Get your non-riding friends & family on a motorcycle
One of the issues facing the future of motorcycling in North America is the simple fact that the younger generations, i.e. Millennials and GenZers, are not taking up motorcycle riding like previous generations. The reasons are many and varied, which we have discussed before, but the question remains- what can we do as riders to promote our passion? It’s a question that is increasingly being addressed, by industry leaders as well as everyday motorcyclists.
Cycle Gear, as part of the Comoto network, has come up with a simple avenue and an easy on-ramp for many to check out what motorcycle riding is all about. Begun last year, several CG stores across America are partnering with Motorcycle Safety Foundation and devoting a weekend to giving non-riders a chance to throw a leg over and get a feel for motorcycling, in a controlled environment and with certified riding coaches. Called the “Ride With Us Ride Day Experience”, selected Cycle Gear stores will be providing small displacement motorcycles for a free opportunity to check out the ride we love so much, with instruction and encouragement, this coming Saturday and Sunday, April 11-12, 10am to 6pm both days.
Open to anyone 16 years old on up, the Ride Day Experience gets your non-riding friends and family on a small bike, with some hands-on pro coaching, on a closed parking lot course. Gear is even provided. No reservation, no prior experience necessary, just an easy opportunity for non-riders to experience the thrill of motorcycling.
We think Cycle Gear is on to something with this concept.
Rather than letting motorcycling go the way of the dodo bird in a generation or two, we believe the industry and us as motorcycle riders should get behind efforts like this, and produce more of them. Manufacturers, retail brands, apparel and aftermarket providers, even riding organizations like AMA, MSF and national/state/local motorcycle groups and clubs, should get creative and look at ways like this to share our love of the ride, and pass it along to future gens. Cycle Gear is planning to expand this offering in years ahead. Let’s get on board, support efforts like this, and develop more of them.
For more on Cycle Gear’s Ride Day Experience, and if one might be near you, click here:
I’m a longtime rider and shop at Cycle Gear for most my motorcycle gear. I think what CC as well as MSF is doing is a great idea to encourage future riders.
Thanks for the effort and I hope it is successful.
Totally agree.
This really hits home. I remember how intimidating the whole idea of getting into riding can feel at first. There is so much to figure out between choosing a bike, finding the right riding gear, and simply getting comfortable on two wheels.
What I like about this approach is that it takes away some of that initial pressure. Being able to try a smaller bike in a controlled setting with someone there to guide you can make a huge difference.
I have also spent quite a bit of time browsing motorcycle gear and accessories while figuring out what actually makes sense for riding. 6KIOM came up during that process, and it was interesting to see how many different options are available once you start looking beyond the basics.
Anything that makes that first step less intimidating is a win in my book. More opportunities like this can only be good for bringing new riders into the community.
Agreed, 100%