More Than Just a Ride

The passion ignited in our eyes

By: Debbi Serafinchon

Regardless of the type of bike we choose to ride, motorcyclists are often painted with the same brush; we are risk-takers, thrill seekers, or adrenaline junkies. While there may be some riders out there who fit that bill, there are other reasons why both men and women choose to ride such as:

• Freedom
• Adventure
• Connectedness
• Badass
• Joy
• Rush

If riders only wanted to take risks and we just set out in search for a thrill, motorcycle training schools and organizations like the Alberta Motorcycle Safety Society would not exist. The image of being an unpredictable, reckless show-off doesn’t describe everyone who throws their leg over the saddle of a bike, it’s really only a small minority that represent that attitude.

So why do so many of us not only choose to ride a motorcycle but get passionately and enthusiastically entangled with it?

In the blog, Not all Riders Are Reckless and Why That’s Important, the writer, Loryn tells us that motorcyclists do not want to seek risks, we want to master it. Reading her explanation made sense to me because “if all I was after were the thrill or the danger”, I would not take measures to ensure I rode my bike safely and from the people, I’ve talked too, neither would they.

People who want to master danger are more likely to embrace the safety aspect of the risk. They are the ones that will invest in the proper gear and take the time to understand their bike. They are the ones signing up for beginner and advanced training courses. They are the ones that investigate their options when it comes to the type of motorcycle they want to ride. They are the ones that want more than just to ride.

They are the ones that sign up for memberships that promote safety for all on the road.

AMSS focuses on safety, education, and awareness for all those in Alberta who are motorcycle riders. Our board is made up of riders just like you. Formed by a few determined to make it safer for all to be on the road, we have steadily grown over the last few years. Recognized on municipal, provincial, and even national levels, the AMSS is proud to partner with industry, law enforcement, and decision makers to seek and promote ways to improve safety on our roads.

We are fortunate to have a wonderful group of dedicated media partners more than willing to share our messages through public service announcements, and we couldn’t get our message out to all of Alberta without their impressive support.

We all play a role in ensuring our roads are safe for everyone that uses them, and while AMSS works hard to promote the message of safety for both drivers and riders, we can’t do it alone. We know that working together with our community, we can send a more powerful message.

Please consider buying a membership with the AMSS to allow us to connect, educate, and create awareness that drives positive social change for the motorcycling community as a whole. Click here to sign up for a low annual rate of $20.00 and to check out the fantastic discounts you’ll receive from a number of our Corporate Members.