Good luck, bikers

Huron (Mich.) Daily Tribune: It’s been a long time since motorcycle riders have been able to drive through the streets of Michigan with the wind blowing through their hair — and without a helmet.

But a law that has been in effect since 1970 is about to change after Gov. Rick Snyder signed his approval to a bill that has passed both the Michigan House and Senate.

The motorcycle helmet law has been cursed and praised since its inception. It is obviously saving motorcycle riders from more severe head injuries. But bikers say the responsibility should be theirs and they don’t need the government to interfere with their ride.

Our brains tell us the helmet law is good for us and keeps state medical costs down. Our hearts tell us to leave bikers alone, it is they who are taking the chances.

A deciding factor in all this apparently is the trend of most Midwest states to turn away from helmet laws. The wind blowing through bikers’ hair more freely is good for the economy, and we are almost certain to see more biker gatherings in the state.

Bikers must be at least 21 years old, carry additional medical insurance and have either two years of motorcycle experience or pass a safety course.