea.com/2008-2/july-2008-my-big-fat-moto-tour/) - All systems were go. Packed and ready and bursting with excitement, I cleaned my chain and attended the last details for my upcoming “big fat” solo ride. This was quickly becoming a yearly event, and this year I was about to retrace some of last year’s highlights. Gary, my husband, then shared his news. After - [2008](https://demenshea.com/2008-2/) - Ride Reports from 2008 - [2009](https://demenshea.com/2009-2/) - Ride Reports from 2009 - [2004](https://demenshea.com/2004-2/) - Trip Reports from 2004 - [June - Lost Coast & Hwy 36 Adventure](https://demenshea.com/2006-2/june-lost-coast-hwy-36-adventure/) - Guest post by Gary/motowriter With our kid graduated from high school and out of town for a few days, we planned a spur of the moment romp from the Sac area to Carson City, NV, then up to Hwy 36 and on to the coast. We covered ~970 miles over four days and loved every - [April - First Overnight Ride--A Gary View](https://demenshea.com/2005-2/april-first-overnight-ride-a-gary-view/) - After receiving some excellent feedback and tips on the pashnit forums last week on a planned trip over, we did a last minute weather review Saturday morning and decided against heading northwest. Forecast was for fog and rain on Sunday. While rain is not generally a deterrent, why plan to ride in the rain on ## My Templates - [Kit Styles: Blog Hive - Personal Blog Elementor Template Kit](https://demenshea.com/?elementor_library=global-kit-styles) - [Footer](https://demenshea.com/?elementor_library=footer) - Content area - [Header](https://demenshea.com/?elementor_library=header) - Content area - [Elementor Loop Item #11779](https://demenshea.com/?elementor_library=elementor-loop-item) - Elementor Loop Item #11779 August 9, 2025 12:51 pm Read More - [Block Sidebar](https://demenshea.com/?elementor_library=block-sidebar) - About Los Dos Donna and Gary, an intrepid duo, explore Spain (and soon Europe!)—sharing stories, snapshots, and the spirit of “los dos.” Learn More Recent Posts Yvonne Stagg and Dreamland revisited by Lois Pryce June 21, 2015 Flat Track Racing is alive and well in Sacramento! 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