With the help of 208 hp, the Ducati Streetfighter V4 S lifts a little leg. (Ducati/)
Whether or not you believe racing improves streetbike product, there’s a familiar trickle-down effect from bikes made to race down to bikes made to sell. Following the reveal of the Ducati Panigale V4 R (read the WorldSBK, Meet Ducati’s 2023 Panigale V4 R Superbike article), it was just a matter of time before the rest of the V4 clan debuted.
World, meet the Ducati Streetfighter V4, Streetfighter V4 S, and Streetfighter V4 SP2. For starters, nice to see the apt and inspiring Streetfighter name live on (looking at you, BMW M 1000 R Roadster).
If you’ve been following all things V4, you’ll be pleasantly unsurprised by some new touches. At its heart, the Streetfighters’ “Fight Formula” is unchanged: Ducati puts all the ungodly track power it can muster in streetable naked bike form; then it shaves off a few horsepower, perhaps for irony or simply to assuage its Italian conscience.
The 2023 Streetfighter V4 press release clocked in at exactly 1,983 words, only 174 fewer words than the Panigale V4 R release. Much of it was adopted word for word. While that doesn’t say much from a literary standpoint, it says plenty about what you get with your new Streetfighter V4.
Three major developments stand out. Chassis geometry is upgraded, with the V4 S and V4 SP2 getting semi-active suspension along with a slightly larger fuel tank across all V4 variants. Electronics packages and displays are upgraded as well, with improved software and calibration to harness the upgraded Desmosedici Stradale engine. Finally, they all get slightly upgraded livery and bits of fairing.
Across the board, Streetfighter V4s get a slightly higher (0.16 inch/4mm) swingarm pivot, putting a bit more weight toward the front. The V4 S semi-active Öhlins suspension comes with Smart EC 2.0 interface, along with lighter forged aluminum alloy Marchesini wheels. A reshaped 4.5-gallon fuel tank (previously 4.2 gallons) is said to offer better support during braking and cornering.
Improved electronics are part of the deal, with the base V4 getting its own brand-new Wet Riding mode. Otherwise, between the Full, High, Medium, and Low riding modes, Full and Low are newly developed, with the Full mode free from any torque limitations except in first gear. Low mode limits things to 165 hp in low-grip environments.
Additionally, like the Panigale, the new Engine Braking Control (EBC) EVO2 software works to keep contact patches rolling during corner entry and braking. Ducati Quick Shifting (DQS) has likewise been improved, in both partial and full throttle acceleration.
Following 2022′s lead, there are two small winglets on the 2023 iteration, with very minor design changes to the fascia and bodywork. Colors available are Ducati Red, plus the new Grey and Nero livery exclusive to the V4 S.
It goes without saying that all this hurtles through time and space due to the 1,103cc Desmosedici Stradale V-4 engine, capable of 208 hp at 13,000 rpm. The exhaust system has been slightly revised with a larger-diameter silencer outlet for less back pressure.
As for that limited-edition V4 SP2, it comes in Winter Test livery, which closely follows the Grey/Nero colors. It also gets an STM-EVO dry clutch complete with carbon cover to show off the rattly bits. Five split-spoke carbon rims, Brembo Stylema R front brakes, adjustable footpegs, and carbon fiber front mudguards and block-off plates for mirrors and license plate complete the package.
The Streetfighter V4 and V4 S start off at $22,095 and $27,595 MSRP, respectively. The Streetfighter V4 SP2 starts at $37,395 MSRP.
Careful with the flash, man! The Ducati Streetfighter V4 S shows off some night moves. (Ducati/)
The base Ducati Streetfighter V4 in Ducati Red. (Ducati/)
The Ducati Streetfighter V4 S in Grey and Nero livery. (Ducati/)
The Ducati Streetfighter V4 SP2 in Winter Test livery. (Ducati/)
Front styling and bodywork is largely unchanged for 2023. (Ducati/)
The Ducati Streetfighter V4 SP2 dry clutch and lower fairing badging. (Ducati/)
Adding another notch to the company’s proverbial belt of 2023 bikes, Ducati announced the continued evolution of its “Fight Formula” with the 2023 Ducati Streetfighter V4 and V4 S models, as well as an exclusive Streetfighter V4 SP2.
Unveiled in 2019 for the 2020 model year, the Streetfighter V4, with aggressive and minimalist aesthetic and characterized by a front inspired by the Joker from the comic series, was hailed as setting new performance benchmarks in the supersport naked segment.
Ducati says the 2023 Streetfighter V4 models push the concepts of the “Fight Formula” even further, the key elements of which are the Panigale V4 stripped of its fairing, high and wide handlebars, a 392-lb dry weight, a 1,103cc Desmosedici Stradale making a claimed 208 hp at 13,000 rpm (with revised calibration to match the larger diameter of the silencer outlet), biplane wings, and the latest generation electronic package.
But the removal of the bodywork isn’t the only area where the new Streetfighter V4 aligns with the 2023 Panigale V4.
The new Streetfighter implements the Power Modes logic already developed in the Ducati Panigale V4 and V4 S with calibrations dedicated to the Desmosedici Stradale engine in the Streetfighter configuration. In addition to the previous High and Medium power modes, which have been revised for 2023, two new power modes have been developed: Full and Low.
For the High and Medium power modes, a new throttle-by-wire map management system has been developed with a dedicated calibration for each of the six gears for optimal acceleration. The new Full power mode allows the engine to have its full potential torque without electronic intervention, except in 1st gear, and the Low Power Mode has been designed for riding on low-grip surfaces, limiting the maximum power of the bike to 165 hp and offering a softer and more manageable throttle response.
2023 Ducati Streetfighter V4 S
The 2023 Streetfighter V4 also sees the introduction of the new “Wet” ride mode to make riding even safer on low-grip surfaces. The standard equipment is upgraded by a lithium-ion battery for the S and the SP2 version (which is 3.7 lb lighter than the previous one and already equipped on the Streetfighter V4 SP).
The dashboard of the 2023 Streetfighter V4 also follows the evolution followed by the Panigale V4. The graphics are revised in all views, which Ducati says makes the information more straightforward and allows the rider to make calibration adjustments easier.
As on the Panigale V4, the gear indicator is displayed via an external green LED signal. The dashboard offers the “Track Evo” display mode, which replicates the layout used on the MotoGP Desmosedici and provides an immediate view of the most important information and the intervention of the electronic controls.
The 2023 Streetfighter V4 also features the new Engine Brake Control (EBC) EVO 2 software, which is said to improves stability, precision, and directionality in the braking and corner entry phases. This software features a different gear-by-gear calibration on each of the three selectable levels. The new strategy was developed to optimize the amount of the engine brake based on the load on the rear end. In the first braking phase, when there is little load on the rear tire, the EBC EVO 2 provides less engine brake, increasing braking as the rider approaches the center of the corner. This upgrade provides additional control using the engine braking in all riding conditions and reduces locking up of the rear wheel in the most demanding braking sections.
2023 Ducati Streetfighter V4 S
The 2023 Streetfighter V4 also implements a new strategy for the Ducati Quick Shift (DQS) that improves the fluidity of shifting at every throttle opening, having dedicated strategies with the two situations for when the throttle is partially or fully open.
In partial throttle shifting, the strategy acts both through an injection cut and a reduction of ignition advance, making shifting smoother on roads. In full throttle shifting, typical of track use, the DQS strategy is refined with an evolution of the torque return phase that reportedly gives more stability to the bike and more consistency, therefore reducing lap times.
Finally, the cooling fan control strategy sees an update that now offers better operating temperature management and greater thermal comfort for the rider at typical road use speeds.
2023 Ducati Streetfighter V4 Chassis and Ergonomics
2023 Ducati Streetfighter V4 S in Grey/Nero
On the new Streetfighter V4, the chassis also follows the evolution of the Panigale V4 family to offer enthusiasts stability improvements, front-end feeling, and riding safety. The chassis includes a Front Frame and a single-sided swingarm, both in aluminum, with an NIX30 inverted 43mm fork and mechanically adjustable TTX36 shock absorber.
The Streetfighter V4 S semi-active Öhlins suspension also features SmartEC 2.0 interface for versatility and improved effectiveness and set-up time. In addition, the V4 S version features Marchesini forged aluminum wheels that reduce unsprung weight versus the standard V4 model.
As on the Panigale V4, the swingarm pivot of the 2023 Streetfighter V4 is positioned 0.16 inch (4mm) higher, increasing the anti-squat action for greater stability, precision, and the ability to maintain the trajectory in all acceleration situations.
The weight distribution also moves toward the front, loading it more and thus increasing accuracy and speed in corner entry. Finally, the ergonomics benefit from the new layout of the fuel tank, which is the same shape of the 2022 Panigale V4 and offers greater support to the rider during braking and cornering. The wet weight of the 2022 Streetfighter V4 S stands at 435.4 lb (197.5 kg).
The new “Front Frame” and the Desmosedici Stradale are left uncovered as much as possible, with minimal bodywork and streamlined lines for what Ducati says is a “clean, essential combination.”
2023 Ducati Streetfighter V4 S in Ducati Red
The Streetfighter V4 and V4 S models will be available in the U.S. and Canadian dealerships starting in spring 2023. The U.S. pricing for the Streetfighter V4 will start at $22,095 for the Streetfighter V4 in Ducati Red color, with the Streetfighter V4 S starting at $27,595 in Ducati Red and $27,795 for the new Grey/Nero color.
Story continues below 2023 Ducati Streetfighter V4 S gallery
2023 Ducati Streetfighter V4 SP2
To push the performance of the 2023 Streetfighter V4 even further, Ducati is also presenting its top-of-the-range Streetfighter V4 SP2 model in a numbered version that’s ready to hit the track.
2023 Ducati Streetfighter V4 SP2 in Winter Test
On the Streetfighter V4 SP2, the Desmosedici Stradale is equipped with the STM-EVO SBK dry clutch, which Ducati says provides an improved slipper function, even in the most aggressive situations, and more fluidity in all “off-throttle” phases, essential to be effective on the track when riding at the limit.
The Öhlins suspension has seen an update with springs and hydraulics identical to those of the Panigale V4. The bike features a carbon front fender and adjustable, machined aluminum foot-pegs that increase the lean angle and allow the rider to find the optimal position while riding, as well as a carbon clutch cover and block-off covers for removing the license plate holder and mirrors for strictly closed-course circuit riding.
The Streetfighter V4 SP2 is equipped with five-split-spoke carbon rims, 3.1 lb (1.4 kg) lighter than the forged aluminum ones mounted on the Streetfighter V4 S, which contributes to a reduction in the moment of inertia by 26% at the front and 46% at the rear, impacting the feel of the bike when changing direction. The Brembo Stylema R front brake calipers give high braking power and consistent performance even in the case of extended use on the track.
The Streetfighter V4 SP2 will also be available in spring 2023 in the Winter Test livery, designed by the Centro Stile Ducati taking inspiration from the Ducati Corse bikes used during the preseason tests of the MotoGP and WorldSBK Championships. The matte black of the bodywork, combined with the matte carbon finish of the rims and wings, contrasts with the bright red accents and exposed brushed aluminum tank and side covers of the radiators. The progressive number of the bike is lasered on the handlebar. The 2023 Streetfighter V4 SP2 starts at $37,995.
Our guest on Episode 48 of the Rider Magazine Insider Podcast is Dave Scott, who made a solo journey on the TransAmerica Trail. This is Part 2 of a three-part interview. We spoke to Scott in Episode 46, where he told us about the logistical challenges of just starting the TAT – dealing with the Covid-19 pandemic, having his KTM shipped from Louisiana to North Carolina, and riding his luggage-laden KTM through a hurricane and on wet, mud-slick trails. In Episode 46, Scott had gotten as far as the Mississippi River. In this episode, we pick up where we left off, and Scott shares his adventures in the Ozarks, the Great Plains, and the Rocky Mountains, where he faced his biggest challenge of the trip. This is another freewheeling, uncensored conversation full of humor, tangents, side stories, and insightful observations about what it’s like to ride solo across America on a dirtbike. Stay tuned for Part 3, where we hope Scott will finish telling us his epic tale of adventure! And look for Scott’s story in the adventure-themed November 2022 issue of Rider.
Yamaha Bicycles continues to massage its pedal-assist bicycles lineup for ‘22 with its improved Wabash RT gravel bike and CrossCore RC recreational all-arounder. (Joseph Agustin/)
Motorcycles and bicycles go hand in hand for many riders. Keen to leverage its existing powersport audience and grow into other fun-filled outdoor segments, Yamaha Bicycles has updated its dual sport–like pedal-assist bicycle entry with its 2022 Wabash RT gravel bike ($4,099). The kickstand-equipped CrossCore RC urban all-arounder ($3,099) also receives some improvements. Both cycles are categorized as Class 3 electric bikes limited to 28 mph with pedal assist.
The Wabash RT is designed for pedal bikers who want a road-style bicycle they can ride on road as well as off. Enter the 700c-wheel-equipped Wabash RT, powered by Yamaha’s proprietary PW generation electric motor. Although Yamaha Bicycles is new in the pedal-assist bicycle game here in the United States, the brand has been manufacturing these propulsion systems since the early ‘90s.
The Wabash RT is notable because it allows riders to experience the thrills and excitement of cycling in a remarkably easy-to-use package. Its 500-watt battery is built into the lower frame tube and charges via a household-style three-prong 120-volt power adapter, taking four hours to top off completely. Once charged to max, this pedal-assist bicycle offers a range of up to 100 miles in its lowest Eco power setting.
An easy-to-use LCD-style display fixed to the handlebar shows speed and other trip metrics and allows the rider to choose between four power modes. There’s also an automatic power setting which selects the ideal power setting after factoring in cadence (think engine rpm), road incline, and energy demand based on the effort exerted through the crank. The RT shifts gears smoothly through Shimano drivetrain components using a fixed center sprocket and a 11-speed rear gear.
Ergonomics-wise, the Wabash feels similar to a road-style cycle due to its more aggressive lowered handlebar with light outward flaring for comfort. This allows miles to melt away with ease.
Powerful hydraulic disc brakes keep speed in check and wide, meaty (for a road bike) Maxxis tires ensure added stability and comfort when riding over rough pavement. We were surprised by the grip level these Maxxis’ offer, even in sand. A mechanically actuated dropper post–type saddle (offering more than 1.5 inches of travel) adds versatility and makes it easier to ride over uneven terrain, or for mounting and dismounting. It also integrates a clever suspension system, so when hitting larger jolts and jumps, it gives a bit of cushion.
If you’re the type of person who wants to experience the thrill of road bike cycling but are maybe not in the best physical fitness, you could do really well with this bike. Despite a hefty 46.7-pound weight (size large), having the motor beneath you lets the rider go farther at a higher rate of speed, though of course the human part of the drivetrain must still burn some energy while contributing muscle power through the pedals. And that’s neat; the rider gets the best of both worlds, a little bit of exercise plus the ability to go farther and see more.
CrossCore RC
Yamaha’s CrossCore RC is a general-purpose pedal-assist bicycle designed for casual bicyclists who want to ride to school, work, the gym, the beach, everywhere. It’s also ideal for riding for pure pleasure and would be ideal for exploring town.
Like the Wabash, it’s powered by Yamaha’s proprietary PW-series electric motor. This motor is good for almost 58 pound-feet of torque—more than some gasoline-powered motorcycles. An identically sized 500-watt battery is built into the lower frame rail. The CrossCore RC weighs 52.6 pounds (in size large).
The battery is charged with Yamaha’s proprietary charge pack, which works with any household adapter. The CrossCore has a range of just over 100 miles in its lowest power setting. A really slick LCD control panel keeps tabs on speed, mileage, and lets the rider adjust power mode settings, and there’s an LED headlamp for illuminating the road after dark. Like the Wabash RT, an automatic power setting takes the guesswork out of things automatically selecting the optimum power mode based on how much load you’re putting through the pedals, terrain incline, and vehicle speed. The CrossCore RC gets a nine-speed rear derailleur plus two front chainrings for 18 speeds total.
The CrossCore employs more relaxed ergonomics with a flat, upright club-style handlebar. Seat height can be easily adjusted up or down, but it doesn’t include a dropper post setup like the Wabash RT. It does, however, offer front suspension with 2.5 inches of travel.
Ideally, it would be nice to have two of these CrossCores in the garage so a friend can tag along during rides; they wouldn’t even have to be in optimum pedaling shape to spend a few hours tooling around with you.
Both of these pedal-assist bicycles are available in three frame sizes (small, medium, large) and come with a three-year warranty on the frame, motor, and battery.
The CrossCoreRC is designed for recreational cyclists seeking a pedal-assist bike that they can run errands on or get outside and have some fun. (Joseph Agustin/)
The Wabash RT on the other hand is a purpose-built gravel bike (think dual-sport) designed to be ridden on and off pavement. (Joseph Agustin/)
Folks looking for easy to use urban transportation will do well with the CrossCoreRC from Yamaha Bicycles. (Joseph Agustin/)
With its more aggressive road bicycle like ergonomics, the Wabash RT is a good option for riders looking to cover serious mileage. (Joseph Agustin/)
A mechanically operated kickstand and LED headlamp add everyday versatility for riders and folks seeking urban mobility options. (Joseph Agustin/)
This slick and easy-to-use LCD interface monitors trip functions and allows the rider to manipulate motor power modes. (Joseph Agustin/)
The CrossCore RC’s LED headlamps help riders stand out during night rides. (Joseph Agustin/)
Yamaha Bicycles pedal-assist bicycles are an affordable and hassle-free way to get around town. (Joseph Agustin/)
TCX Infinity 3 boots. On the left is the mid in Black/Green. On the right is the tall in Black.
Offering both a tall and mid model, the Infinity 3 adventure touring boot from TCX is made from a mix of microfiber, split leather, and engineered fabric. The mid model features a T-DRY waterproof membrane for protection against atmospheric agents, while the tall model has a GORE-TEX Performance waterproof membrane.
The Groundtrax rubber outsole optimizes performance in all conditions, and the OrthoLite insole provides long-lasting cushioning and breathability. A dial fastening system adjusts the tension of the external lace, and an adjustable front band completes the perfect fit. Both models have a breathable and waterproof lining, ergonomic shin plates, and reinforcements for the toe, gear area, heel, and ankle.
The Infinity 3 boot mid model comes in Black or Black/Green for $329.99. The tall model is only available in Black for $419.99.
2023 BMW R 1250 R in the Style Sport variant colorway
Building on the success of BMW’s naked boxer roadster history, which started with the 1923 494cc boxer-Twin powered R 32, BMW Motorrad is introducing the updated 2023 BMW R 1250 R roadster.
While many things remain the same, including the 1,254cc 2-cylinder air/liquid-cooled boxer engine with ShiftCam technology delivering a claimed 136 hp and 105 ft-lbs of torque, BMW has made several upgrades to the 2023 model – and all for the same $14,995 MSRP as the 2022 model.
Several features that were previously options are now standard, including Dynamic Traction Control, ABS Pro (part integral), and Dynamic Brake Control. And joining the previous Road and Rain ride modes for 2023 is the “Eco” mode.
In Eco mode, the rider is encouraged to ride as fuel-efficiently as possible, with a soft throttle curve and moderate engine torque limitation. As part of these efforts, the TFT color display provides an efficiency display. However, if a rider wants maximum performance – for example, for overtaking or riding uphill – the ride mode button will switch to a different mode quickly and easily.
Other new features of the 2023 BMW R 1250 R include LED turn indicators, a solo seat rear cover, and new Option 719 spoke wheels (optional).
2023 BMW R 1250 R with new solo seat rear cover
2023 BMW R 1250 R with Comfort passenger seat
The 2023 model still features the full LED headlamp but now offers an optional adaptive turning light, which provides better illumination into turns thereby ensuring safer riding at night. The adaptive turning light works by switching on additional LED elements in the main headlight that are fitted with their own reflectors, depending on the lean angle. It is activated from an inclined position of 7 degrees to 25 degrees and a speed of more than 6 mph. New standard features also include redesigned LED Comfort turn.
Consistent with 2022, a slip/assist clutch, Hill Start Control, BMW Motorrad Paralever front suspension with an inverted 45mm fork, and rear spring/shock with preload and rebound adjustment and travel-dependent damping (WAD) are all still standard.
The optional Premium Package includes Keyless Ride, a Design Option rear muffler, a chrome-plated exhaust manifold, heated grips, TPM Tire Pressure Monitor, and cruise control. There are multiple Option 719 Billet Packs available, as well as numerous individual options.
The 2023 BMW R 1250 R starts at $14,995. In standard trim, the R 1250 R is finished in Ice Grey non-metallic in conjunction with a black frame. With the optional Triple Black and Style Sport variants, the owner can choose from two expressive color combinations.
2023 BMW R 1250 R in the Ice Grey non-metallic standard colorway
The Style Sport variant (see story’s lead photo) features a body color in Racing Blue Metallic, white frame, gold front/rear brake calipers, black sports handlebars, blue front spoiler, and solo seat rear cover or passenger seat.
The Triple Black variant has a Black Storm Metallic body color, Agate Grey frame, gold front/rear brake calipers, stainless steel radiator grille, stainless steel engine spoiler, Pure tank trim, and solo seat rear cover or passenger seat.
2023 BMW R 1250 R in the Triple Black variant colorway
There will be four nominations for the Agostini Award, and the overtakes are nominated from the past calendar year, not just the season. In 2022, that means overtakes from the 2021 Valencia GP to the 2022 Malaysian GP have been considered, and fans will soon be able to vote for their favourite on social media.
Circuit Ricardo Tormo plays host to Round 20 of the 2022 Championship, and it’s set to be a spectacular finale to the current campaign. However, teams and riders won’t have much time to draw breath as on Tuesday, November 8th, preparations for 2023 begin with the Official Valencia Test.
Whether you’re riding with only one partner or a large group, communication is key. The BMW Motorrad ConnectedRide Com U1 communications system allows you to stay connected with others on the ride and hosts several features to make your ride easier and more enjoyable.
The ConnectedRide Com U1 allows you to choose between two connection types: Bluetooth and Mesh 2.0. Bluetooth lets you talk to another person up to a mile away. It’s a handy way to communicate without the need to call, especially in areas where cell service isn’t reliable. Mesh requires at least six participants but gives groups a range of up to nearly 5 miles, making it ideal for larger group rides. For really large groups, Multi Channel Open Mesh allows anyone on the same channel to communicate with no limit of participants and no need to pair devices ahead of time.
The com system is compatible with any helmet.
This com system also allows you to share music with your passenger so you’re both bopping to the same beat. The system is equipped with an FM radio with 10 presets. Riders can use either the four buttons on the device or voice control. The HD-quality 40mm speakers and com system are easy to install, especially with the help of BMW’s video demonstration. Because of the quick charging function, the system can get 3.5 hours of Mesh intercom use and six hours of Bluetooth off a 20-minute charge.
BMW’s Motorrad ConnectedRide Com U1 system is available for $375. Visit BMW’s website for more information.
Ron Smith and friend Brenda Volpe were reportedly on their way to the funeral of another friend when Smith had to brake suddenly and crashed August 20th near Holiday, FL; both suffered fatal injuries. The Tampa Bay Times reports, “It’s impossible to say whether a helmet would have prevented Smith’s and Volpe’s deaths, experts said. Smith’s autopsy report lists blunt head trauma as his cause of death and an initial report from the Hillsborough Medical Examiner’s Office also lists Volpe’s cause of death as head trauma.”
Ron Smith and Brenda Volpe (photo courtesy Gary Pruss)
Florida is one of a bunch of states that dialed back its helmet requirements in the last couple of decades, and Smith was a key proponent of that. Here’s a brief history from the National Library of Medicine:
Florida
Florida’s universal helmet law was first implemented in September 1967. For over 30 years, motorcycle rider groups led by American Bikers Aiming Toward Education (ABATE) lobbied the Florida legislature to amend the law. One argument unique to Florida and states with similar climates was that wearing a helmet in the intense heat was especially burdensome. An amendment of Florida’s universal helmet law nearly passed several times, including one occasion in 1985 when it was vetoed by Governor Bob Graham, a Democrat. The state legislature switched from Democratic to split control in 1992 and to Republican control in 1996. These political developments combined with a growing motorcycle population, involvement of ABATE in state campaigns, and changes in federal incentives created a legislative climate that was more supportive of policies focused on individual rights.
In 2000, the legislature passed and Governor Jeb Bush, a Republican, signed a bill amending Florida’s helmet policy to apply only to those riders who are either under age 21 years or without a medical benefit of at least $10 000 on their insurance policy. Governor Bush expressed his political perspective on the issue as follows:
I believe government oversteps its legitimate role when it excessively interferes with personal freedom… . Of course we could significantly reduce deaths, injuries, or health risks … through a mandate that all individuals exercise, wear sunscreen, stop smoking and learn to swim; yet we impose no such requirements.
The amendment passed despite objections from several organizations, including the AAA Auto Club and the Brain Injury Association of Florida. Florida requires special license tags for young riders to enable law enforcement to determine more easily whether an unhelmeted rider is underage. Studies have found that motorcycle registrations and fatalities increased in Florida after the universal helmet policy was amended. One evaluation estimated that in the year after the law change, rider fatalities rose 21.3% after adjusting for registrations.
Get the in-depth story from the Tampa Bay Timeshere, which includes this silver lining:
After the crash, the American Legion Post in Holiday implemented a handful of new safety rules, according to its rider director, Eddie Rodriguez… The post isn’t requiring helmets, though they are highly encouraged, Rodriguez said. He said the group doesn’t want to alienate those who might not want to wear them.
Even so, that rule might not be needed at this point. Riders who had previously resisted helmets have started wearing them, Rodriguez said. And on his first ride after the deaths, Rodriguez made an observation while looking at all the riders in the group.
“Every single one had a helmet on,” he said.
Our condolences to the families and friends of Mr. Smith and Ms. Volpe. We encourage all our readers and non-readers to always wear a helmet.
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