Think Bike- Alberta Motorcycle Safety Society

Summary

In the season finale of Think Bike, Liane, Sean and Bryn reflect on the past season, discussing the impact of weather on riding, motorcycle safety statistics, and their favorite episodes. They also look ahead to the next season, considering new ideas and inviting listeners to share their stories and questions.

Takeaways
The weather significantly impacted riding this summer in Alberta.
Motorcycle fatalities have decreased this year, with only 15 reported.
Most fatalities occurred outside city limits, indicating a need for rural safety measures.
The podcast featured a variety of guests, sharing compelling motorcycle stories.
The hosts plan to introduce awards for the next season, engaging listeners in the process.
There is a focus on personal interest stories alongside safety discussions in the podcast.
The hosts encourage listeners to share their experiences and questions for future episodes.
The community's response to motorcycle safety advocacy is crucial for reducing incidents.
The podcast aims to continue weaving safety messages into engaging narratives.
The hosts express gratitude for their audience and the guests who contributed to the season.
Sound Bites
"End of season six already."
"We didn't ride much this summer."
"We don't like any fatalities."
"It's still a small demographic."
"We need a game."
Chapters

00:00
Season Finale Reflections
02:10
Weather Impact on Riding
05:41
Motorcycle Safety Statistics
10:16
Favorite Episodes and Guests
18:58
Looking Ahead to Season Seven

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.

Takeaways
Todd Sharpless has been involved in motorcycling since age four.
He has eight championships in dirt track racing.
Ross Desainkoix grew up in a competitive motorcycle environment.
The CMA has undergone significant changes in leadership and structure.
Seven new committees have been established within the CMA.
The CMA aims to improve motorcycle awareness and safety in Canada.
Women's participation in motorcycling is increasing, but challenges remain.
The CMA is addressing insurance costs and public image issues.
The competition committee has created a new appeals process for racing disputes.
The CMA is celebrating its 80th anniversary and enhancing its community presence. Bias exists everywhere and affects decision-making.
Membership growth is crucial for advocacy and resources.
The CMA aims to be recognized as the national representative for motorcycling.
Partnership with FIM enhances competition and sustainability efforts.
World Supercross event showcased Canadian talent and enthusiasm.
CMA provides essential support for events, including medical teams.
Advocacy for road safety is a priority for the CMA.
The CMA is focused on both competition and enthusiast memberships.
Collaboration among clubs can strengthen the motorcycle community.
The CMA is committed to addressing common issues faced by motorcyclists.
Titles
Revving Up Motorcycle Awareness
The Evolution of the Canadian Motorcycle Association
Women in Motorcycling: Breaking Barriers
From Racing to Leadership: Todd and Ross's Journey
Sound Bites
"I started riding at age four."
"We got more people involved in the board."
"Bias exists everywhere."
"The growth of the membership is very important."
"We need partnerships, we need help."
"We all have the same problems."
"We need to get together."
"It's been a pleasure having you both."
"We might have to do it again next year."
Chapters

00:00
Introduction to Think Bike and Guests
01:08
Todd Sharpless: A Life in Motorcycling
06:37
Ross Desainkoix: From Trials to CEO
10:19
CMA's Evolution and New Committees
11:27
CMA's Summer Achievements and Initiatives
18:54
Women's Community in Motorcycling
21:22
Competition Committee and Fairness in Racing
22:20
Navigating Bias in Decision Making
23:16
Strategic Goals for Membership Growth
26:39
The Importance of FIM Partnership
31:53
Insights from the World Supercross Event
39:29
CMA's Role Beyond Competition
43:34
Uniting Voices for Motorcycle Advocacy

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

00:00
Introduction to Moto Canada and Landon French
02:31
The Rebranding Journey of Moto Canada
04:45
Understanding Moto Canada's Role and Advocacy
10:54
Recognizing Motorcycling as a Sport in Canada
14:47
Addressing Insurance Challenges for Riders
20:13
Impact of Tariff Wars on the Motorcycle Industry
31:55
Long-term Goals for Motorcycling in Canada
34:55
Upcoming Motorcycle Shows and Community Engagement

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

00:00
Introduction to One Last Ride
05:04
The Concept Behind One Last Ride
10:00
Personalizing the Farewell
15:01
Navigating Grief and Community Support
20:02
Future Plans for One Last Ride

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

00:00
Introduction to the Calgary Motorcycle Club's Legacy
05:38
The Origins and Evolution of the Calgary Motorcycle Club
10:21
Activities and Community Engagement of the CMC
13:18
Celebrating 115 Years: The Anniversary Event
18:59
Membership and Safety in the CMC
25:09
The Future of the Calgary Motorcycle Club