New York Chapter "W"

Gold Wing Road Riders Association

Rochester, NY

March Into Spring Is A First Time Thing

While March may be pushing the calendar a bit for riding, but with luck, it could be your first time this season to ride. There are the usual things we have to do to make our first ride a memorable one and include some of the following:

The Bike

Have you looked over your bike since last season? Is it ready to ride? Review your manual and the notes you made from last season on the things you had to maintain before riding season. You did make a list didn't you? I know the first thing you are going to check are your tires for wear and air pressure. You also did a walk around to make sure nothing was leaking and all items were up to specifications, right?

The Environment

Since the fall, the roads have changed. They are filled with stuff that fell off cars, have been dumped on the roads and new pot holes just waiting to greet you. Be aware of the new challenges the street wants to throw at you.

The Four Wheelers

By the end of the riding season, the cagers finally figured out that motorcyclists can ride on the same road as them. Well I just bet this winter they forgot all about us and it will take some time for the two wheelers to remember we are on the roads again. Be aware of cars and trucks and be prepared for them to make unsafe lane changes in front of us. Don't stare, but be aware.

The Gear

Is you gear the right type for the early riding season? Dress in layers to keep you warm and then you have the ability to remove some as it warms up. Make sure all the zippers, buttons, snaps and clips are functional. They don't do much good if they decide to pop if you drop.

The Rider

Last but not least, are YOU ready? You have been sitting in the house reading motorcycle magazines, watching movies but not practicing your skills since the fall. Take it easy on your initial ride. Sit in the driveway or garage and get familiar with the bike you parked in the fall. Get reacquainted again. Then go to a parking lot to practice your skills. You may consider a MSF course if you have not taken one to hone your skills recently.

The first ride of the year is like your first date; you have great memories and anticipate it being just like it was, way back then. When you take your first ride this year, think of it as a long term relationship with you and your motorcycle, riding off in the sunset on your first date. OK, maybe you really can't go back, but enjoy your first ride anyway.

Practice Safe Riding

Gary Mandak

Chapter W Educator