Road Dirt: Recent Episodes
Rob Brooks
The podcast for Road Dirt Motorcycle Media, your down-home, grassroots media outlet covering all things motorcycling. Personal stories from what we call “Ride Life”, as well as bikes, gear, and accessory evaluations, simple repair and maintenance tips, great rides, events and destinations, and the racing scene.
We talk with MotoAmerica motorcycle racer, Mathew Scholtz from South Africa, riding this season for Strack Racing.
We talk about his sudden loss of a Superbike team at the end of 2023, how he almost left for home, and the new opportunity to ride a Yamaha R6 this season in the Supersport class.
Here's the story we published on Mat, at the conclusion of the Barber Motorsports round-
Mathew Scholtz
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We catch up with noted filmmaker Bryan Carroll, who wrote, directed and produced the fantastic motorcycling documentary, "Why We Ride". We chat about his love of motorcycle riding, his various projects, and what motorcycling means to him.
For more Road Dirt, find us here:
Road Dirt
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In this latest episode of our series, "Meet the Road Dirt Crew", we chat with our newest contributor, Ken "Hawkeye" Glassman.
Ken is no newcomer to the world of motorcycle journalism, however. Hawkeye has written for nearly every national moto magazine one can think of, and contributed to several dailies in the greater Chicago area over the decades.
A veteran writer and rider, we hope you enjoy this conversation with Ken as much as we did.
For more of Ken's writings, find him here at Road Dirt:
Road Dirt: Ken Glassman
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In this episode of "Meet the Road Dirt Crew", we chat with Mark Zweig, monthly columnist who pens our popular "MZ's Moto Memories" series, chronicling his tales of the over 300 motorcycles he's owned in his moto life.
For Mark's writings on Road Dirt, find them here:
ROAD DIRT
Check us out on YouTube:
Road Dirt TV
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In this episode of our series, "Meet the Road Dirt Crew", we chat with our "elder statesman" Mike Boyd. Mike is a decorated Vietnam War combat veteran, Purple Heart and Silver Star recipient, and a life-long motorcycle rider.
This is a fascinating conversation with an American icon.
For our story on Mike at Road Dirt with photos and footage, click here:
Mike Boyd: Unsung Hero
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In our continuing series, "Meet The Road Dirt Crew", we chat with world traveler, moto-journalist, and generous philanthropist Neale Bayly about his motorcycling, globe-trotting life.
For more Road Dirt, find us here:
ROAD DIRT
Check out our YouTube channel:
ROAD DIRT TV
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On this episode, we chat with original Road Dirt crew member Ryan Nolan. We discuss his motorcycle upbringing, his passion for racing, and his upcoming (as of this recording) debut in the MotoAmerica Supersport motorcycle racing class.
For more on Ryan, find him on YouTube here:
Ryhno Racing
For more Road Dirt, find us here:
RoadDirt.tv
Check out our YouTube channel:
Road Dirt TV
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#RIDELIFE
In our series introducing you to the Road Dirt contributors, we visit with Phil Gauthier, long-time friend of Rob, and co-founder of Road Dirt Motorcycle Media. We discuss his early entrance into motorcycling as a teen, his reentry some years back, and what motorcycle riding means to him.
For more Road Dirt, click here:
RoadDirt.tv
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Thank you!
We're beginning a series on the Road Dirt writers, editors and photographers, chatting with each about the origins of their love of motorcycling. We begin with Editor-at-Large Ted Edwards up in Washington State, one of the original crew members at Road Dirt.
Ted's tale of motorcycling began at a young age, and took some interesting and entertaining turns along the way. We hope you enjoy our chat as much as we did.
Check out all of the Road Dirt crew at our main media site-
RoadDirt.tv
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Road Dirt columnist Neale Bayly recounts a trip high into the mountains of Ecuador, and peace he found in the saddle of a small motorcycle on the dirt and gravel roads.
For his story with photos, click here:
Neale Bayly Rides
For Neale's Wellspring International Outreach, click here:
Wellspring Outreach
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We count down the top five favorite motorcycles that we got the chance to ride in 2023, and throw in a few "honorable mentions" near the end.
Check out our full story with photos and ride footage of each!
https://roaddirt.tv/top-five-fave-bikes-of-2023/
What motorbikes have you enjoyed sampling this year? Any set up permanent residence in your garage?
Share your thoughts in the comments section, ask us any related questions you might have, and of course, like, subscribe, and share!
Road Dirt's Rob Brooks remembers a dear friend and motorcycle riding buddy, Mike Hinton, after Mike's recent passing. Mike has a great influence in Rob's life, and he shares his fondest memories of his good friend.
For the written story with photos of Mike and Rob from some of their road trips, click here:
RoadDirt.tv
Find us on YouTube!
Road Dirt TV
Road Dirt columnist Neale Bayly recounts a ride he took through the Arizona high desert, on a BME R1200GS Adventure motorcycle.
For his written story with photos, click here:
Neale Bayly Rides: In This Moment
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Richard Worsham of Janus Motorcycles in Goshen, Indiana embarked on a cross-country odyssey with one of their Halcyon 250 motorbikes, and chronicled his journey. Richard shares part 1 of this multi-episode adventure with Road Dirt here.
For Richard's written account with photos, click here:
Chasing George Wyman, Part 1
For more on Janus Moto, click here:
Janus Motorcycles
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Two childhood chums both turn 60, and take an epic road trip together. It's the story of a nearly lifelong friendship, and the miles & memories made together out on the open road.
For the written story with photos and footage, click here:
The Journey of a Thousand Miles
For the YouTube travelogue video, click here:
Road Trip Video
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We share Neale Bayly's story of meeting the great Dale Walksler of the Wheels Through Time Museum in Maggie Valley, NC, and restoring a 1924 JD Harley-Davidson together.
for Neal's story with photos, click here:
What Once Was Lost
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We share the story of an amazing but true "barn find"- an original 1969 CB750 Sandcast motorcycle.
The bike would go on to win the most prestigious award in all of American motorcycling- the coveted "Best Of Show" at the annual Quail Motorcycle Gathering.
For the whole story and stunning photos of this gorgeous bike, click the link here:
Immaculate Restoration
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We reach across the globe and have a chat with our friend Neale Bayly over in Ukraine. Neale updates us on his travels in-country, sharing the latest in the ongoing war, the new friends he's made, the human suffering he's witnessed, as well as the fortitude and resolve of the Ukrainian people.
For his latest story on RoadDirt.tv, check it out here:
https://roaddirt.tv/neale-bayly-rides-a-moment-of-weightlessness/
To learn about and support Neale's work abroad, click here:
https://www.wellspring-outreach.org/
Neale Bayly really needs no introduction in the motorcycling world.
He is a world-renown motorcycle writer, photographer, and adventurer, and has been read and viewed in over 100 publications worldwide. I’ve read of his travels and escapades since the 1990s, so it was quite the thrill for me to not only meet Neale, but strike up a friendship with him in the past year. His three-part chronicle, “An Englishman In Ukraine” that we published to RoadDirt.tv last fall set in motion a series of conversations that have led to a monthly feature Neale now writes for Road Dirt, entitled “Neale Bayly Rides“. His is a true #RIDELIFE.
This is is his first of many stories to come. Maybe some of these we can get him to read for us, in his native accent!
For his written story with photos, click here:
https://roaddirt.tv/neale-bayly-rides-addiction/
For Neale's foundation and how you can support his worthy causes, click here:
https://www.wellspring-outreach.org/
Road Dirt's Rob Brooks retraces one of the last motorcycle rides he ever took with his late father, riding a new Triumph Street Triple RS down numerous Memory Lanes.
For the story with photos and video footage, check it out here:
The Tracks of My Father, Part 2
For the Part 1 of "Tracks of My Father, check it out here:
The Tracks of My Father
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We share Road Dirt Editor-At-Large Ted Edwards' recent tale of moto woe, a motorcycle breakdown far from home.
When you've owned the bike as long as Ted has, and accumulated as many miles and memories as he has with it, the feeling is akin to betrayal.
We think many of you will be able to relate. Let us know if you've been there yourself!
Ted's story with photos-
https://roaddirt.tv/red-light-blues/
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Road Dirt's Ryan Nolan helped crew Jasmine Nichols' Team Panda Racing during the recent MotoAmerica races at Road America in Elkhart Lake, Wisconsin. The two racers sat down for a candid conversation about the racing season so far, the legendary track at Road America, and some thoughts on the season still ahead.
For more on the MotoAmerica season, click here:
MotoAmerica
For more Road Dirt, find us here:
Road Dirt
We spent a few days in Goshen, Indiana with Richard Worsham and the good folks at Janus Motorcycles. Richard founded the company in 2011, and they specialize in building small displacement, vintage-looking single cylinder motorbikes, with modern components. These 100-year old looking motorcycles are built by hand, one at a time, using a 100-year old model of direct customer input, machining most of their own parts, and building relationships with their "Janus Family" customers.
We love their small motorcycles, and we think you will too.
For our full writeup with photos and footage, click here:
Janus Motorcycles: The Past Meets The Present
For more Road Dirt, visit our main "e-magazine" here:
Road Dirt
Check us out on YouTube!
Road Dirt TV
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We spent a weekend riding and chatting with Neale Bayly, noted motorcycle journalist, adventure traveler, philanthropist, and now Road Dirt crew!
Neale has traveled the world on motorbikes, and has contributed to over 100 publications worldwide. But his heart is for children in need, and he has established a foundation, Wellspring International Outreach, that supports children's homes in Peru, Uganda, and now a children's hospital in Lviv, Ukraine.
We hope you enjoy this conversation with an Englishman now living in Charlotte, North Carolina! We certainly did, and can say truthfully, it won't be our last.
For more on Neale and his International work, visit Wellspring here:
Wellspring Outreach
We chat "across the pond" with England's Vanessa Ruck, an inspiring young woman with a passion for motorcycles and a compelling story of overcoming adversity.
We hope you enjoy this conversation as much as we did!
For her full story with photos, check it out here:
https://roaddirt.tv/vanessa-ruck-the-girl-on-a-bike-and-a-mission/
For Vanessa's media site, check her out here:
https://thegirlonabike.com/
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We had the opportunity to talk with MotoAmerica Junior Cup motorcycle racer Jasmine Nichols, of Panda Racing. We discuss her rather late entrance into motorcycle racing, and how she's worked her way up through the ranks to now race at the premier national level.
This is the audio recording of the video interview we had with her, which can be found at the end of our race report on the MotoAmerica opening round at historic Road Atlanta. The audio gets somewhat rough when we move outside by her bike, with ambient paddock and racing sounds in the background.
Check out the video here-
https://roaddirt.tv/burning-bikes-bmw-and-the-beaubier-brothers/
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We recently had the opportunity to ride and review, across several days, three midsize motorcycles- the 2023 Harley-Davidson Nightster Special, Indian Scout Rogue, and Honda Rebel 1100T. Road Dirt senior editor Rob Brooks was joined by editor-at-large Ted Edwards and guest tester Dave Wensveen, and after riding in numerous settings and conditions, the three of them sat down over coffee to discuss their impressions and observations.
For the written story, click here:
RoadDirt.tv
For the video review, visit us here:
@RoadDirtTV
Special thanks to Honda Powersports USA, Indian Motorcycle/The Brand Amp, and Harley-Davidson Motor Company.
Shout out to the sponsor of this podcast, Chuck Watwood and the good folks at Law Bike.
We share a sort of "Moto Noir" tale penned by our resident veteran motorcycle rider and writer Joshua Placa. We think you'll enjoy this dark story of hard rain, dark and dangerous city streets, and unrequited love, astride a massive beast of a motorcycle.
Let us know what you think in the comments!
For Joshua's story with mood-fitting photos, click here:
https://roaddirt.tv/midnight-in-metropolis/
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We had about a month with Zero Motorcycle's DSR/X sport adventure bike, and thoroughly enjoyed it.
Electric is growing on us. Give a listen why.
For our main site article with photos and video footage, click here:
https://roaddirt.tv/electric-adventure/
For Zero Motorcycles, click here:
https://www.zeromotorcycles.com/
A few years ago, I had the privilege to meet and interview one of the most interesting people I've ever met- world motorcycle traveler and proud New Zealander Helen Upson. We caught up with Helen as she was touring the United States on her custom 2009 Yamaha V-Max, and she recounted her decades long love affair with motorcycling, her far and wide travels on two wheels, and some of her other interests and achievements. Helen passed away suddenly in her native New Zealand back in January, so we decided it was time to pay tribute to a truly remarkable human being.
For her story with photos, click here:
https://roaddirt.tv/helen-upson-a-kiwi-roams-america/
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Motorcycling involves risk. In an age that prioritizes "bubble wrap" safety, bikers stand, or rather ride, counter to the culture.
Here's Editor-at-Large Ted Edwards' take on the "Safety vs. Joy" debate.
For his written story with photos, click here:
Safety vs. Joy
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Former AMA Pro motorcycle racer Ron Mass passed away in January, with too little remembrance and recognition. We felt a short tribute was overdue.
For our online story with photos from Ron's heyday of racing in the 1970s, click here:
https://roaddirt.tv/goodbye-ron-mass/
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Robbie Knievel, famed motorcycle daredevil jumper and son of the legendary Evel Knievel, passed away in mid-January at 60 years of age. We take a look at Robbie's life and most famous jumps, reflecting on a few of our faves in the process.
For our full story with great photos from Robbie's epic career, click here:
https://roaddirt.tv/robbie-knievel-his-fathers-son/
For more Road Dirt: like, subscribe, and share around!
https://roaddirt.tv/
Thanks to our sponsor, Law Bike of Georgia!
https://www.lawbike.com/
Rob shares a special day he spent out riding his Triumph Bonneville on New Year's Day, offering some reflections on 2022 and projections for 2023.
For the story with photos, click here:
https://roaddirt.tv/riding-into-the-new-year/
Special thanks to our sponsors, Chuck Watwood and the good folks at Law Bike:
https://www.lawbike.com/about
Road Dirt senior editor Rob Brooks reflects on the incredible year that was 2022. From new motorcycles, new adventures, and new relationships the Road Dirt Crew experienced, to returning to old familiar paths and ways like Joshua's and Ted's expansive travels, and even Rob's new old motorcycle (1978 Kawasaki KZ650), 2022 was amazing year. There were some spills, but more thrills, we must admit.
We hope you enjoyed your holiday season, and we look forward to sharing new roads and new stories with you in the coming year.
Join the Road Dirt Community! Like, subscribe, comment and share, this podcast and our other media platforms and pages:
Main website:
RoadDirt.tv
YouTube channel:
YouTube TV
Facebook, Twitter, Instagram:
@roaddirttv
Spotify playlist:
https://open.spotify.com/playlist/5TZsbHPCnMHfkCNccCNNtm
See you in 2023!
Editor-at-Large Ted Edwards shares what he's most thankful for over this past year, as we head into the Christmas holiday season.
For Ted's written story with photos, click here:
Christmas Thanksgiving
Much thanks to our holiday podcast sponsors, Little Rider Enterprises! Check out their great children's books here:
Mimi and Moto
In the Holiday Season, we share an occasion for generosity in the motorcycling community, and reflect on the giving hearts that so many riders possess: bringing Christmas cheer to children and families in need.
For the written story with photos, click here:
To Give Is To Gain
For more on the holiday work of the Salvation Army, click here:
Salvation Army
Please visit our podcast sponsor!
Mimi and Moto
Check out Cycle World of Athens!
Cycle World
Road Dirt photo-journalist Ryan Nolan flies out to Los Angeles to ride the Yamaha MT-10 SP, around town, along the highways, and up in the mountains. Ryan gives his ride impressions, describes some of the unique features of the bike, and his assessment of it as a do-everything, well-rounded naked sportbike.
For Ryan's story with photos and ride footage, click here:
Riding the Yamaha MT-10 SP
We're thankful for this month's podcast sponsors, Little Rider Enterprises! Check out their fantastic children's books:
Mimi and Moto
Editor-at-Large Joshua Placa points the Indian Super Chief Limited into the urban frontier that is Los Angeles, asking the existential question, "What is Los Angeles, really?" With his typical wit and wry sense of humor, Joshua weaves an entertaining tale of city life on a motorcycle, from the congested streets of NYC to the sprawling burbs of LA.
For his story with photos, click here:
In Search of Los Angeles
Much thanks to Little Rider Enterprises for their holiday podcast sponsorship!
Check out their children's offerings here:
Mimi and Moto
We share the audio portion of a video interview we had with Mark Augustyn and Nancy Gerloff, the authors of the popular "Mimi and Moto: The Motorcycle Monkeys" kids book series. We discuss their own motorcycling backgrounds, the inspirations behind writing this book series, and what they plan to write and publish next.
Looking for some enjoyable Christmas gifts for the younger kids or grands in your life? We think this book series would be a fun way to introduce children to the motorcycling life.
For the video interview with Mark and Nancy, click here:
Mark & Nancy Interview
For more on Mimi and Moto products, click here:
Mimi and Moto
For Road Dirt's main "E-Magazine" site, click here:
Road Dirt Motorcycle Media
We share a portion of a conversation we enjoyed with Kevin Baxter of ProTwin Performance and Baxter's Garage. Kevin is a noted custom motorcycle builder, and one of North America's premier high-performance V-Twin engine tuners. We discuss his latest creation, the award-winning Curve Bike, diving into the bike's very personal inspiration, the unique features he built in, and the accolades the bike has received in the custom motorcycle world.
For the full-length video interview with plenty of ride footage, check it out here:
https://youtu.be/BnceFg0ePi0
*Be sure to like, subscribe, and share this podcast if you enjoyed it, and check out our main motorcycle website here:
RoadDirt.tv
Joshua Placa plunges deeper into the Arizona ghostlands and visits the legendary town of Tombstone, famous for gunfights, gambling and ghosts.
For his written story with photos, click here:
Haunted Highways- Tombstone's Undead
For part 1 of this series, click here:
Haunted Highways- Arizona's Ghostlands
Road Dirt Editor-at-Large Joshua Placa chases ghostly tales of the Old West in this first episode of our Halloween series on the podcast!
For the written story with ample photos, click here:
Haunted Highways- Arizona Ghostlands
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We sit down for a chat with Brian Stokes- former AMA Motocross, Supercross, Formula Extreme and Supersport racer, crew chief, team leader, who also has supplied motorcycles to movies and television shows, and now maintains the marketing and media fleet for Triumph North America. Whew! Brian lives the motorcycling life, the #RIDELIFE as we call it, and shares his story with us here.
For the video of our interview, click here:
YouTube Interview
*Please visit our friends at Little Rider Enterprises for their wonderful children's motorcycling books and merch, Mimi & Moto!
Mimi & Moto
If you’re riding through a rough patch, on a motorcycle ride or in life, the key might be to make up your mind and throttle through. Motorcycle riders are characterized by a “can-do” spirit. We examine how and what we can improve, then we “get back on the horse” and roll out. It all begins in the mind and the will.
We share Rob's personal experience with this from a road trip this summer, and how "The Moto Mindset" helped him overcome adversity and uncertainty.
For more on this story and others, with photos and videos, check out our main e-magazine site:
https://roaddirt.tv/the-moto-mindset/
for the latest on our YouTube channel, click here:
https://youtu.be/5ZTzM2YsD-Q
*Please be sure to check out our sponsors, for great children's motorcycling books and toys:
https://mimiandmoto.com
We sit down for a chat with 4x AMA Pro Superbike champion Josh Hayes during the final MotoAmerica motorcycle road racing weekend at Barber Motorsports Park. After a brutal crash in practice that broke his left leg in several places, Josh returned to the track and talked with us about his racing life, his family, his work now as a coach and mentor, and his aspirations in 2023.
For our main moto site, check us out here:
https://roaddirt.tv/
*Thanks to our podcast sponsors, Little Rider Enterprises! For more on their entertaining children's book series, "Mimi & Moto: The Motorcycle Monkeys", visit their website here:
MimiandMoto.com
Ted Edwards account of the breathtaking beauty of riding old motorcycles along the Pacific Coast of Oregon and California.
For his written story with plenty of photos, click or copy/paste here:
The Old Bike and the Sea
On this episode, we share the wit and wisdom of Joshua Placa, veteran biker and moto-journalist, in the first installment of a series he calls, "The Budget Biker". We hope you enjoy this entertaining, maybe even idea-inspiring, tale from the open road.
For the written story with photos, follow this link:
The Budget Biker: Eat Right, Ride Cheap
Road Dirt's Ted Edwards talks with Max Flinders, MotoAmerica road racer competing in the Superbike class. Max and Ted discuss the struggles of being a "privateer" racer, with few sponsors, no crew besides family, and the hardships of going it alone.
Yet for a passionate racer like Max who loves the sport, what keeps him motivated? What keeps him on the road and on the track, pursuing his dream?
We think you'll find inspiration from this enthusiastic young man, and his faithful fans.
Storms find me, seeking me out like Sidewinder missiles, tracking me down whether I’m out for a day ride or on a multi-day road trip. There’s a cosmic determination to soak me at least once while I’m out two-wheeling, it seems, especially in the summer months. Here’s a few of my "wet tales", in no particular order other than how they come to mind.
By the end, leave one or two of yours in the comments below! Let’s commiserate together.
For the written story with photos, click here:
https://roaddirt.tv/riding-the-storm-out/
Three time Motorcycle GP World Champion wows the crowd at Goodwood Festival of Speed, by riding his 1992 championship-winning YZR500 motorcycle around the famed racetrack. What makes this so historic?
Give this a listen!
And here's the story with photos and video footage-
https://roaddirt.tv/wayne-rainey-rides-again/
Road Dirt's Rob and Ted discuss motorcycle track days- the benefits of riding them, and how to prepare for a great experience.
For more on riding track days, click here:
Riding Your First Track Day
We recently received an email from a reader asking us, "What are the differences, if any, between dual sport and adventure motorcycles?"
We thought that was a worthy question, so we'll endeavor to answer it here.
For our story with photos, click or copy/paste here:
https://roaddirt.tv/dual-sport-and-adventure-motorcycles/
On this episode, we coin a new term- "mantainer". It's meaning and origins will become quite clear in the story.
Hint: Sometimes the best memories can be formed in the worst places.
For the written story with photos, click or copy/paste this link:
https://roaddirt.tv/the-mantainer/
Road Dirt Senior Editor Rob Brooks takes to the dirt roads of east central Georgia astride a 2022 Honda CRF300L dual sport motorcycle, for the annual Scull Shoals ADV/Dual Sport Ride. A street rider in the dirt- what could possibly go wrong?
Huge thanks to Honda Motorsports USA, Cycle World of Athens, Georgia Dual Sport Riders and Georgia Off-Road Adventures for a great time!
Our story with photos and video ride footage:
https://roaddirt.tv/playing-in-the-dirt-again/
Some experiences in life and motorcycle riding are not enjoyable in the moment, but make for entertaining stories afterward. Can you relate?
In this episode of Road Dirt, we explore "Type II Fun" and share a few of our own.
For the whole story with photos, use this link:
Type II Fun
We sit down with Royal Enfield western hemisphere president Krishnan Ramaswami in historic Savannah, Georgia for a conversation about the legendary motorcycle brand, the current and upcoming offerings in their model lineup, and reinventing/reintroducing the Classic 350 motorbike in the American market.
For more on the new 2022 Royal Enfield Classic 350, click here:
https://roaddirt.tv/royal-enfield-debuts-a-modern-classic/
RoyalEnfield #motorcycles #motorbikes #RideLife
We enjoy a rambling conversation with Road Dirt's favorite storyteller, Ted Edwards, about growing up around motorcycles, his favorite elements of riding, and what he's most looking forward to this year.
For our video interview, click here:
https://youtu.be/Y7Gon7dc_ws
Joshua Placa shares the story of a revered biker uncle, a child's kindled passion for motorcycles, and a bike in a box.
For the written story with photos, click here:
https://roaddirt.tv/the-curious-tale-of-a-lost-indian/
We dive into the archives of the world-famous Daytona 200, to learn the history of this enduring and legendary motorcycle race.
Do you enjoy motorcycles? Are you a fan of history? Then we think you'll enjoy this fascinating tale!
For the story with abundant photos, check out this link:
https://roaddirt.tv/the-daytona-200-americas-festival-of-speed/
An English university student suspends his studies and sets out across the planet on a quest to be the youngest person to ever circumnavigate the earth on a motorcycle. Check out the incredible story of the intrepid young man named Jack Groves and his second-hand Royal Enfield Himalayan.
For the story with many of his trip photos, click here:
RoadDirt.tv
In the early 1900s, two young intrepid American brothers set out across America first by horse, then by car, and ultimately by motorcycle. That's amazing enough- but these boys were under the current age to even drive, they set out without adult supervision, and ultimately achieved what few ever would, all before the age of 15.
Get ready to hear a truly all-American story of grit, determination, courage, and youthful enthusiasm.
Get ready to meet the Abernathy Boys.
For more on their amazing story with photos, click here:
https://roaddirt.tv/the-abernathy-boys-an-american-chronicle/
We did our first-ever live broadcast over the weekend to YouTube Live, and invited our friend and riding buddy Steven Kent from West Virginia to come join us. We discuss all things motorcycling in 2022, from new bikes debuting this year, to upcoming races, rallies and rides, and the roads we hope to traverse in the coming months.
For the video conversation from the Road Dirt Garage, click here:
https://youtu.be/xzXc8S2LoCY
For more great stories from the #RideLife, visit us here:
https://roaddirt.tv/
*Subscribe to both, and join the Road Dirt Community!
We share the backstory behind the iconic and game-changing 1972 Kawasaki Z1 900 Super Four motorcycle, and the remarkable, desperate development Kawasaki undertook to bring it to production.
For more on the Z1 900, with photo galleries, click here:
https://roaddirt.tv/legendary-bikes-kawasaki-z1-900-super-four/
We share the tale one of our writers wrote about a couple of unpleasant encounters with fellow bikers out on the road. These are fortunately uncommon, as riders typically hold each other in fairly high regard. We're all in this together, so let's treat each as a true community.
For more Road Dirt, visit us here:
https://roaddirt.tv/
We share the story of Mike Hinton, one of editor Rob's close friends who is battling cancer, about a road trip he recently made with his younger brother. Mike shares the memorable trip through the Texas Hill Country, and the town of Luckenbach made famous by country singer Waylon Jennings.
For the full story with photo galleries, click or copy/paste this:
Challenges To Memories
Rob and Phil reflect on the year that was, 2021, and discuss their Road Dirt hopes and plans for 2022.
An unscripted, candid conversation between to two old friends, and the motorcycling stories they hope to experience and share in the coming year.
For more Road Dirt, visit us here:
www.RoadDirt.tv
"Before I Die..."
How would you finish that sentence?
As we close another difficult year and look into 2022, we choose to #ridelife, and live it to the full.
Happy New Year to you and yours!
motorcycle #motorbike #newyears #adventure
https://roaddirt.tv/the-writing-on-the-wall/
Ever notice that mishaps, mistakes and mess-ups often make for the most memorable adventures? In this episode, we share a tale of misadventure out on a motorcycle road trip that many of us riders can relate to, which is why we chuckle when we read and hear this. We may not laugh in the midst of them, but we'll tell the stories for years to come.
For the written story with photos, go to:
RoadDirt.tv/libby-accidentally
Road Dirt writer Ted Edwards takes pen in hand and answers the oft-asked question, "Why do you ride motorcycles?" We give voice to his words in this episode, and express what many of us who ride feel is so hard to explain to the non-riding world. If you are hesitant to throw a leg over and join us, or love to ride but have a hard time sharing the "why", see if Ted's words might help.
motorcycle #adventure #ridelife
Find us on the web!
www.RoadDirt.tv
motorcycle #racing #valentinorossi #VR46
We watched the final race of Valentino Rossi, one of the greatest motorcycle racers in Grand Prix history, and reflect on his spectacular 25-year career.
For the story with fantastic photos from the race, click here:
https://roaddirt.tv/last-ride-of-valentino-rossi/
We chat with Robert Pandya, noted powersports advocate and unofficial "Ambassador of Motorcycling" about his work with the International Motorcycle Shows, his comical and unlikely introduction to motorcycles, and his vision for the future of our sport/lifestyle.
For our video and story on Robert, visit us here:
https://roaddirt.tv/americas-ambassador-of-motorcycling-a-chat-with-robert-pandya/
We share a short quote from legendary Italian motorcycle racer Giacomo Agostini in his native tongue, read its translation, and tell the story of perhaps the greatest motorcycle racer in history. MV Agusta Motorcycles pays tribute to the legend with a special limited edition 2022 Superveloce Ago motorcycle, and we feature photos of Ago, his racing years, and the Ago tribute bike on our website-
https://roaddirt.tv/mv-agusta-pays-tribute-to-a-racing-legend/
Rob & Phil spend a weekend riding with some of Rob's childhood friends, riding the backcountry roads Rob's father rode, and reminiscing about the impact their fathers have had on their lives.
Ted Edwards shares a touching tribute to Road Dirt editor Rob Brooks' father, who passed away on September 1, 2021.
Ted Edwards' story of a memorable motorcycle road trip down the Pacific Coast, and how time seems to stand still in those beautiful, transcendent moments.
Remembering the iconic Sixth Street Viaduct in Los Angeles, the bridge that became a movie star in its own right, but was always loved by biker and car culture alike. Story by J. Joshua Placa.
We converse with popular motorsports writer and storyteller Peter Lloyd Jones, about his years riding motorcycles, leading road racing teams, and his escapades as a world-traveling motorcycle journalist. It's an entertaining discussion with an entertaining individual.
We chat with noted movie screenwriter, producer and director Bryan Carroll about his acclaimed motorcycling documentary "Why We Ride", and his passion for motorcycling and the riding community.
For more on the movie, click here:
www.WhyWeRide.com
For the entire video discussion, click here:
https://youtu.be/pJ3VGcj9RrI
For more Road Dirt, click here:
www.RoadDirt.tv
Rob, Ted and Dave talk from the famous Corkscrew corner at Weathertech Raceway Laguna Seca, during the King of the Baggers and Super Hooligans races of the MotoAmerica series. You can even hear the bikes as they periodically roar by in the background, seemingly close enough to reach out and touch.
For the full race weekend story, with photos and video footage, go to:
https://roaddirt.tv/king-kyle-crowned-at-laguna-seca/
Ted interviews MotoAmerica Twins Cup points leader (as of this recording) Kaleb De Keyrel of Minnesota, on his racing childhood, growing up in a racing family, and his life off the racetrack. We became a fan after this interview, and we hope you will too.
For more on the MotoAmerica motorcycle road racing series, visit:
www.MotoAmerica.com
Ted Edwards sits down for a few minutes with MotoAmerica Superbike racer and current points leader Jake Gagne, about his move to Colorado, this season's successes, and riding The Ridge in 100+ temps. If you love motorcycle racing, you'll enjoy this conversation.
Part 2 of this series by Ted Edwards, of fast bikes, flowing roads, and a moment of panic.
Pacific Northwest writer Ted Edwards opens up about living and riding faster than our fears and doubts.
Ted Edwards describes an irrational yet cathartic decision he made one cold, snowy Spring morning.
Ted Edwards’ story of dealing with and overcoming a physical malady that could have not only ended his motorcycle riding, but quite possibly his life.
We take a few moments to celebrate and share our appreciation for motorcycling’s small business owners, near and far.
Rob chats with Lauren Lloyd, PR & Communications Director for Informa Markets, the parent company of IMS Outdoors, about this year's transition from convention center expos to outdoor family festivals. They also discuss the unique and varied features patrons can expect at each venue across the country this summer and fall.
A recent Motorcycle Industry Council report on 2020 shows increased Powersports sales despite a chaotic year.
Joshua Placa ruminates on the irresistible draw of old vintage and antique motorcycles, and why we long for these touchstones to the past.
Rob interviews noted custom motorcycle builder and renown performance engine tuner Kevin Baxter of Pro Twin Performance/Baxter's Garage, about a new program they are rolling out- full warranties on aftermarket motorcycle parts and installation.
Rob recounts the motorcycling movie that refreshed his love of riding for the new year.
Road Dirt’s Rob Brooks reflects on a crazy year, recounts what the Holiday season means to him, and looks ahead into the coming year.
Rob chats with associate editor Phil Gauthier about the crazy, incredible year 2020 was, and some of our favorite moments riding and writing for Road Dirt.
Motorcyclists are a generous lot, and love supporting worthy causes, especially during the Holidays. Here’s a couple local rides we participated in, and we encourage you to find a cause near you, and join in.
Road Dirt’s Ted Edwards pays a heartfelt homage to a sacred road trip destination, Morning Song Acres in south central Washington state.
Kevin Baxter of Pro Twin Performance & Baxter’s Garage shares the serenity of Saturdays at the shop, and doing what you truly love.
Ted Edwards recounts dancing with the ride, the road, and the land of the Smoky Mountain high country in Autumn.
Rob recounts the Road Dirt crew’s stay at the popular motorcycle campground, Iron Horse Motorcycle Lodge, in the mountains of North Carolina.
Road Dirt contributor Christian Pierce recounts the challenges of ordering and installing aftermarket motorcycle parts.
Joshua Placa shares his favorite road trip, riding the red rock wonderlands of the unearthly Southwest.
Road Dirt was invited to the American “reveal party” of the Italian brand’s all-new “Neo-Classic Racer”
Our Pacific Northwest writer Ted Edwards shares the surreal experience of riding through the smoke and soot of the western wildfires.
What Brough Superior was to T.E. Lawrence, Norton Commando is to Peter Egan. The latest from our friends at The Throttlestop in Elkhart Lake, WI.
Christian Pierce recounts his recent strange motorcycle purchase during this global health crisis.
Ted and his childhood chum Dave ride the beautiful and deadly Cascade Volcanic Arc of the Pacific Northwest.
Road Dirt’s Ted Edwards finds the “white unicorn”, the motorcycle of his dreams. What’s your dream bike?
Road Dirt contributor Christian Pierce shares the circumstances that keep interfering with our passion, which in our case, is motorcycles.
We remember a great racer, a great person, and offer some reflections his tragic death evoked.
We ride the Zero Motorcycles SR/F and SR/S, two electric motorcycles with style, speed, and soul.
Road Dirt’s Ted Edwards reflects on a change in perspective he gained, after a much-needed motorcycle ride during the early stages of the COVID-19 spreading quarantines.
Noted motojournalist Joshua Placa takes us on a journey to another place, time and people, as we make a virtual tour of Wupatki National Monument in Arizona.
Road Dirt photo-journalist Ryan Nolan writes about kicking off riding & racing season with a weekend at North Florida’s JenningsGP motorcycle track.
Road Dirt writer Ted Edwards offers sage advice on planning memorable motorcycle road trips.
We interview Rick Collinson of RVProducts4You, and their proprietary TPMS units for motorcycles and trikes. We learn about Rick’s amazing backstory, including his decorated service at “Ground Zero” after the 9-11 attacks, and his company’s vision for improved motorcycle safety.
The motorcycling community is a special breed. Rob shares why, and gives several heart-warming examples.
Custom motorcycle builder Kevin Baxter of Pro Twin Performance shares the story behind his first motorcycle, and the life lessons that accompanied it.
Custom bike builder Kevin Baxter of Pro Twin Performance recounts the special friendship and mentorship of a great man, Canadian bike builder Bob McKay.
Rob shares an open letter to the motorcycle manufacturers, recalling the marketing strategies of old.
We ride the 1970s styled Harley-Davidson Iron 1200 Sportster, and wax nostalgic on the history of this iconic model line.
Road Dirt west coast writer Ted Edwards gives his humorous and heartwarming account of riding in the prestigious Colorado 500 Charity Ride
Rob reads Road Dirt assoc. editor Phil Gauthier’s account of a 4-day road trip with friends, filled with both struggles and memories.
Road Dirt editor Rob Brooks digs up a tale from the RD Archives, recounting the bike that tried to kill him, and what he learned from the ordeal.
Road Dirt’s Ted Edwards account of the true heroes of Laguna Seca racing, both on and off the track.
Rob discusses the conditions and situations that can create fear and anxiety for riders, and how to overcome these.
Road Dirt editor Rob Brooks discusses the visual skill he calls “Long View”, and its impact on riding and life.
Road Dirt west coast writer/rider Ted Edwards unveils five more of his favorite roads in Washington State and east Oregon, in his unique and entertaining style.
Road Dirt owner/editor Rob Brooks reflects on the traumatic, life-altering motorcycle crash he experienced years ago, and how he eventually got back to riding.
Road Dirt contributor Lloyd Clement of New Hampshire recounts a spectacular day of riding- to the legendary Laconia Bike Week, across the beautiful White Mountains, and along the rocky southern coastline.
Rob comments on the struggles of recent decades in American motorcycling, some signs of revival in our sport, and offers some suggestions for the future.
Road Dirt west coast writer Ted Edwards rides the breathtaking beauty of the Pacific Northwest. Rob reads his account.
Rob spent some time with motorcycle rider, vintage collector, and retired motorcycle racer Keith Campbell, in what became a quite enjoyable interview. *disclaimer: mild language
Road Dirt west coast contributor Ted Edwards’ tribute to his still-motorcycle riding, 76 year old father.
Rob recounts hitting a pothole on his Triumph Bonneville, and his efforts in searching out a viable and affordable solution.
Rob recounts reconnecting with an old school buddy, their impact on each other, their many moto rides together, and the grief of goodbyes.
Road Dirt contributor Ted Edwards reveals a hidden truth and meaning behind the popular motorcyclist phrase, “Loud pipes save lives.”
Rob attends the NHRA Southern Nationals drag races at the Atlanta Dragway in Commerce, Georgia.
Mike Boyd, Vietnam combat veteran and lifelong motorcycle rider, opens the door to his garage, and his amazing story.
We share our northwest friend Ted Edwards’ adventures out on a protracted road trip, seeking those people, places, and circumstances that reveal the American ideals of love and sacrifice for our fellow man.
Fighter pilot jargon and combat practices, and how these translate to riding a motorcycle on the streets.
The thrills and spills of American Flat Track, one of the oldest forms of motorcycle racing. Rob attended the Dixie Speedway round, and recounts a day at the races.
My friend Darin Branton’s story of his 5-month odyssey out across America, Mexico, and deep into Central America, after 4 years in the U.S. Army, a year of which in a combat zone in Iraq.
Rob & Phil attended a local Cycle Gear Bike Night, and enjoyed a loud evening with a wide variety of motorcycle riders.
Rob tries to convey the sheer terrifying thrill of riding a sport bike well in excess of 100 mph, on a race track. See if you can imagine what he’s describing!
Riding a high-powered sport bike, at triple-digit speeds, in a controlled environment. A thrill ride, indeed.
An encounter with an old Triumph stirs something deep, nostalgic, and “hooligan” in our host.
Crossing beautiful south Alabama, across Mobile Bay, and along the sand, the dunes, and the beaches of panhandle Florida.
Riding the storms out south of Dallas, outrunning them to Mike’s sister’s place, then a brief, tense encounter with a biker gang.
Riding across the wide open prairie lands of west Oklahoma and Panhandle Texas, the amazing sights and even more amazing people we encountered.
A 10-day, 10 state, 3300+ mile road trip out west and back, with a great friend. Amazing places, experiences, and people. Especially the people.
One final musing on Christmas, about those unique foreign visitors who crossed a continent to worship the Christ Child.
After a December moto ride, I reflected on a father in Biblical times with an extraordinary story. A little something for the holiday season.
The story of my father’s legacy of riding, and the eventual, inevitable moment of stepping away from motorcycling.