Summer’s here and the Rhode Island Department of Transportation (RIDOT) is reminding motorists that motorcyclists are everywhere. That is why RIDOT will observe national Ride to Work Day on Monday, June 21. Designed to highlight the relevance of alternative forms of transportation such as scooters and motorcycles, the day serves to highlight the positive daily use of these vehicles.
“Currently, there are 32,000 registered motorcycles in the State,” said RIDOT Deputy Director Phillip Kydd. “Motorcycles are a viable form of transportation and we all need to be aware of their presence on our highways.”
According to the U.S. Department of Transportation, motorcycles consume 56 percent less fuel per mile traveled than automobiles and they typically average 40-75 miles per gallon of gasoline. Better gas mileage translates into fewer dollars at the pump and ultimately less impact on the environment.
In addition to reducing fuel consumption and carbon emissions, motorcycles also take up less space on the highway, easing the congestion that commuters face on a daily basis.
“While we all value the positive impacts of motorcycles to the environment and congestion, we want to remind drivers and riders alike to be safe. Be aware: drive and ride with care,” added Kydd.
The Department encourages motorcyclists to dress the part with the appropriate motorcycle-specific safety gear, such as a helmet, protective eyewear, full fingered gloves, long pants, over the ankle boots, and a leather jacket.
Contact: Heidi Gudmundson 222-1362 x. 4009