I just read the article posted by Dennis concerning unlicensed riders
http://showmeriders.org/smf/index.php?topic=382.0. That got me to thinking about the many riders out there we see day in and day out while wondering what lot number Cracker Jacks box did he get his license! Most states require a special endorsement on your operators permit to operate a motorcycle. There's almost always a written exam and a skills test you have to perform to prove competency on a bike. All of this costs extra money and, those of us willing to abide by the law will gladly pay it in order to enjoy our lifestyle (it ain't just a sport!).
As you all know, I am a MSF instructor so I constantly look to see how other riders are doing as they ride down the road. I look to see if they'll move to a staggered formation as I come up from behind. I look for head turns when they enter a curve, or if they keep their head up and use both brakes as they come to a stop. I look at their posture and their riding gear. All of this is simple stuff to most of us here as we have chosen the narrow path, but those who choose the wide road are very easy to spot.
Once again, before you get out the ropes and look for a tree to lynch me from, I'm not saying people who don't ride like we do are unlicensed or untrained riders! Even I get complacent at times and have been known to ride off wearing a vest and T-shirt on a hot summer day! No, all I'm saying is that it sure makes it easier for the police to spot the riders whose training is questionable by the way they ride (rear brake only, both feet down for several feet while taking off) and will start to look for reasons to pull them over for a license check. Good thing too because, if you don't have an M/C endorsement, then you don't have insurance and I want that person off the road!
How does all of this relate to safety? Simple, most people would never think about engaging in an activity that is dangerous without some sort of training and, when that activity requires a license, those same people tend to seek professional training. Those are the people who have a desire to keep, if nothing else, themselves safe. For those who look at a motorcycle and think, "Man, that looks cool, I think I'll get one." and then go and buy one (you don't need a license to buy a motorcycle and, in most cases you don't need proof of insurance for a cash sale) and start riding thinking, this is easy, are the ones who will get
us hurt right along with themselves! I don't need that kind of aggravation in my life, nor do I need to have my insurance company to engage in a lawsuit that will yield nothing in the long run but higher rates for all of us.
A license is a good thing. A very good thing, indeed as it helps us remain safer on the roads. In my opinion I think that when a bike is confiscated because its owner is unlicensed they should be made to pay for the MSF class, pay double for their license and impound/towing fees and then be made to do public service at the next class (you know, guest speaker on the woes of operating a vehicle without the proper endorsements/insurance). Off with their heads! Sorry. But seriously, if you, or someone you know, are riding without a license, talk to them. We can figure out a way for them to get the endorsement (and training if needed) so they too can be legal on the road.
Be Safe!
ShowMe Riders Organization
Author
