Tech Tip - Spring Safety

As the snow melts away, the desire to experience the wind in your face gets stronger. Motorcyclists across the country are charging batteries, checking tire pressure, and putting a good coat of wax on their trusty baby. Making ready for that first warm afternoon, when they can get out on the highway. Harleys or Hondas, all motorcycle riders look forward to the first spring ride in the country We'll assume you prepared your motorcycle properly when you put it in storage for the winter. To make sure your cycle is ready to go, check all fluid levels, check tire pressures, and add some fresh gas. Charge up the battery, and hit the start button. With a well maintained motorcycle, this is about all that's necessary if you did your proper maintenance before winter storage.

The rest of your preparation has a lot to do with attitude. Being safe on the road depends primarily on how alert you are while riding, and how well you are paying attention to what's going on around you.

After a long winter, with road crews working long hours to keep the roads clear of ice and snow, there is a very dangerous residual leftover from the plowing process. That is the SAND the highway department used on roads. Loose sand is everywhere in the early spring corners, intersections, main roads and side streets alike. This accumulation of sand presents a severe danger to all two wheeled vehicles.  People driving cars have forgotten all about motorcycles over the past few months. Even in good weather in the middle of summer a motorcycle is almost invisible to cars. Headlights on can help, so make sure all lights front and back are working properly. When you head out on the road this spring, be aware. Know what's going on around you and give yourself enough space to safely navigate around dangers. Motorcycle riding is one of the best ways to experience what our country has to offer. Be sure you enjoy it safely

Tony D. & The Wild Fire Service Team