To MGNOC, or not to MGNOC, the threadfest

[rocker59]

Lannis,

I think some people would like an "owners club" or "riders club" that operated as a not for profit, had unpaid elected officers, a treasury, and used bulk of the annual dues to help support an annual national event as well as the local ones.  A club that holds open annual business meetings, etc., etc.

MGNOC is not that type of organization.  Never has been.  It's more of a mailing list that you subscribe to.

The opportunity is there, though, for someone who wants to get the ball rolling with a "real" club.  "Moto Guzzi Riders Club"  "MGRC".  Whatever.  It would be a lot of work and take years to build up.  It would have to be progressive and tech savvy in order to attract younger, newer riders/members.

I know that I am not that someone.  I don't really give a shite if there is an owners club, or not.  It will not affect my Guzzi ownership experience either way.  

Wild Guzzi is its own animal.  Not a "club".  Just an online forum.  Not in competition with any clubs or other forums.  It is what it is.  Just an online place to shoot the bull and promote the brand.

[rodekyll]

Yeah, but what does that "10,000" really mean?   It's an interactive discussion forum.  THOUSANDS of those "members" have never posted, or posted once since they signed up.   And how many of them are just freeloaders?   That hardly counts, on the principle of "If you're not paying for it, you're not the customer.  You're the product being sold."

It apparently bothers the crap out of some people that Frank Wedge and the MGNOC actually exist.   How is it skin off of anyone's nose if they do?  What, does your state withhold taxes from your paycheck to support MGNOC?   I'm amazed that people think it has to be some sort of pissing or d!ck-measuring contest to see who the REAL Rulers Of The Guzzi World are. 

I belong to both, support both, and are glad for what each one of them does.   

Lannis

Like OB's post above says, nobody's arguing Frank's right and the right of mgnoc to exist do their thing -- that's you inventing things again.  In fact, the argument only starts when someone from the mgnoc starts it.  What I as a WG member object to is that annual mgnoc attempt to co-opt WG and turn it into an extension of the 'club'.  Frank has a website.  If he can't or won't develop it to your liking, take it up with him, but don't try to make him king over here. 

What I as a general member of forums object to is the pissants accusing me of 'freeloading' on this or any other site I might visit.  To paraphrase your argument -- how is it any skin offa you nose who luap allows on his site?  If he's not requiring dues, fees, or payment, who are YOU to pass judgement or make folks feel unwelcome based on not giving luap money?  That's luap's prerogative -- and his job.  I'm sure that if he had a problem with 'freeloading' visitors he'd fix the problem.  As it is, the WG model is flourishing, and the mgnoc model is losing relevance.  Yes, there is a reason for that.  But bitching about it on WG is the same as publishing a rant about any business before trying to solve the problem privately.  If folks want the mgnoc to be different than it is -- take it up with Frank.

[dilligaf]

Who resents Frank for making a profit?  He puts a lot of work into MGNOC but no one has to join if they do not want to. When I joined WG no one asked me for a penny yet it costs to keep WG running. If LUAP et. al. make a few bucks then so be it. But I offered up a few bucks to keep this online. It is fun and a great resource for all things Guzzi and and many other things. The only time it gets loopy is with gun threads.....  ;D ;D ;D then all bets are off.  ;)

And helmet law threads.   ;-T I miss helmet law threads.  ::(  :BEER:
Matt

[Arizona Wayne]

So . . .  if hundreds of mgnoc members don't have a computer and Frank has ceased to communicate in any other media but his website, how do all these phantom members stay in touch?

I've seen a few references to the huge membership of mgnoc compared to WG.  Frank doesn't publish his active membership stats.  How do you arrive at this conclusion?

To answer the OP directly -- The MGNOC is what FRANK wants it to be.  Our opinion doesn't count.  It's his business and his show.  If Frank thought the 'club' needed new life, he'd be doing something to make it so -- and he's not.  If he wanted his website to have a member forum it would be there.  It's not.  That's because these discussions would be happening there if a forum existed, and he doesn't want to hear about it.

But in my opinion, this is the wrong battle for the mgnoc faithful to be fighting.  If mgnoc members are concerned about the life of the group now, just wait until Frank is no longer in the mix.  With no club structure, no officers, no club treasury, no meetings, 'member' input not welcomed, and no plan for a successor, what happens to the 'club' then?  I think it bites the dust in a heartbeat.  So I think the battle should be to figure out what happens to the mgnoc post-Frank.  No plan, no future for the club.  It's that simple.

Once again, $0.02

Since you don't belong to the MGNOC and obviously hate Frank for whatever reason,  I don't consider your opinion of his Guzzi club to have any validity.  :-*

[Arizona Wayne]

I think the controversy starts when it is suggested that WG and the MGNOC should be merged and only MGNOC members should have access t0 WG , how does that grow the clan  ??? Personally MGNOC is kind of a neutral thing , although 3 of the last 4 OK reps have been friends . The hard feelings seem to start when the inference is made that if one chooses to not "belong" they aren't "real" . As for the numbers , well, maybe there are only 50 or so loudmouths here (pointing the finger at myself) , but a much larger number read the forum everyday .

  Dusty

I don't know where you come up with this idea someone thinks WG and the MGNOC should merge.  Like I said earlier, they both serve different needs for Guzzi owners.  They are  related by MC brand and are co-joined for that reason without it having to be official in some way.  A Guzzi rider can join whichever 1 they want and participate accordingly.  There is no $ obligation really either way.  If you don't feel like contributing $ to either effort, that's your decision.  When you go to a NAR or MGNOC rally you pay for your participation when you get there, whether it's to a host or for your motel room, food, gas, etc.

[oldbike54]

I don't know where you come up with this idea someone thinks WG and the MGNOC should merge.  Like I said earlier, they both serve different needs for Guzzi owners.  They are  related by MC brand and are co-joined for that reason without it having to be official in some way.  A Guzzi rider can join whichever 1 they want and participate accordingly.  There is no $ obligation really either way.

It was suggested early on in the thread by someone I respect . Just seems an odd idea is all . I'll let RK respond to the other accusation  ;) Notice , I've said nothing negative re Frank or the MGNOC .

  Dusty

[rodekyll]

Since you don't belong to the MGNOC and obviously hate Frank for whatever reason,  I don't consider your opinion of his Guzzi club to have any validity.  :-*

Your premise is flawed.    ;)

[rodekyll]

I don't know where you come up with this idea someone thinks WG and the MGNOC should merge.  Like I said earlier, they both serve different needs for Guzzi owners.  They are  related by MC brand and are co-joined for that reason without it having to be official in some way.  A Guzzi rider can join whichever 1 they want and participate accordingly.  There is no $ obligation really either way.  If you don't feel like contributing $ to either effort, that's your decision.  When you go to a NAR or MGNOC rally you pay for your participation when you get there, whether it's to a host or for your motel room, food, gas, etc.

Wayne, we're on the same page here.   :)

[oldmxdog61u]

I like both. Its a new paradigm, and WG fits. It is forums like this that are attractive to the new younger demographic. Every time you ride you have a chance to bring a new rider into the fold. NAR is also a good place to bring these same folks. Great group of people.

[blackcat]

I think that Frank missed the boat when the technology started to change. Back in the days when there was a Topica MG list he should have taken the lead and made the jump to what is now this forum, but that didn't happen. I believe time will sort out this situation.

[dilligaf]

It was suggested early on in the thread by someone I respect . Just seems an odd idea is all . I'll let RK respond to the other accusation  ;) Notice , I've said nothing negative re Frank or the MGNOC .

  Dusty

That would be me. I'm not going to apologize however, some feeling should be kept to ones self.  The "freeloaders" comment was out of line.
 
Looks like MGNOC is on Facebook.  I know nothing about Facebook but I signed up out of curiosity. Son in law posts to Facebook and on a recent ride I would call home or email only to find everyone already knew were we were and with pictures.  The younger crowd are all on Facebook.  :BEER:
Matt

    

[Kev m]

Looks like MGNOC is on Facebook.  I know nothing about Facebook but I signed up out of curiosity. Son in law posts to Facebook and on a recent ride I would call home or email only to find everyone already knew were we were and with pictures.  The younger crowd are all on Facebook.  :BEER:
Matt

    

Actually it's only geezers in the 30-50 year range (maybe some late 20-somethings) that really use FB anymore.

The younger crow teen-early 20s' have moved on. A little tweet and instagram, but other media too.

They look at FB as something for their "parents".

[Crusty]

You can tell it's winter; and today's only November 19! By March, people will either committing suicide or using a 12 gauge shotgun on their computers.  :winer

[Randown]

...
Yeah, but what does that "10,000" really mean?   It's an interactive discussion forum.  THOUSANDS of those "members" have never posted, or posted once since they signed up.   And how many of them are just freeloaders?
...
Lannis

I'm confused, can you define a freeloader? Would that be anyone without a "Doard Bonor" tag under their name? Would that include the likes of pauldaytona who brought us guzzidiag?

[Lannis]

Like OB's post above says, nobody's arguing Frank's right and the right of mgnoc to exist do their thing -- that's you inventing things again.  In fact, the argument only starts when someone from the mgnoc starts it.  What I as a WG member object to is that annual mgnoc attempt to co-opt WG and turn it into an extension of the 'club'.  Frank has a website.  If he can't or won't develop it to your liking, take it up with him, but don't try to make him king over here. 

What I as a general member of forums object to is the pissants accusing me of 'freeloading' on this or any other site I might visit.  To paraphrase your argument -- how is it any skin offa you nose who luap allows on his site?  If he's not requiring dues, fees, or payment, who are YOU to pass judgement or make folks feel unwelcome based on not giving luap money?  That's luap's prerogative -- and his job.  I'm sure that if he had a problem with 'freeloading' visitors he'd fix the problem.  As it is, the WG model is flourishing, and the mgnoc model is losing relevance.  Yes, there is a reason for that.  But bitching about it on WG is the same as publishing a rant about any business before trying to solve the problem privately.  If folks want the mgnoc to be different than it is -- take it up with Frank.

As usual, there are SO many emotional, invented, completely baseless assumptions in your response rant that I don't think I have time or energy to try to respond to them all.   It wouldn't do any good anyway.

None of it's any skin off my nose.  As I said (and as you, again, didn't read), I participate fully in both venues, I contribute to both venues because I believe they both have a place and they both help, and I'm just amazed that some folks have to "put down" one or the other, you being a perfect (if I can use that word) example.   Unlike dilligaf, though, I'll stick by my "freeloader" comment.   Luap can do it how he wants;  just like MGNOC is Frank's, WG is Luap's, and his business model doesn't have to be the same.   I support both.

Lannis

[Lannis]

I'm confused, can you define a freeloader? Would that be anyone without a "Doard Bonor" tag under their name? Would that include the likes of pauldaytona who brought us guzzidiag?

A "freeloader" would be someone who takes advantage of the Forum, but who doesn't volunteer to help support it.

I have no idea who those people are, other than there are some out there (I guess, because people are defending them).   I don't know who it includes.   I'm pretty sure I know who it doesn't include.

I wouldn't use the criteria or name the names that you're doing.   That's above my pay level.

Lannis

[rocker59]

A "freeloader" would be someone who takes advantage of the Forum, but who doesn't volunteer to help support it.


Lannis

There are no "freeloaders" here.  This is a free forum.  All are welcome.

[oldbike54]

That would be me. I'm not going to apologize however, some feeling should be kept to ones self.  The "freeloaders" comment was out of line.
 
Looks like MGNOC is on Facebook.  I know nothing about Facebook but I signed up out of curiosity. Son in law posts to Facebook and on a recent ride I would call home or email only to find everyone already knew were we were and with pictures.  The younger crowd are all on Facebook.  :BEER:
Matt

    

As stated,"someone I respect" . Just a small difference in philosophy  :BEER:

  Dusty

[youcanrunnaked]

With all due respect to Frank Wedge and his contributions toward the brand's survival in the 1970's, my calendar says it is now 2014.  The question is what can be done today to bring new life to the MGNOC.  If your answer is that there is no problem, so nothing needs to be done, then your nostalgic looks to the past or satisfaction with the status quo ante make some sense; otherwise, they do nothing to answer this question.

As I see it, the way to address this question is with another question:
If you were designing a national club for the marque, what would it look like?

Once we have a comprehensive list of what we want in such a club, it would fall to either Frank Wedge to change the MGNOC to incorporate our desires, or to some of us to form a new club, to make the dream a reality.  (Or neither happens, and this topic remains nothing more than a semi-regular exercise in frustration.)

I do not presume to have such a comprehensive list of wants and desires, but I have a few ideas.  Maybe you disagree with some or all of my ideas; maybe you have your own list -- feel free to post it here.  At least we can get the ball rolling.  I suggest that once we have such a list, someone close to Frank presents it to him to see if he has any interest in changing the MGNOC to accommodate our desires.  If no changes occur, we can consider the alternatives of either starting an independent club or doing nothing.

So, with the caveat that each and every sentence below should be read as beginning with the phrase "in my opinion," here is my list:

1.   The name of the club should not be "Moto Guzzi National Owner's Club" (MGNOC).  What's in a name, you ask?  Plenty.  It's how the world recognizes who you are as a group, and what you are about.  I propose:  Moto Guzzi Motorcycle Club of North America (MGMCNA).  This name is superior to "Moto Guzzi National Owner's Club" for several reasons:

a.   Our Canadian friends also ride Moto Guzzi motorcycles and participate in group activities.  (They have hosted a “national” rally!)  The club name should include “North America” rather than “National.”  Indeed, the name “National” is itself a misnomer, as every nation on Earth can claim a “national” organization.

b.   The name should include the word “motorcycle.”  Don’t laugh.  You may know that Moto Guzzi makes motorcycles, but I bet the majority of people (maybe even the majority of motorcyclists) do not.

c.   Calling the group an “owner’s club” is unnecessarily exclusionary, as it implies that you have to presently own a Moto Guzzi to be a member of the group.  We should signal that the group welcomes past, present and future owners, friends of owners, and the Moto Guzzi curious.  Either call it an “enthusiasts” club, or just drop the reference to “owners.”

2.   The MGMCNA should be organized as a not-for-profit, with a board of directors elected at regular intervals and officers either elected or appointed for distinct terms.  Officers should include regional representatives for distinct regions of North America, as well as state (province) representatives serving under them, in more populous areas.

3.   There should be annual dues set by the board of directors, and the board should also pursue opportunities for advertising revenue from businesses of interest to motorcyclists generally and Moto Guzzi enthusiasts in particular.  Rally fees should be as decided by the officers involved in organizing the particular rally, with oversight of the board.  Fees should be two-tiered: members and non-members.  Non-members should always be welcome to club events, but if a fee is charged, it should be discounted for members in order to drive membership.  There also needs to be complete fiscal transparency, with annual reports to the membership, and the majority if not all revenue going toward events, membership and marketing activities.

4.   Participation should be through volunteerism, with the MGMCNA providing reimbursement of volunteers’ out-of-pocket expenses subject to oversight and approval by the board.  If finances allow and the membership agrees, small stipend for board members and other volunteers should be considered.  Corporate sponsorship and advertising opportunities should include having them provide samples of their products and services that can be distributed to volunteers as “thank you” gifts as well as used as door prizes and such at rallies and other gatherings.  If the MGMCNA becomes large enough and active enough to justify a professional salaried director, either full-time or part-time, the board should consider hiring such a person to assist the volunteers.

5.   Membership dues should provide tangible benefits, such as:

a.   An online forum and newsletter covering a variety of topics of interest to the members.  The newsletter should be a professional-looking piece with technical, travel, touring, product news and rumors, racing news, bike show reports, and other information.  Members should be encouraged to contribute articles and rewarded with free gear, tools, or similar items provided by sponsors. The newsletter would be online, but one possible goal would be to grow it into a professionally produced monthly print magazine, with a possible reach into “lifestyle” subjects of interest to motorcyclists.  (I am thinking of publications like BMW Magazine and Red Bull’s The Red Bulletin.)

b.   Wide presence on social media – Facebook, Twitter, Tumblr, Reddit, Instagram, etc.

c.   Access to membership for networking, road trip assistance, lend-a-couch, etc.

d.   Offering discounted products and services of interest to the membership: roadside assistance plans, various forms of insurance, extended warranties, travel planning and tours, track days, riding schools, etc.

e.   A membership kit, with an ID card (with useful information), an MGMCNA pin, patch, and stickers, maybe a few other pieces of MGMCNA logo’d and Moto Guzzi logo’d swag, as well as a catalogue of MGMCNA merchandise available for purchase.

f.   Rally and other meeting planning and participation, including advertising and financial support for such activities.  The calendar of such activities should be packed with things to do, in all parts of North America.  These can be Moto Guzzi-centric events (where all brands are welcome) or motorcycle as well as other events where an organized Moto Guzzi presence would enhance the experience (e.g., Moto GP and SBK race weekends, Barber and Mid-Ohio Vintage Days, Stugis Black Hills Rally, Daytona Bike Week, Laconia Bike Week).

6.   The MGMCNA should work in close partnership with representatives of Moto Guzzi, Piaggio’s North American operations, and factory-authorized Moto Guzzi dealers in North America.  Local dealers and regional factory representatives should work with regional and state (province) MGMCNA representatives in presenting open houses, rallies, outings, and other opportunities to gather together and showcase the brand.  MGMCNA should be an independent not-for-profit, rather than a captive owner’s club, but many of the things that have made the Harley Owners Group (HOG) so successful should be emulated.  One thing that would drive membership and help sustain the organization is a deal that would have one free year of MGMCNA membership included with every purchase of a new Moto Guzzi motorcycle in North America (even better if Piaggio subsidizes all or a portion of the first year’s dues).  Another would be automatic annual membership renewal tied to the member’s credit card or bank account.  Now, imagine combining the two: A buyer of a new Moto Guzzi is offered one year’s free membership in  the MGMCNA, but in the process of signing up for the deal, they have to agree to automatic dues payment after the first year (cancellable by the member at any time, of course).

Again, the above are simply my thoughts on the subject.  I am putting them out here for discussion, including constructive criticism, so, have at it.

[Lannis]

There are no "freeloaders" here.  This is a free forum.  All are welcome.

I know.   That's the way it's set up, and Luap is happy to run the forum using his own money, money from clicks on ads, and money volunteered from others.   I'm very glad he is willing to do that, regardless of what direction his cash flow is in.

I guess I look at it sort of like when a potluck dinner is served, where you either bring a covered dish or drop a little donation into the jar.   The folks sponsoring it don't require a donation, don't police it, and are happy to serve everyone who comes up.   I (just me) happen to think it's not quite right when someone comes and eats, and talks, and hangs around having dessert, and has a good time ... and doesn't bring anything at all, and acts like access to dinner and everything associated with it is his "due" somehow, even though they KNOW it is costing someone money.

Just my opinion.

Lannis

[Dean Rose]

With all due respect to Frank Wedge and his contributions toward the brand's survival in the 1970's, my calendar says it is now 2014.  The question is what can be done today to bring new life to the MGNOC.  If your answer is that there is no problem, so nothing needs to be done, then your nostalgic looks to the past or satisfaction with the status quo ante make some sense; otherwise, they do nothing to answer this question.

As I see it, the way to address this question is with another question:
If you were designing a national club for the marque, what would it look like?

Once we have a comprehensive list of what we want in such a club, it would fall to either Frank Wedge to change the MGNOC to incorporate our desires, or to some of us to form a new club, to make the dream a reality.  (Or neither happens, and this topic remains nothing more than a semi-regular exercise in frustration.)

I do not presume to have such a comprehensive list of wants and desires, but I have a few ideas.  Maybe you disagree with some or all of my ideas; maybe you have your own list -- feel free to post it here.  At least we can get the ball rolling.  I suggest that once we have such a list, someone close to Frank presents it to him to see if he has any interest in changing the MGNOC to accommodate our desires.  If no changes occur, we can consider the alternatives of either starting an independent club or doing nothing.

So, with the caveat that each and every sentence below should be read as beginning with the phrase "in my opinion," here is my list:

1.   The club name of the club should not be "Moto Guzzi National Owner's Club" (MGNOC).  What's in a name, you ask?  Plenty.  It's how the world recognizes who you are as a group, and what you are about.  I propose:  Moto Guzzi Motorcycle Club of North America (MGMCNA).  This name is superior to "Moto Guzzi National Owner's Club" for several reasons:

a.   Our Canadian friends also ride Moto Guzzi motorcycles and participate in group activities.  (They have hosted a “national” rally!)  The club name should include “North America” rather than “National.”  Indeed, the name “National” is itself a misnomer, as every nation on Earth can claim a “national” organization.

b.   The name should include the word “motorcycle.”  Don’t laugh.  You may know that Moto Guzzi makes motorcycles, but I bet the majority of people (maybe even the majority of motorcyclists) do not.

c.   Calling the group an “owner’s club” is unnecessarily exclusionary, as it implies that you have to presently own a Moto Guzzi to be a member of the group.  We should signal that the group welcomes past, present and future owners, friends of owners, and the Moto Guzzi curious.  Either call it an “enthusiasts” club, or just drop the reference to “owners.”

2.   The MGMCNA should be organized as a not-for-profit, with a board of directors elected at regular intervals and officers either elected or appointed for distinct terms.  Officers should include regional representatives for distinct regions of North America, as well as state (province) representatives serving under them, in more populous areas.

3.   There should be annual dues set by the board of directors, and the board should also pursue opportunities for advertising revenue from businesses of interest to motorcyclists generally and Moto Guzzi enthusiasts in particular.  Rally fees should be as decided by the officers involved in organizing the particular rally, with oversight of the board.  Fees should be two-tiered: members and non-members.  Non-members should always be welcome to club events, but if a fee is charged, it should be discounted for members in order to drive membership.  There also needs to be complete fiscal transparency, with annual reports to the membership, and the majority if not all revenue going toward events, membership and marketing activities.

4.   Participation should be through volunteerism, with the MGMCNA providing reimbursement of volunteers’ out-of-pocket expenses subject to oversight and approval by the board.  If finances allow and the membership agrees, small stipend for board members and other volunteers should be considered.  Corporate sponsorship and advertising opportunities should include having them provide samples of their products and services that can be distributed to volunteers as “thank you” gifts as well as used as door prizes and such at rallies and other gatherings.  If the MGMCNA becomes large enough and active enough to justify a professional salaried director, either full-time or part-time, the board should consider hiring such a person to assist the volunteers.

5.   Membership dues should provide tangible benefits, such as:

a.   An online forum and newsletter covering a variety of topics of interest to the members.  The newsletter should be a professional-looking piece with technical, travel, touring, product news and rumors, racing news, bike show reports, and other information.  Members should be encouraged to contribute articles and rewarded with free gear, tools, or similar items provided by sponsors. The newsletter would be online, but one possible goal would be to grow it into a professionally produced monthly print magazine, with a possible reach into “lifestyle” subjects of interest to motorcyclists.  (I am thinking of publications like BMW Magazine and Red Bull’s The Red Bulletin.)

b.   Wide presence on social media – Facebook, Twitter, Tumblr, Reddit, Instagram, etc.

c.   Access to membership for networking, road trip assistance, lend-a-couch, etc.

d.   Offering discounted products and services of interest to the membership: roadside assistance plans, various forms of insurance, extended warranties, travel planning and tours, track days, riding schools, etc.

e.   A membership kit, with an ID card (with useful information), an MGMCNA pin, patch, and stickers, maybe a few other pieces of MGMCNA logo’d and Moto Guzzi logo’d swag, as well as a catalogue of MGMCNA merchandise available for purchase.

f.   Rally and other meeting planning and participation, including advertising and financial support for such activities.  The calendar of such activities should be packed with things to do, in all parts of North America.  These can be Moto Guzzi-centric events (where all brands are welcome) or motorcycle as well as other events where an organized Moto Guzzi presence would enhance the experience (e.g., Moto GP and SBK race weekends, Barber and Mid-Ohio Vintage Days, Stugis Black Hills Rally, Daytona Bike Week, Laconia Bike Week).

6.   The MGMCNA should work in close partnership with representatives of Moto Guzzi, Piaggio’s North American operations, and factory-authorized Moto Guzzi dealers in North America.  Local dealers and regional factory representatives should work with regional and state (province) MGMCNA representatives in presenting open houses, rallies, outings, and other opportunities to gather together and showcase the brand.  MGMCNA should be an independent not-for-profit, rather than a captive owner’s club, but many of the things that have made the Harley Owners Group (HOG) so successful should be emulated.  One thing that would drive membership and help sustain the organization is a deal that would have one free year of MGMCNA membership included with every purchase of a new Moto Guzzi motorcycle in North America (even better if Piaggio subsidizes all or a portion of the first year’s dues).  Another would be automatic annual membership renewal tied to the member’s credit card or bank account.  Now, imagine combining the two: A buyer of a new Moto Guzzi is offered one year’s free membership in  the MGMCNA, but in the process of signing up for the deal, they have to agree to automatic dues payment after the first year (cancellable by the member at any time, of course).

Again, the above are simply my thoughts on the subject.  I am putting them out here for discussion, including constructive criticism, so, have at it.

 ;-T


Dean

[Lannis]

With all due respect to Frank Wedge and his contributions toward the brand's survival in the 1970's, my calendar says it is now 2014.  The question is what can be done today to bring new life to the MGNOC.  If your answer is that there is no problem, so nothing needs to be done, then your nostalgic looks to the past or satisfaction with the status quo ante make some sense; otherwise, they do nothing to answer this question.

As I see it, the way to address this question is with another question:
If you were designing a national club for the marque, what would it look like?

Once we have a comprehensive list of what we want in such a club, it would fall to either Frank Wedge to change the MGNOC to incorporate our desires, or to some of us to form a new club, to make the dream a reality.  (Or neither happens, and this topic remains nothing more than a semi-regular exercise in frustration.)

I do not presume to have such a comprehensive list of wants and desires, but I have a few ideas.  Maybe you disagree with some or all of my ideas; maybe you have your own list -- feel free to post it here.  At least we can get the ball rolling.  I suggest that once we have such a list, someone close to Frank presents it to him to see if he has any interest in changing the MGNOC to accommodate our desires.  If no changes occur, we can consider the alternatives of either starting an independent club or doing nothing.

So, with the caveat that each and every sentence below should be read as beginning with the phrase "in my opinion," here is my list:

1.   The club name of the club should not be "Moto Guzzi National Owner's Club" (MGNOC).  What's in a name, you ask?  Plenty.  It's how the world recognizes who you are as a group, and what you are about.  I propose:  Moto Guzzi Motorcycle Club of North America (MGMCNA).  This name is superior to "Moto Guzzi National Owner's Club" for several reasons:

a.   Our Canadian friends also ride Moto Guzzi motorcycles and participate in group activities.  (They have hosted a “national” rally!)  The club name should include “North America” rather than “National.”  Indeed, the name “National” is itself a misnomer, as every nation on Earth can claim a “national” organization.

b.   The name should include the word “motorcycle.”  Don’t laugh.  You may know that Moto Guzzi makes motorcycles, but I bet the majority of people (maybe even the majority of motorcyclists) do not.

c.   Calling the group an “owner’s club” is unnecessarily exclusionary, as it implies that you have to presently own a Moto Guzzi to be a member of the group.  We should signal that the group welcomes past, present and future owners, friends of owners, and the Moto Guzzi curious.  Either call it an “enthusiasts” club, or just drop the reference to “owners.”

2.   The MGMCNA should be organized as a not-for-profit, with a board of directors elected at regular intervals and officers either elected or appointed for distinct terms.  Officers should include regional representatives for distinct regions of North America, as well as state (province) representatives serving under them, in more populous areas.

3.   There should be annual dues set by the board of directors, and the board should also pursue opportunities for advertising revenue from businesses of interest to motorcyclists generally and Moto Guzzi enthusiasts in particular.  Rally fees should be as decided by the officers involved in organizing the particular rally, with oversight of the board.  Fees should be two-tiered: members and non-members.  Non-members should always be welcome to club events, but if a fee is charged, it should be discounted for members in order to drive membership.  There also needs to be complete fiscal transparency, with annual reports to the membership, and the majority if not all revenue going toward events, membership and marketing activities.

4.   Participation should be through volunteerism, with the MGMCNA providing reimbursement of volunteers’ out-of-pocket expenses subject to oversight and approval by the board.  If finances allow and the membership agrees, small stipend for board members and other volunteers should be considered.  Corporate sponsorship and advertising opportunities should include having them provide samples of their products and services that can be distributed to volunteers as “thank you” gifts as well as used as door prizes and such at rallies and other gatherings.  If the MGMCNA becomes large enough and active enough to justify a professional salaried director, either full-time or part-time, the board should consider hiring such a person to assist the volunteers.

5.   Membership dues should provide tangible benefits, such as:

a.   An online forum and newsletter covering a variety of topics of interest to the members.  The newsletter should be a professional-looking piece with technical, travel, touring, product news and rumors, racing news, bike show reports, and other information.  Members should be encouraged to contribute articles and rewarded with free gear, tools, or similar items provided by sponsors. The newsletter would be online, but one possible goal would be to grow it into a professionally produced monthly print magazine, with a possible reach into “lifestyle” subjects of interest to motorcyclists.  (I am thinking of publications like BMW Magazine and Red Bull’s The Red Bulletin.)

b.   Wide presence on social media – Facebook, Twitter, Tumblr, Reddit, Instagram, etc.

c.   Access to membership for networking, road trip assistance, lend-a-couch, etc.

d.   Offering discounted products and services of interest to the membership: roadside assistance plans, various forms of insurance, extended warranties, travel planning and tours, track days, riding schools, etc.

e.   A membership kit, with an ID card (with useful information), an MGMCNA pin, patch, and stickers, maybe a few other pieces of MGMCNA logo’d and Moto Guzzi logo’d swag, as well as a catalogue of MGMCNA merchandise available for purchase.

f.   Rally and other meeting planning and participation, including advertising and financial support for such activities.  The calendar of such activities should be packed with things to do, in all parts of North America.  These can be Moto Guzzi-centric events (where all brands are welcome) or motorcycle as well as other events where an organized Moto Guzzi presence would enhance the experience (e.g., Moto GP and SBK race weekends, Barber and Mid-Ohio Vintage Days, Stugis Black Hills Rally, Daytona Bike Week, Laconia Bike Week).

6.   The MGMCNA should work in close partnership with representatives of Moto Guzzi, Piaggio’s North American operations, and factory-authorized Moto Guzzi dealers in North America.  Local dealers and regional factory representatives should work with regional and state (province) MGMCNA representatives in presenting open houses, rallies, outings, and other opportunities to gather together and showcase the brand.  MGMCNA should be an independent not-for-profit, rather than a captive owner’s club, but many of the things that have made the Harley Owners Group (HOG) so successful should be emulated.  One thing that would drive membership and help sustain the organization is a deal that would have one free year of MGMCNA membership included with every purchase of a new Moto Guzzi motorcycle in North America (even better if Piaggio subsidizes all or a portion of the first year’s dues).  Another would be automatic annual membership renewal tied to the member’s credit card or bank account.  Now, imagine combining the two: A buyer of a new Moto Guzzi is offered one year’s free membership in  the MGMCNA, but in the process of signing up for the deal, they have to agree to automatic dues payment after the first year (cancellable by the member at any time, of course).

Again, the above are simply my thoughts on the subject.  I am putting them out here for discussion, including constructive criticism, so, have at it.

You and Dean are hereby elected by consensus to get this set up; you're the President and Dean is head of the Constitution and Bylaws Committee.

Go for it!!  I'll be the first to sign up as a Life Member.

Lannis

[Markcarovilli]

You and Dean are hereby elected by consensus to get this set up; you're the President and Dean is head of the Constitution and Bylaws Committee.

Go for it!!  I'll be the first to sign up as a Life Member.

Lannis

 :+1 :+1

Mark

[Dilliw]

You and Dean are hereby elected by consensus to get this set up; you're the President and Dean is head of the Constitution and Bylaws Committee.

Go for it!!  I'll be the first to sign up as a Life Member.

Lannis

Yeh but you need a project these days while I sit here reading Frenglish...

The above vision is a good one but it will never be MGNOC.  Maybe that's what we give the few young riders we have, a mission to build a new club.  And as Lannis (or the Voice in the Field of Dreams) says, "build it..."

[youcanrunnaked]

You and Dean are hereby elected by consensus to get this set up; you're the President and Dean is head of the Constitution and Bylaws Committee.

Go for it!!  I'll be the first to sign up as a Life Member.

Lannis

Funny, but I am not unopposed to doing some of the heavy lifting.  While I am glad that my suggestions are (so far) getting a positive reception, I think we are still a ways off from implementing any of this.

First, I think there needs to be more discussion and the vetting of more ideas on this subject.

Second, I don't want to incite a war among what might be perceived as pro and anti- Frank Wedge factions.  Splitting an already small group into two opposing factions is a good way to kill off both.  If there is anything that Frank's service to the Guzzisti entitles him to, I think it's an opportunity to consider and respond to reasonable requests that the MGNOC evolve into the group that the majority of active North American Moto Guzzi enthusiasts want to see.  (Whether that is a real possibility or a pipe dream, I do not know; I do not know Frank personally so I cannot say if he would perceive something like this as a threat or an opportunity.)  I also think it will help obtain factory support for whatever group emerges if there is only one, with everyone concerned united behind it.

Oh, and I thought of one other organizational goal of the MGMCNA -- public service.  Some events could have a charitable giving component, or involve a public education opportunity, or some other way of giving back to the community, whether local or more widely based, and whether it relates to motorcyclists in need specifically or some other deserving population.

[Joliet Jim]

Hey Dean do you still have that US charter piaggio or Aprilia sent you for the World Club?    ;)

Just a thought but wouldn't it be great if the factory and dealers actually supported a club and the club supported local chapters and members with events. No that would never work, look at the failures HOG and RAT are.

But i should be grateful. Evidently without MGNOC I'd have a Speed Triple and Tbird in the garage instead of the Stone and Centauro.  :bow

[Dean Rose]

Hey Dean do you still have that US charter piaggio or Aprilia sent you for the World Club?    ;)

Just a thought but wouldn't it be great if the factory and dealers actually supported a club and the club supported local chapters and members with events. No that would never work, look at the failures HOG and RAT are.

But i should be grateful. Evidently without MGNOC I'd have a Speed Triple and Tbird in the garage instead of the Stone and Centauro.  :bow

No Jim, I trashed that after Frank told me to stuff it.


Dean

[HDGoose]

So all the people are waiting for someone else to create a new Guzzi owners club.

Typical.

[Lannis]

So all the people are waiting for someone else to create a new Guzzi owners club.

Typical.

Well, go on then!    8)

Or are you waiting too?   ;)

I'm not volunteering because I'm perfectly happy with the way things are.   I'm not complaining, and I don't have any suggestions.

But is someone else moves forward with an idea to support the sport and hobby of Moto Guzzis, I'm here to support it ...

Lannis

[dilligaf]

The OP stated: "It appears as though the membership of the group is growing smaller and less active".

Not from my viewpoint. A question previously asked was "what group".  Draw a 500 mile radius from my house and, with the exception of the winter months, there is a Moto Guzzi rally, starting with the FL rally, every month. When you consider that Swamp Scooters and Coon Bottom started as a joint effort of both BMW and Moto Guzzi riders, the first rally for 2015 will be in February and the last will be in November. I was riding in New England so I missed the GA rally this year at TWO. And I also missed the New England rallies.  Wish I could have worked them into our schedule. The VA and NC rallies are, IMHO, about as good as I could want(I don't think we had any music at the VA rally). But then, I enjoy going to the Dragon and just hanging out.  I guess I'm easy. ;-T

There are no "freeloaders" here.  This is a free forum.  All are welcome.

Understood.  And that is why my comment was out of line. I do not want WG or MGNOC to go away.  That is why I pay my yearly dues to one and contribute to the other.   :BEER:
Matt