Riding season has gotten off to a slow start this year as winter kept its icy claws in Minnesota, but the thaw has arrived just in time for Saturday's .

Thousands of motorcyclists will be heading out on the highways along the Mississippi and St. Croix rivers to raise money for Gillette Children's Specialty Healthcare and carry on the tradition began by the 12 motorcyclists who rode from the Twin Cities to Winona to help sandbag during the 1965 flood.

“We want riders to have a great time being back on the road after a long winter, but even more importantly, we want them to make it home safely," Jay Bock, motorcycle safety coordinator for our Motorcycle Safety Center, said.

Last year was the deadliest year for motorcyclists since 1985, with 82 riders killed in crashes. Drivers, look twice for motorcycles, especially when changing lanes and driving through intersections. Motorcycles are harder to see in traffic and their distance and speed are difficult to judge due to their smaller size.​

Remember:

• Drive at safe speeds.
• Give riders room.
• Always signal your intentions before changing lanes or merging with traffic.
• Put away any distractions.

Riders, wear full protective gear, including a helmet. It can make a difference between life and death. Two-thirds of riders killed in 2022 were not wearing a helmet. Make sure your gear is “high-viz​" to help you stand out in traffic. Learn more about going ​“high-viz."​

Other things that can save your life: 

• Ride as though other drivers don't see you. Don't ever assume another driver knows you're there. 
• Never ride impaired or distracted.
• Use turn signals at every lane change or turn.
• Ride at safe speeds and maintain a safe following distance.

Law enforcement agencies in southeast Minnesota, along with Minnesota State Patrol troopers, will be out patrolling the area during the event to ensure a safe riding environment.