Putting It All Together

As the dog days of summer wane and temperatures moderate, we are entering the prime season for riding. The prospect of cooler days, fall colors, a full plate of scheduled social activities and the call of the road beckon us to spend as much time on two wheels as we can manage.

Now, more than ever, is the time to recall and use the safety lessons we have talked about in Chapter meetings and read in newsletter articles this year.

In the past few months we have covered:

- forces that either enhance or degrade tire traction,
- unique hazards associated with night and summertime riding,
- risk management through good decisions,
- high siding,
- the value of keeping current with MSF courses (ERC),
- bike safety inspections (TRACS) and
- a host of tidbits along the way.

It all seems to be a lot to think about and act upon all the time. How can we put it all together so that the goal of safe riding is with us every time we climb onto two wheels?

For me, the answer is commitment and common sense.

Commitment to motorcycle safety demands two actions.

• The first is a conscious decision to accept this commitment as a personal goal. Merely making an attempt to ride in a safe manner may fall short at some point. The consequences are too great to rely on half-hearted efforts, however sincere.
• The second part is to act on the commitment. Take the training, perform the inspections and use the knowledge you gain on the road.

Common sense is, as some have described, that little voice in your head that tells you when something is just off, just a little out of bounds, just a little wrong. I think it is our vast store of accumulated knowledge being recalled as circumstances arise. Whatever it is, listen to that voice and heed its advice.

When we can put it all together, we know that, as riders, we have done the best we can to enjoy our passion safely. We have done everything that is within our power to control.

Have you “put it all together”? Have you done everything you can to ride as safely as possible? Take a moment to reflect. If your answer is anything other than “Yes, I have”, then know that we are here to help.

Keep it ‘Head up and wheels down’. Ride safe and ride often.

Submitted by Tom Scully

NC-E Chapter Educator