California
The states anti-profiling bill (A.B. 2972), would prohibit law enforcement officers from stopping and questioning motorcyclist based on their choice of vehicle or clothing,cleared the policy committee on a 5-2 vote. However, the measure met opposition on the Assembly floor, resulting in a 28-24 vote against the bill. Assembly member Ann Caballero who introduced the bill, requested reconsideration, which means the bill may be voted on again before the July1 deadline. Also A.B.2761 introduced by Assembly member Jay Obernolte, would authorize the driver of a vehicle facing a traffic-actuated signal that fails to turn green with in a reasonable period of time to proceed with caution when it is safe to do so, after having stopped at the intersection. Similar legislation has been adopted in 16 states already.

Florida
Driving requirements for auto cycles change July 1, allowing residents to operate these vehicles with a valid state driver’s license.
According to the American Association of Motor Vehicle Administrators, an auto cycle is “a three-wheel motorcycle that has a steering wheel and seating that does not require the operator to straddle or sit astride it”.

Nebraska
The auto cycle definition has been adopted for three-wheeled vehicles such as the Polaris Slingshot. State residents no longer have to obtain a motorcycle endorsement to drive them in Nebraska. State Sen, Jim Smith, who sponsored the legislation, said the change helps broaden the market for the vehicles and “makes it easier for the small businesses who sell them to expand and create jobs.”

Colorado
H.B.1272 is a distracted driving proposal that requires cell service providers to make distraction-control technology available. Use of the technology would be at the customer’s discretion. The technology would limit distracting content from the network on any mobile device while the customer is driving. The bill was introduced by state Reps Mike Foote and Jovan Melton.

Mississippi
Drivers of auto cycles, such as the Polaris Slingshot, will no longer have to obtain a motorcycle endorsement on their licenses after July 1. Mississippi is the 43rd state to adopt such legislation.

Michael Theodore
National Road Captain
State of Ohio Coordinator

The question always comes up. Should you stick with the tire pressure recommended in your owner’s manual? Or should you go by the maximum pressure listed on your tires sidewall?

Answer to this question is. Check the air pressure with a good tire gauge. Check them when your tires are cold or at least 3 hours after a ride. As part of your pre-ride inspection, and adjust it according to your motorcycle owner’s manual. Or the tire information label on the chain guard,frame or swing arm.
There maybe two sets of recommendations for tire pressure one for solo riding and one for riding with a passenger and /or cargo.
Never exceed the maximum inflation pressure listed on the tire’s sidewall. And never exceed the motorcycle’s or tire load limit (combined weight of operator,passenger,cargo and accessories), since that can cause tire failure.
Some riders reduce the frequency of tire pressure checks to once a week or two before long trips. And perform only a visual inspection for surface conditions is this you? How ever, be aware that it is impossible to determine proper inflation by appearance alone. Again a accurate pressure gauge is needed, unless your motorcycle is equipped with a tire pressure monitoring system that gives a specific pressure read out.
Proper tire pressure is critical for optimal bike handling and maximum tire life.
Under-inflation or overloading can cause heavy steering,irregular wear,internal damage due to over-flexing and tire separation from the rim. Over inflation can reduce the contact area (and available traction) and can make the motorcycle react harshly to bumps.
Safe riding depends on selecting the right tires,inspecting them and maintaining them and replacing them.
Always be aware while riding Keep the contact patch between the lines.

Michael Theodore
National Road Captain
State of Ohio Coordinator