This page is for the lady riders

The alarm buzzed noisily in my ears as I struggled to pull myself from the brink of sleep and prepare for my first weekend escape on our motorcycle. Chuck had signed up to go on the Women in Motion ride, the last weekend of July, after Penny had mentioned the trip to us. A fundraiser for Accident Scene Management, this is a well organized annual event, that we will definitely attend on a regular basis.

The week prior to the trip I had fretted and fumed about how we would ever have enough room in our touring bike to take the essentials for a three-day trip. I was thoroughly amazed when I realized how much room there actually was in a tour pack. Not only did I manage to pack everything I needed, but even brought home some unworn apparel.

After a quick shower, nervous jitters returned as I struggled to decide what to wear. The July morning had broken with unseasonably cool temperatures leaving a gentle silver mist hanging in the air, but I knew before the end of the day the temperatures would be hot and humid, a typical Midwestern day. I finally decided to layer my shirts and wear my leather coat.

With my major wardrobe decisions out of the way, Chuck and I mounted our Harley and headed to Wilwert’s. Our arrival at the parking lot was the first indication of just how organized and committed to schedule these ladies were going to be. Every bike was directed by road guards to a designated parking area. This tight configuration would allow them to quickly and easily direct everyone into a safe and steady stream of bikes, once the ride actually began to roll. Dismounting, we joined the line of registrants and then ate a wonderful breakfast provided by Wilwerts. Everywhere we went people would stop to introduce themselves and visit.

After attending a short informational meeting on group riding, we began the journey of a lifetime. Words fail to adequately express the excitement that coils in the pit of your stomach at the first thrum of 300 bikes springing to life. The feeling seemed to intensify and unfurl its way into my throat as the parade began. Motorcycles of all shapes, makes, colors and styles dotted the road as far as I could see.

The weather remained cool as we wound our way up towards Guttenburg and McGregor along the Great River Road, so I was glad I had dressed as warmly as I had. Breathtaking scenery from rolling fields of hay and corn, to hardwood and white pine forests dotted the open landscape. Each small town we rolled through had its own unique architectural atmosphere and Midwestern flavor to share. Pristine farmyards offered a burst of color from well-kept flower gardens. But whether we were traveling through well-populated cities or sprawling rural counties, the open smiles and friendly faces that lined the roads were the same everywhere we went.

Each meal was orchestrated and provided by Harley dealers along the way. The lunches provided a low-key way to introduce yourself to others and make new friends along the way. The evening meals presented more atmosphere with a formal sit down dinner format. Friday night we experienced a riverboat cruise on the St. Croix River. Calm waters, cool temperatures, and a star-filled sky created the perfect romantic blend of elements. Saturday night, the Governor’s ball in Madison, offered a splendid buffet selection, comfortable open atmosphere, and a dance band that elicited foot tapping, if not all out dance moves.

As a weekend getaway, this ride far surpassed any of my expectations. Penny and Vicki made sure that everyone was comfortable, safe, and stayed on schedule. Whether you enjoyed long group rides, sight seeing, shopping, visiting or eating there was definitely something for everyone. Chuck and I enjoyed every aspect of the adventure. Best of all, the ride supported a very important cause-motorcycle safety and accident scene management. Hopefully, we will see you on the ride next year!