Authorities have identified the motorcyclist who died in a crash shortly after sunset early this week in Maple Grove.

Ryan R. Schmiesing, 47, of Chaska, was hit by an SUV about 9:15 p.m. Monday at Hwy. 81 and N. 93rd Avenue, the Hennepin County Medical Examiner's Office said.

Schmiesing was declared dead less than 20 minutes later. Police said he was not wearing a helmet.

The SUV driver, a 46-year-old woman, was not injured, police said.

Police have yet to disclose the circumstances leading to the crash.

PAUL WALSH