Ups & Downs

UPs & DOWNs

UP: To the “Share the road. Look twice for motorcyclists” signs, for bringing attention to motorcyclists. The message appeared on California’s electronic freeway signs for a full week in February and were the product of cooperation between the California Highway Patrol, the state’s Office of Transportation Safety and Caltrans. Despite being somewhat controversial (complaints from disgruntled car drivers were recorded by Caltrans), the messages were welcomed and seen as overdue in the eyes of many California motorcyclists.

UP: To 20 years of Hinckley Triumph, for keeping the marque alive and giving us some of the coolest motorcycles on the market today. Yes, it’s already been two decades since construction magnate John Bloor successfully re-launched the iconic British brand. To celebrate the occasion, Triumph is throwing a party on September 18 at Mallory Park in Leicestershire, England. Racing and stunt shows are planned, and customized bikes and key historical motorcycles will be on display. For more information, visit www.triumph-llve.co.uk.

UP: To Jimmy Moore, for coming up with a resourceful means of funding his planned trip to race this year’s Isle of Man TT. More than a few Americans have raced the Island, but none have Moore’s on-track credentials. The two-time AMA

Superstock champion wants to win this infamous “road race,” and he needs your help. “We’ve assembled an impressive team,” said Moore. “Evan Steele of ESP in Arizona is building the bikes, and Tom Kenny and Aaron Miles will join Steele on the Island. I’ve got the right guys, but sponsorship is the toughest hurdle I face.” Moore and his US TT Foundation have launched a grassroots effort to raise money. “For $10, you’ll get your name on our bike. For $50, we’ll add a T-shirt. And for $100, we’ll throw in a copy of Mark Gardiner’s “Riding Man” book about racing the TT If you can contribute more than that, we’ll think of something special!” For more information or to make a donation, visit www.usttfoundation.com.