Riding in the Pandemic

By Wanda Carlisle - President

Depending on what you read, the pandemic is either nearly over or, while vaccines are out, another variant is raging. Either way we are still living in the midst of differing rules and regulations state to state and sometimes county to county. So how do you ride safely and still have fun, no matter what your beliefs?

Carry a face covering - Even if you’re dead set against masks, put something in your saddlebag, windshield bag, jacket pocket, whatever. At some point, you’ll need to run inside a building to use the facilities or grab some food and they may not let you in without one.

Keep your gloves on - If on the other hand you are at the other end of the spectrum and are very concerned, keep your gloves on when you get gas. That way you’re not actually touching anything. Just don’t then touch your face.

Check ahead if you’re traveling - It’s best not to assume the rules where you’re going are the same as here in Northeast Ohio. Maybe the mask regulations have been lifted…or maybe they’re stronger. Maybe there are curfews. Maybe hotels and restaurants still have occupancy restrictions. Or maybe that restaurant you loved on your last trip is sadly no longer open. And on that note, always be prepared to picnic.

Ride extra carefully - No matter what you believe about the pandemic, we probably all agree that a hospital is still the least safe place you can be. So now is not the time to take risks and possibly end up there.