Visually the calendar view is kind of nice if you have a specific date in mind. However, the database idea would be nice and simple. And like Japako said as long as it was sorted by month, it would be close enough to a calendar. If you were planning a ride you could look at the other rides or events to see if it would conflict
If the database rows can be sorted by clicking on the column header, it could make for some easy sorts. Kinda like filters in Excel
Some possible fields:
Event Type (ride, seminar, open house, rally, etc...)
Description
Year
Month
Start Date
End Date
State
City/Town
GPS Coordinates
Member List (would give you the ability to add your name to the event/ride, this would allow you to see how many forum members might be at an event)
Cost
Accommodations
Hmmmmmm, I'll keep thinking on more fields.... :-\