The Motorcycle Safety Foundation Introduces 'Contract for Safety'

The Motorcycle Safety Foundation has published its Contract for Safety for use by the general motorcycling public. Previously available only on the Apple iTunes Store to purchasers of MSF’s Rider Choices iBook, the Contract can now be downloaded from MSF’s website here. The Contract is an effective discussion tool that can help a prospective motorcycle rider have a serious conversation with concerned friends or family members about a responsible way forward into the exciting world of motorcycling.

Avoiding crashes on a motorcycle requires not only being aware of the risks in traffic, but also managing those risks. With the Contract, the motorcyclist can review each of the key elements known to contribute to safety, initial each one in the presence of a friend or family member, and by signing the document and having the witness countersign it, affirm his or her intent to make wise choices when riding, with the overarching goal of reducing crashes. The Contract’s safety elements include getting trained, wearing a full set of safety gear on each ride, riding unimpaired, and keeping one’s motorcycle in excellent condition.

The MSF characterizes motorcycling as “serious fun” – serious because of the potential risks, and fun because of the ongoing joy it provides the prepared rider. MSF also believes that motorcycling isn’t for everyone, since some individuals lack the abilities or judgment required for safe riding. For riders who are willing to commit to riding safely and responsibly, we encourage them to demonstrate that commitment by using the Contract for Safety and sharing it with other riders.

For more information: msf-usa.org or call (800) 446-9227.

The Sturgis Motorcycle Museum and Hall of Fame recently named Marilyn Stemp and Steve Piehl to its board of directors.

Stemp is a pioneering figure in the motorcycle industry, founding IronWorks Magazine with her late husband, Dennis, and becoming the first female editor of a nationally circulated, mainstream motorcycle magazine. She also revived their trade magazine, Iron Trader News; edits the monthly Kiwi Indian News; contributes to several powersports media outlets; and is the founding editor of Sturgis Rider Daily. Stemp is a noted editor and writer of several motorcycle-focused books. Her consistent support for charitable efforts in the industry include the annual Biker Belles Celebration, Las Vegas BikeFest and as campaign chair for the Sturgis Motorcycle Museum’s development plan in 2014. She co-founded the Flying Piston charity events taking place in Daytona and Sturgis each year and is a National Ambassador for All Kids Bike. Stemp was inducted into both the Las Vegas Motorcycle Hall of Fame and the Sturgis Museum's Hall of Fame in 2018, and in 2022 she was recognized as one of the Top 100 Women in Powersports by DealerNews.