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Show GUEST EDITORIAL By Charles H. Hartman, President, Motorcycle Safety Fou ndation More and more Americans are taking to the highway on two wheels instead of four. Morjrcycling isn't enjoyed en-joyed just by the young; it's becoming a real part of the lifestyle of many fuel-conscious fuel-conscious Americans. With motorcycling's grow-ST grow-ST v-rt inf? popularity Ziiw'J there's even Wmore need j-'" for motor- V cycle safety a t - . knowledge C 'Wj among riders. Hartman Riding a motorcycle requires plenty of skill. In addition, riders must protect their bodies when they ride, because a motorcycle doesn't afford as much protection as a car. Protective gear includes a helmet, gloves, long sleeves, sturdy pants and boots. The most important piece of protective equipment you can own is a helmet. Reaching for your helmet should be as automatic as reaching for the ignition key. Studies show you're three times as likely to suffer a head injury in an accident if you're not wearing wear-ing a helmet. No one expects to have an accident. Researchers have found that most accidents occur less than five miles from hqrne. Since yon caji't predic. when, an aseijjerit' may Happen, It nrwki-seijise to prptect yourself ;at all times.. IX. you're fipt wearing a helmet, ' ever) i a rrynor accidentr can "have seri9y or fatal consequences. ' There are several types of helmets available; prices vary widely. Whatever tyle you choose the most important impor-tant thingj to remember is: wear youj helmet every time you,- ride, no matter how short or long the trip. |