Wayne Curtain

Wayne Curtain: A Pioneering Advocate for Motorcyclist Rights

In the early 1980s, Wayne Curtain emerged as a dedicated champion for motorcyclist rights through his involvement with the Freedom of the Road Riders (FORR), a Missouri-based motorcyclists' rights organization. Wayne quickly became a prominent figure within the group, serving as President of Local 4 for five years. His passion for advocating for riders' freedoms was evident in his leadership roles on FORR's state central committee and as vice chairman, but his most impactful contributions came as a volunteer lobbyist.

From 1985 to 1988, Wayne dedicated his time to advocating for motorcyclists' rights at the Missouri State Capitol in Jefferson City. He spent every day that the legislature was in session there, tirelessly working to ensure that the voices of motorcyclists were heard. Wayne's deep understanding of legislative processes and his ability to navigate political corridors made him an effective lobbyist. Recognizing the importance of political influence, he founded FORR's political action committee, one of the first BikePACs in the country, which helped further motorcyclists' political engagement and influence in state affairs.

In 1988, Wayne’s expertise was recognized on a national level when he was hired by the Motorcycle Riders Foundation (MRF) to represent motorcyclists in Washington, D.C. His leadership and lobbying efforts were instrumental in transforming the MRF into a powerful national voice for motorcyclist rights. Under Wayne's guidance, the organization focused on legislative efforts to protect riders' freedoms and eliminate restrictive laws that affected motorcyclists across the nation.

One of Wayne’s most significant accomplishments came in 1995 with the repeal of the federal helmet law, a milestone victory for motorcyclists' rights. Wayne was a key architect in this battle, rallying support from grassroots organizations and uniting motorcyclists from all over the country. His skill in communication and strategy led to a historic moment in 1996, when 37 states sent over 300 motorcyclists to Washington to lobby at his request. This united front was a pivotal factor in overturning the federal mandate, restoring states' rights to determine their own helmet laws.

Wayne’s leadership and lobbying prowess allowed him to build strong relationships with legislators, helping motorcyclists understand the positions of their representatives and senators on key issues. His ability to connect grassroots organizations with political leaders enabled motorcyclists in various states to develop and execute successful legislative strategies, furthering their cause at both state and national levels.

His contributions to the MRF were invaluable. Wayne brought to the organization not only a wealth of knowledge but also a solid legislative strategy that enabled the MRF to accomplish its top legislative priority: repealing the federal helmet law. This victory cemented Wayne Curtain’s legacy as a pioneering figure in the motorcyclists’ rights movement, whose work continues to inspire riders and advocates across the country.