Shock of all shocks! I am back.

 

Hey fellow riders and travel enthusiasts!

It's been way too long since I've updated you all, but I'm excited to share some important news about where I am at.

For those who quite possibly don't remember me, I'm Renee Charbonneau (you might know me as Belt Drive Betty), and I'm proud to serve as a Certified Travel Agent (CTA) with CMTA Travel Services, a division of the Canadian Motorcycle Tourism Association. The commission earned from selling travel helps our association fund its programming, which I will get into in more detail over the coming weeks and months ahead. Here's What We Can Do for You: 🏍️ Professional Travel Planning: As a CTA certified through The Travel Institute and The Travel Agent Next Door, I bring professional expertise to planning your motorcycle adventures across Canada and beyond. 🚛 Motorcycle Shipping Services: Yes, you read that right! We can arrange to ship your bikes to your destination. Whether you're planning an epic cross-country adventure or want to explore distant riding territories without the long haul, we've got you covered. 🗺️ Expert Route Planning: With years of experience and my published work, "Quebec for the English-Speaking Rider," I know the best routes, hidden gems, and rider-friendly stops across Canada. 🏨 Accommodation & Logistics: From rider-friendly hotels to strategic stops along your route, we handle all the details so you can focus on the ride. Why Choose CMTA Travel Services? Rider-Focused Expertise: We're not just travel agents—we're riders who understand what makes a great motorcycle trip Rural Canada Advocacy: We're passionate about showcasing the incredible riding opportunities in rural Canada Veteran-Friendly: As someone with deep military family roots, I understand the unique needs of veteran riders Personal Touch: Every trip is planned with the care and attention you'd expect from a fellow rider Our Mission At CMTA Travel Services, we're committed to: toromoting motorcycle tourism across Canada - Supporting rural communities through responsible tourism - Connecting riders with unforgettable experiences - Providing professional, reliable travel services tailored to motorcyclists Ready to Plan Your Next Adventure? Whether you're dreaming of: of scenic ride through the Canadian Rockies - Exploring the maritime provinces - Discovering Quebec's incredible riding routes - Planning a cran epicss-country epicney - Shipping your bike for an international adventure We're here to make it happen! Get in Touch Don't let another riding season pass without exploring new territories. Contact CMTA Travel Services today, and let's start planning your next unforgettable motorcycle adventure. Remember, life's too short for boring rides—let's make every journey count and ride like everyone around you is blind and can't see you!

Renee Charbonneau (Belt Drive Betty) Certified Travel Agent CMTA Travel Services Canadian Motorcycle Tourism Association

The Axe Series Backpack by Vikingbags.com - Product Review

The Street/Sportbike Backpack from Viking Bags is a backpack I feel very good about recommending to other riders.

The lightweight, semi rigid, moulded body makes this backpack the perfect one for packing a laptop.

It has a padded compartment that fits my 15” laptop perfectly and because the backpack is so lightweight, the weight of the laptop isn’t a hardship. 

Having been in a paragliding crash where in I broke my back,  I will tell you that my back appreciates the lightweight, streamlined fit.

The organiser for all of those little items you need to carry like keys, cell phone, wallet, chapstick etc., is some handy.

There are several pockets of various sizes that make packing a breeze.  

The design of the outer shell means that the zipper doesn't have any pinch points and the pack opens up fully making it very easy to access and take full advantage of its ample storage. 

Pack a change of clothes, a few toiletries, your laptop etc., and you are ready to go to that meeting or the gym after work.

I also really like the fact that it also has a net for my helmet means that when I am off the bike, my hands are free to pack other things. The waterproof side pockets are handy for ID, tire pressure gauge and other items that you want and need quick access to.

Over all, this is an incredibly well done backpack filled with thoughtful little details. 
If you are looking for a backpack that is versatile, lightweight yet strong and durable, check out the Viking Bags Axe Series Backpacks.

- Reviewed by Glenn Bitterman