MRF Alerts

  • 09/25/2018 10:53 AM | Anonymous member (Administrator)


    For Immediate Release

    September 25, 2018

    The Motorcycle Riders Foundation announces the 2018 Freedom Fighter Hall of Fame Inductees

    The Motorcycle Riders Foundation (MRF) is pleased to release the names of the class of 2018 Inductees to the Motorcycle Riders Foundation Freedom Fighters Hall of Fame (MRF HOF). These were presented in Denver at the annual Meeting of the Minds conference.

    To include deserving activists from the motorcyclists' rights community that have already been recognized elsewhere, the class of 2018 Legacy Inductees are: Keith “Bandit” Ball, Mark Buckner, Wayne Curtin, Michael “Balls” Farabaugh, Still Ray Fitzgerald, Richard Gray, Bob Illingworth, Nathan “Buck” Kittredge, Ed Netterberg, Sherman Packard, Todd Vandermyde, Paul Vestal, Penny Walker and Ed Youngblood.

    The first new inductee into the MRF HOF is President of ABATE of Michigan, Vince Consiglio.

    Vince joined ABATE of Michigan in 1975, and almost immediately was elected to the Board of Directors. He had spent almost four decades fighting against the mandatory helmet law in his home state before the victory finally became a reality in 2012. Vince has been a Chief Instructor since 1980 and has managed rider training ever since. He is also the current President of ABATE of Michigan and has held that position for over two decades.

    The Motorcycle Riders Foundation is proud to welcome this inaugural class and wishes to thank all the Freedom Fighters that work so hard to ensure that future generations can enjoy the freedom of the road through motorcycling.

    About Motorcycle Riders Foundation
    The Motorcycle Riders Foundation (MRF) provides leadership at the federal level for states’ motorcyclists’ rights organizations as well as motorcycle clubs and individual riders. The MRF is chiefly concerned with issues at the national and international levels that impact the freedom and safety of American street motorcyclists. The MRF is committed to being a national advocate for the advancement of motorcycling and its associated lifestyle and works in conjunction with its partners to help educate elected officials and policymakers in Washington and beyond.

  • 09/20/2018 4:21 AM | Anonymous member (Administrator)


    For Immediate Release

    September 20, 2018

    Motorcycle Riders Foundation Announces Freedom Fighters Hall of Fame

    Motorcycling remains as one of the last true bastions of Freedom. The independence and exhilaration of being “in the wind” can only be understood and appreciated by those who experience it.

    We all know that “freedom is not free”, and for six decades many people have worked tirelessly to insure the rights of motorcyclists. The patriots of the motorcyclists’ rights movement aren’t in the fight for fame or fortune, which is good, because neither tend to find them.

    There are awards and even halls of fame for motorcycling, but those that work to preserve and protect our chosen lifestyle have often been overlooked in favor of racers and celebrities. We do not question that those folks are deserving of accolades, we are simply stating that the true Freedom Fighters have not received the recognition that they have earned.

    To address this, the Motorcycle Riders Foundation (MRF) is proud to announce the creation of the Motorcycle Riders Foundation Freedom Fighters Hall of Fame (MRF HOF). The permanent display will be housed with other MRF artifacts at the ABATE of Indiana State Office in Bargersville, Indiana.

    The first inductee will be announced at the MRF Meeting of the Minds conference in Denver, Colorado on September 22, 2018.

    Through the years, a number of people from the bikers’ rights community have been a part of various halls of fame and the MRF wishes to include them as well. The MRF HOF will announce a number of Legacy Inductees each year until those deserving recognition in the MRF HOF are featured here, in addition to their previous distinction.

    The MRF wishes to thank our State Motorcyclists’ Rights Organization (SMRO) partners and all of the people that work vigilantly to preserve, protect and promote motorcycling so that future generations can enjoy the freedom of the road.

    For information contact the Motorcycle Riders Foundation at 202-546-0983 ormrfoffice@mrf.org


    About Motorcycle Riders Foundation
    The Motorcycle Riders Foundation (MRF) provides leadership at the federal level for states’ motorcyclists’ rights organizations as well as motorcycle clubs and individual riders. The MRF is chiefly concerned with issues at the national and international levels that impact the freedom and safety of American street motorcyclists. The MRF is committed to being a national advocate for the advancement of motorcycling and its associated lifestyle and works in conjunction with its partners to help educate elected officials and policymakers in Washington and beyond.


  • 09/12/2018 7:26 AM | Anonymous member (Administrator)


    For Immediate Release

    September 12, 2018

    It's Not to late to join us for Meeting of the Minds



    Meeting of the Minds 2018 is only one week away, and we hope that we will see you in Denver, CO.

    If you are considering joining us and have not registered, you can still register online until Friday, September 14th.  After Friday, we can take care of your registration in person in Denver.


    The details:

    • September 20-23rd
    • Renaissance Denver Hotel, 3801 Quebec St., Denver, CO 80207
    • 300 of your closest Freedom Fighters
    • Don’t miss out on our jam-packed agenda (MOTM Agenda)

     

    Here’s what you need to do:

    • Pack your motorcycle.
    • Hit the open road.
    • Join us and other motorcycle rights activists from around the country in Denver, CO.

             

    If you have any questions about Meeting of the Minds 2018, please feel free to reach to Fred Harrell at fred@mrf.org

    Official Sponsors of Meeting of the Minds 2018





    About Motorcycle Riders Foundation
    The Motorcycle Riders Foundation (MRF) provides leadership at the federal level for states’ motorcyclists’ rights organizations as well as motorcycle clubs and individual riders. The MRF is chiefly concerned with issues at the national and international levels that impact the freedom and safety of American street motorcyclists. The MRF is committed to being a national advocate for the advancement of motorcycling and its associated lifestyle and works in conjunction with its partners to help educate elected officials and policymakers in Washington and beyond.

  • 08/30/2018 6:00 AM | Anonymous member (Administrator)


    For Immediate Release

    August 30, 2018

    Passing of Auntie ABATE aka Marlene Bautch


    It is with great sadness that I must inform you that our "Auntie ABATE", Marlene Bautch has lost her battle with cancer.

    Marlene helped guide the direction of ABATE of WI over the last twenty-five years by doing the jobs of Recording Secretary, Newsletter Editor, and Office Manager alongside of six different Executive Directors and twelve elections. Until earlier this year she had attended over three hundred consecutive board of directors meetings acting as Secretary.

    Marlene's work extended far beyond her elected and appointed positions within ABATE of WI Inc. She was a staunch supporter of the Motorcycle Riders Foundation and presented at dozens of workshops hosted by the organization nationally. Several years ago she was awarded the MRF's highest honor, The Farmer Award, for her work towards the success of the national motorcyclists' rights movement.

    As "Auntie ABATE", Marlene sought to offer common sense advice about ABATE of WI and our issues through the words of a sweet old Polish auntie. Her adherence to the rules and bylaws of the organization may have ruffled a few feathers along the way but it also encouraged many regional leaders to work together to grow and make ABATE of WI the legislative powerhouse it is today.

    Marlene's support and knowledge of the organization helped everyone she worked with to maximize their already defective "volunteer gene". Her tireless efforts towards the success of ABATE of WI will be greatly missed. It's going to take a lot of effort to fill her shoes.

    As more information becomes available from her family, ABATE of WI will be sharing it with our great extended family. We offer condolences to her husband Twit and ask that you respect his privacy at this time. 


    We will all miss you Marlene.  


    Dave "Chubby" Charlebois
    Executive Director
    ABATE of WI Inc.


    About Motorcycle Riders Foundation
    The Motorcycle Riders Foundation (MRF) provides leadership at the federal level for states’ motorcyclists’ rights organizations as well as motorcycle clubs and individual riders. The MRF is chiefly concerned with issues at the national and international levels that impact the freedom and safety of American street motorcyclists. The MRF is committed to being a national advocate for the advancement of motorcycling and its associated lifestyle and works in conjunction with its partners to help educate elected officials and policymakers in Washington and beyond.

  • 08/29/2018 3:00 PM | Anonymous member (Administrator)


    For Immediate Release

    August 29, 2018

    Motorcycle Riders Foundation Announces

    Resignation of Vice-President of Government Affairs

    WASHINGTON, DC – Today the Motorcycle Riders Foundation (MRF) announced that Vice-President, Government Affairs & Public Relations Megan Ekstrom has resigned from her position effective October 9, 2018. The Board had appointed Ekstrom to the role in May 2016. During her tenure, she served as the chief association advocate on legislative and regulatory issues at the federal level that impacted motorcyclists’ rights and safety and played a primary role in promoting and expanding the MRF’s government and regulatory affairs missions.

    “I was disappointed in learning of Megan’s departure, as I felt we have indeed made great progress since her coming aboard,” said Kirk “Hardtail” Willard, President and Chairman of the Board. “I genuinely wish her the best and am grateful for her service and assistance in finding a suitable replacement.”

    Ekstrom has accepted a position in global government affairs for Procter and Gamble, a Fortune 50 company, where she will advocate in front of Congress on behalf of their consumer product line and international trade concerns.

    “Leaving the MRF has been a truly difficult decision to make, however with the current staff and leadership within the Board of Directors and state partners, the organization is exceptionally well positioned strategically and is supported by a dedicated membership. I have no doubt that the MRF will continue to be a ‘force to be reckoned with’ in the future,” Ekstrom said of her departure.

    A search committee to identify candidates will be formed in the coming days. The process will be expedited to ensure a smooth transition period between Ekstrom’s departure and the new hire’s start date.


    About Motorcycle Riders Foundation
    The Motorcycle Riders Foundation (MRF) provides leadership at the federal level for states’ motorcyclists’ rights organizations as well as motorcycle clubs and individual riders. The MRF is chiefly concerned with issues at the national and international levels that impact the freedom and safety of American street motorcyclists. The MRF is committed to being a national advocate for the advancement of motorcycling and its associated lifestyle and works in conjunction with its partners to help educate elected officials and policymakers in Washington and beyond.

  • 08/16/2018 9:27 AM | Anonymous member (Administrator)


    For Immediate Release

    August 16, 2018

    MRF President Inducted into Sturgis Motorcycle Hall of Fame

    The Motorcycle Riders Foundation would like to congratulate Chairman of the Board and President of the MRF, Kirk "Hardtail" Willard, on his induction into the Sturgis Motorcycle Hall of Fame during the 78th Annual Sturgis Motorcycle Rally. Willard was the recipient of the "Freedom Fighter Award" which recognizes individuals who have made a long-term, positive impact on the motorcycle rights community.


    If you couldn't attend the Hall of Fame breakfast, you can watch his induction speech by clicking the link below.

    MRF President Kirk Willard Inducted into Sturgis Motorcycle Hall of Fame


    About Motorcycle Riders Foundation
    The Motorcycle Riders Foundation (MRF) provides leadership at the federal level for states’ motorcyclists’ rights organizations as well as motorcycle clubs and individual riders. The MRF is chiefly concerned with issues at the national and international levels that impact the freedom and safety of American street motorcyclists. The MRF is committed to being a national advocate for the advancement of motorcycling and its associated lifestyle and works in conjunction with its partners to help educate elected officials and policymakers in Washington and beyond.

  • 08/08/2018 2:03 AM | Anonymous member (Administrator)


    For Immediate Release

    August 8, 2018

    New Marketing Campaign Launched in Conjunction with Sturgis Freedom Fighter Award


    WASHINGTON, DC Today, the Sturgis Motorcycle Museum will officially induct Kirk “Hardtail” Willard into the Hall of Fame. Willard, Chairman and President of the Motorcycle Riders Foundation, will receive the coveted “Freedom Fighter” award and designation; a special category designated to honor those who have made an impact on motorcycle rights.

    The ceremony will take place at The Lodge at Deadwood in South Dakota as a part of the 78th Annual Sturgis Motorcycle Rally where dozens of Willard’s cohorts will be in attendance; including staff and fellow Board Members for the Motorcycle Riders Foundation (MRF).

    In conjunction with the ceremony, the MRF will launch a new “for a limited time only” promotion and marketing campaign for new and prospective members attending Sturgis. “Through market research and member feedback, we learned that we had a great opportunity at Sturgis to communicate the importance of what this organization stands for,” said Megan Ekstrom, Vice-President of Government Affairs & Public Relations for the MRF. “Under Hardtail’s leadership we have doubled down on our efforts to improve the value of what we deliver to our membership, and we want to use this significant occasion to highlight that.”

    Ekstrom also hinted at future membership benefits like roadside assistance; including 24-hour emergency tire changes, emergency fuel delivery and accident and collision towing. “In today’s world with more and more fuel stations carrying higher blends of ethanol, motorists texting while driving and not paying attention to riders, this is a necessary service for our members.”

    Social media advertising, dozens of volunteers, a promotional video and a one-time discount for new members will complement an updated marketing brochure aggressively stating, “YOUR RIGHTS, YOUR LIFESTYLE, YOUR MOTORCYCLE: UNDER SIEGE.” The modernized and updated brochure will include a letter from Willard, highlight past accomplishments, and offer a plain and simple look and what the MRF does and why. “Our lifestyle as riders is threatened in a way it never has been,” said Willard. “Little by little, riders like you and I are slowly being relegated to history.”

    Willard and the MRF refuse to let that happen under their watch, using the induction ceremony as the official launch for this aggressive “go forward” strategy. The bold move is signature to Willard’s style; where he is known as “Hardtail” in the motorcycle rights world. From the aftermarket industry and original equipment manufacturers to the motorcycle clubs and state motorcycle rights’ organizations, he is known as a force to be reckoned with. Logging thousands upon thousands of miles on his motorcycles, his objectives have always stayed pure; to promote and preserve motorcycle riders’ freedoms and lifestyles.

    Tickets to the induction ceremony are sold out; however, Willard is scheduled to attend and speak at ABATE of South Dakota’s Annual Whitewood Social Hour on Thursday, August 9th at the Whitewood City Park near the Sturgis Rally. The event is free for MRF members and others involved in motorcycle rights.


    About Motorcycle Riders Foundation
    The Motorcycle Riders Foundation (MRF) provides leadership at the federal level for states’ motorcyclists’ rights organizations as well as motorcycle clubs and individual riders. The MRF is chiefly concerned with issues at the national and international levels that impact the freedom and safety of American street motorcyclists. The MRF is committed to being a national advocate for the advancement of motorcycling and its associated lifestyle and works in conjunction with its partners to help educate elected officials and policymakers in Washington and beyond.

  • 07/19/2018 11:24 AM | Anonymous member (Administrator)


    For Immediate Release

    July 29, 2018

    Motorcycles, Boats, & Lawnmowers Ask for Help on Ethanol


    WASHINGTON, DC – Today, representatives from the marine, motorcycling, and outdoor power equipment gathered on Capitol Hill to discuss concerns over ethanol-blended gasoline and a lack of consumer education and understanding of the risks associated with ethanol. Hosted by the Congressional Motorcycle and Boating Caucuses, the breakfast briefing featured a panel of industry representatives and welcomed congressional staff and policymakers to learn about the issue from those with direct experience.

    Speaking on behalf of the Motorcycle Riders Foundation was Mike Sponseller, an avid motorcyclist, professional racer and part owner of a Washington, D.C. motorcycle shop. Sponseller explained to the audience why higher ethanol blended gasoline is such a concern for riders, showing images of corroded and damaged motorcycle engine parts including fuel injectors, tank liners, fuel lines and even showing a snapshot taken directly from a Harley-Davidson owner’s manual explaining the risks of using E15, E30 and E85.

    He outlined riders concerns and the lack of consumer education that currently exists despite these types of fuel being federal prohibited for use in motorcycles. “The problem with E15 isn’t that motorcycles are unreliable, but it creates the perception that they are because of the damage it can cause. When in reality, it’s the fuel that we are being forced to use.”

    Panelists agreed, citing their own industry examples of damage, lack of consumer education and misfuelling.

    The event also touched on newly introduced legislation, H.R.5855, the Consumer Protection and Fuel Transparency Act of 2018. Authored by Rep. Austin Scott (R-Ga.) and U.S. Rep. Lois Frankel (D-Fl.), the legislation would require the EPA to revise the labeling requirements for fuel pumps that dispense E15 and conduct a consumer education campaign to inform the public about the risks of improper use of E15 and the vehicles and equipment that are prohibited from using E15.

    In coordination with the panel, a letter was sent to all Members of the House and Senate signed by the Motorcycle Riders Foundation, the National Marine and Manufacturers Association, the American Highway Users Alliance and others conveying support for the legislation.

    More information on the legislation can be found here:https://www.govtrack.us/congress/bills/115/hr5855


     

    About Motorcycle Riders Foundation
    The Motorcycle Riders Foundation (MRF) provides leadership at the federal level for states’ motorcyclists’ rights organizations as well as motorcycle clubs and individual riders. The MRF is chiefly concerned with issues at the national and international levels that impact the freedom and safety of American street motorcyclists. The MRF is committed to being a national advocate for the advancement of motorcycling and its associated lifestyle and works in conjunction with its partners to help educate elected officials and policymakers in Washington and beyond.

  • 06/15/2018 4:20 AM | Anonymous member (Administrator)


    For Immediate Release

    June 15, 2018

    Monday June 18 is Ride to Work Day

    WASHINGTON, DC – This coming Monday will mark the 27th anniversary of “Ride to Work Day,” an annual event that promotes the motorcycle as an option for commuting to work. Since 1992, this event has been promoted by the Ride to Work organization with a goal of increasing public awareness of motorcyclists; promoting the use of motorcycles as a method of transportation; and increasing motorcycle safety.

    According to the Motorcycle Industry Council, an estimated 150,000 commuters ride their motorcycle to work. While this is a very minor portion of all commuters, figures show these numbers are on the rise. It may be surprising that the numbers are not higher given data that supports that traveling by motorcycle can shorten journey times by as much as 33 minutes of every hour for city travel. Additional benefits can include more parking options, fuel savings and the undeniable advantage of enjoying the environment and the open air preparing yourself for a long day of work, or better yet, decompressing post-work!

    The Motorcycle Riders Foundation encourages its members and partners to participate in this year’s event on June 18th to help demonstrate support for riders across the nation and spur recognition that the use of motorcycles as an alternative to commuting can help alleviate traffic and parking congestion.

    Another important message that the event sends is that, despite a sometimes less than flattering portrayal of motorcyclists by Hollywood and even the media and naysayers, motorcyclists are our neighbors, teachers, family, lawyers, servicemen and women and friends and they have a rightful place on our nation’s highways.

    For more information, visit:  http://www.ridetowork.org/

    If you have photos of yourself participating in Ride to Work Day, send them to mrfoffice@mrf.org or text them to 202-546-0983

    About Motorcycle Riders Foundation
    The Motorcycle Riders Foundation (MRF) provides leadership at the federal level for states’ motorcyclists’ rights organizations as well as motorcycle clubs and individual riders. The MRF is chiefly concerned with issues at the national and international levels that impact the freedom and safety of American street motorcyclists. The MRF is committed to being a national advocate for the advancement of motorcycling and its associated lifestyle and works in conjunction with its partners to help educate elected officials and policymakers in Washington and beyond.

  • 05/23/2018 6:29 AM | Anonymous member (Administrator)


    For Immediate Release

    May 23, 2018

    10th Annual Biker Lobby Day Brings Riders to Washington, D.C.


    WASHINGTON, DC – Last week scores of riders from the motorcycle community traveled to Washington, D.C. to connect with elected officials from across the country in support of motorcyclists’ rights. Hosted by the Motorcycle Riders Foundation, the annual “Bikers Inside the Beltway” is the only advocacy day in the nation’s Capital hosted by riders, for riders.

    Over 160 people participated in this year’s event; a 60% increase in the last two years. For many, it was their first time. “It was truly an honor to represent my Club,” said one attendee from a military motorcycle club, “[these are] such important issues that affect hundreds of thousands of riders,” he went on to say.

    Thirty different states were represented in Washington, DC which resulted in direct contact with over 300 offices on Capitol Hill.  Members of the MRF brought their bikes as well as their personal stories from back home to Capitol Hill and discussed issues critical to the 2018 legislative agenda. Among these included support for the anti-profiling measures in the House and Senate, concerns over ethanol and the lack of consumer education at the pump, as well as a push to bring the RPM Act and SELF-DRIVE Act to the floor for a vote.

    Every meeting that was attended marked another critical step forward in building and maintaining relationships with congressional offices, and each meeting provided the opportunity to communicate directly with a wide array of lawmakers who are currently considering legislation that would affect the rights of motorcyclists.

    Lawmakers and staff got a double dose of motorcycles on May 15; hosted in conjunction with Bikers Inside the Beltway was 2018’s first Congressional Motorcycle Caucus Event. Featuring rider education and training professional Stacey “Ax” Axmaker, a setup in the Rayburn House Office Building allowed attendees to experience a motorcycle ride via Virtual Reality Technology. Several elected officials participated along with dozens of staffers.

    “This year’s Bikers Inside the Beltway was our most successful yet,” said Kirk “Hardtail” Willard, Chairman and President of the Motorcycle Riders Foundation. “Attendance, preparation and participation was phenomenal. Our elected officials knew that the bikers had come to town and with few exceptions, we were welcomed as a key stakeholder on issues that affect transportation, the environment and the entire rider community. The impact of this day is felt long after the bikes roll out of town.”

    About Motorcycle Riders Foundation
    The Motorcycle Riders Foundation (MRF) provides leadership at the federal level for states’ motorcyclists’ rights organizations as well as motorcycle clubs and individual riders. The MRF is chiefly concerned with issues at the national and international levels that impact the freedom and safety of American street motorcyclists. The MRF is committed to being a national advocate for the advancement of motorcycling and its associated lifestyle and works in conjunction with its partners to help educate elected officials and policymakers in Washington and beyond.

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