[theauhawk]

if you ride through the state of Georgia, like to/from Daytona for Biketoberfest in October, keep in mind that the state of Georgia has implemented motorcycle-only checkpoints:

http://www.americanmotorcyclist.com/news/ridingnews/11-02-23/Riders_asked_to_oppose_Georgia_motorcycle-only_checkpoints.aspx

It would appear, at least to the casual observer, that these checkpoints are a way to spot safety issues with bikes.

However, any way you slice the pie, they are a form of discrimination.

Down in south Ga, I have not seen or been at any of such checkpoints. My guess is that most of them are in the northern half of the state. But I can't vouch for that.

Some suggestions for you, if you find yourself riding thru GA:

1. Have a current, valid driver's license (with a motorcycle endorsement shown on it--duuuhhh), valid, current insurance paperwork (preferrably a copy of the policy "declaration page") showing current proof of coverage (at least general liabilility), and proof of registration and/or a receipt for a current tag purchase. Make sure the info on the insurance paperwork is current and correct. It's probably overkill, but make sure the VIN numbers on your bike's frame match that on the above paperwork (i.e., if your bike is stolen or the paperwork is somehow incorrect with this info, a hwy checkpoint is NOT the time to find this out).

2. Make sure your tires are inflated properly, with respectable tread depths remaining.

3. Make sure you are wearing a helmet (they are required by law in GA), and that it is (at least) DOT approved. Make sure the DOT sticker is on inside of the helmet. No "novelty" helmets, please!

4. If you have custom handlebars, make sure they are not too high, per GA legal requirements.

5. Make sure you have a good, working headlight and tail light, and that your turn signals are also working. Check that your bike's tag is easy to see/read from the rear--and that the tag is current!!!

6. If you are riding, don't drink. If you are drinking, don't ride.

7. If you are stopped at a checkpoint (or otherwise, for that matter), don't be a smartass. Be polite, instead. If the attending trooper left his/her sense of humor at home, you'll be on your way again that much sooner.

8. I don't know what current GA law is for exhaust pipe limits, with regard to noise levels or other modifications. It's up to you to research this on-line, and have proof substantiating your pipes are street legal (in GA, thank you), if you don't have your bike's factory pipes on the bike, with the original baffles. They may (or may not) be checking for this, too.

9. Avoid flashing red or blue lights or LED kits on your bike (except for the obvious tail lamp modulators). Law enforcement is generally jealous of light shows that somehow duplicate their own.

Until the money for these GA motorcycle-only checkpoints runs out, I hope this info helps others passing through.....:doh:

 

[Devil_Hwy]

Unfortunately the money won't run out as long as they are writing a few tickets. The troopers are all on the payroll regardless of this checkpoint existing so if they write any tickets at all the state will see it as a revenue stream. In NY unconstitutional traffic stops are the norm. It's a shame to see the South has gone this way as well. The fed and state gov'ts are bankrupt. The people are nothing but a revenue stream to feed the machine anymore. This will only get worse.

 

[76dore]

I know this might seem ridiculous, but living here in Birmingham and traveling a bunch to Atlanta, let me tell you that this is to combat the "gangs" of street "hoods" that have these insane acceptance requirements. They are growing like weeds
If you go through Georgia much you will encounter them. One such "feat" is 30-30
ride for 30 miles, at 130 mph. I've seen them and almost been involved in an accident on three different occasions..
They ride uninsured and many times on stolen rockets.

The truly insane part of this situation is that most times the initiation rituals take place late at night or early in the morning when fewer cars are out but the good Governor wants the voters to see him in action because there have been so many complaints.
So the cops end up hassling the wrong group of riders because nobody will see them at 1:30 at night.
I suggest a sniper on several of the overpasses and once they crosshair them with the radar guns, follow up with a well place Ballistic tip .308
That will most certainly slow them down
Ride Safe and for a LONG time

 

[Devil_Hwy]

A little perceived safety for you liberty is not a good trade.......ever.

 

[asbrand]

FYI - in the state of Georgia, you are not required to have proof of insurance on you. That law was changed many years ago. You must have valid insurance, but you don't have to have the proof of it on you.

 

[ruger]

I've read about this in a few past issues of "Ridin-On Motorcycle Magazine". GA is one of a few states that are getting funds from the Feds to do these "Motorcycle only" check points. luckily for me, Oh., is not one of the few states that is doing it. I believe NY is one of the few that is doing it also.

 

[DACataldo]

if you ride through the state of Georgia,

Thanks for this great post. When I cross the state line to GA I'll remember this. Coolio bro.:beerchug:

 

[Wolfie]

wow...

...what a bummer Hawk........
Never been down that way, but was planning on a trip to see my 78 yr old best friend in FLA. Thanks for the heads up. Will rerout thru Miss...

Devil_Hwy...not sure where youre coming from. Is this NYC ?....upstate NY I havent had issues with law at least since 1975....my town cops even let "group" bikers come in not wearing helmets (Greenwood Lake)....guessing youre in the city....the city sucks.
Been from Orange County (OCC guys come thu all the time), to the Adirondacks, to the Finger lakes, no issues, ever. Even had a flat in Lake George, and a trooper gave me a ride to nearest shop and waited for me to get a Whopper at a BK.
Ive never had a problem with troopers or locals since 1975. Are you flashing em all the "bird" ?, lolol.
Ive been riding unregistered and uninsured around my neighborhood for weeks to test things I do to the bike....local cops gimme a thumbs up (one asked me to smoke em), troopers smile, sherriff's dept just waves a bit. If youre having issues, instead of bashing NYSP, look at your riding style. Banshees and hotdogs get attention. Kids do that a lot. I just "putt", but then, Im an old fart.....
I have friends with NYSP BCI...and I know for a fact what youre saying is 100% WRONG.