06/28/2025
Happy Birthday
ABATE Of Indiana
In the mid-seventies, the motorcycle rights movement really started in earnest. This is why many State Motorcyclists’ Rights Organizations (SMROs) have been celebrating anniversaries over the past year. This week, ABATE of Indiana turned 50 years old. ABATE of Indiana is a charter member and ardent supporter of the Motorcycle Riders Foundation (MRF).
Founded in 1975 by Wanda Hummel, because she was “mad” about the mandatory helmet law and set out to “make it right”. In 1976, she did just that, modifying Indiana’s helmet law despite numerous challenges. Not the least of which was being a woman in a male-dominated environment.
ABATE of Indiana grew to become one of the largest and most successful SMROs in the country. This was due to the dedication, commitment, and hard work of many wonderful people through the years.
Michael Farabaugh, better known as “Balls”, was an incredible motivator and innovator with a keen ability to surround himself with extremely talented and loyal individuals. Under Balls’ leadership, ABATE got involved with rider education and created the Boogie, an old-school biker rally. Both of these initiatives added to the growth of the organization. Balls was also most instrumental in creating what is now the MRF.
There are way too many stories, achievements, and memories to fit here. ABATE of Indiana has enjoyed a life well-lived and has no intention of stopping. Please join us at the Boogie on July 16-20 for the biggest and baddest birthday party you’ve ever seen.
