By Bob (Ram) Muessig
What do you think of when you hear the term "RV" or recreational vehicle? Most folks think of things such as motorhomes, travel-trailers, fifth-wheel trailers or pick-up campers. Some picture other items like live-aboard motorboats, sailboats, and other large watercraft. Actually, the words "recreational vehicle" may cover a whole lot more than one would think.
Let's pick it apart. Recreation is defined as play - anything done to have fun, whether as an individual, family, or group. Vehicle would mean any type of device used to transport goods or people. Now, what kind of vehicles could be used to transport goods or people (in this case - people) and be used to have fun? A mighty big list comes to mind - cars, pick-ups, sport utility vehicles, planes, boats, ad infinitum. Of course, this list would include motorhomes, campers, trailers, and so on.
If you expand this list, you'll find that kids use recreational vehicles, too. They're always zipping about on skateboards, in-line skates, and bicycles. In fact, these vehicles may be more recreational than some of the others, for one can see that kids are definitely having fun with them.
Let's expand the list even further and include motorcycles among our selections. Are they recreational vehicles? Darn right, and probably are in the truest sense of the word. Motorcycles are used by nearly every age group imaginable, from about the teens (or earlier) to the eighties. Folks use them to race around in the woods or hills, travel to and from work, and tour the country. Some involved in the latter even pull trailers which unfold to furnish a two or three room tent. Surprisingly enough, these tents are quite roomy, containing a living room, bathroom, and bedroom. If you're the sort who enjoys camping in the great outdoors, something like this may be just what you've been looking for. Groups like the International Brotherhood of Motorcycle Campers have been formed for just this purpose (See their website at www.ridgecrest.ca.us/~mrosen/ibmc.html).
Is there a downside to motorcycling? Yes. Many people, when driving their cars, trucks, or whatever, aren't looking for motorcycles. As a result, motorcycles are often not seen by the motorist. This creates a potential for accidents, so the motorcyclist must, out of necessity, plan much further in advance for the unexpected. The biker has to operate the bike more aggressively and defensively at the same time. Motorcycles may be quicker and more maneuverable than other vehicles, but they are also more vulnerable and so are their riders.
Operators of other types of motor vehicles must be ever alert for motorcycles. They are everywhere, especially during the late spring, summer, and early fall seasons, on every road, highway, and trail there is. Driving a bit slower than the speed limit is not a bad idea. It gives a driver more time to look around - no, not look at the scenery - but look at things that may be around, like other vehicles. Being aware of what's in the vicinity of your vehicle may be just the thing that prevents injury or death, and none of us wants to responsible for something like that.
Here are a few simple guidelines which may help
1. During heavy traffic, don't get in a hurry.
2. Look around. Be aware of what's in your vicinity.
3. Use your mirrors.
4. Use your turn signals. Never let someone guess what you're going to do.
5. Never tailgate. Some folks tend to stomp on the brakes when they see another vehicle following too close behind them.
6. If someone is tailgating your vehicle, simply slow down. Sooner or later, they will pass. Then you can observe their accident instead of being an active participant.
7. During warm weather, be especially on the lookout for motorcycles. They have as much right to use the highways as anyone else.
With all this in mind, enjoy the summer. Happy travelin'.
Ram & Alice Muessig are long time contributors to RVers Online, and operate their own web site, RV Safety (http://www.rvsafety.com).