California one of the most dangerous states for motorcyclists to ride in

Many motorcyclists consider California a rider's mecca because of the scenery, ocean vistas and the historical roots in motorcycle culture like Hollister and the birthplace of custom styles like the Frisco Bobber.

Some riders will say California is not biker friendly, due to emmissions standards on bikes, the mandatory helmet law and strict noise enforcement and motorcycle safety checkpoints. They also complain about the poor condition of roads, congestion and the increasing accident rates. These complaints are supported by a recent article in an EIN Service U. S. Politics Today press release.

The California Highway Patrol (CHP) has stepped up its safety initiatives, largely because there was a 102% increase in motorcycle fatallities from 1998 to 2005. Some of the saturation patrols and safety checkpoints are aimed at curbing some unsafe practices by motorcyclists, like speeding, bikes in poor mechanical condition and alcohol related crashes.  With over 1.3 million licensed riders in California, it's a daunting task to bring awareness and training to motorists and riders.  Still, as of December, 2009, over 675,700 riders received training at one of the CHP's 128 training sites throughout the state.  Considering the U.S. Politics Today article, there is a lot more work to be done in California.

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