Biker for a day…

Thousands of bikers are rolling into town for the Myrtle Beach Fall Bike Rally. While it's a smaller event than the one in May, it's still one of the larger rallies in the Carolinas. Horry County has issued more than 200 vending permits. The permits are for five days, starting Wednesday and ending October 7, which is Sunday. I spent the day Wednesday at the Myrtle Beach Harley Davidison Shop on Highway 17 Business South. I met people from all over the United States. I learned that many people return to the beach for the rallies each year for a reunion of sorts with other bikers from across the country.
It's truly a unique experience, and the people are all so nice. I even had the opportunity to dress like a biker, even for just a little while. Tha was a lot of fun. And in case you think the leather is just for looks, think again. It's considered protective gear. It will protect a biker from the harsh pavement in the
event of a crash.
The vendors are hoping for a prosperous week, and the bikers are looking for great merchandise and a good time. I met Jeff LaCava, with Hawg Halters, Inc. He told e "Myrtle Beach happens to be the best show in the country for us, sales wise." And for one biker lady, this is her first time to Myrtle Beach. Amy Armstrong, from Richmond, Virginia, is a first time visitor to the Fall Rally. She told me it was her goal before she turned 50 to get a license, get a bike and ride down to Myrtle Beach, and she did it.
Of course, safety is always a concern during the rallies. Law enforcement is beefing up patrols in an effort to keep everyone on the roads safe. I talked with Sgt. Tony Love, with the South Carolina Highway Patrol. He says whether people are on two wheels or four, the patrol wants you to slow down, double, and even triple check your mirrors. Love told me this year the patrol is stressing the importance of bikers slowing down as they approach intersections. Love says, "Making sure they're remaining visible, by using their headlights, and stressing they wear a helmet, it greatly reduces the chances of getting a head injury in a serious crash." Love also says understanding the speed of a motorcycle is also important. Bikes are smaller, and it's often harder to judge the speed of a bike.
Bikers are neat folks. I'm glad I had the opportunity today to spend some time with them. And for everyone on the roads this weekend, please
be safe.

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