Ride Recap - March 2010
Every year Chapter 109 holds their Skills Day (safety training), we do this so we can keep our riding skills sharp and help the newer riders stay safe.
This year, in the spirit of multi chapter camaraderie, we decided to invite several local chapters to join us. When the idea was fist introduced, some on the ride committee thought we were nuts, considering the crowd control and overall safety.
After several meetings and major discussions, it was decided to go ahead with the “Multi Chapter Skills Day”. Riders from chapters 460, 434, 422, 415, 230 and of course 109 were asked to attend the Skills Day hosted by Chapter 109, instructed by Vinnie Greva and his supporting staff. The ride was held at a large parking lot where several safety cones were setup in various patterns.
The first order of the day was a brief meeting to review upcoming events and prepare the riders for what to expect for the day. The bikes were looked over for anything that might cause a problem for the rider; need of new tires or any modifications that could pose a safety problem. If we did find a problem like low tire pressure or handle bar adjustments, we had a small tech station set up to handle it.
Nearly
50 riders, including some Lady Riders, lined up to maneuver their machines
through the rigorous course. Vinnie and his crew spent several hours
directing and showing the riders how to command their motorcycles with
confidence and safety. It was an excellent platform for finding your limits
and learning things you never knew, right down to how even a small
modification like handlebars could impair your safety. After an intense morning of exercise, the riders were treated to pizza for lunch. There were several comments about the skills day thus far and all were extremely positive, even the “seasoned” riders learned new tactics that could ultimately save their lives. After about an hour break, it was back to the course for a few more hours of cone maneuvers and proper braking procedures for sudden stops. It was a very rewarding day as the riders commended Vinnie and his helpers for all of their support. All went away with a feeling of gratitude knowing that our comrades did a great service to further the safety and knowledge of our STAR riders.
Ride With Pride!............By: Sandy Cassel