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#1
Motorcycle Talk / Art Moto 2024 Raleigh N.C.
Last post by Biketographer - September 06, 2024, 08:18:24 AM
RALEIGH, N.C., Sept. 5, 2024 /PRNewswire/ -- Venture Capitalist Ross O'Brien, known as "The Investment Biker," is proud to announce the Art Moto Festival 2024, a unique event that combines art, music, and motorcycles to support a worthy cause. The festival, which is free and open to the public, will feature an art exhibition, charity auction, and live music. It will be held in Smoky Hollow on October 26, 2024, from 3 PM to 9 PM.

Art-Moto-logo-white-1024x345.png

Ross O'Brien, who relocated his firm to Raleigh in 2022, chose the city for its exceptional quality of life, strategic connectivity to major commercial hubs, and the thriving entrepreneurial ecosystem of the RDU area. "Before moving to Raleigh, I was familiar with the Research Triangle Park, but living downtown exposed me to the vibrant artistic and musical community here," O'Brien said.

As the founder of Bonaventure Equity, a boutique early-stage venture capital fund focused on pharmaceutical developments for treating neurodegenerative diseases, O'Brien has long been committed to supporting veteran organizations through clinical research. "When I learned about an organization dedicated to treating PTSD and promoting mental health wellness for first responders and veterans, I saw a unique opportunity to host a festival that unites these communities," he explained. "The festival took on a life of its own as I rode my motorcycles around RDU for meetings. It's a mission to highlight what makes Raleigh unique, align my passions for art, music, and motorcycles, and support a great cause. All proceeds from the charity auction will go to The Motorcycle Relief Project."

Reflecting on his experience in Raleigh, O'Brien shared, "Living here has been a wonderful experience. The community's diversity, innovation, and education are driving the early-stage startup ecosystem. I'm continuously impressed by how friendly everyone is and by the abundance of artistic and musical talent in and around RDU. And, without a doubt, North Carolina is the best state I've lived in for indulging my passion for riding motorcycles." When he realized there wasn't a festival that celebrated art, music, and what makes Raleigh special, O'Brien took action, leveraging his network of artists, musicians, and entrepreneurs to create Art Moto.

Art Moto '24 will take place in Smoky Hollow on October 26th from 3 PM to 9 PM. The full agenda, including musical performances and featured artists, can be found on the Art Moto website. Visitors can also register for free general admission tickets and secure parking for unique motorcycles.

About The Investment Biker

Ross O'Brien is a lifelong entrepreneur turned venture capitalist, published author, and motorcycle enthusiast. As the founder of Bonaventure Equity, LLC, a Raleigh-based early-stage pharmaceutical development fund, he invests in pioneering scientific innovations with the potential to address healthcare's most significant challenges. Inspired by his experiences in writing and teaching entrepreneurship, and his passion for motorcycles, Ross shares his perspectives on the entrepreneurial journey through The Investment Biker website—an intersection of creativity, art, investing, and entrepreneurship.

Visit investmentbiker.vc to learn more about the movement that fuses investing, entrepreneurship, and motorcycle adventures. At the heart of The Investment Biker is storytelling and community, encouraging others to dare greatly and embrace the journey over the destination.
#2
Photos and Videos / Re: Picture of the Day - I am ...
Last post by Biketographer - September 03, 2024, 03:15:53 PM
Success !   I have gone green !

They finally got me to try to "go green" so I quit using "chemicals" in my pool.  (Isn't water a chemical?)

duzji005dald1.jpeg
#3
Racing Discussion / 2024 PanAmSBK - Double Round W...
Last post by Biketographer - September 03, 2024, 03:12:49 PM
We're disappointed but we lost our Saturday of the September 7th, 8th race weekend to a Nascar customer. So Sunday, September 8th will be a track day only. This rarely happens but does from time to time and thankfully it was in September and not our final round. We tried to negotiate with some of the renters to give away a track day to create another race weekend but it was too short notice. We're still working on trying for another weekend and will update if we are successful.
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So what we are going to with the final round is create a double round - double points weekend. Cash payouts for both days and $6500 in Dunlop contingency for the Sunday round.

We will have a preliminary schedule up shortly that will include practice and qualifying for each day.


Fijnal round Dunlop Tire Cash!

Dunlop Motorcycle Tires is offering $6500 in contingency available for the Sunoco Superbike 1000 and 600 Grande Corsa races!

Sunoco Superbike 1000
1st – $1000
2nd – $600
3rd – $400
4th – $300
5th – $200

Sunoco Superbike 600
1st – $1000
2nd – $600
3rd – $400
4th – $300
5th – $200

And then Double Dip with PanAmSBK Cash payouts!

For full payouts, we need 10 riders per race class. Cash payout at the end of the day.
As follows:
SuperBike 1000 Grande Corsa (Overall)
1st – $500
2nd – $300
3rd – $200
SuperBike 600 Grande Corsa (Overall)
1st – $200
2nd – $130
3rd – $80
SuperStock 1000 Grande Corsa (Overall)
1st – $200
2nd – $130
3rd – $80
SuperStock 600 Grande Corsa (Overall)
1st – $200
2nd – $130
3rd – $80
SuperStreet 300 Grande Corsa (Overall)
1st – 130
2nd – $80
3rd – $50
Moto 3 Grande Corsa (Overall)
1st – 130
2nd – $80
3rd – $50
Superbike Twins Lite / Max Grande Corsa (Overall)
1st – 130
2nd – $80
3rd – $50
Superstock Twins Lite / Max Grande Corsa (Overall)
1st – 130
2nd – $80
3rd – $50
SuperStock 400 Grande Corsa (Overall)
1st – 130
2nd – $80
3rd – $50

It's been a challenging year to say the least and we want to thank everyone for coming out and racing with us.

We are working on 2025 season and should have some news soon.
#4
Racing Discussion / Re: Does anyone miss the old T...
Last post by Super Dave - August 27, 2024, 09:11:52 AM
Yeah, this was like so last year, right?  :D
#5
Racing Discussion / Roebling Road August 24-25
Last post by Biketographer - August 22, 2024, 08:08:17 AM
Come and take some Dunlop Tire Cash!
panam.jpg

Dunlop Motorcycle Tires is offering $5̶0̶0̶0̶ $6500 in contingency available for the Sunoco Superbike 1000 and 600 Grande Corsa races!

Sunoco Superbike 1000
1st – $1000
2nd – $600
3rd – $400
4th – $300
5th – $200

Sunoco Superbike 600
1st – $1000
2nd – $600
3rd – $400
4th – $300
5th – $200

And then Double Dip with PanAmSBK Cash payouts!

For full payouts, we need 10 riders per race class. Cash payout at the end of the day.
As follows:
SuperBike 1000 Grande Corsa (Overall)
1st – $500
2nd – $300
3rd – $200
SuperBike 600 Grande Corsa (Overall)
1st – $200
2nd – $130
3rd – $80
SuperStock 1000 Grande Corsa (Overall)
1st – $200
2nd – $130
3rd – $80
SuperStock 600 Grande Corsa (Overall)
1st – $200
2nd – $130
3rd – $80
SuperStreet 300 Grande Corsa (Overall)
1st – 130
2nd – $80
3rd – $50
Moto 3 Grande Corsa (Overall)
1st – 130
2nd – $80
3rd – $50
Superbike Twins Lite / Max Grande Corsa (Overall)
1st – 130
2nd – $80
3rd – $50
Superstock Twins Lite / Max Grande Corsa (Overall)
1st – 130
2nd – $80
3rd – $50
SuperStock 400 Grande Corsa (Overall)
1st – 130
2nd – $80
3rd – $50
2024 Round 5 Roebling Road Raceway

Aaron Dearborn with Full Gas Products who will be be providing Sunoco fuel for Round 5 / contact him here.

There is camping and trailer drop offs Friday night after 5:00pm

Roebling:
30/50 AMP – $25/day
110 AMP – $10/day
Garage Rental. Contact the track directly.
– $60 for one day
– $40 for multiple days
Gate Fee: $30 for the weekend (Cash preferred)

Friday Tech: TBA
eTech Forms: https://panamsbk.com/my-account/techForm/
Pre-Reg Cutoff To Go Directly To Tech: 5:00pm 8.22.2024

No swimming pools please!

Everyone needs a decal for electricity provided at the gate

Friday AND Saturday Camping Overnight (Inside the paddock)
2024 Round 5 Roebling Road Reminder!


    Race Day Schedule, https://panamsbk.com/race-series/panamsbk-race-day-schedule/
    If you would like to directly to tech, you must pre-register for qualifying\practice AND race(s).
    Gate for weekend is $30. Children under 12 free.
    Saturday tech will open at 7:15 AM.
    If you are racing\bringing multiple bikes, please be sure to make us aware of it. A tech form will be needed for each bike. Even if you are bringing a bike you do not plan on racing, the bike still needs to go through tech before getting on the track.
    Along with the TrackMic notification system, you can always view the current call and who's on track via our TrackMic dashboard, https://www.panamsbk.com/racestatus/
    If you have a "B" bike and\or "B" helmet, your "B" bike\helmet must also go through tech.
    Reminder. Front brake lever guards are required.
    Showers are available at the track.

PanAmSBK New Racer Initiative

Help us and we'll help you $. Back from last season, we have started a new racer initiative to benefit and REWARD racers who refer and those who were referred. For more information on how to earn some race $ get started click here
New Racer Reminders

    Do qualify for every race you think you may race in. It costs nothing extra to qualify for races you have not entered yet. You can still qualify and choose not to race. But if you do not have a qualifying time, you will be gridded based upon order of entry.
    You can sign up for a race at any time on Sunday. As long as you have time to register your race and make it to the grid, there is no cut off time to register for additional races throughout the day. To use your qualifying time you must register for your race Sunday morning when the grids are locked. After the grids go live you will start from the back of the grid.
    The provisional grids are posted online Saturday night. Remember to confirm your position and time on the grids you are registered to race. You have Sunday morning by 9:00am to make any changes before the grids become official.
    We offer custom race licenses and racer profiles. Remember to send or message us your photo(s)by email at info@panamsbk.com or instagram.com/panamsbk / facebook.com/panamsbk
    PanAmerican Superbike race licenses come with a barcode you can scan with your phone. If you want to impress your friends at a bike night, you can scan your code on your license and it will pull up your racer profile along with all of your results and lap times for each race, personal best, etc. This also works if you need prove of your race results with potential sponsors.
    Don't forget to check out your race profile. You can find along with your individual race lap times, your competitor race lap times to compare. We list your top career lap times at every track you attend as well as season best lap times. We'll keep track of your average finish and top finishes. Keep your profile up to date. If you have a new bike or sponsor, let us know.
    Download the MyLaps Speedhive app and have your pit crew do the same to keep up with your lap times while on the track. It's free to use. iPhone - https://apps.apple.com/us/app/mylaps-speedhive/id988412583 Android - https://play.google.com/store/apps/details?id=com.mylaps.speedhive
    Don't forget to set up your TrackMic in your account. If you are having problems with TrackMic please email Tung at tung@panamsbk.com
#6
Motorcycle Talk / 2025 Ducati Panagale V4
Last post by Biketographer - August 01, 2024, 10:10:46 AM
    The new Panigale V4 comes with an improved power-to-weight ratio, bringing it to .51 hp/lb thanks to a reduction in weight and a powerful engine
    Technologies derived from MotoGP at the service of every enthusiast to experience the riding sensations of professional riders
    Improvements to the model allow riders of all levels a more safe, fun, and faster experience on the track.

SUNNYVALE, Calif., July 31, 2024 /PRNewswire/ -- With the new 2025 Panigale V4, Ducati has pushed the limits of sport bikes even further. Born from developing the bike that won the Superbike World Championship for two consecutive years, the new Panigale V4 has undergone a complete redesign focusing on technological improvements and ergonomic enhancements—taking advantage of data from Ducati Corse, improvements of tires, aerodynamics, and electronics.

A true engineered marvel.

2025_Ducati_Panigale_V4.jpg

"Ducati's mission is to enrich people's lives through technologically sophisticated motorcycles characterized by sensual beauty," declared Claudio Domenicali when presenting the bike during the Ducati World Premier. "Few bikes like the new Panigale V4, the seventh generation of Ducati Superbikes, achieve this mission. It's a motorcycle that continues a history of success and lineage of iconic models which represents our values of Style, Sophistication and Performance."

Thanks to innovative electronic technologies, largely derived from MotoGP, the new Panigale V4 is a motorcycle that allows riders the utmost confidence as if they were a professional rider on a closed track. Whether it's the V4 engine with desmodromic distribution and counter-rotating shaft, or chassis and electronics that are similar to those of the official Desmosedici GPs.

2025_Ducati_Panigale_V4_1.jpg

This generation of the Panigale V4 has closely followed the path inspired by Ducati in MotoGP racing competition, where its engine, the Desmosedici, has become the most desired bike in the category. An engine which, in 2023, saw seven out of eight riders win at least one race.

Pricing
United States:

Panigale V4


Ducati Red


$25,995

Panigale V4 S


Ducati Red


$33,895

Deliveries of the new models are expected to arrive in the United States starting November 2024.

Panigale V4

    Color
        Ducati Red with Urban Grey frame and black rims
    Main standard equipment
        Desmosedici Stradale engine, 1,103 cc
        Maximum power of 209 hp at 13,500 rpm
        Maximum torque of 89.5 -ft lbs at 11,250 rpm
        "Front Frame" chassis
        4.4-gallon aluminum fuel tank
        43 mm Showa Big Piston Fork (BPF), fully adjustable
        Sachs mono-shock absorber, fully adjustable
        Sachs steering damper
        Braking system with Brembo HypureTM monobloc calipers
        Pirelli Diablo Supercorsa V4 tires with 200/60 rear
        Wings with biplane configuration and integrated design
        Latest generation electronic package with 6-axis Inertial Measurement Unit (6D IMU): Race eCBS with cornering functionality; Ducati Traction Control (DTC) DVO; Ducati Slide Control (DSC); Ducati Wheelie Control (DWC) DVO; Ducati Power Launch (DPL); Ducati Quick Shift (DQS) 2.0; Engine Brake Control (EBC), Ducati Vehicle Observer (DVO)
        Buttons for quickly changing levels
        New 6.9" full-TFT dashboard with 8:3 aspect ratio
        Riding Mode (Race A, Race B, Sport, Road, Wet)
        A single-seat configuration, passenger kit is available as an accessory.
        Predisposition for Ducati Data Logger (DDL) and Ducati Multimedia System (DMS)

Panigale V4 S

    Color
        Ducati Red with Urban Grey frame and black rims
    Standard equipment like Panigale V4, except for
        Ducati Electronic Suspension (DES) 3.0
        Öhlins NPX-30 fork with Öhlins Smart EC 3.0 control system
        Öhlins TTX 36 shock absorber with Öhlins Smart EC 3.0 control system
        Öhlins steering damper with Öhlins Smart EC 3.0 control system
        Forged aluminum rims

Ergonomics

The ergonomics of the motorcycle have been the subject of in-depth study and development by Ducati engineers in collaboration with the Ducati Centro Stile, with the aim of improving control of the motorcycle in the most important phases of track riding and allowing the rider to make the most of the performance of the Panigale V4 both on a single lap and during a prolonged session. Room to move dynamically has improved, now better accommodating riders of all sizes and facilitating sporty riding with marked improvements when the body moves towards the inside of the motorcycle when cornering ("hanging off").

The main changes concern the seat and the tank, which have been redesigned. The saddle now has a wider shape, and the area with black texture in the contact points of the rider's thighs and knees with the tank is characterized by a texture that allows easier movements of the body when moving the body backward, reducing at the same time the tendency for the rider to move forward under braking. The fuel tank has a new shape, which offers a completely different fit area compared to the previous version. All this allows riders of all sizes to better anchor themselves when braking, putting less strain on their arms and allowing them to ride faster and for longer. Thanks to these new ergonomics, the rider is also incorporated better into the motorcycle and is therefore more comfortable and protected when riding in a straight line.

The new footrests have the gear and brake levers mounted on bearings instead of sliding bushings to eliminate play and reduce friction. This increases riding sensitivity, especially on the gearbox side, amplified by the benefits guaranteed by the new DQS system control.

To improve the rider's feeling when opening and handling the throttle, the new Panigale V4 adopts the same control as the V4 R, which is 50% more compact and features minimal radial and axial play, virtually reducing freeplay in the stroke.

Engine
The Panigale V4 2025 is equipped with the 1,103 cc Desmosedici Stradale engine. At the same time, polluting and noise emissions are reduced, and performance is increased, with a maximum power of 209 hp (155 kW) at 13,500 rpm. This result is obtained thanks to various evolutions in the internal components, which offer an overall superior performance. The engine's weight is also reduced by 2.2 lbs, which has important benefits in terms of reducing inertia.

Power and torque can increase further, reaching 228 hp and 94.2 ft-lbs, respectively, by fitting the Ducati Performance full-racing exhaust by Akrapovič.*

New Ducati Hollow Symmetrical Swingarm
The rear suspension uses a linkage fixed to the Desmosedici Stradale engine via a forged aluminum element. The linkage reacts to the movements imparted by a double-sided low-pressure shell-cast aluminum swingarm, characterized by a design that combines the rigidity and feedback requirements of Ducati Corse with the choice of keeping the exhaust system positioned under the engine on the production bike.

The choice of a double-sided layout for the swingarm was born from the desire to further increase engine and chassis performance which is now so close to the prototypes as to require similar solutions to exploit it, accommodating lean angles permitted by modern tires now well over 60°, at which the suspensions fail to work properly.

In 2022, Francesco Bagnaia, riding a Panigale V4 S equipped only with slick tires, set the best time in the Race of Champions in 1'35"8, four seconds away from the MotoGP record of that year, 1'31"868, established by Enea Bastianini on a Ducati DesmosediciGP. To get even closer to the performance of the MotoGP bike, in agreement with Ducati Corse, it was decided to adopt the same scheme for the swingarm, working with the designers of the Centro Stile to give the piece the stylistic refinement typical of all Ducatis.

The new Ducati Hollow Symmetrical Swingarm is characterized by having lateral arms with a lighter design and large slots on the sides, with a hollowed-out internal box structure for greater lightness. The chain tensioner slider on the left side is made from forged aluminum to withstand the loads resulting from the chain pull. The lateral stiffness is reduced (-37% compared to the previous single-sided unit) as is the weight, thanks to the two large lightening slots, improving traction and rider feel when accelerating out of corners. The forged suspension/forged swingarm/rear rim assembly weighs 7.2 lbs less than its predecessor and is more effective in releasing power to the ground.

The swingarm wheelbase is 24.3-in., an increase of .62-in. compared to the single-sided swingarm mounted on the previous Panigale V4. It is defined to rebalance the load on the front end following the greater longitudinal thrusts made possible thanks to the greater mechanical grip of the rear. Traction is therefore improved, as is trajectory stability when exiting corners.

Braking system with new Brembo Hypure® calipers
The Panigale V4 range features the brand new, powerful Brembo Hypure® monobloc calipers which represent an evolution of the already high-performance Stylema®. Compared to the latter, the Hypure® reduces the weight - already a benchmark in the segment - by 30 g per caliper thanks to their innovative asymmetric design without compromising rigidity. This greater lightness guarantees an increase in the nimbleness of the motorcycle thanks to the reduction in unsprung masses, thus reducing rider effort when entering corners and changing direction.

Ducati Vehicle Observer (DVO)
The controls dedicated to the Ducati Traction Control (DTC) and Ducati Wheelie Control (DWC) received an updated algorithm, developed by Ducati Corse, called Ducati Vehicle Observer (DVO). This algorithm allows an instant estimate of physical, kinematic, and dynamic quantities that cannot be measured in practice, which impact the ground forces, accelerations, and maximum torques that the vehicle can bear in various riding conditions.

The system effectively monitors the Panigale V4 using sensors capable of measuring seventy physical quantities in addition to those detected by the IMU. This allows a precise estimate of both the operating thrusts and the maximum forces that the bike can tolerate at that specific moment.

Thanks to the additional data calculated by the DVO, the DTC and DWC controls can define the slip and wheelie angles with much greater precision than what occurred using only the data provided by the inertial platform. This allows the controls to intervene using a predictive mode, allowing the rider to exploit the motorcycle with more confidence.

Thanks to the DVO, it is now possible to implement a Grip Level Meter tool, a feature integrated with the dedicated software when using slick tires. Reserved for use on the track, the Grip Level Meter provides the rider with an indication on the dashboard estimating the instant grip available. The Grip Level Meter helps the rider evaluate the conditions of the asphalt and know when to replace the tires.

MotoGP dashboard
The dimension of 6.9" with an 8:3 aspect ratio offers maximum readability without interfering with vision through the windshield in the fairing position. The protective glass uses Optical Bonding technology to ensure optimal readability on a black background, even during the day.

On the new Panigale V4, the sensation of being on a Desmosedici GP is reinforced by the new Track display on the dashboard. Thanks to the size and "wide" form factor of the new dashboard, a series of new parameters can be displayed on one side of the screen:

    "g-Meter," which indicates in real time the value of lateral acceleration when leaning and longitudinally during acceleration and braking.
    "Power & Torque," which displays the percentage of power and torque delivered at that moment compared to the maximum values available given the gear engaged.
    "Lean angle," which shows the instantaneous lean angles accompanied by the level of throttle opening and the pressure exerted on the brake.

The Info Mode Track can display chronological performance in real time. Taking advantage of the GPS system, the dashboard displays lap times, and is capable of handling three splits, which can be set by the rider using the flash button during the first session. The dashboard displays the split time's table, with T1, T2, or T3 icons indicating the performance obtained in that sector of the track using the same color codes - white, grey, orange, red - used in MotoGP.

Upon returning to the pits, the new DDL data acquisition completes the official rider experience. The system, developed by 2D in collaboration with Ducati, records all the parameters relevant for riding from the Panigale's CAN bus line, cross-referencing them with a state-of-the-art GPS system capable of drawing the trajectories traveled with great precision. The data can then be analyzed using external software with templates and reports created by Ducati Corse, to perfect your performance on the track.

(*) Component not homologated for road circulation, reserved for track use.

SOURCE Ducati North America
#7
Motorcycle Talk / 2LaneLife Collaborates with Ha...
Last post by Biketographer - July 20, 2024, 09:50:43 AM
LOS ANGELES, July 19, 2024 /PRNewswire/ -- Founded by motorcycle enthusiasts with a passion for adventure and exploring the open road, 2LaneLife is excited to continue our partnership with Harley-Davidson® and their dealerships for a new campaign aimed at bringing everyone together.

In particular, a main focus is for 2LaneLife to support Harley-Davidson dealerships, Homecoming and Sturgis by appearing at various dealerships/events throughout the U.S. over the next twenty-two days (Las Vegas, Omaha, Salt Lake City and many other cities).

Below is a schedule of events Harley-Davidson shared related to 2LaneLife:
7/20: Red Rock H-D, LV
7/21: Summit H-D, Lindon UT
7/22: High Country H-D, Cheyenne, WY
7/23: Defiance H-D, Omaha, NE
7/24: McGrath Hawkeye H-D, IA
7/27: Veterans Park, MKE
8/5: Lazelle Street, SD

Essentially, 2LaneLife is on a mission to visit 5 Harley dealerships in five days then spend time in Milwaukee for the Homecoming with Harley before cruising to Sturgis after. 2LaneLife is working to create epic content around the events and experiences along the way.

The goal for 2LaneLife is to share captivating, door-swinging experiences at iconic destinations along with documenting the journey along the way, all on their new 2024 Harley Davidson Road Glides, which will be covered on 2LaneLife's YouTube channel: https://www.youtube.com/2LaneLife

About:
2LaneLife is a team of motorcycle enthusiasts that decided to pursue their passion full-time while sharing their experiences with the world. What began as a simple YouTube channel has grown into a media and product company as well as a leading online store for motorcycle parts/gear as well as partnerships with Harley-Davidson and most of the biggest aftermarket companies in the world.

Contact:
2LaneLife
info@2lanelife.com
(818) 340-0540
#8
Motorcycle Talk / Michigan releases 2023 Traffic...
Last post by Biketographer - July 16, 2024, 06:06:44 PM
DETROIT, July 15, 2024 /PRNewswire/ -- The Michigan State Police recently released a new report analyzing traffic crash data from 2023. Our team at the Lee Steinberg Law Firm has compiled some of this data to observe interesting trends in numbers and causes of Michigan motor vehicle accidents.

Michigan Statewide – Total Crashes Decreased

In 2023, there were 287,953 total crashes, which included cars, trucks, motorcycles, buses, and other vehicles. This represented a 2% decrease from 2022 when there were 293,341 crashes. Even though there were less crashes in 2023, the number of injuries increased by about 1%, from 70,281 to 71,085.

The most populous counties naturally had the highest number of crashes and injuries. Here is the breakdown:
County    Crashes    Injuries 
Wayne 51,507 16,481
Oakland 35,386 9,212
Macomb22,405 6,838
Kent 18,7674,953
Genesee 10,059 3,102
Washtenaw 10,037 1,376
Ingham 7,849 2,117
Ottawa 7,825 1,783
Kalamazoo7,619 1,736
Saginaw 5,0401,376

There Were Large Decreases in Alcohol and Drug Related Crashes – A Surprise?

A big change in 2023 was the large decrease in the number of motor vehicle crashes involving drugs and alcohol. Given how prevalent marijuana has become in Michigan, this is somewhat of a surprise. If anything, one would expect the number of drug related crashes to only increase as marijuana consumption has increased since legalization in 2018.

But the numbers tell a different story. In 2023, the number of crashes involving alcohol dropped from 9,331 to 8,817, representing a large 6% decrease compared to 2022. The number of fatalities also dropped from 322 to 297, or 8% year over year. Meanwhile, the number of drug related crashes fell a whopping 8% in 2023 compared to 2022.

However, not all the numbers were good. The amount of drug related crashes that resulted in fatalities increased by 3%, from 249 to 256.

Motorcycle Crashes Decreased in 2023

Motorcycle crashes usually involve the most catastrophic injuries for riders and passengers. Fortunately, in 2023 the total number of motorcycle crashes decreased 3% from 3,158 to 3,056. The number of fatalities dropped 5% in 2023. In fact, this represents the third straight year the number of Michigan motorcycle crashes dropped.

Crash Statistics for Specific Types of Accidents

Distracted Driving Accident Stats

Distracted driving is a common problem in the state of Michigan. Cell phone use remains a major issue along with other electronic devices while driving.

According to data from the report, the following were the most common causes of distracted driver-related accidents:

    Using a cell phone to talk, text, or dial: 1,726 crashes
    Using a hands-free device to talk: 205 crashes
    Using some other electronic device: 1,610 crashes
    Passenger distraction: 735 crashes
    Other activity inside the vehicle causing distraction: 5,696 crashes

In 2023, there were 15,136 accidents caused by distracted driving. This number is a slight decrease from 2022.

Michigan personal injury lawyer Eric Steinberg, a partner at the Lee Steinberg Law Firm believes the decrease in distracted driving, in particular cell phone use, can be attributed to better education. "There has been a considerable push to educate people of all ages about the dangers of distracted driving, in particular using your cell phone. I think this finally may be having an impact. Let's hope it continues."

Young Drivers Continue to Cause More Crashes in Michigan

The statistics for young drivers (age 16-20) have not gotten better. Young drivers continue to cause a disproportionate number of crashes and fatalities, and 2023 was not better. More than 15% of all car crashes in Michigan were caused by this small age group. And the number of fatalities increased 6% from 2022.

Work-Zone Involved Crash Stats

There was an 8% increase in work-zone accidents from 2022 to 2023. In 2022, there were 7,436 work-zone crashes, and in 2023 there were 8,017. Interestingly, Tuesdays had the highest number of work-zone crashes, and the month in which work-zone accidents were higher was October, with 1,071 crashes.

There are many reasons why a crash might occur in a work zone, but some of the most common causes include:

    Speeding and disobeying reduced work-zone speed limits
    Increased traffic congestion in work zones during rush hour
    Distracted driving in work zones
    Aggressive or reckless driving in work zones

Large Increase in Pedestrian Accident Crashes

Michigan saw a dramatic increase in the number of pedestrian involved crashes in 2023. In fact, the number of crashes increased from 1,897 to 2,114, an 11% increase. The number of pedestrian fatalities also increased 6%. The increase in pedestrian crashes in Michigan is not really a surprise, but a return to pre-Covid levels when the state consistently had more than 2,000 pedestrian crashes each year.

School Bus Accident Stats

School bus accidents have decreased in 2023 to 988 from 1,041 school bus crashes in 2022. This number is actually lower than pre-Covid levels when Michigan routinely saw more than 1,000 school bus crashes every year.

Here are a few of the most common causes of school bus accidents:

    Driver fatigue in the morning
    Speeding in school zones
    Failing to obey school bus stop signs
    Traffic congestion during rush hour when school buses are out on the roads
    Lack of training for bus drivers
    Distracted driving

Other Notable Changes in Michigan Traffic Accidents

The latest data also suggests a mixed bag regarding the type of crashes that have occurred.

    Cell phone involved crashes – decreased 5% in 2023
    Cell phone involved fatalities – decreased 8% in 2023
    Cell phone involved injuries – increased 3% in 2023

With more older drivers on the road, the number of accidents caused by individuals age 65 years-old or older increased in every category:

    Age 65-74 – 2% increase
    Age 75-84 – 7% increase
    Age 85+ - 8% increase

There were notable changes in the number of crashes based on vehicle types:

    Motor homes saw a 38% increase in the number of crashes. This can be attributed to the huge increase in motor home usage post Covid.
    Snowmobiles had a 39% decrease in crashes. This could be weather related.
    ORV (off road vehicles) witnessed a 13% drop in crashes.
    Both Golf carts and Mopeds saw a small increase in crashes.

The Lee Steinberg Law Firm, P.C. represents individuals injured due to the negligence of another person or corporation. We serve clients in a broad range of personal injury matters throughout Michigan. For more information, please contact Eric Steinberg at 1-800-533-3733.
#9
Motorcycle Talk / Harley-Davidson Announces BUIL...
Last post by Biketographer - July 16, 2024, 06:01:43 PM
MILWAUKEE, July 15, 2024 /PRNewswire/ -- Harley-Davidson, Inc. ("Harley-Davidson") (NYSE: HOG) today announced their new sponsorship of BUILD Moto ("BUILD") starting with the 2025 season.

Harley-Davidson has signed on as the new sponsor of BUILD Moto for the next three years. The sponsorship includes donated items like motorcycles, parts and accessories, as well as access to motorcycle manufacturing experts and additional support for program operations.

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BUILD provides high school students an opportunity to learn technical skills including design, welding, fabrication, repair, machining, media, and more, through motorcycle construction. In addition to acquiring technical skills, teams also participate in marketing and fundraising efforts and host local events showcasing their work. BUILD program elements also emphasize the development of strong teamwork and interpersonal skills.

Teams of students from local high schools are organized to design and rebuild a motorcycle to American Motorcycle Association (AMA) flat track racing standards. Each team is matched with at least one faculty advisor from their school and up to three mentors who act as coaches and team leaders. Teams are required to document their progress with photos and videos posted to social media. Teams are judged on design, execution, and completion of milestones throughout the build timeline, culminating in a bike reveal and awards event at the end of the program.

The bike builders from the 2024 season also received a special invitation to show off their motorcycles at the Harley-Davidson Homecoming Festival opening ceremony at Davidson Park in Milwaukee on July 25, 2024 at 11:00 a.m.

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"Our involvement with BUILD Moto represents our commitment to STEAM learning and helping to teach the next generation of designers, engineers, and trades experts. Working with high schoolers who are empowered to create a bike that is race-ready is really rewarding. It's a thrill to see their confidence grow during the build and showcase what they've learned as the pit crew on race day," commented Shanna Beanan, STEAM Program Manager, Harley-Davidson.

BUILD is a 501(c)3 organization that operates through contributions from volunteer board members, mentors, faculty advisers, local businesses, volunteers, students, and parents. There are several ways to get involved.

    Become a mentor. By mentoring a team, you'll be working directly with the students to build a motorcycle.
    Work a booth. Supplies are provided to host a BUILD booth at any event that reaches students and motorcycle enthusiasts to promote awareness of the program.
    Lend your expertise. As a subject matter expert, provide one-time assistance to teams on a specific skill, in-person or virtually.
    Volunteer at an event. Help with parking, selling merchandise, set up, and/or tear down.

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About BUILD
Founded in 2011, BUILD is a non-profit educational organization dedicated to pairing teams of high school students with bike-building mentors in a collective effort to learn valuable life and interpersonal skills while working on motorcycles. Learn more at http://buildmoto.com/.
#10
Racing Discussion / ASRA adds Road Atlanta to 2024...
Last post by Biketographer - July 11, 2024, 11:06:49 AM
per email from ASRA:


This will be a race weekend in 2025 and beyond. For 2024 however this will be a Friday/ Saturday EvolveGT track day followed by Sunday August 11 race day. We think this is a good fit for a Roebling make up round.

This round we will accept any organizations race license.
to register - shoot us an email with proof of a license and status.

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Come get on board the best series on the east coast. The 2024 season culminates at Daytona October 17-20

Will this round be the same date in 2025, August 9-11? Most likely not, but we will have a race weekend there in 2025 and beyond.

Schedule:  2024_Road_Atlanta_8_11.pdf