Safety Report - April 2026
- abatewis4
- 5 hours ago
- 2 min read
Time to Ride
As I write this, it is the second week of March. We had a hard rain that washed away the salt, but not all the sand. The weather has been great for the last three days, so I’ve been riding. It started out with a thorough check of the bike, fluids, tire pressures, and condition, battery, lights, brakes, and cables. Once I hit the road, I focused on my surroundings, the mirrors, and the leftover sand on the surfaces. Then I braked hard to check the brakes and get a feel for the ABS operation. After that, a few runs.
up and down through the gears and some swerving to warm the tires. Finally, it was time for a ride. Now it was time to watch out for deer and the other traffic that wasn’t used to seeing bikes, like the car that turned left in front of me on my second day out. After 120 miles, I feel like I’m ready to work my way into the season, still being extra careful and aware of everything around. Riding is a perishable skill and must be practiced, constantly reviewed, and refined. If everyone follows these steps, we can all be safer on the road. Ride your own ride, stay sober, and control your speed. These are the ways to cut down on the stupid single bike crashes.
Right now, Safe Rider is closing in on 100 students registered for classes. One fly in the ointment is gate construction at Ft. McCoy. We will be in constant contact with each class to let them know where to be and when, so they can enter the base. With the first class at the end of April, this will be a busy month preparing the range and hauling bikes.
I’m looking forward to another Knock the Rust Off event on April 25 in Waukesha. Come out for some riding exercises and discussion about bikes and riding safety. We also get to visit with a State Patrol Motor officer and see some amazing bike handling. The day is very low-pressure and easy-going. You can ride any, all, or just watch and listen. No matter what, you will have something to take away from the day to improve your riding and ability to stay safer on the road. See you there.
Ride Safe,
Gary
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