As a year round motorcycle rider and MSF certified Instructor, I like to think I'm more attuned to the environment than most. I don't ride in ice and snow and usually won't venture out into a raging downpour; however, all other riding days and weather are fair game.
As the cold weather beats a half speed retreat from the Fredericksburg area, motorcyclists are peeking their heads out and firing up their machines. Waiting to greet them is the residue of City and VDOT attempts to keep Old Man Winter at bay. I'm talking sand. Lots and lots of sand. Spread along the entire lengths of neighborhood streets, covering whole city intersections and leading into/out of parking lots and driveways.
Sand is one of a motorcyclists worst enemies, second only to oil or anti-freeze when it comes to cornering.
This is the time of year when motorcyclists need to contact their local Public Works Departments city council representative, mayor or supervisors and make them aware of the hazard sand poses to them as roadway users. Request they break out the sweeper machines, go through the town and make a concerted effort to rid the streets and roads as best they can, of the residue. If those efforts fail or are rebuffed, ratchet up your situational awareness and be prepared. A few good, hard Spring rains might wash some of it away, but not all. Stay alert.
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