History of the Cruiser Club

Cruiser Club U.S.A. (formerly known as Shadow Club U:S:A )was formed in 1988 in Fort Wayne, In.. A few months before three Shadow riders (Chuck Cottrell, Terry Stapleton and Tim Borntreger) were heading south to Tennessee. A thought came across Chuck’s mind while following his two friends. Man, it would be great if we had a large group of cruiser owners riding with us to where ever our bikes lead us. The thought became a reality and there are Chapters in several states, Canada and Australia, Germany and still growing. Chuck Cottrell is now National Director of Cruiser Club U:S:A. Sure is a big title for a job that has many rewards to enjoy. Can you think of a better way to meet and make friends who enjoy and share in one single interest Cruiser Club U:S:A was built around that theme. We see it on the faces of new members when they experience their first meeting, their first ride and especially their first event. The National has been fortunate in having good officers as far as club presidents in developing their chapters.
In the summer of 1994 when Shadow Club went National, we debuted at the Honda Homecoming in Marysville, Oh. We had a wonderful time and Linda Cottrell was so overwhelmed by all the bikes and people that were there and to see all the cruisers rumbling by and parked everywhere. We then realized that the reality of going National was developing before us and we knew now there was no turning back. We had to get busy.
January 31,1999, Shadow Club U.S.A. was retired after 10 years of service. Realizing that since we went National, many non-shadow cruiser owners were joining our organization. Stands to reason since we were open to all motorcycles anyway.
We needed to be able to promote our club to all cruisers, not just to one. Royal Stars, Road Stars, Shadows, Nomads, Intruders, ACES, V-Stars, Valkyries, Harleys and the list goes on. From 600cc to 1602cc, this is the organization for you. So take the time to read about the organization, history and our goals.
Now we are heading into a new millennium with a new name, same organization with nearly 30 chapters strong. We have a national rally once a year for our club and of course anyone who owns a motorcycle. So, please, be a part of our growing organization.
From one proud owner to another...”Enjoy the ride and ride to enjoy.”
A Local Chapter was established in September 1995. It received its’ AMA charted in September 1998. It meets the second Saturday of each month in the Philadelphia area, as its’ member are from Philadelphia and the surrounding area of Pa., N.J.and De.