We’re waiting to see if this will get passed this year in Michigan.
Motorcyclists in Michigan would be able to buy a permit to ride without a helmet if a newly-introduced bill becomes law.
It would apply to riders who are 21 years or older, have been licensed to operate a motorcycle for at least two years or completed a safety class, and have at least $20,000 in health insurance. The $100-a-year permit would make helmets optional. Any passenger over 21 years riding with a permit holder wouldn’t need a helmet.
State Representative Richard LeBlanc (D-Westland) said wearing a helmet should be a personal choice. LeBlanc told Capitol News Service of the Macomb Daily newspaper that he’s been involved with the issue since the 1970s when he started riding a motorcycle, adding that he introduced the bill because he believes that wearing a helmet should be a personal choice.
The bill is pending in the House Committee on Regulatory Reform, though ABATE of Michigan reportedly does not support the legislation and is dedicated to working with their new governor to repeal the existing helmet law with no fees, additional insurance or stickers.
Michigan riders, spearheaded by ABATE and the Confederation of Clubs of Michigan, succeeded in passing helmet repeal legislation twice since 2006 only to have both bills vetoed by outgoing Gov. Jennifer Granholm.
Popularity: unranked [?]
The machine that Loris Capirossi and Alvaro Bautista will be riding in this season’s MotoGP World Championship is the fourth generation of the 800cc GSV-R four-stroke prototype Grand Prix bike. It has been developed for the 2010 season with a focus of improved acceleration as well as increased durability to coincide with the new engine restrictions that will be implemented into this year’s championship.
The improvements were made to the aerodynamics, chassis performance and electronic systems makes this the most technically advanced racing motorcycle that the Suzuki factory has ever produced.
Popularity: unranked [?]
TOOB is a new Italian motorcycle boot brand, now on the market with its road and racing boot, Xanto. The new boot is made from microfibre and breathable materials, with polyurethane protection points and rubber sole with custom design. The company has been established by Giuliano Gazzola, who has been making motorcycle boots since the 1970’s.
TOOB boots are made to quality specifications and also include a range of motocross and leather boots in the ‘Classic’ line-up for touring. Gazzola says:
Today with TOOB my philosophy is to produce high quality motorcycle footwear, conceived and designed for the needs of most expert riders, seeking new materials and new solutions for the future. Particular attention is given to the design, modeling, aesthetics, fit and choice of materials such as: leather, protection, soles, shapes and care at various stages of processing and finishing.
For more information see the TOOB website. Also I do encourage checking out Two Wheeled Blog, great content and motorcycle resource.
Popularity: unranked [?]
