ABATE of Illinois was incorporated in January 1987; Blackhawk Chapter was officially recognized in July of that same year. We were active and successful from the start. By the early 90s all our area’s state legislators were supportive of ABATE, and it’s remained that way ever since. Blackhawk chapter has had many members serve on the ABATE of Illinois Executive Board over the years. ABATE of Illinois’ first state seminar was hosted by Blackhawk and held in Rock Island in 1990. One of ABATE’s first if not the first member to become an MSF (Motorcycle Safety Foundation) Rider Ed Instructor was a Blackhawk member. The list goes on.

 

But all work and no play we aren’t, Blackhawk holds several rides and events through out the year. All you have to do is show up and we can almost guarantee you a good time. Our membership ranges from casual riders to the, this is my life types. And the machines they ride are as diverse as the members. it’s camaraderie born of a common cause.

 

We dabble in community service as well. Our best attended event is our annual charity ride, Bears for Buddies, which benefits the Quad Cities Children’s Therapy Center. We do the roadside clean up thing twice a year, on a stretch of Route 84, near Illiniwek Park.

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ABATE of Illinois is dedicated to preserving the rights of all motorcyclists - and ATV riders. We encourage riders to become involved in the legislative and political processes by joining ABATE of Illinois, registering to vote, contacting legislators, working campaigns, and contributing to our Political Action Committees. The first 3 state PAC officers all hailed from Blackhawk chapter. In addition to our extensive grass roots efforts ABATE of Illinois retains the services of a professional lobbying firm. If the state legislature is in session you can bet we've got someone there looking out for your rights.

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It doesn't stop there, at least once a year ABATE of Illinois sends a team of volunteers to Washington DC to meet with and lobby our members of Congress. Blackhawk members have been a part of this team many times. ABATE of Illinois often partners with the Motorcycle Riders Foundation on issues of national concern. Sometimes threats to, or opportunities for motorcycling come without the benefit or encumbrance of the legislative process. With this in mind ABATE of Illinois strives to develop relationships with various agency officials and takes part in related programs whenever possible and beneficial.