Yes… it’s that time of year again.  For avid motorcyclists, it’s time to bring the baby out for a spin.  However, springtime brings riding risks.  For example, the roads are still covered with sand and gravel from last winter’s road maintenance operations.   Any motorcyclist will tell you that gravel can easily make  a leisurely spin with the machine a deadly event. 

Another potential hazard present at the start of the motor bike season is your fellow motorist.  Remember that for the last six months, our iron horses have been corralled in garages and sheds.  Before hitting the road, consider that others with whom we share the road, may not be ready for us, failing to see us as soon as we would like.  It will take some time for them to become aware of our presence.

So, how do we enjoy ourselves and stay vertical on our bikes?...

1. First and foremost, prior to riding, inspect the bike.  It is very important to inspect the bike to ensure that all the safety equipment on the bike is working property.  Check your lights, horn and mirrors, and don’t forget to check the pressure in those tires. 
2. Practice your motorcycle driving skills in an empty parking lot.  I do this every year and find it very refreshing.  An annual review of the defensive driving skills that were learnt during your motorcycle safe driving course won’t hurt you, in fact, it could be a life saver.
3. Is your insurance and registration with you??  If caught without it, you will be on the receiving end of a hefty fine. 
4. Drive defensively and keep you mind on the task at hand.  Never assume that other motorists see you.    Pick your lines on the road and keep your route in mind as you travel down the road.  Always look for clean pavement and avoid the shoulders at all costs (gravel tends to accumulate here). 
5. In an intersection, avoid the gravel that has accumulated on the middle of the road and on the sides. 

For those just starting out,  take a safe driving course.  This should be the first thing you do!!   Learn from the experts how to handle the bike, and what to do when things go wrong.  Believe me, this will be the best money you ever spent. 

Also for those who are thinking about buying a bike and getting involved in  “the ride”,   chose a machine that is a good beginning size.  So many times, I hear of friends that want the big bad machine as their first bike. 
Deciding to go with a bike that is bigger than what you may actually be ready for could be fatal; if you do not have the skills in handling the bike, your first machine can be your last!!  Learn to walk before you run.   You will enjoy the experience more and live to get the bigger bike later on!!

When I began riding four years ago,   I was without a motor bike for about 16 years before I purchased my Vulcan classic 800cc from Kawasaki.  I had that baby for three riding seasons and I also enrolled in a safe driving course even  though I’ve had my license since I was 18 years old.   These two factors made return to “the ride” a safe one.  I felt a lot of pressure from the dealership sales rep to buy a bigger machine right from the beginning, but refused because I wanted to progress slowly and safety back into motorcycling.  After three years, I graduated up to a larger machine, but I never forgot the enjoyment of my first bike and the lessons it taught me. 

I understand that now, first-time motorcyclists are restricted to riding machines with cc’s within a certain range.   Good idea …  

One final thought.  Always have respect for the machine and what it can do.  Never take it for granted and remember “the ride” is the living end!! 

See all of you out there!!  Oh, I almost forgot… remember to give the motorbike wave when a fellow motorcyclist passes you by.  Yes, even those “harley boys” need a hand. 

Safe travels….

Demetrio Guzzardi