I remember sitting in my garage late one Tuesday night, the smell of oil and old leather thick in the air. I was staring at a photo of Leslie, tucked into the corner of my workbench mirror. She was the cornerstone of so much joy in our lives, a true source of inspiration who could light up a room just by walking through the door. It’s a heavy thing, carrying the memory of someone who meant the world to you. There’s a specific kind of regret that hits when you realize they aren’t here to see what you’re building in their honor, but there’s also a breath-taking sense of purpose that comes with it.

That’s how Leslie’s Ride started. It wasn’t just about the bikes; it was about transforming that deep, personal loss into something that could actually move the needle for our community. As I’ve stepped into my role as the Event Planner and Coordinator, I’ve realized that what we are doing here is different. We aren’t just another poker run on the calendar. With the help of incredible people like Cody Garbrandt, we’re rewriting the script on what a charity event can be.

If you’ve ever wondered why this ride feels different, why the air seems to crackle with more energy when we roll out, I want to let you in on the "secrets" that make Leslie’s Ride a game-changer.

1. The Power of a Shared Why

The first secret isn't a marketing tactic; it’s the raw, emotional heart of why we ride. Leslie wasn't just a name to us; she was the heartbeat of our circle. When we lost her, we didn't want a somber memorial. We wanted a roar. We wanted the kind of noise that could be heard from the heavens.

Every rider who joins us isn’t just paying a registration fee; they are becoming part of a legacy. We’ve found that when you lead with vulnerability and share the real story behind the mission, people don't just show up, they lean in. You can read more about how this mission transforms lives here.

2. The Cody Garbrandt Factor: More Than a Name

When Cody Garbrandt joined forces with us, it wasn’t just about having a famous face on the flyer. Cody brings a "No Love" intensity that mirrors the grit it takes to run a charity like this. The secret here is authenticity. Cody doesn’t just show up for a photo op; he’s part of the pack.

Having a world-class athlete who understands the grind and the discipline of the fight helps us bridge the gap between the motorcycle community and the wider world. It brings a level of visibility that most benefit rides only dream of, but it stays grounded in the mutual respect between riders.

3. Tiered Experiences for Every Rider

We realized early on that "one size fits all" doesn’t work for the modern motorcycle enthusiast. Some people want to show up, ride, and head home. Others want the full, high-visibility VIP experience. That’s why we created our "Cruiser" and "Road King" registration tiers.

• The Cruiser Tier: Perfect for those who want the pure riding experience, the community, and the knowledge that they are supporting a great cause.

• The Road King Tier: This is for the riders who want to go all-in. It includes premium perks, better positioning, and exclusive merchandise that marks you as a top-tier supporter of the ride.

By organizing our registration this way, we empower you to choose your own level of impact. Won't you join us at the level that feels right for you?

4. Radical Inclusivity (No Pro-Skills Required)

There’s a common misconception that you need a $40,000 custom bagger or thirty years of riding experience to join a benefit ride. That couldn't be further from the truth at Leslie’s Ride.

One of our biggest secrets is our "come as you are" policy. Whether you’re on a vintage moped, a brand-new sportbike, or a rusted-out cruiser that’s seen better days, you are welcome. We’ve designed our routes and our atmosphere to be inclusive and approachable. No specialized skills are needed, just a bike, a license, and a heart for the cause. Our team at Leslie's Ride is there to make sure every rider feels like they belong the moment they pull into the lot.

5. Transparency in the "Grind"

Most people see the shiny bikes and the big check at the end of the day. They don't see the months of permits, the late-night logistics meetings, and the literal sweat that goes into making this happen. We’ve decided to be open about that.

We believe that by showing the "grind," we build deeper trust with our supporters. When you see the work, you know your money is being handled with respect. I recently wrote a sneak peek into the planning process that explains exactly how we put this puzzle together. It’s not easy, but it’s the most rewarding work I’ve ever done.

6. A New Model for Partnerships and Vendors

We don't view our sponsors or vendors as "ATM machines." We view them as partners in change. The secret to our successful vendor row is mutual benefit. We offer high-visibility perks that ensure our partners get their brand in front of the right eyes, but we also remain flexible.

We know that small businesses are the backbone of this community. That’s why we offer accommodating options, including payment plans and customizable packages. Let’s work together to make your brand a part of this story. If you’re interested in seeing how we can highlight your business, check out our vendor page or our sponsorship opportunities.

7. Transforming Reflection into Community Impact

The final secret is the transition. We start the day with a moment of reflection, a somber reminder of why we are here, honoring Leslie and others we’ve lost. But we don't stay there. We consciously transition that heavy energy into an energetic, purpose-driven roar.

We take the silence of the memorial and turn it into the thunder of a hundred engines. This shift from grief to action is what makes the ride so therapeutic for so many of us. It’s a reminder that while we can’t change the past, we can absolutely shape the future. The funds we raise don't just sit in a bank; they go directly toward making a tangible difference in the community we love. You can learn more about our mission and our history to see exactly where that impact lands.

Why We Need You

As I look toward our next event, I’m filled with a sense of overwhelming gratitude. Every time a new rider signs up, or a new sponsor reaches out, it’s a tribute to the legacy we are building together. We aren't just changing the "motorcycle ride game", we are changing lives.

But the truth is, I can't do this alone. The "grind" is real, and the mission is big. We need your energy, your bike, and your heart. Whether you’re a seasoned veteran or a total rookie, there is a place for you in this pack.

Won't you join us? Let’s make some noise, honor those we’ve lost, and build something that lasts long after the engines have cooled. If you have any questions or just want to chat about how you can get involved, please don’t hesitate to reach out to us directly.

We’re more than a ride. We’re a family. And we can’t wait to see you on the road.

Stay safe, keep the rubber side down, and let's ride for something that matters.

With gratitude,

Troy Goings Event Planner and Coordinator, Leslie’s Ride