Jr. Patriot Report - May 2026

John Stumpner

Motorcycle Awareness

May is Motorcycle Awareness Month. Sometimes, other roadway users don't see motorcyclists. They are looking for other four wheeled vehicles and the smaller motorcycles just plain aren't noticed. While it is important to always remind other roadway users to notice all traffic, the message is especially emphasized in May when bikers start riding a lot more. For us as bikers, we are already aware of motorcycles on the road, mostly for pleasure riding and short distance commuting. Motorcycles have many other uses though, some of which you may not be aware of.

For many years, motorcycles were used for delivery services in almost every area of society. Modern electronic technology has all but eliminated the need for many motorcycle courier services though. However, in the United Kingdom and Ireland, “Blood Bike” couriers provide the essential service of prompt delivery of urgent and emergency medical items between hospitals and health care facilities. Blood bike couriers are all volunteers, riding for various charities that provide the service. These bikers all have advanced rider qualifications and, because they are riding for charities, have tax exemptions for their bikes.

Another interesting use for motorcycles you may not be aware of is for predator hunting. Some coyote hunters use small dirt bikes to get to areas other hunters can't. A small dirt bike has an advantage over a four-wheeler in that it can be carried on a bike rack attached to a truck. Narrow or non-existent trails in a wild area are easy for a dirt bike. A dirt bike is also easy to hide in a hunting area. Combining riding and hunting can be a lot of fun. In the words of one hunter, “You'll feel like a kid again.”

Many church groups have been sending missionaries around the world for a long time. Most of these missions are in developing countries with few good roads and highways. In countries such as Malawi, in East Africa, churches provide their missionaries with dual purpose motorcycles for both on and off-road use. These “bikes of fire,” as the natives call them, help the missionaries to better reach the people they serve. This is important, because not only do they spread their religion, but most missionaries are the only source of health care in some hard-to-reach rural areas.

When you are aware of the capabilities and utility of motorcycles, you will find them useful in all sorts of types of work and play. Help ABATE of Wisconsin by spreading the word about motorcycle awareness whenever you get a chance. Practice watching for motorcycles yourself and think about all the ways you some day may be able to use a motorcycle yourself.

John