RoadRUNNER

Photography: Eric Fulton I’m told that humans are communal creatures. Only weirdos like artists, writers, and sociopaths prefer to be alone. Luckily, there are community centers where motorcyclists can gather to share our strange passions. The owners of these destinations call them dealerships or motorcycle shops. In my hometown of Syracuse, NY, these community centers have struggled throughout my motorcycling life, beginning in the late 1970s.

The Million Dollar Highway is a mountainous, scenic section of US 550 that unites Ouray, CO, in the north with Silverton in the south. It’s one of the most popular motorcycling roads in the country, thanks to its stupendous views and challenging curves. With all that in mind, it’s strange how much confusion there is about where the name comes from—or even how long the road is. The Million Dollar Highway forms a part of the San Juan Skyway, which meanders through its eponymous mountains.

There are two schools of thought at Daytona Bike Week: you drink beer on the strip or camp at the speedway for the racing. Maybe you can sneak in a demo ride on something new in between the two. This year, that “something new” was Harley‑Davidson’s completely re‑engineered 2026 trikes. Companies with as much tradition as Harley‑Davidson don’t tend to roll out something that genuinely changes the scene. It’s even rarer when the clever new idea is actually century-old tech.

Bone-dry hills just south of the Trans-Canada Highway, BC. I always suspected the modern metropolitan Vancouver, where I’ve lived for almost a decade, is hardly a complete representation of Canada. When I got my hands on a 2025 Honda NT1100, a touring motorcycle made for long distances, I was determined to explore the country further. The summer riding window was going to close soon in the north, so I headed there first.

"I crashed my motorcycle and landed on a pillow,” a pro road racer said after his first crash while wearing an airbag system under his leathers. Energy and gravity being intimidated by a pillow is a strong argument for wearing an Alpinestars Tech-Air 5 Plasma airbag system. The Tech-Air 5 Plasma is as high-tech as they come, and it’s for everybody—crashing or not. It doesn’t interfere with the joys of motorcycling. Put it on, turn it on, choose a mode, and forget about it.

Virginia is one of the most important states in American history. It has played a major role in the colonial times, during the country’s struggle for independence, the Civil War, and beyond. Today, its varied landscapes and rich past make Virginia an incredible playground for motorcyclists. Over one day’s ride, you can pass through key historical locations, stunning natural scenery, and motorcycle-friendly small towns alike.

Located an hour and a half from Washington, D.C., the roads surrounding Winchester, VA, provide a superb chance to roar away from the capital’s bustle on two wheels. Around the city, you’ll find astounding rural beauty, American history, and marvelous local eateries in equal measure. Before you hit the road—or after your ride—poke around Winchester’s many historical sites.

If America has a greatest hit, it isn’t a song but a road. Commissioned in 1926, Route 66 carved its way straight into the American imagination. Long before travel influencers, bucket lists, or cinematic drone shots, the Mother Road taught the country what adventure felt like. What makes Route 66 different from the hundreds of other highways that stitch the country together is that it wasn’t designed as a scenic byway or a tourist attraction.

The RoadRUNNER office grew quieter after Christian’s passing, but I was determined to keep the magazine alive—and with it, his spirit. I felt his presence in every corner. Burying myself in work felt easier than facing the empty space he left behind. With the support of my sons and a loyal team, we kept moving forward. Florian moved into Christian’s office and continued working part-time while still attending college. Manuel became our remote IT lead.

Kohler is calling all riders for a luxurious Wisconsin motorcycle trip. Whether you’re looking to spend most of your time on the road or riding over to experience the destination, this resort town will keep you occupied. Kohler is surrounded by beautiful countryside, woods, and the Great Lakes, which make for a scenic riding weekend. Yet, the town also has five-star amenities for off-saddle activities and post-ride pampering alike.