The Friction Zone explores an unique approach to motorcycle instruction, and safety while enhancing the experience of the open road.
Functional skills, less spills and more thrills!
06/03/2026
June’s Universal Riders Club - Pittsburgh meeting at Monte Cello's Italian Restaurant … saying goodbye to “Roc”, a treasured member who passed away this past month and discussing upcoming member rides including the ”Triple Nickel” in Ohio and the challenges that riders face on those twisty, hill crested and surprising roads.
Ride Kune Do
06/03/2026
Bike Night at Three Rivers Harley-Davidson …
Ride Kune Do
06/01/2026
Now that May- Month comes to a close, it's vital we remain vigilant with our riding habits and dedicated to STAYING ALERT, Developing 360º Awareness & being PROactive in our riding strategies. The following stats I learned while training to be a School Bus Driver and they serve us well as riders. This is how we can be led down a path of unsafe acts, riding habits and false confidence - until we get to that ONE ACT (or non-act) that may have life-long consequences! Ride Safe as we enter these summer months!
The Friction Zone
Ride Kune Do
Stayin' Safe Motorcycle Training
05/31/2026
Congrats and Happy Retirement to Sheldon Ingram of WTAE-TV Pittsburgh. Worked with him as we promoted motorcycle safety back in 2014 with a follow-up TV news story to an article I contributed to highlighting a number of the most dangerous roads for riders in Western Pennsylvania. He made sure to make the piece entertaining and informative as we captured riding footage and an interview. Enjoy you well deserved retirement sir!
The Friction Zone
Ride Kune Do
Today's Month Tip deals with distracted drivers and avoiding a rear-end collision. Two Ridin'Rhymes™ are demonstrated ... One - "Pick a Place for Your Escape"™ by leaving 1.5 to 2 bike lengths between you and the vehicle you are stopping behind -AND- positioning yourself behind the passenger or drivers side depending on available escape routes ... Two - "When you Stop be Ready to Rock"™ refers to being "tactical ready" ... bike in gear, clutch in, right foot applying rear brake, left foot on ground and right hand on throttle ... this way you are prepared to pull out and around immediately if you notice a vehicle about to strike you from behind - AND - that's a prior Ridin'Rhyme™ in use - "Keep in Mind What's Behind"™ ... Ride Safe!
The Friction Zone
Ride Kune Do
"First in Line, Take your Time"™ ... another RidinRhyme™ from The Friction Zone that address taking a moment before pulling out at a traffic light. Watch the two scenarios to see in action.
Clip #1 demonstrates letting the vehicle to my left "block" potential conflicting traffic (also notice checking my mirrors for approaching vehicles from behind).
Clip #2 shows how my visual lead is compromised to my right - if a vehicle is running the red or making a quick right on red it could prove an issue - taking that extra moment can often be the key to a safe exit. Of course, situational application takes precedence. Ride Safe!
Ride Kune Do
05/27/2026
TODAY’S MONTH TIP! A Rider’s overall HEALTH & FITNESS are vital components of staying safe and maximizing your riding experience! While not the “sexy” part of a rider’s “matrix” of skills, physical & mental health are keys to your longevity as a motorcyclist. Get regular check-ups, keep your health a priority and STAY TUNED as The Friction Zone is currently developing a rider focused, “at-home” fitness program to ensure your riding days continue well into the future!
Ride Kune Do
05/26/2026
Tuesday, June 9th is the 35th Annual Ride to Work day ... Show the world that motorcycles and scooters are great for everyday transportation! On Ride to Work Day, ride your motorcycle or scooter to commute, shop/run errands, or simply to enjoy the experience.
Ride to Work Day is about "Advocating and supporting the use of motorcycles and scooters for transportation, and providing information about everyday riding to the public. Be a part of this worldwide celebration raising awareness and support for the riding community!
The Friction Zone
Ride Kune Do
Today's Tip ... "Unknown at best what lies beyond the Crest" ™ / RidinRhymes™ - exposes the hidden danger of hill crests. Often we see riders hugging the center line or accelerating over hill crests (remember to "know when to hush the rush"™) ... had this vehicle been on or crossing the centerline (distracted?), or looking to quickly turn into the side street, this could have been a dangerous potential conflict. When approaching a hill crest we recommend moving to the #2 position (center of lane) and slowing slightly as a vehicle could be stopped just over that crest! Part of the "on-road" training with Stayin' Safe Motorcycle Training ... Celebrating Month with The Friction Zone and Ride Kune Do