It's about time for those of us on the West Coast to start planning for Daytona. No doubt that Daytona needs to cut down on the number of motorcycle accidents during Daytona weeks. They had too many not that long ago, and I know they are working hard to find the cause and eliminate it. Tired riders, alcohol centered activities, lots of traffic, bikes and cars trying to share the same roads. It's easy to guess at the causes, but real analysis and prevention is always more involved. Motorcycle culture may be partly to blame. Phil Jackson has been quoted as commenting that balance with danger is part of the appeal of motorcycles. The idea is that, because motorcycle accidents are more common and potentially involve greater injuries, the rider needs to focus more. I agree that the need to focus is one of the pleasures of motorcycle riding, but I also remember an expert rider who rode for many, many years without a crash or accident. Part of the appeal of motorcycle riding is certainly the ability to be part of the motorcycle community. Annual events like Daytona can't really be compared to anything else. My best wishes go to the sponsors of the event. I hope they have a safe, accident free motorcycle week. | 
