Kittitas County Chapter, ABATE

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American Bikers Aimed Towards Education

Located in Ellensburg, the heart of Kittitas Valley.

Planning for 2012 events

ABATE holds a number of events during the year, and we participate in other events across Washington. Check the Events page for a list of up coming events and flyers. Join us for live music nights at Red Horse Diner, runs, and camping.

Join us for the 2012 Iron Horse trail Motorcycle Show - Saturday and Sunday, May 5-6.

When is Motorcycle Awareness Month?

The Kittitas County Board of County Commissioners declared May as Motorcycle Awareness Month on April 19, 2011. Another proclamamtion is scheduled for signing on May 1, 2012. According to the proclamation that ABATE supported:

Tens of thousands of Washington motorcyclists travel the roads, streets, and highways of the Evergreen State in their regular work and school commutes, and in their weekend adventures and vacation rides... Motorcyclists lack the protective armor of trucks and automobiles... it is appropriate to set aside a time to alert motorists to the number of motorcyclists on the road and to help motorcyclists become aware of the ways they can promote safety.

Please join us on May 5 and 6 in Ellensburg at the Red Horse Diner to celebrate Motorcycle Awareness Month. Help make Ellensburg and Kittitas County aware of motorcycle riders. Enjoy the skills demonstrations, the mechanical, engineering, and art of the machines, and learn more about the motorcycle lifestyle.

What is ABATE?

ABATE is a non-profit educational organization dedicated to the Freedom of Choice. Membership is open to anyone interested in promoting freedom of the roads, whether you ride a motorcycle or not. Our goal is to educate the public and our elected representatives about motorcycle issues. Ensure your freedom by fighting anti-motorcycle legislation and promoting fair motorcycle legislation.

Our educational outreach includes hosting the annual Iron Horse Trail Motorcycle Show, providing Easter baskets for local children, providing assistance every November for the Cle Elum Red Cross blood drive, supporting community events, and supporting our local sponsors. We participate in in local and statewide motorcycle events, and hold runs and meetings throughout the year.

Kittitas County Chapter has selected Kittitas County Red Cross as the beneficiary for the 2012, 2011 and 2010 Iron Horse Trail Motorcycle Show. A portion of the proceeds will be donated to our local Red Cross to support people in our community.

For more information about ABATE, see the ABOUT ABATE link or the Bylaws link.

Where can I learn to ride a motorcycle?

Washington State requires that all motorcyclists have a valid motorcycle endorsement on their license. That means that you can pass the written and driving tests given by the Department of Licensing. The really good news is that there are several training classes that you can take from independent motorcycle training schools. The certified schools use classroom materials, training exercises (ride a real bike), and live tests. In most cases, if you pass the final tests in the class, then you do not need to take a test at the DOL. Your completed paperwork from your class and $25 or so will get your endorsement.

Sidecar and Trike drivers also need an additional endorsement. Experience with 2 wheels does not equate to experience on 3 wheels. There are also classes for sidecar and trikes.

Don't take a chance - the legislature recently changed the law on driving without an endorsement. If you are stopped, the law enforcement officer can IMPOUND your motorcycle, even if it is your buddy' s bike.

One night class plus a weekend in the classroom could save you hundreds of dollars and countless hassles. Your insurance comany may offer a discount for proof of completing a safety class.

Many of the training locations also offer experienced rider classes to refresh your skills and work on those bad habits you picked up over the years.

Check our ABATE Links page for a list of regional training companies.

Last updated 4/24/2012.