World of Soul® Motorcycle Community's founder, Terry Hardy at center-court for the honorary tip-off for the Illinois Special Olympics tournament at Illinois State University.
Motorcyclists often feel misunderstood by the rest of the world. It seems like many people have a negative opinion of bikers, and that makes it tough to get support access to opportunities like usage of venues, program and event funding, better roads or more parking options. But why is this the case? Let's break down some of the reasons behind this negative perception.
The image of motorcycling is a problem.
For starters, there's the noise issue. Loud pipes are a common complaint from non-riders. Motorcycles are just naturally louder than most other vehicles, and some bikers modify their exhausts to make them even louder. This can definitely rub people the wrong way.
Then there's the way some motorcyclists drive. Now, I'm not saying everyone does this, but there's a stereotype of bikers as reckless and inconsiderate. Things like weaving through traffic or speeding can make other drivers feel unsafe and annoyed.
Some people also feel like motorcyclists have a sense of entitlement. You might hear non-riders complain about bikers ignoring traffic laws or acting like they own the road. This attitude can definitely create some serious resentment.
There's also a feeling that motorcyclists are a danger to others. Because bikes are smaller and harder to see, there's a fear that they're more likely to get into accidents. This worry can make non-riders feel unsafe, especially on busy roads. The fact is, motorcycles are more vulnerable on the road. It takes very little for a collision to turn into a serious injury for a biker. And sadly, sometimes those injuries are fatal. Knowing this makes a lot of people really uncomfortable.
Some people think that motorcyclists are trying to show off. You know, the idea that riding a motorcycle is about being rebellious or tough. That attitude can definitely put off people who just want to get from point A to point B.
And then there's the news. Unfortunately, there are some high-profile cases of violence involving motorcycle gangs that really reinforce that negative image. And it's true, those incidents make the general public even more wary of bikers in general.
So, what can be done? Organizations like World of Soul® Motorcyclist Association, Riders United to Serve Humanity™ and Ride for CHANGE Ride for HOPE™ Foundation are great examples of how motorcycle groups can make a positive impact. They show that bikers aren't just about the open road – they care about their communities too. Ride for CHANGE Ride for HOPE™ Foundation does a lot of work with at-risk youth. They mentor kids, help them with gaining experiences through college tours featuring Historically Black Colleges and Universities, connect them with college scholarships, and provide them with positive role models. Riders United to Serve Humanity™ and the members of World of Soul® Motorcyclist Association and are both focused on raising money for important causes. They've supported everything from cancer research to disaster relief.
It's also important to remember the impression we make on children. Motorcyclists are often seen as cool and adventurous, and young people are looking for role models. By following the rules of the road, dressing appropriately, and being courteous to other drivers, we can show them that responsible motorcycling is a fun and rewarding activity. This can help to create a new generation of safe and positive riders who will continue to advocate for the motorcycling community.
Having an association like World of Soul® Motorcyclist Association is really important too for a couple of reasons. First, it gives the motorcycle community a united voice. When you've got a big group speaking up for the same things, people tend to pay attention. It also helps set standards for the whole community to reconcile issues by reconciling the images being cast upon society. They can push for things like rider training programs and safety initiatives.
Joining an organization like this gives you a sense of community with other riders. You can get advice, make new friends, and just feel like you're part of something bigger than yourself. Plus, you might get access to discounts on gear, events, and training.
When you join an organization like World of Soul® Motorcyclist Association, you're automatically part of changing the image of motorcycling. See, when people hear about the good work these groups do, it challenges the old stereotypes. It shows the public that bikers are regular people who care about their communities.
A more positive image of motorcyclists means more people might consider buying a bike. It could also make politicians more open to rider-friendly policies, like better road maintenance or designated motorcycle lanes. And that's good for everyone involved – riders, the motorcycle industry, and even the general public.
To join World of Soul® Motorcyclist Association, you'll need to head over to their website at www.wosma.com where you’ll find information on membership options and benefits. You can also attend a meeting or event to get a feel for the organization and see if it's a good fit for you.
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