1956

The Great Lakes Motorcycle Dealers' Association began with the intent to organize motorcycle activities for dealers and enthusiasts. The association paved the way providing the organization and disseminating information for these sport-related activities such as Field Day, Enduro, etc.

1970-71

The National Manufacturers Association encouraged the establishment of state groups to represent motorcycle dealers as structured unified progressive political and service oriented organizations. The volunteer leadership of this association was replaced with its first paid employee and a direction was forged.

1970-79

The name of the association legally changed to Michigan Motorcycle Dealers' Association in 1973. The association was called upon to address the issue of motorcycles on State land. This experience became the beginning of active involvement and recognition of the MMDA influence in the political arena. Participation in the Governor's Motorcycle Safety Conference opened the door to other conference involvement in the early 1980's.

In 1975 the MMDA retained the services of a political consulting firm. The 1st Off Road Vehicle Act matured into a law with the guidance of the MMDA. The MMDA has continued to address legislation on motorcycle and land use concerns including the revisions in 1990. The MMDA Annual Meeting was held at the very first Silverdome Supercross Race. A limited dealer ticket sales program was originated. After 25 years of expansion this dealer program currently sells 50% or more of all the Silverdome Supercross annual event tickets.

The MMDA started compiling and providing motorcycle statistical sales data to member dealers as provided by the State of Michigan in 1976.

In 1974 the MMDA organized the 1st Amateur Silverdome Supercross race. It attracted over 1000 riders. As a result of the overwhelming interest in stadium racing the MMDA developed a series of outdoor races to qualify riders for the event at the Silverdome. These races promoted the sport of Motocross as well as motorcycles and related equipment sales. After several successful years the participation in the annual Supercross event peaked in 1997 with 1260 entrants. The planning of the Silver Anniversary Event (April 1, 2000) is progressing and promises to be a memorable event.

The MMDA participated with legislators in addressing motorcycles and the No Fault Insurance Act.

1980-81

Our current legislative consultants were retained to change the definition, registration and operation rules for mopeds to accommodate newly developed product from the major Japanese manufactures. ('82')

As a result of our involvement in motorcycle safety issues the MMDA began to pursue the current Motorcycle Rider Education Act which strictly addresses street legal motorcycles. P.A. 300. Late ('80') The MMDA consulted with legislators on ATV legislation addressing safety issues leading to the current ATV laws. P.A. 318. These issues resulted in the current Off Road use rules and subsequently the Off Road Rider Education Program. State Department of Education - (517) 373-6058.

1990s

The MMDA continually keeps in contact with those shaping legislation to monitor the feasibility, practicability, impact and expense to its members. As motorcycle related issues and concerns are implemented and revisited by the current legislators, MMDA continues to monitor the regulation of insurance, helmet use, licensing, equitable violation penalties, environmental concerns, private property equipment restrictions and use. Legislative changes in regulation and payment for rider education both off and on road, age and engine cc relationship for future license holders, and franchise law concerns is a sampling of issues of interest and relevance to you the motorcycle dealer.