Rodney Roberts

Rodney Roberts: A Lifelong Advocate for Motorcyclists' Rights

Rodney Roberts' journey into the world of motorcycles began at the age of 13 when he received his first bike, a 1959 Simplex. That initial thrill of the open road ignited a passion that has endured for over fifty years. With a career steeped in both mechanics and advocacy, Rodney has made significant contributions to the motorcycle community, fighting for the rights of riders across Arkansas and beyond.

From Passion to Profession

At just 15 years old, Rodney began working in a Honda shop, nurturing his love for motorcycles while honing his mechanical skills. His path took a different turn when he joined the U.S. Army, where he was trained as a machinist and served 18 months in Korea. Upon his return in 1970, he enrolled in college using the GI Bill. However, his true calling emerged as he spent his spare time working on motorcycles. Realizing that higher education wasn’t his primary passion, he took a bold step and opened Rodney’s Cycle House at the age of 22.

As the owner of a motorcycle shop, Rodney quickly recognized the growing threat to motorcycling as a sport, often painted as a dangerous activity by critics. This realization sparked a commitment to advocacy, leading him to become politically active in the motorcycle community.

Championing Motorcyclists' Rights

In 1984, Rodney played a pivotal role in founding ABATE (A Brotherhood Against Totalitarian Enactments) of Arkansas, an organization dedicated to protecting motorcyclists' rights. Serving as president of District 1 for several years, his belief in the need to defend the rights of riders intensified. By 1987, he took his activism to the state legislature, using his diplomatic skills to advocate for pro-motorcycle legislation over the next decade.

Rodney's leadership extended beyond Arkansas as he engaged with the Motorcycle Rights Foundation (MRF) and supported federal efforts to protect riders' rights. Though he attended MRF conferences and served on its board for a couple of years, Rodney focused primarily on local advocacy, nurturing relationships within the Arkansas legislature to further the cause.

A Milestone in Advocacy: Repealing the Helmet Law

One of Rodney's most significant achievements came with his relentless pursuit of the repeal of Arkansas's mandatory helmet law, enacted in 1966. While the MRF and the AMA worked to repeal federal penalties for states lacking helmet laws, Rodney laid the groundwork for local efforts. His persistent lobbying paid off when the federal helmet law was repealed in 1995. Just two years later, in 1997, he led Arkansas in its historic bid to become the first state to repeal its helmet law entirely—a trend that had previously leaned towards stricter regulations.

Rodney's strategic approach and ability to assemble the right allies in Little Rock were crucial in this achievement. Arkansas became a beacon of freedom in motorcycle legislation, moving away from mandated helmet laws without attaching conditions for insurance or rider education.

A Continued Commitment to Freedom

Rodney Roberts' work did not end with the repeal of the helmet law. He remains a vital force in the fight for motorcyclists' rights, continually advocating for freedom of choice and civil liberties as an American citizen. Those who know Rodney recognize him as a true patriot—someone who not only rides for the joy of it but also champions the cause of motorcyclists everywhere.

His story is one of passion, perseverance, and an unwavering commitment to the motorcycle community, inspiring riders to advocate for their rights and freedoms. 

As Rodney continues his advocacy, he remains a living testament to the impact one person can make in the fight for freedom on two wheels.