May 2020

by Gary Klinker

I wish that I had something to report for sure. That is the problem, nothing is for sure as I write this. The uncertainty of what the state orders will become at the end of April is keeping everyone guessing. That being said, Safe Rider has cancelled our first week of classes. We will go on a week to week basis to determine the future of our season. We have gotten notice from the Wisconsin Motorcycle Safety Program that cycle training is not an “essential” activity and should not hold classes. We are also unsure of what Ft McCoy is going to do about getting on the base. Since we need two weeks to get gate passes that adds even more uncertainty.

It would sure make things easier if we had an independent facility. That possibility was killed about 15 years ago. This situation has not stopped us from getting things done. You can see the picture below of the trailer lettering that was done this week. It should give us some low-priced advertising and exposure. We also purchased a new bike (also pictured below), to add to our fleet.

On a brighter note, the riding has been very good. If you are not working, it can fill your time. You are not exposed to other people if that bothers you. You can practice your skills with less traffic to worry about. Finding a rest room that is open may be the biggest problem. Pack your lunch.

Note: From here, I am giving my opinions. They are not necessarily the views of Safe Rider or of ABATE. If businesses and individuals feel they need to protect themselves it should be their choice. It is not the government’s function to dictate a one size fits all solution to the whole country. The current situation could be compared to the mandatory helmet law of the past. Those of us who remember those days can see a comparison to today. As of today, the government doom and gloom forecasts are already being revised down. The fatality numbers are not nearly what we were led to believe, and they certainly don’t justify the government’s overreaching mandates. The current virus numbers are not given any context. Do you know that in any normal year 20-30 thousand Americans die from the flu? Do you know that on average about 8,000 people in this country die from all causes?

The accepted number that is used in motorcycle safety is that you are 28 times more likely to die on a motorcycle than in a car. If you ride a motorcycle, you are at much higher risk of a crash than you are of catching the flu. Are you willing to give up riding? What would you do if the government dictated the end of riding motorcycles for our “safety”? If you think that can’t happen, did you ever think that the government could close all bars and restaurants in Wisconsin? Businesses and individuals should do what they think is appropriate for them, not government. As for me, I ride with protective gear, I’m trained and I practice my skills, and most of the time I ride within my limits. I don’t fear the flu because I’m in pretty good health otherwise. I don’t spend my time fearing death because I know that God in in control. Fear should not control your life. Fear should not be the basis of government policy. Do what is appropriate for you.

Ride Safe,

Gary