The Rider’s Perspective thanks victorytc100 for sharing this photo.

It may be a new year, but it’s the same old story… and it’s getting boring for some people.  Last year 21 brothers and sisters of the wind went for their final rides in Florida.  Reports indicate another 8 "motorcycle-related" deaths in 2007. 

Any loss of life is tragic, but negative generalization of events by the majority of media sources would cause their editors and reporters to fail any reputable college Journalism 101 class.  Instead of being objective on a significant story, the drive for sensationalistic headlines and 30 second soundbites slants the situation to generate negative feelings towards motorcycle riders in general . 

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The Rider’s Perspective thanks paperware for sharing this photo.

As the temps increase, so do the number of first time motorcycle riders hitting the roads. There are tons of variations on a theme, but the expression that "15 minutes of paperwork and $15,000 will not make you a biker" is true. I strongly recommend completing and passing a certified rider education course through the Motorcycle Safety Foundation, Harley-Davidson’s Riders Edge program or your state department of transportation. Get your training, pass your exams, get licensed, get insured and get to practicing!

Just like you were not ready to drive on the interstate highway or the Indy 500 the first time you got behind the wheel of your cage (that’s a car for the newbie riders), you will not be ready for group riding immediately. Take to the parking lots and learn control of your motorcycle at slow speeds. Practice, practice, practice the basics until you feel comfortable with the skills you were introduce to in the rider education. And then practice some more. Gradually work your way up to streets, traffic and highways. Once you’ve got full control over your bike, you’ll be ready to join a group ride.