I've been partial to people associated with BMW motorcycles for years

[ohiorider]

Now I think I know why.

About 3 weeks ago, I mailed my check for $100.00 and raffle entry to the BMW MOA Foundation for their raffle of 25 new BMWs that'll take place at their upcoming National Rally.  I never win a raffle, but this one is the best chance I've ever had.

When my check didn't show up on my online bank statement, I began getting concerned that my check and raffle entry may not have made it through the mail to MOA.

I dropped an email to the Executive Director of the BMW MOA Foundation, asking if my entry had been received.  Answer "no."

This was followed up with an offer from this individual, offering to cover my entry for me.  If my check arrived in the meantime, ok.  If not, we'd settle later.

Next day I received an email showing that I'd been entered in the raffle, complete with a copy of my raffle ticket.

One day later, a note that my check had finally arrived.

That's what I call concern for your club members.

Thanks, Ted!

Bob

[cookiemech]

Me, too, Bob! I attended several MOA rallies starting in the late 80s, but quit going when they turned into "farkle competitions" (God, I hate that word). Years ago, there were lots of real gentlemen who were also gearheads; they would give you the shirts off their backs once they knew you were a BMW dude.

Glad to hear that some of that is still alive!

[JohninVT]

I've always gotten along great with Airhead guys.  There's a bearded weirdo in town that's always riding around in an ancient pair of Florsheim wingtips, wool socks, shorts and a long sleeved button down oxford.  It's not an affectation...that's how he normally dresses.  He also wears a Captain America helmet.  His R80RT has about 80,000 miles on it and looks like he parks it in a pigeon filled barn.  Like I said...I get along with Airhead guys. 

On the other hand, I have never met a GSA rider who wasn't a complete tool bag.  It's like they're all in a competition to see who can spend more money on Hi-viz twatsuits(copyright Pete Roper), Schuberth helmets and 15 GPS/electronic devices clustered on their handlebars like genital warts.       

[JJ]

I've always gotten along great with Airhead guys.  There's a bearded weirdo in town that's always riding around in an ancient pair of Florsheim wingtips, wool socks, shorts and a long sleeved button down oxford.  It's not an affectation...that's how he normally dresses.  He also wears a Captain America helmet.  His R80RT has about 80,000 miles on it and looks like he parks it in a pigeon filled barn.  Like I said...I get along with Airhead guys. 

On the other hand, I have never met a GSA rider who wasn't a complete tool bag.  It's like they're all in a competition to see who can spend more money on Hi-viz twatsuits(copyright Pete Roper), Schuberth helmets and 15 GPS/electronic devices clustered on their handlebars like genital warts.       

Agreed!   Having owned and ridden four (4) Beemer airheads, they are indeed good touring bikes.  The MOA organization / rallies are fun also.  However, Beemer riders are definitely total "gadget-freaks" and they like their accessories, both for themselves and their bikes. 

[Sheepdog]

Yes, much of the BMW crowd does seem obsessed with one-upping one another “world-without-end.” Sorta the same with the chrome and leather fringe set. Guzzisti have their peccadillos, too...

[JJ]

Yes, much of the BMW crowd does seem obsessed with one-upping one another �world-without-end.� Sorta the same with the chrome and leather fringe set. Guzzisti have their peccadillos, too...

Photographic exhibits A, B, & C!!!

[oldbike54]

 Darren W might be surprised to learn he is a Richard for owning a GS . I mean gosh , he must feel crushed to learn he can't ride right past a starbucks and not stop for a half-caf-mocha-almond-soy-milk-latte-with-sprinkles . Talk about stereotyping people , sheesh 

 Dusty

[Roebling3]

JohninVT, others?
Perhaps the late Fred Tausch is remembered by some? bmw was willing to give Fred a new oil head in trade for his R75, as best I can recall. He had the highest mileage of any airhead, worldwide, while never spending an overnight in any shop. He was escorted off the MA Tpk. for not maintaining 40 m/h. It was an exhaust valve. He replaced 'it'. Fred was known to be a bit 'tight'. Duncan's Beemer's in MA repaired Fred's transmission & clutch w/out overnighting the bike.
Fred's riding gear was a undignified, non-matching suit coat and pants, open face helmet and well oiled dress shoes. His bike went to Bob's bmw museum in MD. It's the one with the drip pan underneath.
He was quiet, kind, patient and enjoyed speaking with others. We were good friends. Fred was and may still be one of the most intelligent people I've known; which include a few Nobel Lauriat's.
  There are hundreds of Fred Tausch stories out there.  Listen for them.  Good fortune,  R3~
   Obligatory Guzzi Content: When Fred saw my Daytona the 1st time he told me stuff I was yet to discover.

[Roebling3]

Addenda: Posting about Fred Tausch refresh my mind. I recall Fred's memorial service. Details were lost 'til recalling this link.  R3~
https://advrider.com/index.php?threads/fred-tausch-passes-on.69044/

[JohninVT]

Darren W might be surprised to learn he is a Richard for owning a GS . I mean gosh , he must feel crushed to learn he can't ride right past a starbucks and not stop for a half-caf-mocha-almond-soy-milk-latte-with-sprinkles . Talk about stereotyping people , sheesh 

 Dusty

At the risk of being banned..I've seen you stereotype or be dismissive a dozen times in the last month.  We all do it to a certain extent and my tongue was firmly in cheek as I wrote the post.  I'm just sharing my anecdotal experiences with a couple dozen GSA owners.  Your mileage may vary and all that. 

[oldbike54]

At the risk of being banned..I've seen you stereotype or be dismissive a dozen times in the last month.  We all do it to a certain extent and my tongue was firmly in cheek as I wrote the post.  I'm just sharing my anecdotal experiences with a couple dozen GSA owners.  Your mileage may vary and all that.

 Yeah well 

 Dusty

[GearheadGrrrl]

BMW riders are a diverse bunch, same with the clubs. Most every airhead I've met was an instant and lifelong friend, the riders of the later BMWs are nice folks but are often too into exhibiting their wealth and self perceived riding skills. Most of the local BMW clubs are great, but the national MOA is a lost cause, having sold out to BMWAG and taken up residence in a file cabinet in the shadow of BMW's U.S. factory. Even though their annual farkle show is only 300 miles away this week, with admission over $100 I'll be going to Elkader instead.

[Huzo]

At the risk of being banned..I've seen you stereotype or be dismissive a dozen times in the last month.  We all do it to a certain extent and my tongue was firmly in cheek as I wrote the post.  I'm just sharing my anecdotal experiences with a couple dozen GSA owners.  Yohr mileage may vary and all that.

I've yet to see Dusty banning anyone for holding a dissenting view. It seems that bullies and trolls are the ones most likely to cop it up the blurter if they transgress often enough and are too up themselves to accept a timely warning, (I've had a few..)
I believe it's the contrast of opinions that gives this place it's spice.
Also.
Spot on about the GS guys, but they are only expressing themselves as do we.
When there are as many Stelvios as there are GS' at far flung corners of the globe, there'll be guys on them with handlebars dripping with gadgetry.
Bet your arse.
How many bloody Norges have I seen here for ssle with every concieveable addition for mega mileages and 6,000 measely miles on the clock, we're no different.
If Boorman and Mc Gregor clones are the heroes, then bedraggled saggy arse Ambo riders and the like are anti heroes.
If someone saw me at Nordkapp on a farkled GS in 2015 I'd be labled a "tool", what then am I 365 days later sitting in the same spot on a well worn Norge...?
Can I be both a "tool" and a "cool" Guzzi rider ?
We're all the same.
Kev m is the same guy whether he's on his sharp V7 or wallowing around on the Harley.

[ITSec]

When there are as many Stelvios as there are GS' at far fling corners of the globe, there'll be guys on them with handlebars dripping with gadgetry.
Bet your arse.
How many bloody Norges have I seen here for sale with every conceivable addition for mega mileages and 6,000 measly miles on the clock, we're no different.

Hey, I resemble those remarks! (Except the 6000 mile part...  )

[Huzo]

Hey, I resemble those remarks! (Except the 6000 mile part...  )

we both know it doesn't apply to you.

[Darren Williams]

At the risk of being banned..I've seen you stereotype or be dismissive a dozen times in the last month.  We all do it to a certain extent and my tongue was firmly in cheek as I wrote the post.  I'm just sharing my anecdotal experiences with a couple dozen GSA owners.  Your mileage may vary and all that.

Just for clarification, I don't own a piece of stitch or Klim, I have been known to ride the GS in shorts and I used to have an "Adventure Starbucks" sticker on the bike (that I got from the Wheel Nerds) until my son borrowed it and took it off because it greatly offended a couple of the guys he was riding with.   

Yes, I make fun of them too. Stereotypes are there for a reason.  I most like the saying "You get offended, I think it's funny. That's why I'm happier than you".

[oldbike54]

Just for clarification, I don't own a piece of stitch or Klim, I have been known to ride the GS in shorts and I used to have an "Adventure Starbucks" sticker on the bike (that I got from the Wheel Nerds) until my son borrowed it and took it off because it greatly offended a couple of the guys he was riding with.   

Yes, I make fun of them too. Stereotypes are there for a reason.  I most like the saying "You get offended, I think it's funny. That's why I'm happier than you".

 Heck Darren , seems we have more than one attendee at Cedar Vale who wear "Stich" and talk about fancy coffee . Wonder what that means ?

 Dusty

[ChuckH]

This is an interesting discussion.  Thinking about it, I go to both Beemer and Guzzi Rallies.  I try to schedule about one/month during the riding season.  Most seem to be Guzzi events -- I have more fun there than at the similar Beemers events.  That in itself is odd and needs more thought, possibly it's this "over-accessorized and self-importance" thing that Beemer owners seem to get into.

Geographically, these events range from Western NY to Lower TN/KY to IA/WI to MN and MI and ON, Canada.  I'd call it the Greater Mid-West, normally within 1000 miles of my home south of Indy.  I used to range further to the West, but my age became a factor.

I attend a rally for the venue (facilities are important), the roads getting there and in the area and the people I see and meet during the event (probably the most important factor).

My wife and I recently attended the MN Guzzi Rally in Grand Marais, MN.  This was my 4th time at that event.  We stayed at a B&B because she is not a camper.  We had the Corvette this time because she is also not a motorcycle rider.  She has always asked "what do you do at these Rallies"?  (I think she thought there was something "fishy" involved somehow).  I told her -- we sit/stand around and talk, we kick the cycle tires, we have an adult beverage or two, ride some local roads, generally have a good time with people who are similar to us in our appreciation of motorcycle riding. 

As we were leaving Sunday, after the event was over, I asked her what she thought.  Her responses were something like this -- I had a really good time.  I met some very interesting people.  I can understand why you enjoy going to these events.  But, I'm still not going to ride with you on a motorcycle and camp out.  By the way -- that's OK as long as I can.

Ride safe guys and gals.  This is my $.02.

[SmithSwede]

Permit me to aggressively stereotype.   

I routinely grok and get along with BMW ***airhead*** riders.    Generally weirdo gearheads.  Cheapskates.   Counter-culture.   Educated or real world experienced. Speaking very broadly, the airhead BMW crowd is much like the Guzzi crowd.

However . . . my experience with the riders  of more modern BMWs has been quite poor.  Heck, I used to own a 2012 GS.  Tried to link up with various BMW folks.   Rude.  Clique-ish.  Never remembered my name.   I will never forget a breakfast meet-up where my wife�s chair at the table was �stolen� despite having a plate of food set in front of it.

As a result of such meetings, and various bad interactions at BMW dealerships, my wife and eldest daughter came to the (erroneous) conclusion that motorcyclists are a bag of Richards.

Then we went to a Guzzi rally (Lindale).   Very down to earth folks.  My daughter has never even ridden a bike yet relishes going back to that Guzzi rally because the people are so neat.   That has been my consistent experience with Guzzi folks.   

That�s not to say that all riders of modern BMWs are jerks.   Or all Guzzi riders are saints.    But if forced to employ heuristics in the absence of further information, well . . .

[PJPR01]

Darren W might be surprised to learn he is a Richard for owning a GS . I mean gosh , he must feel crushed to learn he can't ride right past a starbucks and not stop for a half-caf-mocha-almond-soy-milk-latte-with-sprinkles . Talk about stereotyping people , sheesh 

 Dusty

Seems like you must have had your drone overhead again as I headed for a coffee this morning, just about right Dusty....except you missed the 2nd pump of Mocha, but got all the rest correct and IN ORDER!!

:)

What does that make the rest of us who are presently or are ex K-bike riders...neither Airhead nor GS?  Are we stuck in some sort of Moto Purgatory and Limbo, awaiting to be baptised by our Guzzis to make it to the other side, or do we have to pay Cerberus more money to let us by into Hades?

[Chuck in Indiana]

Permit me to aggressively stereotype.   

I routinely grok and get along along with BMW ***airhead*** riders.    Generally weirdo gearheads.  Cheapskates.   Counter-culture.   Educated or real world experienced. Speaking very broadly, the airhead BMW crowd is much like the Guzzi crowd.

However . . . my experience with the riders  of more modern BMWs has been quite poor.  Heck, I used to own a 2012 GS.  Tried to link up with various BMW folks.   Rude.  Clique-ish.  Never remembered my name.   I will never forget a breakfast meet-up where my wife�s chair at the table was �stolen� despite having a plate of food set in front of it.

As a result of such meetings, and various bad interactions at BMW dealerships, my wife and eldest daughter came to the (erroneous) conclusion that motorcyclists are a bag of Richards.

Then we went to a Guzzi rally (Lindale).   Very down to earth folks. My daughter has never even ridden a bike yet relishes going back to that Guzzi rally because the people are so neat.   That has been my consistent experience with Guzzi folks.   

That�s not to say that all riders of modern BMWs are jerks.   Or all Guzzi riders are saints.    But if forced to employ heuristics in the absence of further information, well . . .

^^^^^ yep.
I shouldn't say anything, but if there is anyone more frugal than Guzzi guys.. it's beemer guys. At a Guzzi rally, they'll wait until the "good" beer is tapped, then bring their gallon containers..  
(Mother just came back from the grave and slapped me on the hand..)

[john fish]

I've had my '83 airhead since about 1985.  To be honest, most of the beemer riders, mostly on airheads, were kind of annoying back then, too.  It always seemed like any conversation with a beemer guy would include the question, "so, what do you do?" within the first minute or two.  Always the desire to slot someone into a socio-economic group. 

On the contrary, I don't think any Guzzi rider has ever asked me that.

Nowadays, the airheads are funky, old, machines and most of the riders are, too.  :)

And, sooner or later, someone was bound to do this:

[groundhog105]

I've always gotten along great with Airhead guys.  There's a bearded weirdo in town that's always riding around in an ancient pair of Florsheim wingtips, wool socks, shorts and a long sleeved button down oxford.  It's not an affectation...that's how he normally dresses.  He also wears a Captain America helmet.  His R80RT has about 80,000 miles on it and looks like he parks it in a pigeon filled barn.  Like I said...I get along with Airhead guys. 

On the other hand, I have never met a GSA rider who wasn't a complete tool bag.  It's like they're all in a competition to see who can spend more money on Hi-viz twatsuits(copyright Pete Roper), Schuberth helmets and 15 GPS/electronic devices clustered on their handlebars like genital warts.       

So true but I still 😂 LMAO

[oldbike54]

 Or maybe the question "What do you do" is simply a desire to learn something about you . It's weird, I've been riding for 50 years , hung out with all types of riders , and have yet to encounter the stereotypes in significant numbers some of you guys are talking about . One does not  make the whole.

 Dusty

[kirby1923]

Or maybe the question "What do you do" is simply a desire to learn something about you . It's weird, I've been riding for 50 years , hung out with all types of riders , and have yet to encounter the stereotypes in significant numbers some of you guys are talking about . One does not  make the whole.

 Dusty

I'm with you. Its a good way to start a conversation, its an important subject to most of us.
I've been to three MOA rallies and they have all been a treat, I'm sorta taken back by all the negative feedback and haven't really seen much of same.

I think back when I was riding Ducatis' I found a few really arrogant types but it didn't change my mind about the community, every group has its lets say "character's"

Such animosity..strange.

[kingoffleece]

You guys should see snowmobilers.  Artic Cat guys face off against Ski-Doo guys with Polaris guys ready to rumble with both of them!

[Chuck in Indiana]

Oh, I think the stereotype has *some* validity.  I've been to my share of Beemer rallies, too. I was at the National Antique Airplane fly in a few years ago, and when we came back to our campsite, another couple had set up across from us. I went over to introduce myself and Dorcia, shot the breeze for a while, and noticed the "approved" tent, Kermit chairs arranged "just so"  and said, "Beemer riders?"
He just grinned and said, "Ex Beemer riders." They had been victims of the notorious rear drive failure that put them on the ground. They were on a trip when he started feeling the same thing on their new bike, saw a Honda dealer and pulled in. Said, "you have a black gold wing?" When the salesman said yeah, he said, "Prep it."
He had apparently done ok for himself.. invented Aspartame. 
Nice folks, of course.. as are most Beemer riders.

[Lannis]

Oh, I think the stereotype has *some* validity. 

Of course they do.    Anyone who has been to many different "Brand" rallies will notice it, unless he just doesn't want to notice it or thinks it shouldn't be noticed.    That's fine, not to notice, but no one should be shocked or dismayed that OTHER people notice.

It's real.   First Guzzi rally I went to, two guys who didn't know me handed me the keys to their Guzzis and told me to ride it and see what I thought.   For better or for worse, that's never happened at any OTHER brand's rally, I can tell you that ..... And, conversely, I have been to other brand rallies, accompanied by friends riding the appropriate marque, and been explicitly ostracized once they realized what I was riding and wearing.

Lannis

[Dharma Bum]

I attended a Top of the Rockies Rally back in 83, I believe when I owned a R75/6.  I remember sitting around the campfire listening to a couple of guys having a discussion about the merits of Continental tires (the only acceptable choice) and whether the front tires performed better with 34 or 36 psi in them.  This conversation went on for at least 10 minutes!  Wasn't impressed.  What did impress me was the lone Guzzi Le Mans propped up against a tree (no kickstand on the bike) painted British Racing Green with a Grateful Dead sticker on the rear fender.  Never met the owner but I think a conversation with him might have been a little more lively.

[ohiorider]

Of course they do.    Anyone who has been to many different "Brand" rallies will notice it, unless he just doesn't want to notice it or thinks it shouldn't be noticed.    That's fine, not to notice, but no one should be shocked or dismayed that OTHER people notice.

It's real.   First Guzzi rally I went to, two guys who didn't know me handed me the keys to their Guzzis and told me to ride it and see what I thought.   For better or for worse, that's never happened at any OTHER brand's rally, I can tell you that ..... And, conversely, I have been to other brand rallies, accompanied by friends riding the appropriate marque, and been explicitly ostracized once they realized what I was riding and wearing.

Lannis

Lannis, I have to ask ........ imagine .... you just pulled into a vintage Triumph rally on one of your vintage BSAs.  Couple of riders you've never met express interest in your bike.  And you say 'here's the keys (or equivalent) ".......... ride it and let me know what you think."