More than 20 motorcycle riders from across the region gathered Saturday at Wiebler’s Harley‑Davidson in Kewanee to kick off Motorcycle Awareness Month and remind motorists to “look twice and save a life.”
The ride, organized by Central Illinois ABATE (A Brotherhood Aimed Toward Education), traveled from Wiebler’s to Harley’s Pub in Galesburg under a police escort. Once there, Ed Keith, ABATE’s public relations director and an ordained minister, offered a prayer and blessing for the bikes and riders.
Bob Kemper, president of Central Illinois ABATE, said the annual ride aims to encourage drivers to watch for motorcycles. He also invited the public to follow the group’s Facebook page to learn more about its safety and education efforts.
The organization meets at 6 p.m. on the second Sunday of each month at Harley’s Pub in Galesburg. Meetings are free and open to the public, covering topics such as rider safety, education, and outreach programs at schools and businesses.
Through these efforts, ABATE members hope to make roads safer for everyone, and keep motorcycle awareness front and center all year long.
