The B.A.D. Ride was initiated in 1997 right here in Southern California. Thirteen years later it continues to promote the vision of its founder, Rip Rose, to unite the biker nation in the fight against diabetes. Today, his dream is a reality-every year thousands of bikers join the movement to Stop Diabetes by participating in this fun event. Rose, was a photojournalist for Easyriders Magazine and a person affected by diabetes. He eventually passed away in 2000 from complications of diabetes and cancer. The American Diabetes Association pledges to carry on his mission. Last year's event alone raised over $250,000 and the Southern California Ride has brought in over $3 million dollars to-date. Proceeds from the ride funds diabetes research, education, and advocacy efforts.