Happy New Year!
2007 is almost over, and I know I should wax eloquent about what a great year it was for me. Unfortunately that wasn’t the case! It was a tough year! Tonight I will raise my glass, and breathe a sigh of relief that 2007 has come to end. I will at the same time, be filled with a glimmer of hope and anticipation that 2008 will bring a different result! To all of my friends and family, HAPPY NEW YEAR!
Coffee Dear?
Coffee dear? This morning my wife and I, had a quiet chat about our resolutions for 2008. I have been thinking about this for sometime, but can’t quite articulate them as of yet. Part of the reason for that, is my family is in a time of transition. My youngest son will have his 18th birthday, graduate from high school, and head off to college, all before June. My oldest son, will be a Junior in college, and most likely be moving into his own place on campus. Leaving Michelle and I, to become the proverbial “empty nester’s”. I am not complaining, mind you. They are great young men and are excited to move into this new phase of their lives. We are proud and anxious for them to experience all that life has to offer. We are just as excited to see how our new life will unfold, the places we will see and the new people we will meet. No one really knows how things will turn out; but at least for now, we are enjoying the ride!
Keep the rubber side down!
Rick
These Times, They Are A Changin’
We live in tumultuous times don’t we?
4 Factors in Motorcycle Fatalities
Recently I participated in a local “Toy Run” with 1200 other riders. Five minutes into the ride, the pack leaders inexplicably made a sudden stop. As you guessed, this set off a major chain reaction, with a lot of suprised bikers hitting their brakes, and hitting them hard! Tires were squealing, smoke was rolling, motorcycles were swerving, and a few riders hit the pavement.
All of us recognize the inherent danger of riding in a massive group, yet statictics clearly reveal that most motorcycle fatalities involve a lone rider. In recent years motorcycle registrations have increased some 50%, but fatalities are up nearly 100%! This is a very alarming statistic. Why such an increase in cycling fatalities? I am not certain anyone has a definitive answer, but here are 4 contributing factors…
1. Too Much Bike For Ones Skill Level.
All of us know someone who recently obtained their M.C. endorsement, only to go out and purchase a bike that is too large, and too powerful for them.
2. Lack of Training.
After all, who wants to spend a weekend stuck in training classes, when we could have the wind in our hair, and be on the open road!
3. Over Confidence.
With a large number of ex-riders re-entering the biking world, over confidence sometimes gets in the way.
4. Alcohol.
In our area I could attend a biker party almost every night of the week. Complete with food, music, and lot’s of beer! 
What can be done to minimize our risks while engaging in this great hobby we all enjoy? Let me suggest four things.
1. Ride within your skill level.
We don’t need anymore show offs!
2. Get some training!
There are many opportunities for training in your area. (Ask your local dealer, or look on-line). Take advantage of it.
3. Stay alert and don’t get over confident.
Just because you rode several years ago, doesn’t mean you don’t need some practice now.
4. Enjoy the Alcohol when the ride is over.
On a recent trip to Minnesota, I enjoyed having a couple beers after a long day on the road, then I hit the sack.
“What suggestions would you add? Let me know what you think”!
A Penny A Day…
Bike Pictures
I trust all of you had a great Christmas, and you didn’t beat the crap out of your windbag brother in law! Thanks for sending the pics of your bikes! I know many of you told me you were going to be out of town, and wouldn’t be able to send your photos. That’s OK, we will catch you next year!
Scott’s 99 Road King
Rippin-Kitten 04 Volusia
William and Frank
Scooter in the stick
Santa Steve
Jonathan’s 03 V-Star 1100
Ethan’s 85 Nighthawk 450
Sucking Fumes!
Some of the worst traffic I have encountered to date, was rush hour traffic in downtown Chicago. Commuters anxious to get home, delivery drivers hurrying to drop off their last package, and little ole’ me on my motorcycle, sucking fumes! I say; “worst traffic to date”, because my wife is dragging me to the mall in a few minutes! It is Sunday, Dec. 23, and I have to go to the damn mall! So if you are out and about, look over at the benches, I will be sitting with all of the other sorry saps! Wish me luck!
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