News Search

News

News/Video Story: Born to ride, ride to live

  • Published
  • By Senior Airman Nestor Cruz
  • 18th Wing Public Affairs
Approximately 80 motorcycle riders took to the streets of Kadena Air Base Friday for the Motorcycle Rider Safety Awareness Ride as part of the 101 Critical Days of Summer. 

The ride, which followed a bi-annual motorcycle rider all-call, was sponsored by the 18th Wing Ground Safety Office. 

"This event is not just for motorcycle riders, but for everyone who shares the road," said Tech. Sgt. Mark Hazelbaker, 18th Wing Ground Safety NCO-in-charge. "Because of rising gas prices, the motorcycle and scooter population is exploding on Okinawa and car drivers need to be aware that riders are out there." 

Local Japanese police also attended the event and gave participants a motorcycle safety demonstration. 

"We're working with the Japanese police because we know motorcycle safety is a serious topic off-base," said Sergeant Hazelbaker. "We want to show them our riders are serious about safety and they're not out there causing trouble." 

Friday's all-call was held to highlight safe riding practices and reflects a growing concern Air Force-wide about motorcycle safety. 

"Motorcycle safety is a highly-emphasized topic not only in the Air Force, but among all branches of the Department of Defense," said Sergeant Hazelbaker. "To that end, we offer a mandatory beginner's rider course and experienced rider's course free of charge." 

Two full-time instructors teach the courses using the same curriculum offered in the United States through the Motorcycle Safety Foundation. 

In addition to attending the required safety courses, riders must wear appropriate rider safety gear. This safety gear includes full-fingered gloves, sturdy shoes, pants and a long sleeve shirt. 

"We also recommend riders wear a Department of Transportation-approved helmet," said Tech. Sgt. Andy Chang, 18th Wing Ground Safety motorcycle safety rep. 

Riders must perform a safety inspection of their motorcycle prior to riding. An inspection checklist which uses the acronym "TCLOCK" covers inspection of tires and wheels, controls, lights, oil, chassis and kickstand. 

"It's just a tiny bit of rubber between the rider and the road," said Sergeant Chang, "so if a mishap happens, only good safety practices will save the rider." 

Lieutenant Colonel Norm West, 18th Wing director of staff, was one of the guest speakers at the motorcycle rider all-call. 

"The 18th Wing is committed to increasing its motorcycle rider safety culture," Colonel West said. "Losing a single rider is one too many."

The video for this story can be viewed here.