How to U-Turn a Motorcycle

It may look easy, but a smoothly executed u-turn on a motorcycle is more challenging than you might guess.

How do you perform a u-turn that looks effortless? Consider these tips and practice them in the safety of an empty parking lot, and you'll find yourself more easily turning your bike around on the street:

It's All in the Eyes

The old adage "You'll go where you're looking" holds especially true when it comes to u-turns. That said, don't look down, and keep your line of vision going through the turn, constantly focusing your eyes ahead, where you want to go, rather than towards the pavement below.

Ride Within the Friction Zone

The friction zone is the area where your clutch is slipping enough to transmit some, but not all power from the engine to the rear wheel. Don't try to u-turn in neutral, and don't do with a gear fully engaged, either; riding within the friction zone will give you more control over the bike through the throttle, which helps modulate the motorcycles's lean angle through subtle adjustments.

Drag the Rear Brake

Avoid using the front brakes during u-turns, as the forks are more sensitive to diving at low speeds. Gentle dragging of the rear brake creates stability, enabling better control while you're maneuvering your bike through the turn.

Keep Your Weight Mass Centralized

There's a natural tendency to stick your leg out when you turn (making it ready to break a fall), but your motorcycle will be more manageable when peripheral mass (ie, you!) is closer to the bike. Keep your feet on the pegs; if necessary, you might be helped by putting some weight on the outside peg, in a similar but more subtle way than you would while riding offroad.

Practice Turning Both Ways

For whatever reason, most people find it much easier to make tight left turns than right turns. To develop a more balanced u-turn skill set, practice doing figure 8s in an empty parking lot. The drill will build your muscle memory for both sides of your body. Similarly, try riding in a wide circle and narrowing your path so you're forming an ever-narrowing spiral; once you can't turn any more tightly, exit and try it again the other way. Remember to keep looking where you want to go, especially when you're changing directions.

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Source: About (Wasef, 1/19)

Information on Roar by the Shore road closures

The Corpus Christi Police Department welcomes Bikefest ‘Roar by the Shore’ to Corpus Christi for its 20th Anniversary.

On Saturday, Oct. 12, 2013, at 5:00 p.m., Bikefest 2013 will be holding a parade beginning at Texas A&M University-Corpus Christi and ending just North of the Concrete Street Amphitheater. Traffic Officers with the Corpus Christi Police Department will be providing traffic control throughout the motorcycle route. Side roads will begin being blocked off at 2:00 p.m. Beginning at 4:30 p.m., the Parade route will close to traffic until it ends at 7:30 p.m.

Motorcycle riders will gather on Shoreline Drive around the Texas A&M University and proceed northbound on Ocean Drive and Shoreline Boulevard to Power Street. At Power Street, riders will take a left onto Chaparral Street and head southbound to Belden Street where they will ride on, taking a right onto Tancahua Street. The riders will continue to several designated parking lots north of the Concrete Street Amphitheater.

Street closures will include Ocean Drive, Shoreline Boulevard, Power, Chaparral, Belden and Tancahua Streets.

Motorists are asked to take alternate routes to avoid this area. The downtown area of Corpus Christi is expected to have congested traffic. Delays are to be expected. Please be patient and courteous.

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source: Alice Echo-News Journal (Willden, 10/11)

Dead daredevil: Motorcycle wheelie turns into a fatal crash on Houston's streets

A local motorcyclist’s wheelie turned into a fatal accident.

The incident took place around 8 p.m. Sunday night in the 4900 block of Reed Road.

A white Acura was traveling southbound on Jutland when it stopped at the intersection of Jutland and Reed. According to a statement from the Houston Police Department, the driver checked to make sure the roads were safe before continuing into the intersection. The motorcyclist, who was performing a wheelie, then smashed into the car.

In 2012, 460 people died on Texas roadways while riding motorcycles and scooters.

A witness said that the motorcycle was going at a high rate of speed traveling in the turn only lane of Reed Road.

The victim was taken to Ben Taub General Hospital where he was pronounced dead. The police are still trying to verify the identity of the motorcyclist. The driver of the car was not injured, which is what often happens when a car and motorcycle collide.

Two-thirds of all motorcycle accidents in Texas result in the serious injury or death of the motorcyclist according to The Texas Department of Transportation. In 2012, 460 people died on Texas roadways while riding motorcycles and scooters.

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Source: Culture Map (Rafte, 7/30)

SCHUBERTH COMMUNICATION SYSTEM FOR S2 HELMET

 S2 customers have been eagerly awaiting the SRC-System™, Schuberth’s in-helmet Bluetooth® communication system which is based on the Cardo Scala platform.

The S2 full face is the only motorcycle helmet in the world with built-in FM and Bluetooth® antennas which plug directly into the SRC-System and enhance the communication distance between paired helmets as well as the FM radio reception.

The SRC-System™ allows up to three riders to communicate wirelessly with each other simultaneously and supports Bluetooth®-enabled peripheral devices such as cell phones, GPS units and MP3 players. The most important functions can also be operated by voice commands.

The system is integrated into a replacement neck collar that is a ‘snap’ to install and fits into the helmet perfectly.

The S2 SRC-System™ and S2 helmet are available now from authorized Schuberth dealers.

SRC-System(TM) for S2:

- USD $429

S2 Full Face Helmet:

- Solid Colors: $699

- Hi-Viz: $729

- Graphics: $749

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Source: Cycle World (11/21)

Helpful Motorcycle Tips

Texas Rider has some motorcycle care tips for you to keep it  rolling down the road and enjoying your ride. Some of the most simplest things you can do to make your bike last longer, give you better performance and keep you on the road and off the shoulder. Some of the things that we've gathered over the years range from the Oh Duh!! to the Oh Cool!! We've learned a few things along the way and wanted to share them with you.

Okay, the first maintenance tip is real simple, Yeah an Oh Duh! It's "change the oil regularly" But seriously, what's regularly? For those that travel 10,000 to 15,000 miles a year you may already know the drill, but for those who own a garage kept bike and have 5,000 miles on it in 5 years, what's regular? For those who travel less, my suggestion would be to use thinner oils and every once in a while, put a teaspoon of oil in the cylinders as if you're storing the bike. The last thing you want is to go and crank up a bike with dry cylinders.

Now the flip side of that. Most serious touring enthusiasts seem to like using synthetic oils. Heck with the formulas now, you can go 15,000 miles between oil changes! Well GREAT!! I just have one thing for you to think about, the oil filter. Yeah I run synthetics but the way the bike is set up, the oil must be drained in order to change the filter. And since I'm not one to reuse the oil I remove (I highly recommend NOT doing that), I change my oil about every 5,000 miles since I don't like running too long on the filters.

Pre ride inspections are boring I admit. The "T Clock" inspection is used by most organizations and is a great way to check over a bike, but frankly when it comes to riding we all want to get on and go!! Yep, just ride and show off our nice shiny, clean bikes. As a matter of fact, most people clean and shine their bikes more then they maintain them. Yeah me too! Okay so that's not a real motorcycle tip.

But....Oh Duh!! What a concept!! Perform T Clock type inspections while you clean! When you are getting all the nooks and crannies free of dirt and debris, check things over. Keep your eyes out for leaks and loose hardware. Make sure everything is good and tight (Thanks to Henkel Technologies for LocTite) I think that Judy and I have found and fixed more issues while cleaning than at any other time. Fluid levels can be checked. Hmmm, see that ring of fresh fluid around the fork? It's almost nothing to change out a fork seal, but a pain when your bike is covered with oil from a blown fork seal and you are hours away from a repair shop on a holiday weekend. Yeah I've been there! Not fun.

Electrical problems can always be a pain in the you know what! From tracing the problem, to fixing it. First thing's first, CHECK THE FUSE BOX. I don't know how many times I have tried to solve a problem just to find out it was a fuse. Now, once you have the fuse changed, check it again to make sure you don't have an open short and just the act of putting in the fuse blows it. Also by locating a main fuse, you can tell what system is causing the problems. For example, the lighting system, accessories, etc.

Now you have the problem found, how do you fix it? Can you bypass it and isolate it from the system? If it's something that you can do without then isolate it. Now here is a great maintenance tip to help with that. Cut the wires to isolate the offending part and strip back the wires to reconnect. Slip some shrink tube onto one of the wires, then twist the wires together. Now just fold the twisted wire back and lay it flat. Slide the shrink wrap over the bare wires and heat slowly with a match or lighter to shrink it tight and seal it. Trust me this is next to a permanent fix. I have all my "extra" lights installed in this manner and it helps a ton when one of them burns out.

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Source: Motorcycle Touring Made Easy

The Texas Rally Luau and Biker Bash

What a great way to start September with the Texas Luau and Biker Bash September 6-8. This rally will be located at Big Creek Park & Marina in Somerville, Texas. There will be food, drinks, music, and one of the most well known custom paint job artists, Tex Efx.

The doors will open September 6 at 9 a.m. Since it is going to be the first day, things will be running a bit slow with vendors setting up their tents, but there will be entertainment, and a few local bands playing such as Scars Heal In Time, an all girl band that covers just about anything, and Allyson N Chains, which covers the mezmerising sound of Alice in Chains.

On the second day September 7, doors will open at 9 am, by this time most things will be set up. Try some refreshments at the Tiki lounge and play the "Booty Hunt" which is basically a scavenger hunt were clues can be given in the bar area, just ask for an specific drink. Later on in the day there will be a tattoo contest held in the Tiki Lounge, and more music by Tres Hombres, Ju Ju Beans, Chris Brade, and Outlaw Dave.

The last day of the event, promises to be the best, with more food, drinks, bike games, and music by Signal Rising, Victim, and Skid Row, to name a few. The Bring Out Your Bad Bike Show, will be taken place in the main stage at 3 p.m. A special 9/11 tribute will be held on the last day of the rally.

Wristwatch Motorcycles (art)

Talented Brazilian artist Jose Geraldo Reis Pfau creates beautiful motorcycle miniatures using only parts from old wristwatches.

Pfau’s passion for motorcycles began in the 1960′s. He owned various types of motorcycles, some of them modified and inspired by the movie “Easy Rider”. But the artist born and raised in Blumenau, Santa Catarina was also fascinated by the arts, and it was only natural that his artistic talent and passion for bikes combine in a unique project. At first, he developed several motorcycle images, but after reading about artists who created motorcycle miniatures out wood, pottery, wire and other materials, he decided to make similar artworks, out of a completely new medium – wristwatches.

The time pieces that inspired Jose Geraldo Reis Pfau’s creations were collected with a help of a friend who happened to own a wristwatch shop. Through an advertising campaign, clients were encouraged to give their old watches as a first installment on the purchase of a new one. This provided the artist with the necessary materials to experiment and create his unique wristwatch motorcycles.

Although Pfau only creates his art during the weekends, he has a collection of hundreds of motorcycles made exclusively from wristwatch components. They have been showcased at jewelry fairs and art exhibitions throughout Brazil and several other countries.

For more pictures of Pfau's art work visit:

http://www.odditycentral.com/pics/the-wristwatch-motorcycles-of-jose-geraldo-reis-pfau.html

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Source: OddityCentral (Spooky, 3/7)

Steampunk-Inspired Cafe Racer Motorcycle

It’s retro, it’s steampunk, it’s a café racer with a twist, it’s a one-of-a-kind drool-worthy motorcycle. Presenting the Beezerker.

The Beezerker is the culmination of 11 months of design and fabrication by Chris Flechtner, owner of SpeedShop Design in Seattle.

The heart of this beast is a rebuilt 1965 BSA A65 motor, which is probably the only part on the bike which hasn’t been heavily modified or built from scratch.

The gas tank and tail section of the Beezerker were formed by hand from aluminum, the forks are fabricated from sheet metal, and the down tube doubles as the oil tank. The twist clutch is also Fletchner’s own design, which shows off his machining skills.

Because much of the bike is made from stainless steel and aluminum, it lends itself easily to not being painted, the better to show off the unique lines of this ultra-rad ride.

The Beezerker won 5th place in the freestyle class, and second place in the Metric World Championship class at the 2010 AMD World Championship of Custom Bike Building , and just recently captured the People’s Choice award and first place in the Freestyle category at the 2011 Ultimate Builder Custom Bike Show Seattle.

Tips for motorcycle passengers

Summer is the time for those longer motorcycle rides, including rallies such as Sturgis and the already past Republic of Texas Biker Rally. So it goes that you are more likely to take along a passenger on your motorcycle to keep company. Here are some riding tips for motorcycle passengers.

The rider should suggest appropriate clothes for the passenger to wear. Like the rider, the passenger must wear protective clothing in case of an accident or an unlikely spill. Leather jackets and pants are highly suggested, but if the passenger does not or cannot get a hold of a pair of leather pants, any durable pair will do the trick. For the jacket it can be anything durable as long as it's abrasion resistant.

The passenger should wear shoes that will protect their feet, but boots are highly recommended over regular shoes. Wearing a helmet is a must for safety reasons, it is preferred to wear a helmet with a face shield, and if the helmet doesn't have one, then one must wear goggles or glasses to protect the rider's eyes. Being comfortable is important, especially with the unpredictable Texas weather, but the usual comfortable clothes are loose and billowy, and they can become stuck in the motorcycle's rear wheel, drive chain, or any other moving part, so please refrain from using extremely loose clothing.

Before mounting the motorcycle, make sure the passenger knows how to get on and get off. The passenger should know where the foot pegs are located, and if they are down or not. It is generally custom to mount and dismount from the left. While doing this, one should be aware of the location of the exhaust pipes, and try not to touch them with your legs since they can be hot and can cause minor burns. By just lifting your left leg one can just gently slide and mount the motorcycle, without forgetting to set your feet on the pegs. Before getting off a motorcycle, the passenger should wait for the rider to say it is okay to get off, since an unexpected weight change can make the motorcycle fall.

While the motorcycle is in motion, it is important the rider keep their feet on the pegs and cinching down any laces on their footwear. Doing so lowers the possibility from their feet getting caught on the rear wheel, drive chain, or touching the exhaust pipe, which, again, is extremely hot. Passengers should never try to help the rider hold up the bike.

For safety reasons the passenger should always hold on to the rider's hips, since holding their hips keeps the weight on the bike centered, and the bike's movements smooth. If the passenger moves around, the movement can overthrow the balance of the motorcycle and can lead to an accident. Motorcycles tend to do turns by leaning to the side that they are turning into, so don't freak out! Just position your body to where the motorcycle is leaning. When the motorcycle comes to any stops, the passenger tends to slide into the rider, in order to prevent this the passenger should brace their weight against the foot pegs and use their thigh muscles.

By following these tips, both the rider and the passenger can be safe. When both passengers and riders are comfortable and safe, they can simply relax and enjoy the motorcycle ride, and then while on a lengthy ride the only worry is where you're going to stop next and get something to eat!

Motorcycle Nearly Hit By Spinning Car (San Antonio)

A driver lost control on a San Antonio highway, spinning across the roadway, as a motorcycle accelerated to narrowly miss being hit.

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The Biker Lawyers are experienced Texas motorcycle accident lawyers that also love to ride. We know Texas motorcycle law and the bias against bikers; therefore, we are dedicated to aggressively winning motorcycle accident cases. We will actively fight to not only protect your rights, but also win the settlement you deserve.


The Cole Legal Group regularly represents motorcycle accident clients all over the great state of Texas, including Austin, Houston, San Antonio, Amarillo, Waco and Lubbock. Call us today at 1-800-245-5539 for a free case evaluation!

Mexico cops ticket 6-year-old for driving toy motorcycle without a license

CIUDAD JUAREZ, Mexico — Police in this border city repented Thursday over ticketing a 6-year-old boy for reckless driving, driving without a license and not having his vehicle registered after he drove his miniature motorcycle into an SUV.

The boy’s mother, Karla Noriega, said police impounded the miniature gasoline-powered motorbike that her son got for Christmas after he crashed into an SUV on Dec. 27.

Noriega decided to go to the media and make the case public after finding out she would have to pay what she called a “ridiculous” $183 in fines to recover the toy motorbike.

City council Secretary Hector Arceluz said Thursday that authorities had dropped the fines, released the motorbike and would punish the police officers for having acted improperly.

Noriega’s son Gael was happy to get his minibike back, but said it no longer works after the accident.


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source: NY Daily News (AP, 1/15)

Honda recalls 126,000 Goldwings

Honda Motor Co. is recalling 126,000 touring motorcycles because of a brake problem that could result in a fire, according to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration.

Honda said the recall covers 2001-10 and 2012 GL1800 models sold as Goldwings.

According to Honda, the bike's rear brake may still be partially engaged even after the rider released it.

"Continued riding with the rear brake engaged/dragging may generate enough heat to cause the rear brake to catch fire," the company said.

The problem was attributed to the braking system's secondary master cylinder.

Honda told safety officials that it was alerted to the problem in July 2010 when a customer finished a ride, parked his bike, and a few minutes later "heard a small explosion, saw fire emanating from the rear brake area, and used a fire extinguisher to put out the flames."

The company said it took 16 months to determine the problem and decide on the course of action, and that it was aware of 26 complaints in the United States including two fires.

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source: Journal Sentinel (Barrett, 12/12)



Commentary:  If you've been involved in a motorcycle accident due to a manufacturer's recall, such as the braking mechanism on the Honda Goldwing, please call Texas Attorney, David Cole, at The Cole Legal Group.  Cole is a Texas Biker Lawyer, an attorney and fellow rider who knows what it takes to get you the compensation you deserve for your motorcycle accident.  Call at 1-800-245-5539 for a free consultation, or fill out the short form here.

Are children safe as motorcycle passengers?

The matter of age requirements for motorcycle passengers is a unique one, in researching the issue, we were surprised to find there is no minimum age specification for motorcycle passengers in many states. Motorcyclists are left to use their judgment. Only five states specify minimum ages for motorcycle passengers, according to the American Motorcyclist Association: in Texas, Washington, and Louisiana passengers must be at least 5, in Arkansas a minimum 8 years of age, and in Hawaii 7 years.

Texas requires helmets for motorcycle passengers under the age of 21, and even those 21 or older must wear helmets unless they've been licensed to operate a motorcycle, or have completed a motorcycle-safety course under Chapter 662, or are covered by a health insurance plan providing at least $10,000 medical benefits. More on those laws can be found at www.bikersrights.com.

In truth, the decision on the age at which passengers safely can ride on motorcycles amounts to a common-sense judgment as well. Most wouldn't consider nine-year-olds to be overly risky. Even the states with mandates specify ages lower than that, so nine-year-olds are legal throughout the country.

The truth is, taking any child in any car at any time is probably the most dangerous thing you'll do with that child that day. We kind of know that — we certainly should know it — but try not to think about it. What's the alternative? Refusing to take the new grandchild to the grandparents' for the holidays because there's no guarantee of a safe trip? The children have no say or control in those instances, either. The inside of a minivan is safer than the back of a motorcycle, but it's not "safe."

We encourage bikers and parents to join the discussion in the comments below.

7 Tips To Consider When Buying Custom Motorcycle Wheels

Choosing custom wheels for your motorcycle is important. They can change the ride as well as improve the look of your bike. Who doesn't like to see heads turn when you ride by?

1) Motorcycle Wheels - How Much Are you Willing to Spend?

The first thing to consider when choosing custom motorcycle wheels is the amount of money you are willing to spend. Knowing how much you have, or are willing to spend before walking in to the store will keep you from wasting time looking at things you can't afford. Most custom wheels are comprised of billet aluminum and not in mass quantities such as automotive wheels. They are costly so make sure you are giving yourself a large enough budget. It may take some time to save up for the wheels so make sure you start saving earlier rather than later.

2) What Type of Wheel Are you Looking For?

The next decision can be made while you are saving the money. What type of wheel are you looking for? What have you seen that really catches your eye? The type of wheel you are going to choose will dictate the look of your ride. On a custom wheel you can choose everything from spokes to the metal that is used to the finish. Chrome finishes are easily cleaned but you need to give them attention after every ride to avoid premature corrosion. Furthermore chrome is not a good option for someone living in an area by the ocean due to the high salt content in the air. In this case a polished aluminum wheel may be a better choice. Powder coated wheels are easier to hide blemishes but often times are not as durable as other wheel choices.

3) Customer Motorcycle Wheel Designs

After you have some idea about what kind of wheel you are interested in you need to choose a design for your wheel. Remember, the wheels will determine the look for your ride. There are several media outlets in which to view that will assist you in deciding on an option that is right for you. If you are going to spend the money to buy custom wheels you need to find something that you love.

4) Motorcycle Wheels Size & Tire Considerations

Next in the line up is the size of the wheel. There are several different sizes to choose from and not all size wheels will fit on all bikes. Know your motorcycle and what the minimum and maximum wheel sizes your bike will allow. Research the type of tire that will fit on your new rim and what type of wear the tires will get. Remember when you buy a set of custom motorcycle wheels you are also going to need new tires. Allow for this in your budget. If you are ordering your new wheels with the tires mounted make sure you ask questions. Specifically, find out if your new wheels come with the hubs and if they are ready to mount. Ask if you will need to make any additional modifications before putting on your custom wheels. If the hubs are included, ask if the bearings are included in the hub as well. Where the tires are concerned you need to inquire as to whether they are mounted and balanced and if the valve stems are included.

5) Shipping Costs

Another consideration is whether or not the company you are ordering from includes the shipping cost in their pricing. If not, how much will shipping be? Where are the custom wheels going to be shipped? Is the company located in the same state? If so, sales tax will be applicable. Ask the salesperson how long it will take to receive your new wheels. If you are ordering a unique wheel it may take a couple of months to get them. This is important because you don't want to have your bike in parts for months when you are planning to ride.

6) Other Parts & Accessories

Some bikes have a visible rear rotor and pulley. If this is the case for you, what condition are yours in? Do the current rotor and pulley match the new custom motorcycle wheels? If not you may want to consider allotting a little extra cash to purchase new parts. If you decide to go with new parts you should inquire as to what hardware is included. It's no fun to get your new parts home and find that you can't install them immediately because you are missing hardware.

7) Motorcycle Wheels Warranty

For any aftermarket purchase you need to consider the warranty as well as the return policy. Many businesses today will allow you to return items but charge a restocking fee. An acceptable warranty on motorcycle wheels is 2 years on the chrome and lifetime on the structure. Also find out, if your bike is fairly new and still has a remaining factory warranty, whether the work is required to be completed by the dealer in order to maintain the warranty. Some manufacturers will void warranties if work is done by someone other than the dealership. Determining when the parts will be in is important if you have to schedule an appointment at the dealership to get your bike in. Coordinate properly so you spend minimal time on 4 wheels.

Choosing custom motorcycle wheels for your ride can be very frustrating. With a little preparation before you begin your hunt, you will find your buying experience much more enjoyable.



source: Ezine Articles (King, 8/24)

The Impact of Harley Davidson Motorcycles

The Harley Davidson motorcycle was and always will be an American icon. Although other American motorcycle companies have flourished, none has had the staying power of Harley. Over a hundred years after its inception, the Harley Davidson motorcycle company is stronger and better received by the American public than ever before. Its line of motorcycles is diverse enough that it appeals to both men and women and priced for those on a wide range of budgets. The bikes themselves are only the start. The clothing, accessories, and memorabilia are an extension of the motorcycle and the entire concept of the Harley lifestyle reaches outward to interest just about anyone with a fascination of two-wheeled transportation.

Harley Davidson began its illustrious history in Milwaukee, Wisconsin back in 1903. The pioneers were Bill Harley and Arthur Walter Davidson and the entire operation was located inside of a wooden barn built by Mr. Davidson’s father. They would remain in the barn manufacturing their motorcycles until 1912 when they would relocate into a multi-level building, reportedly six stories high. The Harley Davidson motorcycle company was started with the design of a one cylinder engine which developed specifically for racing and grew from there. In 1905 they had produced eleven motorcycles and by 1908 the number had grown to one hundred fifty four. By 1912 they had begun to export their motorcycles with the first motorized bike being sold overseas in Japan. The quest for world peace also fueled the sales of Harley motorcycles in the coming years. Harley was the largest supplier of motorcycles for the United States military. Their patriotism and reliable motorcycles helped the war effort and added to the company’s ever-growing group of enthusiasts. Two wheeled transportation was proving to be a viable means of moving about versus traveling by automobile. Over the next few decades, the company continued its growth and presence on the roads of the United States and around the world. Motorcycling, however, was about to get something it never had before… a bad reputation.

During the fifties, Americans viewed the release of movies depicting motorcyclists as less than honorable citizens. The term biker gang was introduced to the world and there was no going back from here. Rebellious bikers had come to be associated with Harley Davidson motorcycles thanks to a bit of Hollywood make-believe and the imaginations of the movie goers. The success of these biker flicks fueled even more bad-boy biker films especially during the sixties and seventies. Movie goers would have a better chance of finding a needle in a haystack than finding movies with honorable and honest bikers. The whole concept of the Harley motorcycle would never be the same from this point forward. The attitude, the attire, the tattoos, and the owner loyalty would go well beyond that of any other brand of motorcycle. To this day, regardless of innovations in imported motorcycles, Harley remains as good motorcycle as any in the world. Harley owners rarely defect to different brands. The motorcycle’s simplicity and timeless design help promote the brand loyalty. To many owners, very simply the concept of riding a symbol of American ingenuity through the city streets or country roads of America is enough. Harley sounds like no other bike, looks like no other bike, and feels like no other bike. Most Harley owners would agree that it’s the only motorcycle for them. Biker rallies and get-togethers draw more and more motorcycle enthusiasts every year. Whether you consider the motorcycle a means of transportation, or a means of relaxation, depends on your overall opinion of two-wheeled travel. Harley Davidson, however, is guaranteed to remain at the forefront of the industry for decades to come based purely on owner loyalty and genuine love for the ultimate American motorcycle.

Big bikers, bigger hearts

Representing Bikers Against Child Abuse, Pilot, Twisted Sister and D-Day offered their services to
Saline County at the Inter-Agency Council meeting on Tuesday morning.

The unlikely guardian's black-inked tattoo, gruff appearance and crass language makes him seem dangerous, and the thunderous roar of his bike is surely off-putting.

The biker poses a threat, but that's the point.

As a member of Bikers Against Child Abuse, he fends off perpetrators of abused children, and he works to empower kids living in fear of violence. At the Inter-Agency Council's regular meeting Tuesday, D-Day and his biker buddies, Twisted Sister and Pilot, offered their assistance to Saline County.

"We're big burly guys," D-Day said. "But we're guys with big hearts."

The group of bikers exists to create a safer environment for abused children. Founded in 1995 by a therapist known as Chief, the bikers encourage children to testify against perpetrators in court.

"We are the plague to end child abuse," Chief said in a video message viewed by the council.

The National Child Abuse and Neglect Data System estimated 1,770 child fatalities in 2009 in the United States. D-Day said 96 child abuse related deaths occurred in Missouri last year, and for every reported case it is believed there are three unreported cases of abuse.

Every BACA member rides because they have a "big heart" for children. If it helps empower the victim, they'll send the child to therapy, horseback riding or karate classes. The non-profit organization directs all the donated money toward helping the BACA kids.

"There's nobody in BACA that gets a check for doing what we're doing," D-Day said.

The bikers prepare the kids for the courtroom, go to trial with them, and, if needed, provide full-time protection during a threat.

"If you want to come after me that's fine, just don't go after the kids," he said. "I can take care of myself."

BACA works in conjunction with local and state officials, but the group consists of bikers from different backgrounds including law enforcement, lawyers, blue collar workers and people with "shady pasts." They only exclude child abusers or non-bikers from the organization.

According to their mission statement, they never condone violence. But if necessary, the bikers stand ready to divert perpetrators from children.

"If you're a pedophile or someone who's going to hurt a child, you're going to meet my fist," he said.

Consequently, in times of need D-Day has gone prom shoe shopping and sat at Wendy's all night while a BACA kid worked. He even took a 10-year-old boy to the swimming pool when the previous solution for his safety had been to keep him indoors.

"We stay there until the threat goes away," Twisted Sister said.

While there isn't a BACA organization here, well established BACA chapters border Saline County on all boundaries. BACA hopes to protect children in this area, too.

"We'll send whoever is closest and makes the most sense," she said.

BACA assigns each child two primary bikers. These bikers act as the child's protectors, but they also form a relationships with the child by taking them for ice cream and showing up at schools for "show and tell."

The BACA kids grow to trust their new "brothers and sisters," and when 40-plus bikers appear in the neighborhood for a ride, it sends a clear message of protection. This intimidation factor proves essential in securing the children, because most perpetrators live near their victims.

"We say what we do, and we do what we say," D-Day said. "And, there are a lot of us."

The child's confidentiality remains a priority even through the high profile rides. Most of the time, BACA riders don't learn anything about the child's specific case, until they accompany the child to court. Even the child's name remains confidential.

Each BACA kid chooses their own road name. Upon initiation into the BACA family, the kids receive a vest with their new name on it. On a ride, the abused children travel surrounded by their new biker friends, under their new pseudonyms such as "Frilly" and "Duck Man."

"We are a big ugly people, but that empowers them to be the kids they need to be," D-Day said.

For more information visit http://bacaworld.org or call the Kansas City, Mo. Chapter hotline at 816-520-0991


source: www.marshallnews.com
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About Texas Biker Lawyer, David Cole:

Attorney David Cole, as a youngster, recognized his love and passion of motorcycles. Well before law school, he owned and regularly rode numerous motorcycles. With his passion for the open wind and motorcycles, fighting to protect injured Texas motorcyclists and motorcycle rights seemed a natural fit after graduating from law school.