National Motorcycle Ride Day rolls around every year on the second Saturday in October.
According to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA), motorcycle fatalities were down three percent in 2017. That's good news, but 5,172 fatalities is still a disproportionately high number. National Motorcycle Ride Day is not just a fun day, it's designed to spread awareness of motorcyclists on the roads and promote safety.
So use this day to hop on your motorcycle and have some fun, discover new places, relive some stress, and enjoy the all the thrills a motorcycle has to offer. It doesn't matter the type of motorcycle you own or the type of rider you are, all that matters is you ride. And be sure to follow these NHTSA safe riding tips while you're out:
- Inspect your motorcycle before each trip, including tire pressure, tread condition, brakes, and lights
- Ride in controlled environments until you're confident riding in a variety of conditions, such as different road surfaces and weather conditions
- Be visible to other motorists
- Avoid unnecessary risks while riding, and follow the same rules and laws as other motorists
- Wear appropriate clothing and a safe helmet that meets DOT standards
According to resources, the significance of October is because John B. Dunlop developed the first practical pneumatic tire in 1887. Also, October is near the end of riding season for a lot of motorcyclists in North America. Without John B. Dunlop's development in tire technology, motorcycles might not perform the same as they do now and therefore might not be as enjoyable. So get out there and go for a ride and be sure to post your pictures or videos on social media using #NationalMotorcycleRideDay.
Did you know? National Motorcycle Ride Day was submitted in August 2015 by Chade Geer of Dunlop Tire, North America.
Check out some of our favorite photos submitted by readers below.
Ross H., Wizard Island at Crater Lake
John S., Devil's Tower, Wyoming
Rich N., Mount Rushmore
Stephanie M., Devil's Whip
