Rick Carmody Discovers the Joys of Catalina Island on a 1974 Honda Elsinore

Back December 2010, the Catalina Grand Prix was held for the first time in over 50 years.

The most decorated motorcycle racers from around the world were invited to compete on the pristine terrain – untouched for decades – of Catalina Island off the California coast.

Accomplished road racer Rick Carmody had never competed in motocross, but he decide he had to take part in this historic event.

Carmody set to work prepping ‘ELSIE,’ his 1974 Honda Elsinore, and they set out for Glory or Heartbreak on the fire roads of Catalina with a bunch of pals and competitors.

After taking a year off, it looks like the race will be back on for the end of this year:

“SCICo felt that additional planning was needed in order to make the Grand Prix more unique to the Island and more special than if it was just an annual event on the normal race calendar,” said Brad Wilson, Senior Vice President of Sales and Chief Marketing Officer for Santa Catalina Island Company. “SCICo will take an active role in securing sponsorships with the City as well as administration to enhance the overall visitor experience.”
The City will continue to coordinate race operations, safety and logistics. Both entities will share in the permitting process and expenses over the next 18 months. The 2012 race week will include an array of activities designed to draw fans to the island for an extended stay. Additional activities planned include:

· One to two days of practice on the course
· Improved spectator areas
· Concourse of Classic Motorcycles
· Vintage Original “1950’s Grand Prix” Motorcycle Display
· VIP Food and Beverage Area
· Top name entertainment in the Casino Ballroom
· Parade of motorcycles
· Electric motorcycle exhibition race

Major sponsors are lining up to support next year’s Grand Prix race, which will once again take place on SCICo land. Race organizers expect another sold out event, including top riders from around the world.

The Catalina Grand Prix is an historic race that took place through most of the 1950s and was brought back to life in 2010 for the first time in 52 years.  The course, just under 7 miles, included a variety of terrains, including pavement, rocky cliffs and hills, winding turns and an exciting motocross sections. The 2012 Catalina Grand Prix will follow a similar course, and provide excitement for both the racers and spectators.

Stunt and Motocross Riding

Buying Your First Bike? The Guide to Motorcycle Insurance

You’re going to take it to the limit when you head out to ride. Across deserts, up the sides of mountains and down the highway to feel the thrill of the open road as it stretches out in front of you. When you do, you need to make sure that both you and your machine are covered by the right insurance protection.
We’re here to help you that correct motorcycle insurance package, whatever, and however, you ride…

Tips for buying your motorcycle insurance, coverage you need:

• Collision to pay for damage caused to your vehicle in an accident with another vehicle or any stationary object.
• Comprehensive to cover such things as fire, hail, wind, vandalism, hitting an animal, etc.
• Medical payment or personal injury protection to cover the medical bills resulting from an accident.
• Uninsured or underinsured motorist to protect us when the other driver is at-fault and does not have coverage or assets out of which your bills can be paid.
• Towing / Pickup