Safety Report

By Gary Klinker

I’d like to start out by thanking everyone who turned out for the 7D Firecracker Run. It was a fun, safe event. Special thanks to Wendy and Kelly who rode all the way from Region 1J, Kenosha County to join us. This type of event allows people to ride their ride, meaning that they can set the pace, choose the type of roads they like, and customize the route to their liking. The safest part is there are no bar stops involved-unless the rider does that on their own. Less chance of drinking and riding, and much less liability for ABATE.

The BRC classes are slowing down in this last month of the training season. Last year we stayed busy until the end, but this year things have slowed early. I’m not sure why, but if you know anyone wanting to learn to ride, send them to the ABATE web site. They can get right into a class before fall gets here. It is also a great time to buy a used bike while people sell them to avoid winter storage.

We are looking forward to the Governor’s Highway Safety Conference the end of the month.  Several of our Rider Coaches will attend and join John Reblin at the MOSAC meeting held the night before the conference. It is always a great opportunity for networking.

For anyone heading for Sturgis I would first say be very careful! It is a crazy environment for riding with so many bikes and either inexperienced or impaired riders. Make sure your bike is well maintained and your tires are in good shape. Check tire pressure often and don’t overload the bike. We’ve all seen it (or maybe done it). Motorcycles weren’t meant to look like the Beverly Hillbillies truck heading west.

It is terrible to think about, but by August the end or riding season is a fact that can’t be avoided. There are still three good months left so get out and enjoy them. It will be the best riding in our part of the country. With classes closing by September even our Rider Coaches can get out and put on some miles.

Ride Safe