Motorcycle Riding Shape!

Get in shape for the new riding season with these Exercise Tips!

With the warmer temps, more bikes will be hitting the road, and longer trips are being planned. If you haven’t already, now’s a good time to do some spring maintenance on your bike since it might have been sitting for a while. However, the extended time of inactivity during the winter months might not be limited to your motorcycle. We all need to take time to do some self-examination of your road worthiness. Many of us are less active during the winter months, and all those holiday celebrations and winter comfort food can have an impact. This is about more than just seeing if your riding gear still fits, it making sure that you are in shape to control your ride.

Exercise is important:

Motorcycling is a physical sport. Excellence in riding technique and safety requires strength and coordination. Just like athletes exercise and train for their sport, we motorcycle riders need to be in good shape and condition to ride, also. Riding for a long time, like performing any other physical activity, uses some muscles that we haven’t used for a while and will tax other muscles that are used in different ways. It takes time to regain ride-ready muscles. Here are some areas to consider in your motorcycle exercise program.

Legs:

Our legs are the largest muscle group in our bodies. We use our legs to lift our motorcycles from their side stands, support them at stops, and, at times, push them around.

While there are several weight-training exercises you can work on at a gym, the simple act of walking will do wonders. It’s also free. Walking one mile a day, more if you have the time, will keep your legs strong and offer benefits to your cardiovascular system. Simply put, walking is a winning endeavor.

Core strength:

Core muscles support our spine, hips, and shoulders, giving us the strength for good posture when riding our motorcycles. If your back, neck, or shoulders are achy after the first ride of the spring, this is a sure sign you need to work on your core.

Before you start working on core strength, you might want to consider a session with a professional trainer to learn the proper techniques. Here is a partial list of some exercises that work on your core:

Sit-ups, Modified sit-ups, Abdominal crunches, Side plank, Push-ups, Squats, Back extensions.

Arms and upper body:

Depending on the style of motorcycle you ride, the riding position will vary from sitting upright to leaning forward. The position you sit in will have an effect on how much upper body strength you will need while riding and it can help you focus on your exercise routine.

Some use of modest weights or resistance devices may be required to strengthen your arms and upper body. Here are some arm and upper body exercises to consider:

Chest press, Rowing, Bicep curls, Triceps press down, Wall push-ups, Hand grip squeezes

Start slowly and build up your exercise routine gradually. This will help avoid strains. Just like riding, proper technique and form is important. There are a lot of exercise techniques online and in books, but nothing beats learning from a trainer that might be at your local gym.

Your motorcycle deserves good maintenance, and so does your body. Just like our rides and bodies at times Spiritual Shape needs to be looked at and worked on also.

Sometimes as we get caught-up in our day to day struggles our typical faith “activities,” such as prayer and Bible study, have fallen by the wayside. Even though it might due to current life distractions good and bad (rather than any kind of faith crisis), it is amazing how fast we can get spiritually “out of shape.”

We should see our spiritual life as being in need of regular exercise, just as our physical bodies are in need to get on that motorcycle. But how do we get into and stay in spiritual shape? What does that actually look like? Here is a guide to toning the four spiritual “muscle groups”: Prayer, Bible Study, Church and Serving.

PRAYER:

The Prayer Barrier: When you haven’t prayed in a long time, or haven’t been praying regularly, guilt is often the major barrier to starting again. No other spiritual muscle group makes you face God directly in admitting that you’ve been “away.” If you’re like me, this can actually cause you to go even longer without praying because you don’t want to face God. Another barrier is that we often aren’t sure what to say or where to start when we’ve been disconnected for a while. World peace? My neighbor’s surgery? General praise and thanks? Forgiveness for a nagging sin? The blank prayer slate can be intimidating.

The Prayer Work Out Plan:

1. Remind yourself that God is actually waiting to hear from you again! There is no need to feel sheepish or intimidated.

2. You’ve heard it a million times before: “set a time to pray daily”. Ideally, choose a time that is part of your routine so you can’t forget. Try waking up early and put aside quite time or in the shower you might be much more consistent because showering is part of your daily routine.

3. Write down 5 things you want to pray about before you start. It helps get you back in the mindset of prayer and eliminates the fear of not knowing what to say.

4. When you pray, start by asking God for forgiveness for your “absence.” Acknowledging your distance sets aside your guilt barrier and opens you to free communication.

5. Prayer is a spiritual exercise we should all do daily. The Bible tells us to “Pray without Ceasing” in 1 Thessalonians 5:17!

Till next time, Pray Up before you Mount Up and Ride Safe!

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"FEAR"

Turn it into RESPECT

While researching what to do for the UBC F.A.I.T.H. Riders February “Safety Tips and Tricks”, I came across an article written by James R. Davis about Fear and turning it into respect that I felt would be good to share with my fellow riders. This article hit home with us because of my wife’s fear on two wheels, and I’m sure we all have at some time in riding come across a fear of one sort or another, no matter how tuff of Biker we think we are. I have changed some of the content but most of the following is the original article, so thanks Mr. Davis if you happen to read this.

Fear can kill you - it leads to riders freezing at their controls in an emergency and taking no corrective action whatever. It leads to doubts that are self-fulfilling. "I can't make that turn!" Finally, it leads to dangerous reactions such as 'grabbing a handful of brake lever or Stomping on the foot brake ' instead of doing a CONTROLLED panic stop.

But we, ALL OF US, were afraid to begin with. How to get over it should be the question you answer because by observation you know that virtually all of us did just that.

My suggestions are simple:

1. Convert fear into respect. Understand and acknowledge that the sport (yes riding is a sport) is dangerous and that what you must do to survive it is UNDERSTAND everything you can about it. Ignorance is the cause of a great deal of fear.

2. Ask questions to people that have ridden, that you trust, and that will help you no matter what you ask. Support from an experience rider is one of the best learning tools.

3. Make sure that the motorcycle is ALWAYS mechanically sound. Your life depends on just two or three wheels; it only makes sense to insure that they are well maintained.

4. Practice and then PRACTICE some more. Practice in all kinds of environments, not just a parking lot. Practice in the rain. Practice on gravel. Practice stopping and starting on a hill. Practice stopping quickly (in a parking lot!) Practice going fast (speed limited by law.) Practice going SLOW - this is just as important!

5. Be prepared. You cannot practice enough to have experienced everything - the car that moves into your lane at freeway speeds should be an event that is new to you. The unexpected does happen - often. Sometimes, unfortunately, things break - even if properly maintained. In other words, you should assume that sooner or later you will find yourself getting off your motorcycle unintentionally (it falls over in a parking lot with ten of your friends watching you.) You should be dressed to not only survive that experience, but so that you will be uninjured or minimally affected by that dismount. (Can you say 'helmet', 'gloves', 'leather'?)

A few years ago when we were looking at rides (bikes) for my wife, we ran across a very wise salesman that said “When you open the Garage door and see your motorcycle your reaction should be I Want to ride you today” not “Do I really have to ride you today”. We didn’t listen to this advice and soon found out she had the latter of the above statement and fear was the cause. For two years she just could not get over riding on two wheels through the curves. Other than the curves she loved to ride, so that’s when we had to work on what is causing the fear. Come to find out her fear was the leaning and feeling the motorcycle had control of her and not her having control of the motorcycle.

Now, to go back ... your objective should be to convert fear into respect. I do not mean respect merely of the dangers or of your motorcycle - those are the least of it. You need to develop a respect of YOURSELF and an absolute regard for your ability to CONTROL the motorcycle at all times. You want an immense pride in your ability to make that 100 horsepower machine do exactly what you want it to do when you are riding, when that happens, you have won.

In my wife’s case we knew it was the feeling of being on two wheels going around the curves that she feared the most, as I said she love the ride so let’s concur (or address) the fear. By going to three wheels (a sporty Can-Am Spyder RSS) the fear of the curves was taken out of the picture. Don’t get me wrong, there were other challenges with three wheels but in my wife’s case she was able to learn to respect the bike and herself because she overcame the major fear and anxiety that it brought on when riding the curves by just changing one thing (the ride). This change was a drastic change but the right one because she was ready to give up on riding all together; maybe your change does not need to be so drastic.

What we also learned is sometimes to overcome the fear it may be as simple as that you also need to 'Ride your own ride’ and this is not just a catchy phrase. It means just what it says - ride to YOUR skill level, not anybody else's. Accept that others may be 'better' at some motorcycle skills than you are because it's true. And know what your skills are, stay within your own competence envelope, and know that your odds of enjoying tomorrow's ride are at least as good as anybody else's because your odds of surviving today's ride are not lowered just to 'keep up.'

Handling life sometimes can be a lot like some of the fears that you face on riding a motorcycle in the beginning, its Anxiety brought on by Fears. The way you can take on these life fears is to call for/on help from Jesus.

Follow these simple steps to have Jesus help you with your fear:

Identify your fears.
Pick the fear you are MOST afraid of.
In quiet and solitude, talk to Jesus about your fear.
Ask Him to show YOU how much He loves you!
Enter into prayer and see your fear and hand it over to Jesus as you are waiting for the love of Christ to come to you!

Then Comfort your soul with these words:

For God has not given us a spirit of fear, but of power and of love and of a sound mind. (2 Timothy 1:7)

Remember:

There are many reasons that we ride our motorcycles with grins on our faces.

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Throw Caution to the Wind-Chill!

Wind Chill Charts at the end of the Article

Wind-chill or wind chill, (popularly wind chill factor) - is the perceived decrease in air temperature felt by the body on exposed skin due to the flow of air.

A cold wind can chill you to the bone, no doubt. But what does "wind chill" really mean, and is it even an accurate concept? The real answer might surprise you. You hear about wind chill all the time once temperatures start to drop. It's one of those things people love to throw out when discussing the weather: "Did you hear? Its 10 degrees out, but with the wind chill its 15 below zero!" It's become so commonplace; many people disregard the actual temperature and go straight for the wind-chilled "effective" temperature - because it just sounds so much more interesting.

As a rider, wind chill is something you're even more keenly aware of. We've all been chilled to the bone on a ride when it's only moderately cold out, because of the blast of "wind" created by rushing through air on a bike at high speed. What would be slightly chilly standing still, suddenly feels like a polar vortex when riding down the highway.

I know riding a motorcycle at speed magnifies the cold, because I've felt it. But when I set out to understand wind chill as a scientific model, I was surprised to find out that it's actually not very scientific at all. It turns out that "wind chill" is really a very hazy concept, rooted in some very inconsistent assumptions, and it's probably one of the most subjective and misused measurements in all of weather science.

So Why does it make you Cold?

Wind doesn't actually reduce temperature at all - all things being equal, it is impossible for wind to reduce the temperature of something below the ambient temperature. Any non-living object can only be chilled to the ambient temperature, and not below it. The temperature isn't actually causing the temperature to drop; it only feels like it is to humans, because of the body's physical response to cold. By constantly blowing away the heat the body generates, convection (the transfer of heat by flowing air) creates the sensation of being colder than it actually is.

I said "all things being equal" above because this doesn't account for the effect of moisture and evaporation. If something is wet, and wind is passing over it, the evaporative effect can drop the actual temperature of the object. When you get out of a pool on a hot day, and a breeze hits you and makes you feel cold, this is technically not "wind chill," but rather, the chilling effect of evaporation.

How is Wind Chill Calculated?

Because wind chill tries to measure the perception of cold, and not the actual temperature, it is not necessarily an inexact science (and one might say, not actually science at all, since it is not consistent or reproducible.) Different people in varying conditions will feel different at varying levels of cold. Wind chill is in fact only an approximation of a feeling - and a very rough one at that.

The problem is that, unlike temperature - which is a uniform and exact measurement - there is no universally accepted standard for the effects of wind chill. Different countries actually use different formulas to estimate wind chill, and they have changed significantly over time (In Europe, "wind chill" isn't even a commonly used term.

The current standard for measuring wind chill was developed in 2001, it's based upon the estimated effect of wind on a bare human face walking into the wind at 3mph. In addition, because wind chill is calculated as the feeling of cold wind upon bare skin, the degree of wind chill estimated by the formula would only apply if you were completely unprotected by windshields or fairings, and if you weren't wearing any clothes. Hopefully you don't ride like that (but if you do, we don't want to know)!

So ultimately, wind chill is only an attempt by science to describe the sensation of cold on the skin as it is affected by wind. It's not an actual unit of measurement, and it varies from person to person depending on their tolerance to cold, what they are wearing, and even the level of moisture in the air.

Does That Mean Wind Chill Doesn't Exist?

Heck no! Anyone who's ridden a motorcycle in the cold can tell you that zooming through the air makes it feel a lot colder than it is. But that's just the thing - it's all about feel, and everyone feels cold differently (personally, I'm a pretty big wimp when it comes to the cold.)

The point is not that it doesn't exist. Only that it's far from exact, and based on the way it's measured, is usually grossly exaggerated. Wind-chill reports tend to exaggerate the actual rate at which you feel cold, and those reports often end up being discounted by most people who have experience in cold weather because it does not tend to agree with personal experience.

How to Fight Off Wind Chill on a Motorcycle

Since riding a motorcycle doesn't usually involve much physical activity, your body isn't doing much to generate its own heat. This means you have to do all you can to insulate the heat you do have, to prevent it from being whisked away by rushing air. If you protect yourself from the cold adequately with windproof warming layers and even heated gear, you can take huge steps toward making wind chill become almost not a factor at all.

Fighting wind chill comes down to two components: insulation layers to slow the rate at which body heat is lost, and wind proofing to prevent rushing air from stealing that heat away.

Layering

Layering is critical to all cold-weather activities, including motorcycle riding. Good bottom layers are things like a snug fitting poly fleece or wool, followed by down or synthetic down insulating layers. Heated gear is also highly recommended for motorcycling since you have a power source - your bike - available to you. (Check out our complete buyers guide on heated gear by clicking the banner below).

Wind Propfing

Wind proofing is where you seal the heat in to keep it from being stolen away by the rushing air. The most important part of wind proofing is seamlessness - all the money you spend on high end windproof gear doesn't mean squat if you have weak points where all the heat is escaping. At motorcycle riding speeds, that small gap between your gloves and jacket cuffs or between your collar and helmet suddenly become gaping holes in your cold defenses. And you won't just have a cold neck or wrists either; because blood is being pumped throughout your circulatory system constantly, those small cold areas literally spread cold throughout your entire body!

On a motorcycle, it’s critical to be able to seal up those leaks with Velcro, drawstrings, and even versatile items like a scarf or balaclava. And don't forget the single biggest wind protection item you can use, and you don't even have to wear it - a windshield!

To help you calculate the degree of protection you'll need on a ride, Refer to the wind-chill charts (Fahrenheit & Celsius) below for motorcycle riders, with wind chill factor expressed at common cruising speeds.

Wind-Chill Criticism

Believers can experience a different kind of wind-chill in their day to day walk as they run across hostility and criticism when we share what we believe. The only New Testament reference to weather is found in the Gospel of John: “It was the feast of the Dedication at Jerusalem; it was winter, and Jesus was walking in the temple, in the portico of Solomon” [John 10: 22].

John was a fisherman, not a meteorologist, so he could be referring to the spiritual climate expressed by those who were opposed to Jesus and his message and not to the season itself. The wind-chill factor of hostility and endless criticism from the religious leaders in Jerusalem cut through Jesus and his disciples to the bone, blasting them with the cold air of ridicule and resentment. Into this arctic atmosphere Jesus spoke those beautiful words that compared his followers love and trust for him to that wonderful relationship between the sheep and their shepherd. “My sheep hear my voice”, Jesus said. “I know them, and they follow me. I give them eternal life, and they will never perish. No one will snatch them out of my hand.” [John 10: 27-28].

As we are out in this wind-chilled world we must seal up the leaks and get behind the windshield with Jesus and think about what he told us in John 10: 27-28 and remember the warmth of His relationship with us as follow Him.

Bundle Up and Ride Safe this Winter

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Battery Tenders - Keep the Spark Alive

It’s that time of year that we all need to think about keeping the Spark Alive in our Rides. Since the battery in our scoots takes a real beating year round we want to make sure we don’t forget to take care of them during the cold weather.

The battery supplies the bike with a constant flow of power with all of the lights and accessories while it's running. The charging system is working all of the time. Some folks don't understand that average driving will not keep a battery fully charged all of the time. Once a battery has been in service for a while, the vibration, heat and continuous charging and discharging will take a toll on the life of a battery. Keeping the terminals and cable screws tight and clean is very important and among one of the most neglected items when it comes to battery maintenance. Having said all of that, I have found, if you keep the battery charged with a Battery Tender, it will last longer and help keep the electrical and starting system in good condition.

What is a motorcycle battery tender?

A motorcycle battery tender is a small, automatic battery charger that turns on and off as needed to keep your motorcycle battery at an optimum charge level. Some of the greatest features include:

· All motorcycle battery tender units are designed to be left connected to the motorcycle battery for an indefinite amount of time without harming the battery or the electrical components of the bike.

· A good motorcycle battery tender operates automatically without any monitor requirements from the user.

· The motorcycle battery charger will usually have a low amperage output between 750 and 1100 milliamps.

Most of the advanced battery tenders on the market are built around a charging algorithm (step by step procedure or process) unique to that company/product - examples of these are Deltran, NOCO, and CTEK.

Why Should You Use a Motorcycle Battery Tender?

There are two primary reasons to use a battery tender for your motorcycle: prevention of parasitic drains and prevention of sulfation build up.

Prevent Parasitic Drains:

As motorcycles become more integrated with technology (alarm systems, GPS, diagnostics), some of these systems will continue to draw an extremely small amount of current from the battery when the ignition key is off. Over a long enough period, this will result in a dead battery.

You can counter the dead battery problem through the use of a motorcycle battery tender. The tender will recognized that the battery has been brought below its fully charged voltage and begin charging the unit until it is once again in the green. Then the tender will shut down. The battery tender will repeat this process as needed automatically.

Prevent Sulfation:

Many motorcycle owners live in areas where riding is governed by seasons – in which case they would be forced to put their bike in storage. The problem with this in relation to the battery is that it will naturally lose its charge over time. All lead-acid based batteries will naturally self-discharge over time.

Over a span of two to three months, your motorcycle battery has the potential to self-discharge to the point where sulfation begins to build up on the internal plates. This will result in a significant loss of cracking amps and capacity.

If you use a motorcycle battery tender, the battery will be kept in a constantly charged state, and sulfation would not occur.

Popular Motorcycle Battery Tenders

Ready to invest in a motorcycle battery tender; improve the lifespan of your motorcycle battery and the use of your favorite summer ride? Browse the following collection of the most popular motorcycle battery tenders.

Deltran Battery Tender Junior 12V Charger (Price on e-bay $25.00 to $36.00)

Known as the “trickle charger with a brain,” the battery tender junior will fully charge your motorcycle battery and maintain it at the proper storage voltage without the damaging effects caused by most other trickle chargers.

NOCO Genius G750 Battery Charger (e-bay price $28.00 to $35.00)

A smart, fully automatic switch-mode battery charger and maintainer, the NOCO Genius can safely stay connected to your bike 24/7.

CTEK US 0.8 Battery Charger (e-bay price $54.00)

Offering state-of-the-art technology, the CTEK is perfect for charging smaller 12V batteries, such as those found in motorcycles. And, the CTEK’s unique display allows you to follow the entire 6-step charging process.

Spiritual Battery Tender
(price: Free for the Asking)

As believers in Christ it is essential that you stay 'charged up' as well. If you claim to know Jesus as your saviour do you take the time you need to spend time in meditation and prayer to get your day off to a good start? It is a sort of 'recharging' of your batteries to get alone with God and your Bible and spend time getting 'recharged' for the Lord so you are equipped to better handle whatever comes your way that day and to Keep that Spark Alive.

No one can keep going and going and not get rest. There are very few 'Energizer Bunnies" out there. If you do not rest you would be absolutely worn out.

Resting in the Lord too is essential and this does not mean going to bed at night using the Bible as a pillow. You as a child of God need to refresh renew and recharge as well and the Bible is our spiritual food and our Battery Tender. Do not let your power for Jesus die out by neglecting to do the things that make you strong in the Lord.

PRAYER:

Lord today and every day I need to have you firmly in my life. Sometimes I neglect my quiet times and often I never even pick up the Bible to see what you would have me learn. I know I cannot be strong in the Lord and close to you if I do not take this time each day to renew and recharge. Help me Lord to make myself get up and have enough time to spend some alone time before my day gets too busy and you are once again squeezed out.

In Jesus Name,

Amen.

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The cold is coming and it time for fall foliage Riding.

Tips to get you and your motorcycle ready:**

This time of year is probably one of the best times to ride a motorcycle in God’ Country. The fall foliage turns all of our favorite country roads from a sea of green into a spectacular palette of oranges, reds, and gold.At the same time, milder temperatures make wearing protective riding gear more comfortable than during summer’s swelter. But as enjoyable as those milder temperatures are, they may also come with some surprises and extra maintenance for your motorcycle. With a little thought and planning, you can prepare and help improve your enjoyment and safety during this transitional season.

Here are some tips to get ready for fall riding and fall foliage driving:

Check your battery:

Your motorcycle’s battery will get a workout this season. Starting a cold motor takes more energy. And as the battery gets colder, the amount of power available is reduced. That’s when a battery with a higher cold-cranking amp rating really shines. Load test your battery’s charge to make sure it’s ready for those cold weather starts.
Check your oil and other fluids:

Some motorcycles come with different recommended oil viscosity ratings based on the temperature. Make sure you follow these recommendations to help your motorcycle engine run better and last longer. If your motorcycle has a liquid-cooled engine, check both the coolant level and quality. Follow factory standards for the coolant type and mix ratio.

Examine your tires:
You’ll want to take a look at your tire pressure before each ride this fall. As the temperature drops, your tire pressure drops. Proper inflation improves your bike’s handling, braking, and tire life. And while you’re checking the pressure, make it a habit to examine the tires for wear or damage.

Test your lights:

Fall means darkness comes earlier, so you’ll depend on your headlight more. Check both the high and low beam before each ride. And don’t forget your turn signals. Remember, your lights make you more visible to drivers who may be distracted with leaf-looking.
Consider electric riding gear:

Riding with electrically heated gear may extend your riding season, increase your comfort, and help prevent hypothermia. Carefully choose your gear based on your motorcycle’s charging system capacity. Compare how many amps your motorcycle generates at cruising speed to how much amperage your motorcycle uses. That way you can determine the available spare power for electric gear. If it uses more than the available spare power, you’ll be discharging your battery while riding—leaving you in need of an overnight charge to start your motorcycle the next day.
Watch the weather forecast:

We all know the weather can change rapidly this time of year, so it’s important to check the forecast for the areas where you’re riding. When you know what to expect, you can pack the gear you’ll likely need during your ride. Weather can be fickle, so pack a few extra layers just in case. You can’t be too prepared for falling temperatures.

Tips to avoid fall foliage driving failures

Remember, fall foliage has a similar effect on a lot of other people, and not just motorcyclists. The roads through many scenic areas will be filled with vehicles of every description (Cages, Motorcycles and Spyder Riders).Today’s roads are filled with drivers distracted by their phones and other in-vehicle non-driving activities. God’s spectacle of fall foliage can compound the level of driver distraction, further reducing their awareness of other road users, including motorcycles. So, we should be on guard when riding. Here are a few tips to cope with leaf-looking drivers when hitting the road:

Pay attention:

Notice where drivers’ heads are facing. If they are clearly looking at the trees, they probably don’t see you or your motorcycle.

Notice wanderers: Vehicles that are wandering in their lane of travel might indicate the driver is not looking at the road.

Watch for speed variations:

When following other vehicles, their random slowing and speeding up is another sign of leaf-looking distraction.
Observe license plates:

Drivers from other states are less likely to be familiar with the local roads and might make unexpected maneuvers.
Watch mirrors:

Keep track of what’s around you, especially when slowing, stopping, changing lanes, or turning. The driver behind you might be keeping pace with you, and paying only partial attention to your position while they focus on the scenery.
Be aware of drifters:

When encountering long lines of dense traffic moving in the opposite direction, watch out for vehicles that drift over the centerline. Some drivers frustrated by slow-moving traffic on scenic roads make ill-advised and sometimes illegal passes.
Plan ahead:

Consider touring popular fall foliage areas during the middle of the week. You’ll find less traffic on the roads. As an added bonus, restaurants will be less crowded and lodging might be more available and less expensive.
Pray First, Then Ride:

As always say a little Prayer before taking off on your ride: Now I prepare to ride and roll down the road so wide. Keep me riding strong and true, Lord I place my faith in you. Keep me safe and keep me free, let all the dangers flee. Lord I may split the lane, do things crazy and act insane, I may ride normal obey the rules but keep me safe from the all the fools. I watch for cagers and other dangers. Lord do your part, I trust you with all my heart

safety-recall-search

SAFETY RECALL NOTICE from GOD:

Vin #: Human Beings

The Maker of all human beings (GOD) is recalling all units manufactured, regardless of make or year, due to a serious defect in the primary and central component of the heart.

This is due to a malfunction in the original prototype units code named Adam and Eve, resulting in the reproduction of the same defect in all subsequent units. This defect has been technically termed "Sub-sequential Internal Non-Morality,"or more commonly known as S.I.N., as it is primarily expressed.

Some of the symptoms include:

1. Loss of direction

2. Foul vocal emissions

3. Amnesia of origin

4. Lack of peace and joy

5. Selfish or violent behavior

6. Fearfulness

8. Idolatry

9. Rebellion

The Manufacturer, who is neither liable nor at fault for this defect, is providing factory-authorized repair and service free of charge to correct this defect. The Repair Technician, JESUS, has most generously offered to bear the entire burden of the staggering cost of these repairs. There is no additional fee required. The number to call for repair in all areas is: P-R-A-Y-E-R. Once connected, please upload your burden of SINS through the REPENTANCE procedure. Next, download ATONEMENT (agreement) from the Repair Technician, JESUS, into the heart component.

No matter how big or small the SIN defect is, Jesus will replace it with:

1. Love

2. Joy

3. Peace

4. Patience

5. Kindness

6. Goodness

7. Faithfulness

8. Gentleness

9. Self control**

Please see the operating manual, the B.I.B.L.E. (Basic, Instructions, Before Leaving, Earth) for further details on the use of these fixes.

Romans 10:9 (NKJV) “ that if you confess with your mouth the Lord Jesus and believe in your heart that God has raised Him from the dead, you will be saved”.

WARNING: Continuing to operate the human being unit without correction voids any manufacturer warranties, exposing the unit to dangers and problems too numerous to list and will result in the human unit being permanently impounded. For free emergency service, call on Jesus.

DANGER: The human being units not responding to this recall action will have to be scrapped in the furnace. The SIN defect will not be permitted to enter Heaven so as to prevent contamination of that facility. Thank you for your attention!

P.S. Please assist where possible by notifying others of this important recall notice, and you may contact the Father any time by 'Knee mail'! Because He Lives

Jesus was born of the Virgin Mary by the Holy Spirit, was crucified on the cross for our sins, died then rose again to be seated at the right hand of God the Father all mighty to reign for ever and ever.

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What do you do when you experience a rear wheel skid? How do you get out of it safely?

A rear-wheel skid can happen without much warning. Generally, it’s because of a wet road conditions or incorrect braking of the rear-wheel. For newbie riders, it be frightening when this occurs but hopefully these tips will help you learn to pull out of the skid and maintain control.

Not all bikes have ABS (antilock braking systems) in both wheels. This means occasionally you may experience a situation where the rear wheel will lock. Instead of gradually slowing the bike, the rear wheel will completely stop as the bike continues to move. This will cause the bike to skid from the rear end. If not handled properly, this can result in the bike going sideways, and for the inexperienced rider could result in injury or even a fatal crash.

If your rear wheels lock and you find yourself entering a skid, be sure to counter any lateral movement the bike may enter.

In the case of a straight skid, recovery is pretty easy. The front and rear wheels are aligned with each other so all you need to do is release pressure off the rear brakes. During this time, the rider must be prepared to control bike wobbles as the rear wheel gains back traction. (This scenario can be practiced this in a parking lot with proper safety gear, so you’re well prepared when an actual skid occurs.)

If you’re unlucky enough to get into a side skid, things get tricky. A side skid occurs when the front wheels continue to move forward, while the rear wheel tends to go sideways. In this instance, there is a tendency to release the rear brake but that is not the wise procedure. Instead, you can regain control by trying to gently pull the handlebar of your motorcycle in the same direction as the slide. This helps wheels get back in line. Doing this will prevent a high-side crash. (In the worst case scenario, a lower speed crash could occur.)

It’s vital to use the lower part of your body to steer the bike when trying to pull out of a rear wheel skid. Learn to hold the gas tank of your motorcycle tightly between your knees, when practicing the straight skid. It may not seem important, but it will help if you encounter a slide.

Another helpful technique, is to keep your eyes focused straight ahead while at the same time, looking for potential obstacles. If you see potential danger, do what you can to avoid hitting objects and keep yourself safe.

Generally, a rear wheel skid doesn’t happen if you have a passenger riding with you. The extra weight in the rear-end of the bike ensures better traction for the rear wheel. While trying to pull out of a rear wheel skid, you can try to imitate this condition by trying to move your body as far back as possible in your seat, thereby putting the majority of your weight toward the rear of the bike.

Additional information shared by one of our faithful blog readers, Steven R. Hudson: "Stay off that rear brake, apply most of your braking to the front wheel. Under hard braking there is a shift of weight to the front and the rear brake will become more prone to locking up. ABS is a good option and available on most late model bikes."

Hopefully, you'll never experience a rear wheel skid but if you do, these tips may help keep you safe. Feel free to share and enjoy the ride!

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What Can Go Wrong On Group Rides

With any group of people, things can go wrong. There are different personalities, different temperaments, and different viewpoints. So what about bikers who like to ride? What are they supposed to do to keep the peace and have an enjoyable experience? Being prepared is the key.

Here are some tips and tricks that might help you on your next group ride:

1. Flat tires - They can happen at any time and any place. They usually happen at the most inopportune time but if you're prepared, this little obstacle doesn't turn into a major ordeal. Keep a tire plugging kit on hand. They're inexpensive and small enough to carry in your saddle bag. You might also want to keep a couple of CO2 cartridges on hand in case you need to reinflate.

2. Competitive riders- Inevitably there's one rider in the bunch who thinks he's got something to prove. He wants to move forward because he thinks others are going too slow or he may want to take a better route than the one planned. Make sure all riders in your group respect the ride captain. Talk about it beforehand.

3. Misunderstandings- Clarify the location of rest stops and other side trips. If you say you'll take a break at Starbucks, remember there's usually one on every other corner. Be specific.

4. Lost key- New bikes usually come with two keys, used bikes don't. Always have a spare key with you just in case you need it.

5. Ethanol- Be sure and start your bike up and let it idle a few minutes every week, especially when you aren't going to be riding for a while. Older bikes can benefit from a little Sta-Bil now and then to keep those tiny idle jets from plugging up.

6. Weather- Weather is always something to take into consideration when planning a group ride but even if the weather report says it's going to be a sunny day, an unexpected shower can pop up. Be prepared for those unexpected weather events but don't carry gear you won't necessarily need.

7. Obey the law- Members of your group should always be responsible citizens. That means renewing license plates and insurance in a timely manner and obeying street signs or signals.

8. Accident prone riders - Some members of the group may be inexperienced or more prone to accidents than others. Watch for warning signs that one of your group may be in trouble.

9. Gasoline - Everyone runs out of gas once in a while but it shouldn't happen on group rides if you plan ahead. In the event someone does run out of gas, having about 6 feet of coiled plastic tubing can remedy the situation. Siphoning from the most full rider's tank into the one without can save everyone a headache.

10. Mechanical issues - Mechanical problems can happen when you least expect it. If you've got AAA coverage on your car, you can pay an extra fee to have your bike covered too. It's good to have the piece of mind that help is only a phone call away in case you need it.

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How to survive riding among the deaf and blind

If you've been on the road lately, you know it's dangerous out there! Every single time you get on your bike, you're taking a risk with your life. So many drivers are distracted by their cell phones and even while it's against the law to text and drive, many people still do. These drivers are what we like to consider deaf and blind. Deaf, because they're so distracted they aren't focused on what's going on around them and they don't hear the things they need to hear. Blind, because they have a one track mind. Their phone causes them to fail to take the necessary precautions to look to the right, left, in front of and behind them. And while this isn't as great a risk to other car drivers, it's deadly for bikers! Bikers know it's important to be as visible as possible, but what else can we do, while riding with these distracted drivers to remain safe?

Here are some tips that might help:

It's important to learn the signs to help you pick out those distracted drivers. If they're holding a phone up to their ear, it's pretty evident but sometimes, a driver might be using the built in Bluetooth in their car or ever be wearing a headset. Be on the lookout for

unexplained slowing
failure to use signals
cars remaining motionless even when the light turns green
driver's head in the downward position (which is a good indicator he's looking at his phone)

If you notice any of these warning signs, maintain a safe distance and be ready to brake suddenly if necessary. Stopping distances include reaction times, so learn to cover your brakes in traffic. Ride in a gear that gives you instant acceleration to clear jams.

Flash your brake light (foot tapping on the rear brake pedal does a good job of this) when decelerating. This will alert drivers behind you to slow down.

Learn to do a quick back-and-forth weave as you approach vehicles waiting to turn across your path. This weave is a quick push-pull-push on the handlebars, not enough to actually turn your bike, just give the headlight a weave in the hopes that the waiting caller will pay attention and notice what's going on around him.

Be noticed, not just with bright gear, weaving, or flashing your brake light. Stand up occasionally. Use your left hand to augment your turn signals as you show your intention to turn or change lanes. Drop your left arm down when you slow down. Be different to be noticed.

Develop a mix of aggressive and defensive riding skills. Learn when to sit back and wait or when to zip ahead.

Learn to watch and predict traffic. As you pay attention, you can determine the flow of traffic. Why are all these cars going in this direction? Commuters leave neighborhoods for freeways and then leave freeways, sometimes at the last minute, for exits leading to their workplaces. Drivers in national parks are sight-seeing and may pull over or simply stop in the lane when they see wildlife. You get the idea. Your job is to not be in the way of this flow.

Judge the car. If a vehicle is dinged up with bumps and bruises, this shows a history of poor driving. A jacked-up four-wheel-drive pickup with loud music playing might be driven by a person with an aggressive personality. You will learn to relate certain vehicle types with certain drivers and that helps your decisions on bike placement in relationship to those vehicles.

Plan your counter move. See the problem early. The sooner you see issues, such as a tailgating caller or left-lane dawdler sending an important text, the sooner you can plan your strategy of avoidance and escape.

Fight the urge to change your turn signals from factory issue to small, unnoticeable aftermarket units. In bright sunlight, these are almost impossible to see.

Use your horn if you need to use it! Don't just lightly tap on it, honk that thing! You want the driver next to you to actually hear it and look to see what's happening.

Knowing how to expect the unexpected is one of the best ways to stay alive. Defensive driving is a must for every biker. By implementing some of these tips, you're more likely to avoid the distracted driver near you. Be safe out there and enjoy the ride.

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Motorcycle Hand Signals

Communicating while riding on a motorcycle can be a challenge unless riders happen to have a Bluetooth headset, but not all riders have that luxury. When riding with a group, it's important to let all riders in the group know the plan so everyone can stay together. The Ride Captain may use hand signals to communicate. Not all riders are familiar with some of these important signals. So we wanted to share these in hopes of giving you some valuable information. Remember, all hand signals are given with the left hand to improve visibility to those riding behind the captain. If riding with a group of motorcyclists, it is a good idea to go through these hand signals before heading out on a ride so everyone understands clearly.

HOW TO LIFT A FALLEN MOTORCYCLE

Lifting a fallen motorcycle can be a challenge for a grown man with lots of muscle strength but imagine how hard it would be for a person of slight build, a person with a bad back, or even for a woman. According to a Harley Davidson instructor, it is doable if you know the right way to do it. The first thing they suggest is making sure the bike is not leaking any fluids. If it is, you should NOT attempt to move it yourself but instead call for roadside assistance. If the bike is on an incline or decline, again, you should NOT attempt to move the bike yourself. The bike may roll away from you. The first thing you should do is turn the engine off by using the engine cut off switch. Next, they suggest putting the bike in gear and putting the kickstand down. It's important to clear the area surrounding the bike of any loose debris like rocks or gravel. The next steps are best explained through a video presentation so be sure to watch the demo provided by Harley Davidson here.

Motorcycle safety warnings usually address potential driving errors, but little information is conveyed about safe helmet removal after an accident. After surviving a motorcycle accident without permanent head or neck injury, will the rider survive the good intentions of a first responder trying to remove the helmet? For riders and the general public, safely removing the helmet after an accident can save a life or minimize injury.

What you need to know: Most riders do not know how to safely remove a helmet. The first responder may not be qualified to remove the helmet. Leave the helmet on unless there is an airway obstruction. EMT's are trained on helmet removal. Wait for an EMT unless there is an airway obstruction. Removal of the helmet is a two-person job even with trained EMT. EMT's have special techniques, procedures, and devices for removing helmets.

Helmet removal after an accident is a clinical/medical judgment. Wait for a trained EMT. Helmets prevent head injuries, but they can create a risk of cervical injury when improperly removed after an accident.

Purchase DO NOT REMOVE HELMET STICKERS here.

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BIKING TIPS FOR SOLO WOMEN RIDERS:

1. Leave the Calamity Jane mindset at home. (A Calamity Jane mentality is that live-free wanderer alter ego.) It's important to think safety first, always! If you want to "rough" it, try staying at KOA or similar campgrounds that have a family oriented environment instead of at an isolated one like a forest service campground where there is no manager on site.

2. Don't pretend you're an actress in a western movie on your solo trips.
Avoid lonely, desolate roads even if you long for adventure and feel you're brave enough to handle the road less traveled. It's important to take caution and not get lost. Know exactly where you're going. Pre-trip planning is key. Look on a map or on the internet. Are there gas stations? Are there scenic stops? Is this road worth the risk? Have other bikers traveled it?

3. Even though you're alone, don't make that fact evident.
Use common sense. Stop at gas stations and rest stops that look safe. Make sure there are other vehicles around. Choose well lit and well maintained stations. Trust your gut. If you feel uneasy, there's a reason!

4. Be sure to don your super hero suit before heading out.

While you may not actually be wearing a Wonder Woman suit, you can put on a tough girl demeanor. Being confident and giving off the "don't mess with me" vibe is perfectly okay. You can still smile and engage with others, just make sure your body language is clear. You don't want to risk finding yourself being followed or being caught in a compromising situation.

5. Plan your escape route\.

Pay attention to your surroundings and if you need to leave quickly do.

6. Dress appropriately.
You may be a girly girl and enjoy dressing in very feminine attire but while on the road alone, you don't want unnecessary advances coming your way. Keep your body covered in your protective gear. If you need to add a little glam, a touch of lipstick or lip balm is okay.

7. Have a well thought out plan.
Even those spur of the moment trips need to be thought through. While traveling solo, map out your riding route so you end up at a hotel or motel that’s located in a safe part of town. Let someone know your plans and give them a copy of your itinerary. Talk to other riders and get recommendations on safe places to stay, good places to eat and scenic routes to travel. A well planned trip will be a successful one.

8. Use the light.
Plan your solo trip so you're traveling in the daylight. This is especially important while traveling alone and in unfamiliar areas.

9. Protect thyself.
If you're comfortable with guns, make sure you have a concealed weapon permit and you know how to use your weapon well. You want to be so familiar with it, it feels like an extension of your arm. If you're gun shy, carry pepper spray foam. It sticks better than the pepper spray and will buy you more time to get away. If you've never taken a self defense class, find a church or police station that will offer free training. Knowing vulnerable body parts to attack could save your life.

10. Jesus is your co-pilot.

Although you're riding solo, you'll never really be alone if you make sure to take Jesus with you. Before every trip, pray. Ask God to put a hedge of protection around you. Ask Him to help you see clearly and be attentive to any dangers. Ask Him to guide you along the way and to keep your bike mechanically sound.

Be safe out there! We live in an evil world. With a good dose of common sense and some thoughtful planning, your solo ride can be a very enjoyable, successful event.

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Motorcycle safety tips, stats, and links:

While motorcycles have the same rights and privileges as other vehicles on Georgia’s roads, you often wouldn’t know it from the actions of other drivers. Motorcycle safety is a significant concern, and each year more than 100 riders die from accident-related injuries in Georgia alone. In fact, since 2000, motorcycle fatalities have been on the rise – even as safety technologies have improved.

If you are a rider who has been injured in an accident, it is important that you speak with an attorney about filing a claim for compensation. If someone else is responsible for your injuries, they deserve to be held accountable, and you deserve to collect a financial recovery.

Motorcycle riders in Georgia face numerous risks on a daily basis. Here are some of the most common driver-related causes that lead to motorcycle accidents:

Common Causes of Motorcycle Collisions Involving Other Vehicles

Alcohol Use - Alcohol use is among the leading causes of all motor vehicle accidents, and motorcycle accidents are no exception. Drunk drivers are less able to comprehend their surroundings and they have slower reaction times, and this can be a deadly combination for an unsuspecting rider.
Distracted Driving - Distracted driving is another far-too-common cause of serious, and often deadly, collisions. Some studies have found that being distracted (including talking or texting on the phone) can be just as dangerous as being drunk behind the wheel.
Turning in Front of an Approaching Motorcycle - Drivers regularly cause accidents when they turn in front of approaching motorcycles. There can be a number of reasons for this error – including inattention, misjudging a motorcycle’s speed, or even overlooking a motorcycle entirely.
Merging into an Oncoming Motorcycle - On highways and other multi-lane roads, drivers who are not thinking about looking for motorcycles will often merge right in front of (if not right into) oncoming riders.
Speeding - While the media is often quick to point out riders who exceed the speed limit, motorcycle riders regularly fall victim to other drivers’ excessive speeding. The faster a car or truck is going, the longer it takes to stop, and this has led to numerous rear-end motorcycle collisions.
Running Red Lights and Stop Signs - When drivers plow through stop signs or speed up to try to “beat” a yellow light, they can create extremely dangerous – and often unavoidable – situations where motorcycle riders who have lawfully entered an intersection have no way to avoid a broadside collision.
Other Forms of Driver Negligence - There are countless ways negligent drivers can – and do – cause dangerous motorcycle accidents: from stopping suddenly to swerving to avoid a pothole, a split-second mistake can easily leave an innocent rider with life-changing injuries.

Ten top tips:

Wear a Helmet. In Georgia, the law requires all motorcycle riders to wear a helmet. Helmets have been proven to reduce the risk of serious head injuries in the event of a collision. Make sure to look for a helmet with a DOT or Snell approval rating.
“ATGATT.” Motorcycle riders commonly use the term “ATGATT.” It stands for, “all the gear, all the time.” In addition to your helmet, consider wearing boots, gloves, riding pants, and a motorcycle jacket every time you ride.
Do Your Checks. Before starting a ride, check your lights, brake pads, tire pressure, and fluid levels. It only takes a few seconds, and it can help you avoid a dangerous situation on the road.
Follow the Law. As a motorcycle rider, you owe it to yourself, your fellow riders, and the drivers around you to observe the rules of the road.
Ride Defensively. When approaching potentially dangerous situations like a busy intersection, ride defensively. Assume that there will be at least one driver who is either not paying attention or not thinking about the risk of hitting a motorcycle.
Look Where You Want to Go. When approaching a potential hazard, conventional wisdom says that you should turn your head and look where you want to go. This can help you avoid becoming fixated and riding into a dangerous situation.
Know How to Manage Your Braking. In certain situations, you will want to brake your front wheel first (with your hand). In others, you will want to start your braking at the rear (with your foot). Knowing when to use each of your brakes can help keep you safe on the road.
Ride Alert and Sober. If you are tired, or if you have been drinking, consider hitching a ride with someone else. As fun as it is to ride, no one ride is worth putting your life or others’ lives in danger.
Avoid Sudden Inputs. When it comes to accelerating, braking, and turning on a motorcycle, you generally want to apply smooth, constant pressure.
Assume Drivers Aren’t Looking Out for You. This goes along with driving defensively. When you’re out on your bike, one of the best things you can do to stay safe is to remember that each of the drivers around you is only one mistake away from causing a serious accident.

When you practice safe riding habits, stay within your limits, and observe the rules of the road, riding a motorcycle on its own isn’t a dangerous activity. It is the drivers around you who put you at risk for suffering serious – and potentially fatal – injuries.

Here are some interesting statistics:

According to the latest data, there are approximately 8.4 million motorcycles on the road. Roughly one percent are involved in an accident each year.
More than 4,000 riders are killed annually in motorcycle accidents.
The average age of riders killed in crashes is increasing, and was 42 years of age in the most recent year for which data are available. Older riders are also more likely than younger riders to sustain serious injuries.
Motorcycle riders are five times more likely than drivers and passengers to be injured in an accident, and 27 times more likely to be killed.
In Georgia, less than 10 percent of riders who were killed in accidents were not wearing a helmet. This number is significantly lower than the comparable statistics from neighboring states that do not have universal motorcycle helmet laws.

Motorcycle Safety in Georgia – Find more tips for staying safe in the saddle.
Types of Motorcycle Accidents – Read about more common driver-related causes of motorcycle accidents.
Do You Have a Good Motorcycle Accident Case? – Find out how to tell if you may have a claim for financial compensation.
Causes of Motorcycle Accidents – Get more statistics on the most-common causes of motorcycle accidents in Georgia.
Common Types of Motorcycle Injuries and Collisions – Learn more about driver mistakes that can lead to claims for financial compensation.
Valuing Motorcycle Accident Claims – Learn about the importance of knowing what you’ve lost before you settle with the insurance companies.
DUI Motorcycle Accidents – Was the driver who hit you or ran you off the road drunk? Find out how this can affect your claim for compensation.
Personal Injury FAQs – Which insurance company will cover your losses? Should you use your health insurance to cover the cost of your accident-related injuries? Get answers to these questions and more in our Personal Injury FAQs.

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Tips for making sure you're road ready

MAKE SURE YOU ARE PROPERLY LICENSED

Driving a car and riding a motorcycle require different skills and knowledge. Although motorcycle-licensing regulations vary, all States require a motorcycle license endorsement to supplement your automobile driver's license. To receive the proper endorsement in most states, you'll need to pass written and on-cycle skills tests administered by your State's licensing agency.

Some States require you to take a State-sponsored rider education course. Others waive the on-cycle skills test if you've already taken and passed a State-approved course. Either way, completing a motorcycle rider education course is a good way to ensure you have the correct instruction and experience it takes to ride a motorcycle. For the motorcycle rider-training course nearest you, call the Motorcycle Safety Foundation at (800) 446-9227.

PRACTICE OPERATING YOUR MOTORCYCLE

Given the fact that motorcycles vary in handling and responsiveness, be sure to take the time to get accustomed to the feel of a new or unfamiliar motorcycle by riding it in a controlled area. Once you feel comfortable with your bike, you can take it into traffic. Make sure you know how to handle your motorcycle in a variety of conditions (e.g., inclement weather or encountering hazards such as slick roads, potholes, and road debris). If you plan to carry cargo or a passenger, be prepared to make adjustments to the tires, suspension, and placement of the load.

BE SURE YOUR MOTORCYCLE IS SAFE

Before every ride, you should check the tire pressure and tread depth, hand and foot brakes, headlights and signal indicators, and fluid levels. You should also check under the motorcycle for signs of oil or gas leaks. If you're carrying cargo, you should secure and balance the load on the cycle; and adjust the suspension and tire pressure to accommodate the extra weight.

If you're carrying a passenger, he or she should mount the motorcycle only after the engine has started; should sit as far forward as possible, directly behind you; and should keep both feet on the foot rests at all times, even when the motorcycle is stopped. Remind your passenger to keep his or her legs and feet away from the muffler. Tell your passenger to hold on firmly to your waist, hips, or belt; keep movement to a minimum; and lean at the same time and in the same direction as you do. Do not let your passenger dismount the motorcycle until you say it is safe.

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FIRST AID SAFETY TIPS FOR HELPING

A DOWNED RIDER:

Be careful! Don’t get sucked into an unsafe situation. Don't turn your back on traffic unless absolutely necessary. If possible, get someone to assist with diverting traffic.

If you have a cell phone, call 911 immediately.

Be calm! No running or yelling. As you approach the downed rider, tell him you're there. Reassure him you won't leave until help comes. DO NOT MOVE THE RIDER UNDER ANY CIRCUMSTANCES. Speak in soothing tones using reassuring words. If he asks how things look, be honest and tell the truth. For example you could say: “your leg appears to be broken”, “you took a hard fall but we are going to help you until help arrives”, and “don’t move just in case you are hurt somewhere else”, etc.

Assess the situation. Unless you are medically trained, it's best you not attempt first aid. If you have basic first aid training, you may attempt to help by stopping blood loss with a clean cloth and firm pressure. Remember you could cause more harm than good if you don't know what you're doing!

Pay attention to the scene and to the rider. EMS will need you to help with details.

If the injured person is standing, ask them to sit or lay down in a safe place. If they are already lying down, place your hand on their chest to dissuade them from getting up and calmly ask them a few questions:

1.) What’s your name?
Find out if they are at least conscious enough to say their name and reassure them by telling them yours.

2.) How are you doing?
Pay attention to their initial complaint, as well as any difficulty of speech when describing it to you. Tell them that they were just in a motorcycle accident and help is coming.

3.) What hurts?
Keep in mind the injured person may be in shock and may be able to report the full extent of their injuries. A broken leg or rib may distract the patient from other more serious, but less immediately painful injuries such as organ rupture or cervical neck injuries. This is why it is important that they remain still until more serious injuries can be assessed and/or ruled-out by the EMS responding to the accident.

4.) What do you remember?
Pay attention to the response because repetitive questions or the inability to recall the event suggests head trauma. Damage to the helmet is a good indicator of serious head injury. Note: any force to the head that results in loss of consciousness for any amount of time indicates either a concussion, or worse, a cerebral contusion, which may manifest into a more life threatening condition several hours after the trauma as the swelling/bleeding in the brain progresses. We’ve all heard about the person who hits their head and then goes to sleep, never to wake up: that’s a brain bleed. Always take into consideration a possible neck injury, and don’t make an existing one worse. Take any complaint of neck pain very seriously. It is widely known that moving a person with neck trauma can cause further injury and should only be done by EMS professionals.

More tips:

1- Speed is the number one reason we crash at curves. When we enter a sharp curve going to fast and then need to stop quick, we have almost no options left when we need to do something. If we slow quickly (let off the throttle) the motorcycle thinks we are breaking. Either way the motorcycle reacts and you will not like the result. Just consider the phrase "Steel Horse" and think about what happens when you try to make a horse go where it does not want to go. Steel or Real Horse, the results and hurt will be the same.

2- Improper lane or track position when entering the curve, riding through the curve, and exiting the curve. MSF has videos and training on this "important skill" to practice and use when we are having fun riding so we continue to have FUN riding.

3- Wrong head position and wrong visual focus. We tend to look down at the road way too much already when we ride. When we do this on curves, we really and quickly realize why this is a bad habit. You will go where you look when you ride!

Summer Safety tips:

Beat the heat: Tips on Summer Riding Safety

1) Watch very carefully for signs of Heat Exhaustion and Heat Stroke. These are serious conditions you can't afford to ignore. Your body will send you signals when it’s having trouble with the heat. This can include cramps, nausea, headaches, extreme fatigue, flushed or pale skin, dizziness, and heavy sweating. If you’re feeling any of these symptoms, it’s time to pull over, rehydrate, rest and recover. If Heat Exhaustion is allowed to develop into Heat Stroke, you’re in big trouble. Your cooling system shuts down, and body temperature can rise to as high as 105 degrees. Brain damage is possible and at the very least, you’ll likely have an erratic pulse and trouble breathing. You can pass out and that's not something you want to do while riding. For more tips on avoiding and recognizing Heat Exhaustion and Heat Stroke, visit the American Red Cross website http://www.redcross.org/…/types-of-emergen…/heat-wave-safety.

2) Bring more water than you think you’ll need. Water is vital for keeping the body cool, but it also is necessary for digestion, for flushing toxins out of your body, and for lubricating your joints. It also cushions your organs and tissues, so when you get dehydrated, your body just won’t work properly, things will start to shut down, and you’ll physically crash. The worst thing is that by the time you start feeling bad, you’re already in trouble, so it’s extremely important to stay hydrated. That means drinking plenty of water before you get on the bike, and consuming 1 liter of water every hour, especially in extreme temperatures. Water with electrolytes helps replenish vital minerals that are lost when you sweat profusely. Smart water is a good one to try.

3) Include stops on your route where you can cool off. One of the best ways to rejuvenate yourself is by getting out of the heat, into a cooler environment.

4) Dress properly and keep your skin covered. Seems like simple, advice, but it’s amazing how many people don’t follow it. Any areas of skin that are exposed will be much harder to cool, as the sweat will evaporate from the air rushing over it at speed. This means you’ll dehydrate faster.

5) Wear a cooling vest. When temperatures rise over 90 degrees, a cooling vest is worth it’s weight in gold. Basically, it’s a vest that is filled with tiny beads that retain water. There are many out there but if you don't know where to find one, here's a good place to start https://www.cyclegear.com/motorcycle-vests…|436|92332&utm_content=13770589637&utm_campaign=CGD-Text-Generic-Category-Vests.

Motorcycle Safety Tips & Tricks

There are many reasons that we ride our motorcycles with grins on our faces.

Throw Caution to the Wind-Chill!

Bundle Up and Ride Safe this Winter

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Battery Tenders - Keep the Spark Alive

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What do you do when you experience a rear wheel skid? How do you get out of it safely?

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What Can Go Wrong On Group Rides

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How to survive riding among the deaf and blind

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Motorcycle Hand Signals

HOW TO LIFT A FALLEN MOTORCYCLE

BIKING TIPS FOR SOLO WOMEN RIDERS:

Motorcycle safety tips, stats, and links:

Ten top tips:

Tips for making sure you're road ready

FIRST AID SAFETY TIPS FOR HELPING

A DOWNED RIDER:

More tips:

Summer Safety tips:

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