Colorado Triumph Riders – Monthly Ride Report: May 2025
Riding season is officially in full swing, and with the warmer weather comes longer days, packed panniers, and more miles ahead! Whether you're a seasoned rider or just shaking off the cobwebs, now is a great time to review the basics that keep us safe, sharp, and smiling in the saddle.
Riding Refresher: Safety First
- Lane positioning: Adjust your lane to improve visibility and increase your space cushion—especially important when riding with a group or through twisty terrain.
- Body position: Remember to look through the turn, not at it. Light hands, relaxed shoulders, and a little countersteer go a long way.
- Braking drills: Practice progressive braking in a safe area to keep your skills sharp. Modern ABS is great—but you still have to do the work.
- Gear check: Make sure your helmet is within its service life, and double-check the condition of your gloves, boots, and riding jacket. Those zippers and Velcro tend to give up when we least expect it.
- Morning and evening are the most dangerous times to ride due to sun glare. If your shadow is long and cast in front of you, drivers behind you may be staring into the sun and might not see you clearly.
- Use extra caution at intersections during low-angle sunlight—this is when visibility is at its worst for cross traffic and oncoming drivers.
CLUTCH Inspection Reminder
Before any ride—short or long—remember to inspect the essentials:
- Controls – No fraying cables or sticky levers.
- Lights – High beam, low beam, turn signals, and brake lights.
- Under chassis – Look for fluid leaks, loose bolts, or wear.
- Tires – Check pressure and tread depth. Watch for sidewall cracks.
- Chain – Lubricated, adjusted, and tensioned.
- Horn – Because sometimes the best defense is a good beep.
Seasonal Hazards: Be Alert
- Colorado Road Conditions: Many canyon roads still have sand left over from winter cleanup. It collects in corners, so take those early-season rides a little slower.
- Ice in Shady Areas: Morning rides through higher elevation or narrow canyons still carry the risk of black ice, especially before 10 a.m. Watch the thermometer.
- Hydration and Sun Protection: At altitude, UV exposure is more intense, and dehydration sneaks up faster than you think. Even if it’s cool out, sunscreen and a hydration pack or regular water stops are your best friends.
April Highlights: Triumphs, Friends, and Volcanoes
April was a huge success with great community turnout!
- Triumphs, Friends, and Coffee at Lost Coffee in Castle Rock brought in new faces and familiar friends. We filled the parking lot with Hinckley goodness and had some great conversations over lattes and breakfast burritos.
- Our Ride the Rim – Capulin Volcano ride was a blast, with stunning views from the crater rim road and good weather to match. Riders from as far as Pueblo and Boulder joined in for an unforgettable loop through southern Colorado and northern New Mexico.
What’s Next: May Meetups and Events
- The next Triumphs, Friends, and Coffee will be held on Saturday, May 17th at 10 a.m. at Red Silo Roasters in Golden, Colorado.
- Viking Bags has generously donated a 22L waterproof backpack from their Adventure Division, which we’ll be giving away at the meetup.
- There will be no official monthly ride for May as we are encouraging everyone to participate in the Distinguished Gentleman’s Ride on Sunday, May 18th.
- If you’re in Colorado Springs, be sure to sign up for the Colorado Triumph Riders team.
- If you’re in Denver, Fort Collins, Grand Junction, or any other city, you can still join our team or start your own CTR team to show your support.
- We’ll also be at Cycle Gear Bike Night on Tuesday, May 13th from 5–7 p.m. in Colorado Springs. Swing by, hang out, and help spread the word about CTR.
That’s it for this month. Be safe out there, ride often, and remember—it’s about the ride and the rider next to you.
See you in Golden and Riding Dapper!