By Marie Newell [the daughter]

Ever since I was introduced into the biking life when Dad [Jan] built his chopper and re-joined the motorcycle world years ago, I have been fascinated with the courtesy wave. You know the one, when another rider extends their arm out to you while passing you going the opposite direction. There’s no wave at the wrist or twiddling of the fingers. Its just an extension, an acknowledgment of your mutual love.

The courtesy wave seems to be a tradition. A motion that has been passed down/across between bikers. So, you can understand my disappointment when out riding on Memorial Day I didn’t get it. Out of the dozens of motorcycles my husband and I passed while riding our 2007 V-Star 1100 I’d guess only 30% waved back at us. Now, I’ll be the first to admit we didn’t wave at every bike that was going the other direction either.

Reasons I find to be acceptable not to wave:

1. Heavy traffic / crazy drivers around you
2. Bad weather / road conditions
3. Inexperience or discomfort letting go with one hand
4. Holding on to your driver because you don’t have a sissy bar
5. Night time

How do you feel about it? Is the courtesy wave not really a big deal or is it a wonderful tradition that is fading away?