Issue link: http://trailridermagazine.uberflip.com/i/1546340
September 2026 29 as the ride itself. Training rides became a regular part of my rou ne. My fitness improved, my diet changed, and I focused on building the endurance needed to spend six consecu ve days on the trail. The prepara on extended beyond physical condi oning. I purchased an older toy hauler and spent months refurbishing it into a comfortable base camp. Spare parts, maintenance supplies, backup riding gear, and everything needed to keep both rider and motorcycle going for nearly a week found their way into the trailer. Veterans of the event o en say prepara on is half the ba le—and they were right. When the annual riding calendar appeared in the Great Lakes Trail Rider magazine, one date immediately stood out. July 26 through August 1—the 42nd Annual Phil Bean Memorial Six Days of Michigan. Hosted by the Cycle Conserva on Club of Michigan (CCCM) and supported by dedicated volunteers from clubs throughout Michigan and Ohio, Six Days of Michigan has earned its reputa on as the state's premier off-road riding experience. Drawing riders from across North America and welcoming everyone from first- me par cipants to seasoned veterans, the event showcases the very best of Michigan's more than 3,000 miles of designated off-road trails. Registra on took place at the Chippewa County Fairgrounds in Kinross, where motorcycles were inspected, riders checked in, and an cipa on filled the air. Before long, it became clear why so many riders return year a er year. Everyone was welcoming. Although many par cipants arrived with long me riding partners, newcomers were quickly included in conversa ons, dinner tables, and riding groups. The rider mee ng provided helpful informa on, but the real introduc on came through the countless friendly faces eager to answer ques ons and make sure everyone felt part of the SDM family. By bed me that first evening, excitement had replaced anxiousness.