OK Biker Bash

Its been more than a decade now since an ex-helicopter mechanic decided to concentrate his innovative spirit on motorcycles. In 1995, the Ridley Motorcycle Company was born, and this summer, a group of Ridley owners rode to Oklahoma to thank the Ridleys personally. If you want to know who these people are and why theyre here, you can grab a quick look at some t-shirts and hats, or you could ask Brent Rowse, who organized the very first meeting of Ridley Motorcycle owners. "You will find, by talking to Ridley owners, that they are very proud of their bikes," Rowse says. This little Oklahoma City company began in 1995 with an idea for a small, light, fully automatic street bike. Ever since, Clay Ridley and the rest of the family, including son Jay, have been turning out bigger and better machines, and a very enthusiastic core of customers who just had to come here to thank them. "Its really a big pat on the back for us as the creators," says Clay Ridley. "All from New Jersey, New Mexico, and Minnesota," Jay Ridley says. "And they couldnt be more excited to meet each other and meet us, and see the whole thing, where it all started," Clay says. Kathey Hill just bought her brand new 2007 model. Her test ride was backing it off the trailer and scooting through the parking lot. She cant wait to take it for a longer ride with other Ridley owners. "Since my husband bought one of these for me for Mothers Day, I just cant get enough," Hill says. Theyre here to compare notes and accessories. Like any club devoted to classic machines, theyre talk and ride, ride and talk some more until the weekend is over. For the Ridleys, even the beginning of the weekend is affirmation that theyve done something right. The end of their own rainbow has a wicked set of pipes attached. The first Ridley Club Convention boasts just under 75 visiting members from all over the country. They have several group rides planned and a tour of the Ridley factory. Photo Credit: Courtesy: USMC - Sgt. Clinton Firstbrook