Bikers rally and return to the road

Photos by Tom Rivers – About 150 motorcyclists gathered for a motorcycle safety rally this afternoon at the Orleans County Courthouse in Albion.

The group then went on a 50-mile ride throughout the county.

ALBION – With warm weather finally here, motorcyclists in Orleans County want to remind the public they’re back on the roadways.

About 150 bikers joined today for their annual “motorcycle safety and awareness rally” at the Orleans County Courthouse and then embarked on a 50-mile ride throughout the county.

The group has had an annual rally for at least 20 years, and the crowd seems to get bigger every year as the sport gains popularity, said Fran Abrams, public relations coordinator for the Orleans County chapter of American Bikers Aimed Toward Education.

Motorcyclists have a simple message for drivers who share the road.

“We’re back on the roads, look twice and save a life,” Abrams said.

County Legislator Lynne Johnson, R-Lyndonville, read a proclamation from the Legislature that declared May “Motorcyle Safety and Awareness Month” in Orleans County. She praised the ABATE chapter for promoting rider safety and working to dispel myths about bikers.

State Assemblyman Steve Hawley also addressed the group. He said he strongly supported a $150 million increase in the state budget for road and bridge improvements.

“That will make the roads safer,” Hawley said.

Jeremy Ingraham of Middleport gets ready for the 50-mile ride throughout Orleans County.