Attending those town hall meetings is a good way to let federal lawmakers know that motorcyclists are concerned about issues, and that motorcyclists vote, said Terry Lee Cook of the AMA Government Relations Department.

Cook suggests telling lawmakers that there is a great need for a comprehensive nationwide study of the causes of motorcycle crashes, and to ensure off-highway riders get their fair share of Recreational Trails Program money to build and maintain motorized trails.

"This is one of the few opportunities people have to meet with their federal legislators," Cook said. "We need to be sure that they know that motorcyclists are voters."

For background on motorcycling issues to discuss with your lawmakers,contact Cook at (614) 856-1900, ext. 1288; or by e-mail tcook@ama-cycle.org.

To find out the names and telephone numbers of the members of yourcongressional delegation, go to the AMA website at www.AMADirectlink.comand click on the Rapid Response Center.

In addition to attending town hall meetings and speaking out in supportof your right to ride, please forward the dates, times and locations of any town hall meetings to your family, friends, fellow riders, and to the AMA Government Relations Department so we can share the information with the motorcycling and ATV communities.

Also, take advantage of the recess to try to schedule personal meetings with your lawmakers or their staff in their district offices to discuss the need for a crash study and for recreational trails funding.