Well here we are with a New Year and another great riding season is in store for us all. Now is the time to start the new season out on the right foot with a T-Clock inspection. An explanation of the T-Clock and a check off list can be found on this web page.

     Also remember that when traveling in the early season you'll come up on plenty of construction zones. Construction zones present plenty of challenges by themselves, but when a crew has finished paving only half the road, leaving a step up or down between the lanes, the danger factor rises.

     Improve your odds with this simple tip: If you have a choice, ride in the higher lane. In an emergency, changing from high to low will be less dicey.

     And if you have to cross from the low lane to high lane, don't just wander across the transition. Slow down and turn so that you take it at a sharper angle.

     Also think again about those tires. Motorcycle tires work best after they're warmed up. 

     We all know tires don't stick as well when they're cold. Most times, that's not a problem, as you're unlikely to be pushing the limit in the first few miles of a ride.

     But on days when you're riding twisty roads, remember that a lunch stop, or even a shorter break at an overlook, gas or ice cream stop, means your tires will lose some of their heat.

     Take it easy for the first couple miles after you start riding again.

     Also, when starting out on new tires, always take it easy for the first 100 miles. New tires are slick and don't have the griping power of a tire that is properly broke in.

     Here's wishing everyone an exciting, safe and enjoyable 2006 riding season.

     Don

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