CASEY GARNER

Born an Aries in 1990, I moved to Florida from East Liverpool Ohio when I was 7. I was raised in a family of bikers, but I didn’t start riding my own until I was about 24. I started on a 2013 Honda CBR500, it was the best beginner bike. The CBR is a very forgiving bike. It provides all your basic needs for learning how to control a motorcycle and still has enough power to get you out of a sticky situation. I later moved up to a suzuki gsxr600 and now proudly ride my gsxr1000 everywhere. Florida is an extremely dangerous state for motorcycles, because of that I strive to continue learning and practicing all techniques that will keep me alive. I tend to stay away from riding in town and at night. My father taught me everything I know and he lives on through me and my journey. I was given all the advice, but In my fi rst year of riding I experienced my fi rst crash. I was entering the on ramp of the interstate at night and target fi xated on the grass. That’s exactly where I went! I low sided into the shoulder and got up to fi nd my bike leaning against a tree. If not for my helmet, it could have been much worse. I was by myself. Once I looked everything over, I hopped back on and rode home. I have been very lucky and aware. Many of my friends have not been so fortunate. Dont wait for it to happen, expect it to happen and learn how to adjust CONTINUED NEXT PAGE

yourself before it’s too late. Since then I’ve had the ability to “snap myself out” of that target fi xating and I have saved myself from other crashes. About a couple years later, I was traveling on the interstate at night, when a truck and trailer ran over a 2x4 laying in the lane and threw it into my travel path. I hit it head on but managed to keep the bike up. Both of my wheels were destroyed. I always try to expect the unexpected. Even if you’ve been riding for 50 years, continue to practice your skills every day. I enjoy escaping the straight roads of Florida and head to the mountains twice a year. Not only is that a great learning experience, but you can not beat the scenery. My dog Rocko enjoys being on two wheels just as much as I do. He is as happy as can be when we’re

riding down the back roads, ears I’m the wind. I attended my fi rst track day in 2018 and I try to go once a month. I learn something new every single time I’m there. It is a very safe environment with knowledgeable riders that are there for any questions and guidance. If you ever want to REALLY become one with your motorcycle, you must attend a track day. You will learn things on the track that you will never learn on the street. There is nothing more fulfi lling than gaining more and more confi dence and truly being in-tune with what you are doing. As a rider, you need to be aware of how dangerous this sport is. You will not catch me without a proper fi tting helmet, jacket, gloves, pants and boots. When I’m at the track, I trust my Shoei helmet, Dainese 1 piece suit and Forma boots to keep me safe. Always wear your gear, enjoy yourself, and always continue to learn and practice while on your motorcycle.