More than just a Rider

Saddles, Saddles

2005-11-16T06:11:00.000-08:00

Imagine how we torture our butts every time we go for a ride… Just anybody can feel discomfort while sitting on a hard and painful saddle. Poor quality saddles can diminish your excitement to ride, explore and conquer. However, you’ll feel better if you have good saddles.

There are seats that are unsatisfying. Some of these seats are made of soft gel and pillows that create pressure points that result to centralized pressure because of the saddle’s hot spots. These seats are painful. I’m sure you don’t want to sit on it. Thus, it will be better if the seats are designed with a contoured shape since it will reduce or eliminate pressure points. Saddles must also have excellent weight distribution to lessen the tendency of having a painful ride.

Saddles are found at the center of the motorcycle. This is perhaps the reason why it is called the crown jewel of a motorcycle. Some want it flashy and stylish while others want it to be simply comfortable. Nonetheless, we can have both!

Saddles can be a controlling factor that determines your overall performance. Therefore, you gotta have the best of its kind to boost your performance. There are online motorcycle accessories store that are offering good and high-performing saddles. They sell saddles that are manufactured to cater every rider’s needs. You can select from the wide range of design and built to fit your bike. The line includes hand-crafted saddles which can be done according to the specifications of the rider. Motorcycle stores like these are even offering warranty and refunds. The seats are warranted against defects in material or workmanship for 1 year under normal usage.

Save your butt, save your ride!

Friendly Rider’s Advice

2005-11-12T15:10:00.000-08:00

If we are faced in a situation where a newbie asks our advice regarding riding, what are we suppose to give them?

For me, here are the first few things that come to my mind:

1. First, drive defensively and responsively.

2. Always wear protection. Motorcycle accessories and apparel can pretty well save you from an otherwise dreadful ride.

3. To avoid legal aberrations in the future, make everything legit.

4. Always turn on your high beam during the day be conspicuous all the time. High beams can easily annoy a fellow rider thus, they will know you are near.

5. Maintain focus so that you will be able to avoid pot holes as well as other vehicles and pedestrians.

6. Use signals and interpret smartly other riders’ signals.

7. Keep distance. Never ride behind buses, construction vehicles and other vehicles.

8. If you aim for a turn without an intersection, carry a greater speed through the corner. Speed which is below 10mph will make you less stable.

9. Never ride, brake or stop in the center of the lane. Oil puddles and transmission fluid drips in it thus, it’s dangerous to be there.

10. When it’s raining, never ride on the painted lines because they contain slippery substances that can risk your life.

There are still a lot of things that might be of greater importance, however, just consider a confident and secured ride.

Leather Repair

2005-11-11T16:33:00.000-08:00

Don’t despair when you see your leather in a ‘not so good condition’. The good news is that it can be treated to prevent it from damaging further. In fact, it can be colored to match the rest of your motorcycle accessories and apparel. The bad news though is that heavily damaged leather cannot be repaired hence, it needs replacement.

If you have leather that is experiencing slight cracking, you just strip it, redye it to the same color that it previously had, seal it, condition it to achieve a supple and shiny appearance, clean it and ….viola - a dashing new look results!

In repairing, you need lubricants (but the most used one is the saddle soap), dyes, sealers, conditioners and oils or waxes.

You may also need some methods to patch the holes brought about by sewing. Some of these applications require application of heat that can damage the surrounding leather. Nevertheless to keep the leather conditioned and moisturized use trusted products like waxes, mink oils and other oils.

If the leather has cracked all the way through, the most practicable thing to do is to replace it. Reasonable price can be had from your trusted upholstery shop.

You can still do something, repair it!

Helmets make a difference

2005-11-10T17:44:00.000-08:00

Basically, motorcycle accessories are life savers. They can make an indelible line between life and death. In fact, they can prevent the most tragic incident or accident to happen.

There are a lot of designs, styles and protection that each of the motorcycle accessories are offering. Let us take helmet as an example.

There are several possible injury target in the head - the top (the cranium area) the middle (the area most likely covered by the visor) and the bottom (on a full face helmet, this would be the chin guard area). Motorcycle accidents can hit your head to result a 35% chance of the impact occurring to your chin area, 10% to your visor area, and 22% chance of the impact occurring to your front cranium area. Without wearing a helmet, do you think you can survive? Very slim chance, isn’t it?

A study conducted by Deitmar Otte at the Medizinsche Hochschule in Hannover, Germany delved into the damage incurred to helmets worn by motorcyclists involved in accidents. His analysis was enormously detailed. There are also series of test which proved that falling off a stationary bike can result to a fatal injury. Thus, choosing the right helmet for you is more than a have to.

According to the aforesaid studies and tests, the safest helmets (in chronological order) are full face helmets, three quarter helmets with visors, half helmets and novelty helmets.

Nonetheless the controlling factor is the personal feel of the rider. It has to have a snug fit and will not serve as a barrier to all his senses and focus.

Security plus comfort is the controlling factor that can save riders lives!

Riders and Sexual Prowess

2005-10-29T08:13:00.000-07:00

When we say rider, one thing that comes to mind is that they are ‘metaphors for sex’. Riders are on the top rating together with the mechanics, swimmers when it comes to sexual prowess. Why is this so?

Several studies have been conducted to trace the stigma attached to riders. It was found out that it is the ability to be kinky, to explore and to be dangerous that is giving these chosen few the edge to rock their sexual life.

The ability to yield greater sensations results to better orgasms thus great sex. While others are still struggling to find for the big ‘O’, riders have already found it. Let’s not talk about the rest of the guys. Let’s just focus ourselves on us – riders.

Why are we tagged this way? We’re good, right? Having my very self and talking to tough riders, I conclude that riders love orgasmic ride. Motorcycles are sexy same with savoir-faire woman. Riders, on the other hand, are good in envisioning exotic and sexy women. From these, we live our wildest fantasies. Naked bike, naked ride – now we are ready for our performance cruise…

Rider’s sturdiness plus sensitivity make a sexually satisfying eternity…Ride on!

CTS – What has this to do with riders?

2005-10-29T06:58:00.000-07:00

Riders may take this for granted but CTS can be our serious concern…

Carpal Tunnel Syndrome (CTS) is a condition which starts with numbness and stinging in the hand. This syndrome may also involve aching in the hand, forearm or shoulder. These symptoms intermittently occur in during daytime and sometimes during nighttime which may awaken the person from sleep. CTS is caused by a pinched nerve in the palm of the hand.

Carpal Tunnel Syndrome is treated by placing the wrist on a splint to immobilize it and to prevent pressure to the nerves. CTS can become quite troublesome when not treated at the earlier stage so a rider must regularly have his medical check-up to know his health condition.
One thing to prevent CTS is to wear motorcycle gloves. These gloves do not only protect our hands from injuries, weather conditions but from possible illness as well.

Wear the right motorcycle accessories and apparel to be sound and safe. Riding can be both fun and sound just know the consequences and prepare to ride hard…

Calling While Riding

2005-10-19T13:59:00.000-07:00

Most of the riders were pleased with the launch of Bluetooth-enabled motorcycle helmet created by Motorola and Momodesign. This motorcycle accessory is a type of helmet that makes it possible for riders to make and take calls while driving bikes. It has 5 hours talk time and 100 hours standby time. With it, riders can have continuous talk with their fella’ riders. Not only that, they can also talk to other people using Bluetooth-enabled mobile phones.

If I try to see it in one perspective this is a good development. There will be no interruptions. The driver can just press on cover of the helmet to take and make calls. No fuss, isn’t it? Doing two things at the same time saves time and effort. Thus, if there is opportunity to do so much as well grab it. It’s good.

However, there is certain drawback about this. Riding, on the other perspective, is not all about talking with other people. Its goal is to travel distance safely. The road is not the proper venue to say our hi’s and hello’s to our friends, or talk about anything under the sun because we can do it condusively elsewhere. Riding needs focus and considerable attention. Moreover, if we allow ourselves to be disturbed by the calls, chances are we will not be able to hear the blowing horns nearby…we will not be aware of the hand and light signals of our fella’ drivers and will most likely result to an accident.

It only takes one reckless and irresponsible rider to cause a dreadful collision. What more if there are countless of them scattered on the road?

Technology is most of the time helpful...but sometimes not.

Rider’s Techniques

2005-10-14T14:54:00.000-07:00

Travis has introduced Keith Code’s Super Bike School forum in his entry The Fine Art of Braking. This forum is one of the new yet fantastic motorcycle forums in the Net. Anybody can learn from it.

As I happen to read the forum, I notice that the interaction was good but what strikes me most was the eloquence of how Code introduced to amateurs the idea of ‘no break’, turns, going fast and smooth and braking. This forum is a must-read one. This is especially true to the neophytes in the biking society. These ideas can give them a boost and improve their confidence as a rider.

It’s a good thing to find time to practice said driving techniques. The more you practice, the better you will feel about yourself as a rider. Good thing we have these types of forum to enlighten, teach and guide the budding riders in town!

To Wear or Not to Wear

2005-10-10T14:46:00.000-07:00

Some states are considering the possibility of giving back to riders their unrestricted discretion whether to wear or not to wear helmets.

Since its inception, it has been a hot argument that has rocked the cradle of the motorcycling populace. Most are in favor of wearing it however, a close percentage is against it. According to the latter group, motorcycle helmet laws deprived them of their right to be free which they are rightfully entitled. Another thing is that they contend that wearing of such results to greater possibility of neck injuries. On the other hand, according to the former group, wearing helmet is the best protection that a rider can give to his head since our head is one of that which we consider as most vital parts of our body. They don’t believe that it is restriction of freedom because the choice will always be on the rider. Only that, their choice can subject them to adverse consequences regulated by laws.

I agree with what Travis has said in his blog entry entitled Motorcycle Helmet Standards. In fact, I feel unusual riding without a helmet so I’d immediately put it on. I considered it as my little piece of shield. And I do believe that in times of collision and other accidents, it can reduce the risk of injuries.

Why compromise your life? You only live once…

Accident…

2005-10-06T11:06:00.000-07:00

Accident happens. No matter how we try to avoid them, they still exist to spoil every spirit of orderliness and security.

Automobiles are accident-prone. We see them crash. We see them explode. Burn people. Hurt them. Or make them suffer. Thousands of people are killed, injured, paralyzed or has lived in a ‘vegetable state’ or coma because of vehicular accidents.

Every time I browse the daily papers as well as online sites, I usually see mishaps and other related accidents. Lately, I have read a fellow rider’s sad plight as narrated by his wife in the latter's blog. It’s really a great help to store an extinguisher in the garage. In this rider’s case, the extinguisher nearby saved him from conflagration.

His story also serves as a warning to those who are carefree and do not exercise caution. Flammable materials can be situated 10 meters or a yard from you. Be careful with fire. You might end up charred, too.

Utmost care and diligence, though exercised may still result to an unwanted consequence. It happens too fast but still, the very care and diligence can lessen the effect of the accident. It is the indelible line that separates the greater danger from the lesser one.

Why Ride in Group?

2005-10-04T12:08:00.000-07:00

Riders seldom travel alone. They always come in group. What do you think is the reason?

1. It is more fun. And you share this fun to everyone in the group.

2. Another reason is that, the burden of planning is distributed to every member. Brainstorming helps a lot to arrive at feasible and more practical decisions.

3. In a group, tasks are easily distributed. Therefore, it is easy to move and the tasks become lighter than when you do it alone.

4. The fear is basically reduced. The fact that lots of people are around you makes you confident and courageous as they are.

5. A member of the flock can easily lend a helping hand in time. In times when there are mechanical problems, a teammate can handle the troubleshooting of the motorcycle parts. If in case, a member is injured, anybody in the group can give medical attendance or apply first-aid.

6. Visibility. Groups can easily be seen by the public compared to those who are enjoying the solo trip. This way, you are free from conspicuity problems.

7. Finally, it will be easier to socialize with other bikers and share each others experiences, techniques and choices of bike parts and motorcycle accessories.

Give your riding experience a dust of zest, ride in a group.

Preparing for a Good Group Ride

2005-10-04T11:22:00.000-07:00

If you are already decided to go into group riding, follow these steps to keep you safe and sound all throughout the ride.

Here are tips to those riders who are preparing for a group ride:

- Be sure that each member has a complete set of gears.

- Check on the bike parts for the last time. Be sure they are well.

- Acquaint your team with your team’s signals, strategies, goal and the likes. That way, you are focused and organized.

- Suggested tasks shall also be made clear to each of them. Little accessories like flashlight, compass, and more must be distributed to all your members.

- Also discuss the comfort ad safety considerations. Watch out for anything that may distract the group and your goal.

- Bid goodbye to your friends and families and stay focused on your group and goal.

Bear in mind that it’s the fun, the learning experience, camaraderie and excitement that counts. However, if you win the race, the greater will be the reason to celebrate. Cheers!

Value your Life, Be Safe...

2005-09-24T06:44:00.000-07:00

The formula for an enjoyable ride is easy. Well-conditioned motorcycle and motorcycle parts + motorcycle accessories + nice riding spots = enjoyable ride.

So simple, isn't it? Nevertheless, this will not shun accidents. But still, if ever you encountered a terrible mishap, with your dependable bike parts and reliable safety gears you will not most likely experience the worst aftermath compared to the rider who does not bother to think of protecting himself.

Safe ride must be the goal of every rider. What is there to be happy about when you end up injured, unable to walk and ride or worst, die a horrible death brought about by collision.

To avoid these morbid consequences. Here are some pointers to follow:

1. Prepare your motorcycle. Inspect every motorcycle part. If they are in bad working condition, fix or replace them.

2. Wear protection. motorcycle apparel, motorcycle gears and the likes must always come in handy. Jackets, pants, boots and helmets can very well save you from the worst that you can imagine.

3. Conspicuity must be taken seriously. Lots of accidents happen because the other party did not see the other. This is the reason why you have to be obvious and easily seen by the people on the road.

4. Maintain a safe distance. Being an island is a good principle when riding. Do not push yourself too much.

5. Expect accident. Be cautious with the intersections, curves and populated places. Slow down when it needs to.

6. Do not ride at night. This is only if your purpose is not that important but merely for fun. Cancel it, because it is dangerous to ride during nighttime.

7. Ride because you are into riding. Do not ride for the sake of impressing others. They are not the ones who's goin' to experience a limp or incapacity so ride your own ride!

Obviously, these tips will not preclude accident, but can lessen your injury... Isn't that fact alone worth doin' it?

Ducati Monster Started Legacy Continues…

2005-09-11T01:17:00.000-07:00

As we can still very well remember, last year Ducati searched North America for the most unique, coolest and baddest Ducati Monster now said search continues.

In a news item released by Ducati entitled The Ducati monster challenge is back! 2005-2006 ims show dates announced, Ducati encourages Monster rider to join the prestigious event for this year. In toto it said:

Cupertino, CA – September 2nd, 2005 – Based on the success of last year’s incredible Monster Challenge, Ducati is again looking for the coolest, baddest, most customized and unique Monster in North America. If you’ve got a Ducati Monster that you feel is up for the challenge, then enter the 2006 Ducati Monster Challenge! The grand prize winner will take home a new 2006 Ducati Monster S2R1000.

Like last year, the Ducati Monster Challenge will take place at selected Cycle World International Motorcycle Shows across the country. The Monster Challenge will be featured at these shows: Houston, Seattle, Long Beach, San Jose, Washington D.C., New York, Chicago, Atlanta, and Montreal. If you want to be considered for one of these shows, submit your entry form and photos for pre-screening. Any retail registered Ducati Monster is eligible. Further rules and information will be posted on www.ducatiusa.com. The bikes selected for each local event will be displayed in a special area at the IMS Show where they will be judged for 1st, 2nd, 3rd prizes.

National Prizes
::: 1st Prize - 2006 Ducati Monster S2R1000
:: 2nd Prize - Roundtrip airfare, hotel, and ticket to a MotoGP race
:: 3rd Prize - $1000 Ducati Performance Gift Certificate

Local Prizes
::: 1st Prize - Roundtrip airfare and hotel to Monster Challenge Final
:: 2nd Prize - $250 Ducati Performance Gift Certificate
:: 3rd Prize - $100 Ducati Performance Gift Certificate

Ducati North America will begin accepting Monster Challenge entries on September 15, 2005. To enter, you will need to fill out the entry form and provide a copy of current registration and two digital photos of your Monster. Check back for complete details on how to apply for the Monster Challenge in the coming weeks.

To my fellow riders out there, this can be our opportunity to grab the spotlight…if you are interested, register now.

Visibility’s Significance

2005-09-08T16:44:00.000-07:00

Road visibility is very vital. It is the means of making your self obvious so as to be recognized by other riders and avoid collision. Every second counts so you must be visible to them even in a few tenths of every second in a gloomy ride.

Riders must detect you to identify and react so as to avoid a possible mishap. Good conspicuity acts to shorten reaction time. If you are not that visible the possibility is that you may end up in the hospital wing or worst in the morgue. That’s the essence of using visible motorcycle accessories and parts.

Several studies have shown that reflective markings make even trailers safer. Colors also play a crucial role. There are colors that signify danger . It means caution or stop. The combination of red and white appears to be bright and catchy to the eyes so it is commonly used to give signals.
These colors are also used in connection with retroreflective tape on helmets, jackets or vests to attract attention and to lessen the probability of being hit. I, personally am using this tape whenever I ride at nightime. Its hard to rely on second chances you know.

Care for a cup of coffee?

2005-09-07T16:38:00.000-07:00

I’m a self-confessed coffee addict. I really can’t take the ‘wake-up drink’ out of my system. In fact, I am regularly seen in espresso shops. In the morning, at night, during breaks or anytime when I feel like drinking, I drink. Coffee for me is like an addictive pill that I can’t get enough of.

Lately, I have read an article which explains why coffee is addictive. It said that the most common and well-defined effect of coffee is it being the stimulant of the central nervous system. Within a minute of drinking coffee, caffeine levels peak to generate vigilance, sharp concentration and improves mood. This is the reason why it is called the ‘wake-up drink’. While some people do well with this boost, others become over-stimulated. The side effects include insomnia, anxiety, irritability and diarrhea. In the past, coffee has been linked to an array of health risks, ranging from stroke, miscarriage, high cholesterol to cancer. Thus, we have to be cautious with the amount of coffee we can take. However, what the rider did not know is that coffee is not a substitute to a normal sleep. Riders who drink more than they're used to may become restless, jittery, or sleepy. Thus, it will be hard for him to focus on the road and may thus cause accidents.

This article made me think. Aside from the health risks, am I gonna forgo my safety on the road just because of my fondness in coffee? I think I have to like tea…

The Courage of a Woman

2005-09-06T07:30:00.000-07:00

A woman is an epitome of vulnerability, sensitivity and fragility. Weak, pathetic – those are also the mean utterances that women get in the past decades. There was even a time when the female species get prejudicial commentaries.

Before, women are gagged, withdrawn and repressed. But now, the new face of a modern world has given them a leeway to express themselves more, to try new things foreign to them in the past, to reach heights as men do and to be who they really are.

Undeniably, the courage of a woman nowadays soars to their advantage. Politics, education, business, privileges, name it, sports – even in the world of tough and mighty motorcycle ride women are giving a fair struggle.

Women empowerment started way back in the time of Joan of Arc and Annie Oakley. There’s an X-factor attached to a woman with strong personality like for instance those who can ride with both dominion and beauty. The combination is striking and unique. Its passion and finesse combined..

The road is too broad to accommodate only one gender - the bike so slender to glide with the flow. It’s more lively, soulful and passionate to have it open for all.

Not only have the roads welcomed women but also the motorcycle accessories and apparel. Reputable motorcycle brands like Kawasaki, Honda, Ducati, Yamaha and Harley-Davidson have accommodated designs that specially cater to women.

Ladies, enjoy the freedom, enjoy the ride!

New pair of boots excites me!

2005-09-04T08:08:00.000-07:00

Guess what? I’m so excited today because I now have my new Harley-Davidson boots. I’ve been desiring to have it from the moment I saw it online. I get to see the boots by searching from some online stores. Different brands, varying styles were presented but this one really caught my attention. I told myself, I ought to have this. Now that I have it, it makes me feel great!

Harley-Davidson men’s FXRG-2 is a full grain oiled waterproof breathable leather boots. It has haunted my mind the day I set my eyes on them. So I made up my mind to buy it after three weeks. I think I made the right choice coz now I’m enjoying it more. I feel safe and protected at the same time kinda trendy.

I can kick my riding style up a notch with a touch of leather texture that is so comfy and durable not to mention being waterproof. It also supports air circulation and feet mobility. It also keeps me protected from my lower leg to my toes. Now, I can enjoy riding more!

A friend has also advised me to try street motorcycle accessories to buy some stuffs for my bike as well as for myself. Another friend also told me to check out ridegear and alpinestars. I’ll think it over and decide..

Basic Rider’s Course

2005-08-31T01:13:00.000-07:00

With numerous collisions happening day in and day out especially involving juveniles, you might think that basic rider’s course is a must. These collisions greatly involve teenagers and other inexperienced riders. Truly, knowledge of the traffic rules plus the skill in driving can help mitigate these circumstances. Perhaps, rider’s course can help.

How does riding course go by? You can go take a peek at this blog entry Learnin’, learnin’, learnin taken from the personal blog of Andy Wismar.

After the Course Andy concluded: “Spending 16 hours in full-length shirts and pants, with a helmet on, sitting on a running bike, on a giant, shadeless slab of parking lot, in 95 degree heat, is a great recipe for the meanest back-of-the-neck sunburn you can imagine. And heatstroke, but I avoided that one. Other than that, I had an absolute blast, and feel tremendously better on a bike now. I had previously mastered going fast in a straight line, which I have to believe is the easiest of the motorcycle skills. Turning, braking, swerving, and about ten other things really needed work, and I think I got that this weekend. Things started a little slowly, but they do have to cater to the lowest common denominator. I'm glad I did it, it was worth the sunburn”.

Riding courses are pretty exciting. You learn a lot at the same time you enjoy. Unlike when peers do it, riding courses are anchored on methods and bound by timeframe. So, you get to know the things that are ought to be learned by riders and motorcyclists alike.

How’s Your First Time?

2005-08-27T01:11:00.000-07:00

Your first time may not be that satisfying. In fact a lot of discrepancies can occur. However, no matter what happens on your first time, it will still be memorable.

Seldom do we find stories about other people’s ‘first times’. My first time (I’m speaking of a motorcycle ride) was with my brother. He taught me first about the parts of the motorcycle then the maneuvers. After that I followed him. After several weeks of practice, I was allowed to drive. I was 14 then and it’s kinda’ risky to go out in the streets so we did it in a free space outside the country. I’m not advising you to do the same if you are still a minor. Just stick by the rules and so you can be free from liabilities in the future.

I feel hesitant at first. It seems that I don’t want my brother to leave the handle bar. Afterwards, I was convinced to goon my own. I’ve experienced falls, bruises – good thing no fractures occurred. Fortunately, that express ride turned out to be a great learning experience. It was one of the ecstatic days of my life. I’m so grateful to my brother for sharing me what he knew. Up to now I’m still hooked with the riding paranoia…

I can relate with Travis when he narrates his first ride on his blog at motorcycle-blog.com. It says:

"Reviving the throttle lightly to depart, I released the clutch and promptly stalled. I needed a little more experience with the friction zone and a little less respect for the throttle modulation it seemed. Soon I got it right and motored off down the road half a block only to turn around and return home.

The trip was probably no more than 100 yards and yet my head was buzzing with excitement, fear, adrenaline andd god knows what else. The fact that I had yet to get the bike registered and plated didn’t help but most of the excitement was from that small success of negotiating my quiet, suburban street without the interference of traffic and managing not to drop the bike or scare myself to death."

To all the neophytes, good luck! Keep kickin’ and rockin’!

My Imaginary Checklist

2005-08-25T10:41:00.000-07:00

Ever since I was small, I have this ‘meticulous eye’ for details and organization. It is always nice to be prepared. It gives you an air of confidence to carry on with your plans and endeavors. Same thing applies to driving and racing. You drive when you are physically and mentally ready. Otherwise you will just regret the aftermath.

I for one, have created an imaginary check list on my mind which is composed of motorcycle accessories, parts and gears that need to be inspected before using in order for me to make an exciting and hassle-free ride. It pisses me off when there are discrepancies in a middle of an ecstatic ride so I’d rather be ready – that’s the ultimate solution! Isn't it?

Here’s my checklist:

-Helmet. If you can’t have the rest of the accessories, at least have a helmet to protect your head and brain. Be sure it has a comfortable and snug fit.
My trusted helmet brands though are Shoei and Arai.
-Brakes. Clutch. Tires. Horns. Throttle. Mirrors. Be sure they are in good condition and are functioning well. You can count on Corbin, Dunlop, and other reliable, manufacturers.
-Goggles. Be sure your eyes are fully protected against glare, dirt, dust and debris. Moreover, one of the accessories that you can use is goggles. However, be sure that you still have a clear view of your surroundings. You can nonetheless use sunglasses.
-Fluids. Finally, I check the gas, brake fluid and coolant (if applicable).

Now that I have already checked them all, off I can go to another thrilling race adventure. Nothing to bother me anymore! No hassles. No worries. =)

Clubber’s Against the Patriot Act

2005-08-05T01:15:00.000-07:00

Forty-five days after the September 11 attack, Congress passed the USA PATRIOT ACT. Numerous Americans refuted its provisions because it is said to violate privacy. It restricts freedom up to the extent that access to medical and tax records, home and conduct searches are allowed.

Travis in his blog entitled Motorcycle Clubs Stand Up Against the Patriot Act said, “Motorcyclists in general tend to be independent, freedom loving folks. Clubs may get a bad rap from time and time, and yes, some clubs have criminals, just like some neighborhoods. But, clubs are also doing a lot of good standing up to often ridiculous legislation and donating significant time, effort and cash to a large variety of charitable organizations. Recently, member clubs of the Northern California Confederation of Clubs have advised their members to write letters to their Senators protesting restrictions passed in the USA Patriot Act. The clubs take particular issue with the vague definition of “persons of interest” and are concerned that they will receive increased attention and criminal prosecution under Patriot Act enforcement efforts.

Tom Swift, in his blog Pair ‘O Dice expressed his stand regarding the matter. An excerpt of his article entitled Motorcycle clubs oppose Patriot Act said:

According to Nick Vales, a Vagos member and founder of the Sacramento Bill of Rights Society, the California Justice Department classifies Hell's Angels and Vagos as "motorcycle gangs" and treats them the same as street gangs. Critics call this a form of group profiling.

Under the California Gang Abatement Act, a misdemeanor charge ("like spitting on the sidewalk," said Vales) automatically becomes a felony if you are identified as agang member, and a six-month sentence can be increased to five or 10 years. Italso becomes a strike against you under California's Three-Strike law.

People are being coerced by the threat of long sentences to sign a statement admitting to being a gang member. "This would make me a 'person of interest' under the Patriot Act," Vales said. "Because of the vagueness of the legislation, if I go to see my brother in Chicago, I can be charged with money laundering because I take cash across a state line and am identified with a motorcycle club."