American Motorcyclist Association
J.C. Pappy Hoel Outstanding Achievement Award
The American Motorcyclist Association: Advocating for the Ride and the Rider
With a legacy spanning nearly a century, the American Motorcyclist Association (AMA) has been the driving force behind the protection, promotion, and preservation of motorcycling in the United States. Boasting a membership of over 250,000 riders, the AMA is more than just an organization; it’s a unifying voice for motorcyclists across the country and a stalwart defender of their rights.
Championing Riders’ Rights Since 1924
Founded in 1924, the AMA emerged as a response to the growing need for a cohesive and organized effort to address the interests of motorcycle enthusiasts. What began as a small group advocating for rider safety and fairness on the road has since grown into the largest motorcycling organization in the country. Today, the AMA continues to stand as the leading advocate for motorcyclists’ rights, navigating a complex landscape of local, state, and federal regulations to ensure that riders can enjoy their passion without unnecessary restrictions or discrimination.
The heart of this mission lies in the AMA’s Government Relations Department, where a dedicated team works tirelessly to identify and combat anti-motorcycling discrimination and harmful legislation. Whether it’s confronting restrictive noise ordinances, challenging unjust helmet laws, or addressing discrimination in parking and access, the AMA takes a strategic approach, using a combination of education, lobbying, and compromise to safeguard motorcyclists’ freedoms. For AMA members, this advocacy work is invaluable, ensuring that their voices are heard in the halls of power.
From the Track to the Road: A Champion of Motorsports
But the AMA’s impact extends far beyond the legislative arena. As the world’s largest motorsports sanctioning body, the AMA is synonymous with the thrill of competition. AMA Pro Racing, the association’s professional racing arm, hosts over 80 national-level events each year. From the high-speed action on the banks of Daytona to the gravity-defying jumps of Supercross, the AMA showcases the pinnacle of motorcycle performance and skill. Whether it’s dirt-track racing’s bar-banging battles or the raw power of hill climbs, these events draw thousands of fans and inspire the next generation of riders.
Yet, the AMA’s commitment to motorsports doesn’t end with the pros. Through AMA Sports, the organization nurtures the sport’s grassroots by coordinating thousands of amateur races across the country. Offering dozens of competition classes for everyone from elementary-age kids to senior riders, the AMA provides a platform for racers of all ages and skill levels to test their mettle. For many, these amateur events are the first steps toward a lifelong passion for racing—or even a professional career.
Celebrating the Lifestyle: More Than Just Racing
Racing might be a cornerstone of the AMA’s identity, but the organization is equally committed to the broader motorcycling lifestyle. The AMA’s Events and Entertainment department curates a diverse calendar of activities that appeal to every type of rider. From scenic road tours through America’s backroads to vibrant swap meets brimming with unique finds, the AMA creates opportunities for riders to connect, share their love of motorcycles, and build lifelong memories.
Special events, such as the AMA Vintage Motorcycle Days, celebrate the culture and history of motorcycling, while national and international tours offer riders a chance to explore the world on two wheels. By fostering a sense of community and camaraderie, the AMA ensures that every member—whether they’re a racer, a road rider, or a collector—finds a place to belong.
Powered by Clubs and Promoters: A Nationwide Network
One of the AMA’s greatest strengths lies in its expansive network of more than 1,200 chartered clubs and promoters, which organize nearly 4,000 road riding and competition events each year. These grassroots groups are the lifeblood of the association, working hand-in-hand with the AMA to promote safe riding practices, advocate for motorcyclist rights, and create engaging events that bring riders together.
Whether it’s a local charity ride or a national-level racing championship, these clubs and promoters are at the forefront of the AMA’s efforts, helping to keep the spirit of motorcycling alive and vibrant in communities across the country. By joining forces, the AMA and its affiliates amplify the voice of American motorcyclists, ensuring that the sport and lifestyle continue to flourish for generations to come.
Looking Ahead: A Future of Freedom and Fellowship
As the AMA approaches its 100th anniversary, its mission remains as vital as ever. The world of motorcycling continues to evolve, with new technologies, changing laws, and shifting public perceptions shaping the future of the sport. Yet the AMA’s commitment to defending motorcyclists’ rights, promoting the thrill of motorsports, and building a welcoming community endures.
For the AMA, every new challenge is an opportunity to further its founding purpose: to ensure that motorcycling remains a source of freedom, adventure, and connection for all who choose to ride. From the halls of Congress to the dirt tracks of America’s heartland, the AMA stands ready to protect the ride and the rider—now and for the next hundred years.
For more information or to join the AMA and become part of this storied legacy, visit www.americanmotorcyclist.com. Together, we ride!