Between the Handlebars: November 2010

Fall riding is some of the best out there; enjoyed a great pair of rides in early November (see previous post). Great to get out during the change of seasons, though warm clothing is a must. Luckily there is a good amount of quality gear out there. Also a good idea to watch out for wet leaves in the road (they can be slick), and especially watch for cagers....distractions such as cell phones are always a danger, but as fewer of us ride in the colder weather, we can be more "out of mind" than normal. So ride defensively! This is also a good time to check maintenance on your bike; give it a good pre and post ride check before every ride, and make sure its in top condition. Tire pressures are important, as they can change with the changing temperatures. As the saying goes; "Ride to Live, but Live to Ride"!
Speaking of rides, this time of year is great for big charity rides. Nothing like the sound of a big group of bikes riding together to do something good. Many groups (such as the Charlotte branch of the VRA) have already done some rides, which is especially appreciated this time of year with so much need out there. One really fun ride is the "8th Annual Arzie Rogers Toy Run" which will be held this year on November 21. It will leave from Cannon Stadium at 1pm, with registration starting at 10am. The cost is just a new unwrapped toy. For that you get to go on a great ride which is police escorted from beginning to end (and the police are a hoot, believe me!). The ride ends at Pat Rogers Harley-Davidson. I went last year, had a meal there, and a lot of giveaways. It is a really great time for a great cause.
At Full Throttle Magazine (I have a link on this page) there are a number of rides listed all over the state. At Thunder Road, the rides are fewer, but you might check with local motorcycle dealers for a ride near you. Bundle up, and have a great time!