Mid Season Review

Summary

In this episode of Think Bike, host Liane Langois welcomes Todd Sharpless and Ross De St Croix from the Canadian Motorcycle Association (CMA) to discuss their experiences in motorcycling, the evolution of the CMA, and the initiatives they have implemented to enhance motorcycle safety and community engagement in Canada. The conversation covers Todd's extensive background in motorcycle racing and organization, Ross's journey from trials riding to becoming CEO, and the CMA's efforts to create new committees, address insurance issues, and promote women's involvement in motorcycling. The episode highlights the importance of community, safety, and inclusivity in the motorcycle world. In this conversation, the speakers discuss the Canadian Motorcycle Association's (CMA) strategic goals, the importance of membership growth, and the partnership with the FIM. They also share insights from the recent World Supercross event and emphasize the CMA's role in advocating for motorcycle enthusiasts beyond competition. The discussion highlights the need for unity among motorcycle clubs to address common issues and improve safety and representation in the community.

In this episode of Think Bike, host Liane speaks with Landon French, the president of Moto Canada, about the organization's rebranding, advocacy efforts, and the challenges facing the motorcycle industry in Canada. They discuss the importance of recognizing motorcycling as a sport, the impact of insurance rates, and the ongoing tariff wars affecting manufacturers. The conversation also highlights Moto Canada's long-term goals and upcoming motorcycle shows aimed at fostering community engagement and safety awareness. Website https://motocanada.com/ Takeaways Landon French is the president and CEO of Moto Canada. The rebranding to Moto Canada was necessary for better communication. Moto Canada represents 16 different motorcycle brands across Canada. Advocacy for the motorcycle industry is a key focus for Moto Canada. Motorcycling is not officially recognized as a sport in Canada. Insurance rates for motorcycle riders are increasing significantly. Tariff wars are impacting the motorcycle industry and dealers. Moto Canada aims to improve understanding of the motorcycle community among policymakers. Upcoming motorcycle shows will focus on community and product engagement. Collaboration with other organizations is essential for promoting motorcycle safety. Sound Bites "We needed to communicate better and more." "Our whole purpose is to exist so that Canadians can ride." "Canadians are world-class riders." "If I could snap my fingers and do one thing, that would probably be it." "You're risking jobs here in Canada and dealerships." "Tariffs are taxes that get applied." "We are on a mission to ensure that every Ministry understands who we are." "We want to have a cultural community event as well." "Thanks for all that you and your friends do at AMSS." Chapters

In this episode of Think Bike, host Liane Langlois speaks with Brad Chalcraft from One Last Ride, a unique motorcycle hearse service in Alberta. They discuss Brad's journey into motorcycling, the concept behind One Last Ride, and how he personalizes farewell services for motorcycle enthusiasts. The conversation also touches on the emotional aspects of dealing with grief, community support, and Brad's future plans to expand his services across Canada and beyond. Takeaways Brad has been riding motorcycles since he was eighteen. One Last Ride started as a motorcycle hearse service for bikers. The service is customizable, reflecting the personality of the deceased. Community support plays a crucial role in the success of One Last Ride. Brad emphasizes the importance of serving families during their time of grief. He has a unique approach to personalizing farewell services. The motorcycle community is known for its camaraderie and support. Brad aims to expand One Last Ride across Canada and into the U.S. The service is not just about transportation; it's about honoring the deceased's passion. Brad's work is a legacy of a previous owner of the motorcycle hearse. Sound Bites "I mean, it's the ultimate lazy boy on the road." "The services are completely customizable." "You know, fly high, ride in paradise." "I think about the good that I've done." "This is my dream, but this is his legacy." "It takes a certain type of person to do this." Chapters

In this episode of Think Bike, host Lianne Langlois celebrates the 115th anniversary of the Calgary Motorcycle Club (CMC) with tour director Wade Youngman and social media manager Kevin Choloski. They discuss their personal journeys into motorcycling, the club's rich history, community activities, and the importance of safety and membership engagement. The conversation highlights the club's evolution from a dealer-run organization to a community-focused group, emphasizing the camaraderie and shared passion for motorcycling that has kept the CMC thriving for over a century. Takeaways Wade has been riding for 55 years, inspired by his family. Kevin started riding at eight, influenced by family dynamics. The CMC was founded in 1911, not 1926 as previously thought. The club has evolved from dealer-run to community-focused. Safety is a top priority during group rides. The CMC organizes various events, including poker runs and historical rides. The 115th anniversary celebration included a meet and greet, poker run, and show and shine. Membership requires participation in meetings and rides to ensure a good fit. The club values active members over just collecting dues. The camaraderie among members is what makes the CMC special. Sound Bites "We had a huge display of old memorabilia." "We had nothing but positive comments." "We don't want to just take people's money." "Safety is definitely a priority." "We treat it the same way, like Wade said." "The people are what keep it all going." Chapters