I.S.R.A.

[darthandy]

I belong to a small local riding club and decided that it would be fun to join another club (More clubs, more riding, right?), that was affiliated with what I ride. So...I joined the Star Riders club and went onto their forum (It's free, anyway). It took a couple of weeks to hear back from the president who looks after memberships. Then, I noticed on the forum that there was talk of a recent split between the Northern Stars (Canadian version) and the international group. And judging from the various threads on the forum, the split was not quite amicable. At this point they said a new patch would be designed. In the meantime I contacted the pres. to find out who ran the local chapter. It seems that director of the local chapter had quit but that I could ride with groups from nearby chapters about 72 km (45 mi.) to 118 km (73 mi.) away!! I like to ride, but that's a long way to go for a weekly evening ride - and then have to ride all the way back. Yeah, I know, it's all about riding but this wasn't what I wanted. I said that I would be willing to be director of a local chapter and what did I have to do? That's nice said he, we'll talk about it sometime?!? It's been a while since then and as I have checked out their web site, I noticed that the pics are usually of the Star twins and of guys trying to look like a gang rather than a club. Now I'm not criticizing but that didn't look like my style. As well, I noted on the forum that there were already some "discussions" going on about the new patch and how it had been chosen. These folks seem to like to argue! Mostly, they seem very disorganized.

 

In the meantime, I'd had the opportunity to meet and ride with the local GWRRA chapter and attend some of their functions. Really great group of people who like to ride and to support each other. While they obviously prefer their Goldwings, anyone is welcome to join their rides. On one ride, we had, in addition to the Goldwings, a Venture (Guess who?)), a couple of Kawi Vulcans, a Suzuki boulevard and even a Suzuki Burgman! I eventually realized that what really attracted me to the group was their attitude - it was like the one found on this forum. Let's ride, let's have fun and if we occasionally bump heads, well - we'll get over it. So - I paid my money and joined - I get the magazine, the roadside help for my bike and a large group of riders right here in town. I don't plan on getting rid of my Venture but I do plan on staying with this group. As for the Star Riders? Well, if they ever get themselves organized (At least in this neck of the woods) and decide to develop a better attitude then I may look at them again. In the meantime, these GWRRA guys have got all kinds of neat rides and activities planned, so it should be a fun season!

 

Andy

[Lone Eagle]

Andy, I can second your thoughts. Though often it is about the ride(s), it is also about the people. In addition to this fun loving group of folks, I belong to couple of Associations I enjoy - STAR Touring and GWRRA - and similar ro you - I have my RSTD. To a degree, both Associations for me offer great choices and variety. Having said that, it does pay to "look around" - and feel comfortable (and safe) with any group one may want to participate with. Enjoy the ride - with whomever you ride with.

[bongobobny]

Have you considered the Southern Ontario group? Not sure of their full name but a lot of the Ontario members here belong...

[chabicheka]

Have you considered the Southern Ontario group? Not sure of their full name but a lot of the Ontario members here belong...

 

 

 

S C R C....

 

Southern Cruisers Riding Club is the one Bob is talking about, i think.

I belong to the 383 chapter in Toronto. I enjoy riding with them. We go for rides every wed evenings and quite often trips are planned on week ends too. Met lots of good folks in the club.

[darthandy]

S C R C....

 

Southern Cruisers Riding Club is the one Bob is talking about, i think.

I belong to the 383 chapter in Toronto. I enjoy riding with them. We go for rides every wed evenings and quite often trips are planned on week ends too. Met lots of good folks in the club.

 

I know a few of the people in that club and will be looking into it. For now, I belong to a small local club and, as mentioned, the GWRRA. That should keep me busy this year and I'll see if I can head up to try an occasional ride with some of our esteemed members from Kitchener and Brantford. Like the man said ... it's as much about the people as the ride.

 

Andy