Motorcycling in America

Competition Accessories invites you to join them in a celebration of their 50-years of providing the best in product and service to a growing number of motorcyclists with a stroll through the past 50-years of motorcycling as reported in the pages of Cycle World.

In 50 years we’ve gone from an era of mostly recycled British ‘30s technology and hyper-active diminutive Japanese two-strokes, to one featuring the latest internal combustion technology, bolstered by electronic management for engine, suspension, and traction control. Today it’s possible to buy a motorcycle to fit your specific need without making any machine modifications.

Riding gear too has come a long way. In the ‘60s gear usually consisted of items designed for other purposes. Your jacket, gloves and boots were most likely designed for work or hunting and you adapted them for riding. If it was cold or raining you got wet and cold. Today’s garments will keep you warm when it’s cold, cool when it’s hot and dry in just about any kind of rainstorm.

Fifty years ago motorcycles were the recreational vehicle of choice for a tiny number of Americans who were generally looked down upon as being “outlaws,” or freaks with a death wish. Today motorcycles are mainstream. According to the Motorcycle Industry Council (MIC), there are a bit over 7- million motorcycles registered in the US compared with 575,000 in 1960. 

You’ve got to admit, it’s a great time to be riding! Choices in motorcycles, gear and other accessories has never been better.