General

What do guns and motorcycles have in common?

shoot target Benny thinks more practice is definitely needed!

I've always thought that guns were a lot like motorcycles, that without proper education in handgun safety, they can be extremely dangerous.

Last weekend, my husband and I took a Gun Safety Training Class. (Thanks Fisher Executive Protection!) We learned basic concepts including proper storage, etiquette when around firearms and common sense attitudes about how to approach a firearm.  It seems like many people underestimate the ability for a handgun to fall into the wrong hands (especially children).  I felt as if they demand our respect and shouldn't be taken lightly.

I never thought I would enjoy this whole shooting targets business, but I actually did. I also thought handguns were too dangerous and I really didn't like the idea of having one in the home. But after having some basic training and range time using one, I'm less fearful and know that as long as you safely store and secure one, they can be perfectly safe.  However, that requires a certain level of prioritizing safety over everything else. By the end of the class, I felt less intimidated and had a better understanding of how they work.

If you talk to anyone who's enthusiastic about handguns or motorcycles, you're going to find that we both have something very important in common; Safety. If you're not prioritizing safety above all else when approaching either of these topics, I highly recommend rethinking your attitudes and figure out why you don't think they demand your attention.

When most of us ride, safety (including gear) is always our #1 priority. There are of course, many exceptions with many people ignoring this key element. Unfortunately, it's those people who make a bigger impression on non-riders. When all you see or hear are negative stories about motorcycle accidents, it's impossible to form an objective opinion.

When we fully gear up,  it really makes a strong impression on non-riders, and sends a powerful message as to how serious we take motorcycles.

Even though we don't choose to be ambassadors for what we love to do, sometimes it happens anyway.

Gift ideas for women who love motorcycles

Shopping for that special woman in your motorcycling life? Does she ride like the wind? Can she take a corner like Valentino Rossi? Does she ride as often as she can, whenever she can?

If you answered yes to any of these questions, then she deserves some special holiday gifts to make her moto life even better.

I've listed a few ideas for stocking stuffers that are sure to impress your Moto Lady.

1. Women, Motorcycles and the Road to Empowerment

Liz Jansen wrote this book to inspire women everywhere that motorcycles aren't just for riding, but can be a source of empowerment and self confidence.

Price: $22.50 Where to Buy: Trillium Tours Website, Available for Pre order December 4th.

Women, Motorcycles and the Road to Empowerment

 

2. Kriega Stash Motorcycle Wallet

Every woman needs somewhere to stash some cash, keys and ID when going for a long ride. But maybe she doesn't want to carry a bulky purse or backpack. How about something flat, easy to carry and stash under one's seat?

Price: $15.00 Where to Buy: Kriega.us

3. Pocket Tire Plugger plus CO2 Inflation

Why call AAA when you have a handy dandy tire plug kit? She'll impress all of her riding buddies when she whips this little kit out and plugs the tire herself, saving hours of precious riding time because of a flat tire. Even comes with CO2 to reinflate!

Price: $47.95 Where to Buy: Pashnit.com store

 

4. Hand Warmers

These little guys will fit nicely in the palm of her gloves, giving her a little extra warmth for that chilly ride home.

Price: $11.96/2 pk (10 pairs) as of 11/23/11 Where to Buy: Amazon.com

5. Schampa Arm Warmers

I know what you're thinking, why would she need a shirt without arms? Well, if she's anything like me, her temperature changes constantly. I easily go from hot to cold, especially with the micro climates of the Bay Area. But you never know when you need to peel a layer and these are easy to peel off.

Price: $23.99 Where to Buy: Schampa.com