Each year, the American Motorcyclist Association (AMA) hosts its annual Congressional Ride to Work Day event in Washington, D.C., bringing together lawmakers, industry leaders, and motorcycle advocacy groups. The event is scheduled to coincide with International Motorcycle & Scooter Ride to Work Day, a nationwide initiative that encourages riders to commute by motorcycle or scooter. By doing so, the AMA aims to promote motorcycles as a practical transportation option that can help reduce congestion, require less parking space, and consume fewer resources than automobiles.
The event provides an opportunity for members of Congress to engage directly with industry stakeholders and rider advocacy organizations, fostering a stronger connection between lawmakers and the motorcycling community. This year's participating lawmakers included several prominent representatives from both parties, including Reps. Tim Walberg (R-Mich.), Troy Balderson (R-Ohio), and Donald Norcross (D-N.J.).
The day began with members of Congress riding motorcycles to the Capitol before returning to Eastern Market, where they met with motorcycle industry executives and rider advocates. The group later participated in an escorted ride through Washington, D.C., led by the National Park Police.
Industry leaders played a crucial role in making this event possible, providing motorcycles for participants courtesy of Harley-Davidson and Buell. Representatives from several industry and advocacy organizations attended, including Backcountry Discovery Routes, the Motorcycle Industry Council, Motorcycle Riders Foundation, and Motorcycle Safety Foundation.
The event comes just weeks after more than 70 powersports industry representatives traveled to Washington for the annual Powersports Capitol Hill Fly-In, where tariffs, land access, trail funding, and PFAS regulations were among the key issues discussed with lawmakers.
International Motorcycle & Scooter Ride to Work Day was officially observed on June 9, marking its 35th year. The annual event encourages riders to commute by motorcycle or scooter to raise public awareness of two-wheeled transportation and promote motorcycles as a practical transportation option.
The initiative promotes motorcycles as a sustainable transportation option that can help reduce congestion, require less parking space, and consume fewer resources than automobiles. According to Ride to Work organizers, riders typically reach their destinations about 20% faster than commuters traveling by car.
By uniting with lawmakers on Capitol Hill, the AMA aims to strengthen its advocacy efforts and promote motorcyclist rights. The event highlights the importance of preserving the freedom to ride and promoting sustainable transportation options for all Americans.
The success of this event demonstrates the growing recognition of motorcycles as a viable transportation option in the United States. As the motorcycling community continues to advocate for its interests, it is essential that lawmakers remain committed to supporting the industry and its riders.
The event highlights the importance of preserving motorcyclist rights and promoting sustainable transportation options.
