Since late 1959, The BackStoppers have served the families of police officers and firefighters in the St. Louis area who have perished in the line of duty. The BackStoppers have but one purpose: to ease the suffering and provide much needed financial assistance for the spouses and dependent children of these public servants who have lost their lives in the line of duty. The BackStoppers depend heavily on donations and support from the community, and this ride is another effort to support and show appreciation for the critical work of this organization.

About The Ride:

Originally known as the Bike and Badge Ride, organizers have renamed the ride to honor Mr. Dave Mungenast, Sr. He was a man that believed in his community, he often supported many charities and would never expect a word to be said. His support for the Bike and Badge Ride was no exception- without his help, our ride would not exist today. Mr. Mungenast passed away in the Fall of 2006, and we hope to honor him and his memory with the renaming of this event to :"The Dave Mungenast Memorial Bike and Badge Ride.”

On the date of this year’s event, Sunday October 5th 2008, registrations will be taken form 9:00 a.m. to 11:00 a.m. at the ride starting point at Dave Mungenast St. Louis Honda Motorsports, located at 5939 South Lindbergh Blvd.(located directly behind the Honda car store).Registration is just $25.00 and benefits the BackStoppers. T-shirts, sweatshirts, and ride pins will be on sale during the time of registration.

The ride itself begins at approximately 11:30 a.m. A police escort will assist us at the start of the ride, and normal traffic laws apply from then on. The ride will take place mainly along scenic roads south of St. Louis, and will cover approximately 130 miles. Registered participants will receive route directions and a detailed map. Riders may stop for breaks or refreshments if desired. It is open to the public, and all licensed riders and legal street motorcycles are welcome. However, any individuals or motorcycle clubs promoting unsafe riding are not expected to attend.

To Participate:

All you need to participate in the ride is a street legal motorcycle, a valid motorcycle license, and a desire to ride with fellow enthusiasts for a noble cause. The registration fee is $25.00 – pre-registration is available via regular mail or you can register on-site the day of the event. Feel free to email info@bikeandbadge.org with any questions.

Even if you don’t have a motorcycle, you are more than welcome to attend our post-ride displays and gathering. We must remind all participants to not drink alcoholic beverages and ride a motor vehicle. Not only is it against the law, it could cause serious injury to you or someone else.