Tickets For 2014 Red Bull Grand Prix Of The Americas Go On Sale December 5

Tickets for 2014 Red Bull Grand Prix of The Americas on sale Thursday, Dec. 5 New in 2014: Free motorcycle parking for early birds, single-day tickets available, reduced parking prices, kids 12 and under receive free general admission to MotoGP

AUSTIN, Texas  – Looking for the perfect holiday gift for the motorcycle enthusiast in your life? Circuit of The Americas™ (COTA) has the answer, as tickets for the 2014 Red Bull Grand Prix of The Americas at COTA go on sale Thursday, Dec. 5, at 10 a.m. CT online at www.circuitoftheamericas.com/and at www.ticketmaster.com. COTA will host the first of only two MotoGP contests in the United States next year and welcome the best motorcycle riders in the world to Austin April 11-13.

COTA’s 2014 MotoGP event features many new fan-friendly options, including FREE motorcycle parking for fans that purchase their tickets by Dec. 31, 2013; Three-day weekend passes and single-day ticket options for fans; A new dry camping option for fans who want to stay close to the circuit all weekend; and Kids 12 and under receive FREE general admission with a ticketed adult.

GET YOUR TICKETS NOW!

Single-day general admission tickets start at $39 for Friday’s practice sessions, and single-day reserved seats start at $59. Three-day weekend passes start at $89 for general admission or $139 for reserved seats. Three-day dry camping passes are available for $150 per space.

MotoGP Ticket and Parking Prices – Circuit of The Americas – April 11-13, 2014

Seating Type, Single-day Ticket/Person, Three-day Weekend Pass/Person

General Admission, $39 to $59, $89

Reserved Seat, $59 to $109, $139 to $199

Kids 12 and under, FREE GA with ticketed adult, FREE GA with ticketed adult

Dry Camping Space (20’x20’), N/A, $150/camping space

Parking Type, Single-day Parking/Vehicle, Three-day Weekend Parking/Vehicle

Cars, $20, $45

Motorcycles*, $10, $20

*NOTE: Motorcycle parking is free for fans that purchased their MotoGP tickets by Dec. 31, 2013.

MotoGP, the pinnacle of all motorcycle World Championships, consists of 19 races in 14 countries on five continents with pan-global television coverage. The world’s most skilled riders, including current U.S. riders Colin Edwards of Texas, 2006 MotoGP World Champion Nicky Hayden from Kentucky and reigning World Champion and winner of the 2013 Red Bull Grand Prix of The Americas Marc Marquez, compete with cutting-edge, prototype motorcycle technology produced by Ducati, Yamaha and Honda, as well manufacturers supporting the new Open class. The series traditionally holds three races, including Moto2 and Moto3 competitions, during each event for various classes of motorcycles based on engine size. Fans watched MotoGP’s new phenom, Marc Marquez, sweep the three U.S. races in 2013, including COTA’s inaugural event, and will be eager to see if he returns to the winners’ podium in Texas next year.

“The on-track action at this year’s MotoGP Championship race at COTA was incredible, and our mission for 2014 is to elevate the fan experience at the track and in downtown Austin,” COTA Chief Marketing and Revenue Officer Geoff Moore said. “Our team will be throwing an even bigger party at the track next year, with a larger entertainment portfolio of live music, interactive displays, games and fan activities. We’re also planning a downtown Fan Zone that will give visitors and residents lots to see and do throughout the weekend.”

“Making our MotoGP race one of the must-attend sports and entertainment events of the season is a priority, and we’ve enhanced our customer offerings to ensure that happens,” COTA President and Chief Executive Officer Jason Dial noted. “We’ve added single-day tickets to the mix for 2014, giving fans greater flexibility, and we’ve reduced on-site parking prices to enhance the value and make it easier for fans to access the circuit. In addition, we’re offering free general admission to kids ages 12 and under to make it more affordable for families to attend the races.

“With the holidays just around the corner, tickets to the Red Bull Grand Prix of The Americas make a great gift for the motorsports fans in your household, and next year’s event will be the perfect opportunity for an entire family to spend a weekend at Circuit of The Americas.”

For individuals, groups and companies looking to experience the MotoGP race weekend in a special way, Circuit of The Americas™ Official program, Circuit of The Americas Experiences , is offering racing enthusiasts a turn-key elevated race weekend experience to the Circuit’s 2014 MotoGP event.

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Source: RoadRacingWorld (AP,11/26)

Inspirational motorcycle trip stretched from Alaska through South America

For over a year Texas Rider News has followed the remarkable journey of a Texan man, Alex Chacon who just completed a 503 day motorcycle ride from Alaska to the southern tip South America this spring - and met several inspiring people along the way. (Modern Motorcycle Diaries: Man captures his 500 day trip across the Americas)

The 26-year-old completed his 82,459-mile journey in April, which he documented in a film "The Modern Motorcycle Diaries."

The El Paso Texas resident told the Daily News he planned the trip for years before deciding to sell everything he owned - except for his Xbox — and hopped on his Kawasaki KLR650 motorcycle and traveled down to South America.

"This had been a lifelong dream for years," he said. "Enough dreaming can get you to a lot of places in life."

Chacon started his journey from El Paso to South America and blogged along the way. But he said he ran out of money by the time he reached Peru. But then sponsors and people who were following his progress began making contributions so he could continue.

"I did a lot of couch surfing and I would sleep in peoples' yards," he said. "People would find me online and tell me to stay with them."

He eventually rode back to North America and made it all the way to Alaska before turning around and heading back home to Texas.

The movie shows clips on his journey through various roadways including dirt, meadows, cliffs, water, sand, bridges populated with people and one very narrow rock wall.

He also shows some local communities he encountered in Latin America.

There were some cultural differences that struck Chacon — such as the treatment of the mentally ill. Chacon said in many communities people who had mental illnesses were shunned from their towns.

“A lot of them were scapegoated,” he said. “The people there just didn’t understand mental illness.”

The motorcycle enthusiast also began using his newfound fame to raise awareness for charities that helped impoverished children in the region. Chacon did not accept the donations himself so he doesn't know how much he raised in total but said it should easily be thousands of dollars.

Chacon took his trip after graduating from the University of Texas with a degree in BioMedical Sciences. He plans to pursue a doctorate, but right now his dreams may be taking him to new places — he has plans for similar motorcycle trips in Africa and Asia.

The major things Chacon said he'll remember is the people — especially the generosity of the children he met in Latin America.

"They were so happy and giving and generous," he said. "Some of the poorest people I encountered were also the most generous."

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Source: Daily News (Landau, 11/20)

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)

How to choose a safe motorcycle helmet

The ability to choose a safe motorcycle helmet is easily among the most important aspects of motorcycle travel, and the subject should be afforded the proper attention to protect the lives of both drivers and passengers. Unfortunately, a large percentage of motorcyclists opt to choose a helmet that "looks cool" rather than one that is protective, and others choose to wear no helmet at all. Without question the largest percentage of motorcycle deaths are related to head trauma resulting from either not wearing a helmet or choosing a motorcycle helmet that offers little protection. By doing a small amount of personal research a biker can choose a safe motorcycle helmet that is both protective and fashionable, without detracting from the enjoyment of the recreation.

The best way to choose a safe motorcycle helmet is to simply follow the U.S. Department of Transportation recommendations as to which helmets on the market offer the greatest amount of personal protection. Every motorcycle helmet is tested by the government in one form or another to see how it stands up in a collision, and the motorcycle helmets that are certified as safe are the ones to purchase. Not all motorcycle helmets are equal in safety, and just because a rider is wearing a helmet does not mean that they are protected.

To choose a safe motorcycle helmet requires that the type and style chosen offer the maximum protection. While hybrid, open face and half-helmets offer some measure of protection, the best type to choose for a safe motorcycle helmet is by far the full-faced type. These not only protect the head from impact but also keep a rider's face from flying objects and hitting the road in an accident.

Lastly, to choose a safe motorcycle helmet requires that any helmet that is purchased fits properly and comfortably. An ill-fitting motorcycle helmet is a dangerous distraction on the highway and may be the cause of an accident in and of itself. Investing a small bit of time at a helmet retailer pays big dividends simply because a helmet that is uncomfortable at first inspection will be nightmare on the road. By choosing a safe motorcycle helmet that is comfortable a rider will most likely wear it more frequently, and hopefully wearing a helmet will become a habit. With the number of safe motorcycle helmets available a biker should have no problem finding one that is also fashionable with a little effort.

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Source: Helium (Conroy, 6/19)

Visit us at the 2012 Lone Star Rally

This Thursday, November 1, through Sunday, November 4, is the 2012 Lone Star Rally in Galveston, Texas. It's one of the biggest biker parties in Texas. With tons of live music -- including a special performance by Brett Michaels -- bike shows, contests, rides, vendors, military tributes, and more, this is one rally you won't want to miss. And Texas Biker Lawyers will be there!

Some celebrity builders will be in attendance as well, including: Eddie Trotta, Paul Yaffe, Rick Fairless, the Martin Brothers, John Shope, Brigitte Bourget, RB Customs, and Southern Metal Choppers. There will also be 3 stages for non-stop music for each day of the rally. More information can be found on the Lone Star Rally Website's Entertainment section here.

There will be multiple bike events, including a Fallen Heroes Poker Run, Outlaw Dave's Ranch Ride, and a tire burn-out event. There's also the Contest and Promenade, which encourages fans and attendees to dress up, theme out in costume, and show your love for the motorcycle community, in a sort of epic parade of bikes, trikes, and floats.

Of course, one of the big draws to this rally is the attendance of some of the stars of the acclaimed motorcycle gang drama on FX, Sons of Anarchy. Charlie Hunnam, who plays the character of "Jax" on the show, will be at the rally both Friday and Saturday, with a meet-and-greet to take place on Saturday, November 3rd, from 1pm to 6pm with some special surprise guests.

Join The Cole Legal Group at the rally, as we will be giving away some of our free swag: keychains, backpacks, glasses (depending on availability). We'll also be ready and willing to take your questions about motorcycle accident cases, should the need ever arise in your riding future. We serve many locations in Texas, including Dallas / Fort Worth, Austin, Houston, San Antonio, and Waxahachie.

Happy Almost S.R.V. Day!

October 3 is considered Stevie Ray Vaughan Day, so what better thing to do than to come celebrate the life and music of Texas' one and only Stevie Ray Vaughan with the 18th annual S.T.V. Remembrance Ride and Concert, October 7. It will be held in the world's largest Hooters 11:15 sharp in the heart of West End Dallas.

The Stevie Ray Vaughan Remembrance Ride & Concert was started in the early 90's as a way of honoring the life and music of Stevie, who passed away in a tragic helicopter accident during the late 80's. All the proceeds from the concert will be going to the S.R.V. Memorial Scholarship Fund.

There will be various parties being held before and after the Remembrance ride and concert . A day before the big day there will be a pre-party held at Rick Fairless' Strokers Dallas and the day of the parade and concert, which will be held in the Cowboys Dance Hall in Arlington from 12-6:30pm, there will be an after party at All Star Diamond Jim's Saloon from 7pm to 2am.

Concert will showcase both famous and local talent blues bands like the Ian Moore Band, Kayla Reeves, Van Wilks, and the Harles Brothers, just to name a few. Pre-ordered tickets cost $20 and $25 at the door. All tickets are general admission and all seats are considered great seats. Parking is free.

So join in on the fun and the endless hours of music this October 7!

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Source: Stevie Ray Vaughan Remembrance Ride and Concert

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.

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.

Custom Motorcycle Paint Shops in North Texas

There are many shops in North Texas that can do custom paint jobs for motorcycles, but before you decide where you want to get it done, first you have to do some research. You want to find out whether the place of interest has a good reputation, and if other riders have gotten good work done by the artists or not. If you end up undecided on where to go, not to worry Texas Rider News has 6 great places listed for you.

Other Side Customs specializes in touring motorcycles, but also do  custom paint jobs for helmets and cars.  Located on 7111 John Carpenter Fwy.  Their price range depends on the scope of the artwork, but it generally ranges from $1,000 to $2,5000.  For more information call (214)-905-3233 or visit their website www.othersidecustoms.net.

TEXEFX custom paint shop specializes on motorcycles, helmets, and cars, but pin-striping is their forte. They are located in 6200 Crow Wright Rd Sanger, Texas 76266 just north of Dallas/Fort Worth. For more information on TEXEFX call (940)-482-9969 or visit their website www.texefx.com

Dallas Air Brush specializes on both motorcycles and cars, and currently have a deal for $100 off any motorcycle paint job (tank, and fenders, 3-pieces, or any paint job of $1,000 or more).  It is located in 2415 midway Rd suite  Plano, Texas 75025.  For more information or an estimate call (214)-529-4410 or visit their website www.dallasairbrush.com.

With eleven locations all over the Metroplex, Chronic Customs works with cars, motorcycles, and trucks.  Located mainly in Dallas, Arlington, and Grapevine, they offer a paint job you will love.   Their price range for a two tone goes for $1,100 to $1,400.For more information call (817)-371-4085 or visit their website www.chroniccustoms.com.

Sik offers high quality paint jobs that are magazine ready, and award winning airbrush work.  They specialize on motorcycles, cars, and helmets. Located on Beltline Rd, Mesquite,Texas 75149. For more information call (214)-995-4664 or visit their website www.sikautosports.com

DuSold Designs specializes in high quality air brushing and body work for cars, motorcycles, trucks, helmets, and guitars. They also offer other services such as:  pin stripping, metal fabrication, L.E.D.’s, complete cars and motorcycle builds, custom mechanical services, and paint repairs.  Located in 1491 N.Kealy suite 35 Lewisville Texas, 75057  For more information call (972)-221-1455 or visit their website www.dusolddesigns.com.

Home of the World's Best Motorcycle Collection

The Barber Vintage Motorsports Museum is home of the world's best motorcycle collection. This museum has over 1200 vintage and modern motorcycles as well as racecars. They also boast the largest collection of Lotus cars as well. They have approximately 1200 motorcycles but only display 600 of them at any given time. This massive collection on bikes ranges from 1902 to current year production. Some of the bikes on display are your typical run of the mill street bikes but they also show off rare Gran Prix race machinery.

The museum is located in Birmingham, Alabama on 740 acres, which includes a world class 2.38 mile racetrack.

If your interested in cool biker tourist destinations, and are thinking of a road trip, this is a must see. Check our Calendar to see if there are any rallies that may coincide with your trip.

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.

Fighting Fatigue on Long Motorcycle Rides

Experts say that fatigue contributes to between a fifth and a sixth of all car accidents. That may not be true in motorcycle accidents across the board, but fatigue is definitely an issue for riders on trips of three days or more. It's something that you need to consider and prepare for. If you are riding with other people, it is an issue that you should discuss and accommodate as you plan your trip. Different riders will have different requirements for rest, and if the trip is to be a safe one, all members of the group should be willing to accommodate each other.

Before you head out on the highway looking for adventure, consider a few steps that you can take and plans you can make to avoid having one of your adventures involve falling asleep on your motorcycle.

Rest:

Adequate sleep can be a bit hard to come by before and during a multi-day ride. I am always thinking of things I want to do or remember to bring as I try to get to sleep on the night before I depart. I also have trouble getting to sleep while traveling. Many people also have trouble getting a full night's sleep as they get older. If I combine that with early departures, I quickly have a sleep deficit. For that reason, I like to plan to allow myself to sleep late every two or three days, setting no departure time.

Don't use alcohol as a sleep aid; it actually tends to reduce both the quantity and quality of sleep. You might think that you can't fall asleep on a motorcycle, but I have known riders who simply fell asleep while riding, waking up as they bounced through a ditch — or in the hospital. Riders who experienced these sorts of adventures often said they didn't even realize they were tired.

Experts say that you'll have "tired times" during every 12-hour cycle, most often between 3:00 and 5:00 (a.m. and p.m., you local time). You may want to plan to arrive by that point or stop for an early dinner. If you can or need to, take a day off just to relax and catch up on your sleep.

Physical Preparation:


Unless you ride your motorcycle almost every day or take rides of three hours or more almost every weekend, you may not be completely adapted to your bike. After a full day or two of riding, you will become acutely aware of muscles that you are using full-time to ride. You may be able to overcome some of this discomfort by properly setting up your bike and fitting components, such as a good aftermarket saddle, that make it more comfortable. However, you also need to give your body a chance to adapt. Taking breaks every hour or two, especially during the first few days of a long ride, will help this adjustment.

Calm:

Extended exposure to wind and sun dehydrates and fatigues you much more than your routine two-hour weekend jaunt. Riding in a tanktop and open-face helmet may seem like the best way to deal with the heat, but will actually wear you out and heat you up much faster than if you wear a vented or mesh jacket and a helmet that protects your face from the wind. Perspiration gets a chance to stay on and cool your skin if the wind flow is reduced but not eliminated. You will sharply reduce sunburn and windburn and their fatiguing effects by covering yourself fully. A windshield also reduces the amount of wind that's tearing at you but leaves enough to cool you.

Quiet:
Wind noise (and exhaust noise if you have loud pipes) will not only permanently damage your hearing, it will fatigue you quickly. Both noise sources are at their worst if you don't wear a helmet, but even a full-face helmet that seals your ears well won't attenuate these noise sources sufficiently on an extended ride, so you should wear earplugs as well. If nothing else, you'll appreciate them when you try to go to sleep at night and the roaring in your ears isn't as loud. A windshield can also reduce wind noise.

Clear:

Vision clarity can be an issue on extended rides too. About 15 years ago we did a comparison test where one bike had significant distortion in the top of its windshield. Several riders said riding it made them feel disoriented or tired or gave them headaches. If your windshield creates this problem, or if you have a faceshield or sunglasses that are optically imperfect, you should find a replacement or eliminate the problem, perhaps by trimming the top of your windshield. If your vision has changed so that your prescription is no longer adequate, update it before you leave.

Caffeine and Alcohol: 
A coffee or cola can briefly boost your alertness, but isn't a substitute for adequate rest. Having a beer before or during a ride is a bad idea for many reasons, but especially if you are slightly tired or fatigued. Discouraging your riding companions from having one also does both of you a favor.

Good Habits:

Those boring admonitions about diet and exercise also apply to fighting fatigue. They increase your energy level, which makes you stronger and more alert. Of course, drinking adequate water is important too, especially considering that you are being dehydrated more rapidly because of your exposure to the wind. I don't hold with the theory that you aren't drinking enough if you don't have to urinate every 30 minutes though.

Fighting fatigue provides benefits that go beyond safety. If you are alert and refreshed, the ride itself is more enjoyable, and you'll get more out of the sights and experiences that you came to enjoy.




From the February, 2009 issue of Motorcycle Cruiser

MOTORCYCLE SAFETY AWARENESS MONTH

May has been proclaimed National Motorcycle Safety Awareness Month by the National Highway Transportation Safety Administration, and in participation with the initiative we here at Texas Rider News and The Cole Legal Group want to educate drivers with a few facts to help promote an attitude of "sharing the road" with each other.  Here is a brief description of the initiative and reminders while on the road.

Overview

Recent data indicates that deaths and injuries attributable to motorcycle crashes are becoming a larger portion of a grave public health problem. Motorcycle crash-related fatalities have been increasing since 1997, while injuries have been increasing since 1999.

Now that the warmer weather is around the corner and motorcyclists are out in force throughout the country,motorists and other road users are reminded to look out for and “share the road” with motorcycle riders, while motorcycle riders are reminded to follow the rules of the road and wear safety helmets and other protective gear that will increase their visibility. ALL road users are reminded to never drive, ride, bike or walk while distracted.  By increasing safe riding and cooperation between all motorists and motorcyclists, we can reduce the number of fatalities and injuries on our nation’s highways.

Mission

Motorcycle Safety Awareness Month is a national initiative aimed at getting motorists and other road users and motorcyclists to “share the road” with each other. 

"Share the Road"

The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration has developed the “Share the Road” program material used by motorcycle safety agencies and national organizations that have a vested interest in motorcycle safety. NHTSA created these the common ideas and reminders to effectively convey the importance of sharing the road safely with motorcyclists:

• Road users are reminded to never drive, bike or walk while distracted.  Doing so can result in tragic consequences for motorcyclists.
• A motorcycle has the same rights and privileges as any other vehicle on the roadway.
• Allow the motorcyclist a full lane width. Although it may seem there is enough room in the traffic lane for an automobile and a motorcycle, remember the motorcycle needs the room to maneuver safely. Do not share the lane.
• Motorcycles are small and may be difficult to see. A motorcycle has a much smaller profile than a vehicle, which can make it more difficult to judge the speed and distance of an approaching motorcycle.
• Always signal your intentions before changing lanes or merging with traffic. This allows the motorcyclist to anticipate traffic flow and find a safe lane position.
• Remember that a motorcyclist can be hidden in a vehicle’s blind spot or missed in a quick look due to its smaller size. Always make a visual check for motorcycles by checking mirrors and blind spots before entering or leaving a lane of traffic and at intersections.
• Don’t be fooled by a flashing turn signal on a motorcycle – motorcycle signals may not be self-canceling and riders sometimes forget to turn them off. Wait to be sure the motorcycle is going to turn before you proceed.
• Remember that road conditions that are minor annoyances to motorists can pose major hazards to motorcyclists. Motorcycle riders may change speed or adjust position within a lane suddenly in reaction to road and traffic conditions such as potholes, gravel, wet or slippery surfaces, pavement seams, railroad crossings, and grooved pavement.
• Allow more following distance -- three or four seconds -- following a motorcycle so the motorcycle rider has enough time to maneuver or stop in an emergency. In dry conditions, motorcycles can stop more quickly than cars.

Motorcyclist Deaths Are Rising

In 2008 motorcyclist fatalities increased for the 11th straight year.

During 2008, 5,290 motorcyclists lost their lives in fatal highway crashes.

Nearly 50 percent of all motorcycles involved in fatal crashes collided with other types of motor vehicles in transport.  In two-vehicle crashes, 77 percent of the motorcycles involved were struck in the front.  Only 7 percent were struck in the rear.

Over 90 percent of all fatal two-vehicle crashes involving a motorcycle and a passenger vehicle occurred on non-interstate roadways.

Approximately 50 percent of all fatal two-vehicle crashes involving a motorcycle and a passenger vehicle were intersection crashes.

In 2008, there were 2,387 two-vehicle fatal crashes involving a motorcycle and another type of vehicle.  In 41 percent of these crashes, the other vehicle was turning left while the motorcycle was going straight, passing, or overtaking the vehicle.  Both vehicles were going straight in 28 percent of the crashes.