Labor Day MotorcyclingWith the Labor Day holiday weekend about to begin, the American Motorcyclist Association is urging others to drive safely and show extra courtesy to motorcyclists.Labor Day weekend, Sept. 4-7, represents the last long weekend of the summer, and many motorcyclists take advantage of the opportunity to get out on the roads. At the same time, families view the holiday as an opportunity to go to the lake, the campgrounds or a plan a picnic. And unfortunately, each year, many people use the holiday as an excuse to drink and drive. Putting those three groups on the highways together creates a potentially perilous situation for all road users.
“Holiday travel can increase the likelihood of driver distraction, particularly with family members in the car,” said Rob Dingman, AMA president and CEO. “So, we are encouraging everyone on the roads this weekend to focus on their driving, to be aware of other vehicles and hazards at all times and to slow or stop when the need arises.”To help ensure a safe holiday, the AMA recommends that car and truck drivers:
Keep a close eye out for the increased number of motorcyclists on the roads
Leave early to avoid the temptation to speed
Designate a non-drinking driver or plan for alternative transportation
Motorcyclists are encouraged to:
Take more frequent breaks to remain rested and alert
Minimize onboard distractions, such as music players and other gadgets
Never ride while impaired
Provide an extra safety cushion of space between your bike and the vehicle you are following
Wear the proper protective gear
“We want everyone to arrive safely at their destination, so they can fully enjoy this holiday weekend,” Dingman said. “Taking a little extra time and a little extra care can contribute to a significantly safer experience.”For additional information on the American Motorcyclist Association, visit the AMA website.
Our first segment introduces you to the new Arch 1s. This latest, slightly more sporting American V-twin, adds to the original KRGT1 coming from the boutique manufacturer based in Hawthorne, Southern California. Senior Editor Nic de Sena rode through Malibu with Gard Hollinger, who co-founded Arch Motorcycle with his friend, Keanu Reeves. The 1s is a unique ride for sure, and Nic explains what makes the bike really stand out.
For the entertaining story behind Arch Motorcycle from Gard Hollinger himself, you must listen to his podcast episode on Motos & Friends HERE
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The guest segment of Motos and Friends is brought to you by the faster and most technologically advanced, 2023 Suzuki Hayabusa—visit your local dealer or suzukicycles.com to learn more.
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In our second segment, Associate Editor Teejay Adams chats with multiple Emmy award-winning writer, Producer, Director, and actor, Thom Beers. the former Chairman & CEO of Fremantle Media North America, responsible for American Idol and America’s Got Talent.
Thom’s fertile imagination led to most of the really big reality TV shows such as ‘Deadliest Catch’ (now in its 17th season!), and many others. Of course for us in the motorcycle world, you’ll be interested to hear the genesis and story of how he started the first real fabrication reality show ‘Monster Garage’, that showcased Jesse James, and then how that led to ‘Biker Build Off’ and the ‘Zombie Choppers’ movie.
You’d imagine that most of Thom’s time is spent sitting behind a desk and on his phone. Not so. His intense stories of capturing much of the content for these shows make for some hair-raising listening.
