We are coming up on motorcycle season in Wisconsin and elsewhere. Be aware. As truckers we can be frustrated by motorcycles. They can be hard to see. They are quick. Some riders are irresponsible. They often ride recklessly. Even when a cyclist does everything right riding is simply more dangerous than driving a car. The rider is not surrounded by steel and air bags. Bikes do not come with seat belts.
Look twice. Save a life. It is the slogan that we see on billboards. It makes sense. Many motorcycle deaths are caused because they are not seen. A car or a truck may not see a motorcycle at first glance. Pay attention. Look again.
Many truckers are cyclists as well. I enjoy both. Getting out on my bike feels like freedom. Those summer rides to nowhere are recreational. Just because they are recreational does not mean that you should take them lightly. Riding a motorcycle is more dangerous than driving a car. Motorcyclists should always keep that in mind. Most bikes are high performance. Just because your bike is fast, does not make it alright to ride it that way.
Wear you helmet. It is safer. I am a rider who does not believe in helmet laws. I always wear my helmet. You should too. I do not believe that the state should make you wear a helmet. I do believe that if you don't you should have your head examined. Many riders believe that wearing a helmet somehow infringes on that “feeling”. It doesn't for me. Some riders have tried to convince me that they are safer without one. They're not.
Make sure your bike is safe. It is common for mine to lose tire pressure over the winter. Improperly inflated motorcycle tires are unsafe. Check all of your lights every time you ride. Proper lighting makes it more likely that you will be seen. I do everything that I can to increase my visibility. Then I assume that no one sees me. It is important to be aware of EVERYTHING when on a bike. Ride defensively.
Now, enjoy the summer.