Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

 

Do I have to be a member of STAR Touring and Riding to participate in the rides?

NO. You are welcome to come participate in any scheduled ride. This will allow you to evaluate us and give us a chance to evaluate you. You must possess and present a Valid Motorcycle Operator’s License (Class DM) and sign a Waiver/Release Form to participate in the rides.

Do I have to be a member of STAR Touring & Riding to become a member of the Chapter?

YES. You must be a current member of the STAR Touring & Riding Association before you can become a member of the Chapter. However, you can ride with the Chapter three (3) times without being a member.

Do I have to ride a Star/Yamaha motorcycle?

NO. Although STAR is the official Yamaha/Star Motorcycle sanctioned owner’s riding association, we welcome all motorcycle enthusiasts who seek to promote our mission. You can ride any brand of motorcycle. If you are willing to uphold the Chapter Charter and meet the minimum requirements, we welcome anyone.

Are there any Chapter dues?

YES. You must be a current member of STAR Touring & Riding Association. In addition, there is a Chapter 451 membership donation in the amount of $20.00 per member/per year.

Do I have to participate in every ride to be a member?

NO. Members are expected to participate in at least 40% of the Chapter’s events (comprised of meeting & rides) per year.

When and where are the Chapter meetings?

We have scheduled, general Chapter Meetings to be held on the third Saturday of each month. Usually meetings begin promptly at 9:00 a.m. at our supporting dealer, K's Motorsports (17802 Hwy. 59N, Humble TX. 77396). The meetings last approximately one hour. You can check our web site schedule for up-to-date meeting info, including any special events. Any changes to meeting dates or times will be posted to the web site’s "Chapter Events" page, or you will receive an email from the Chapter President.

Why is riding in a group safer than riding alone?

The more visibility and the more riders you have on the road, the safer you are around other vehicles. The increased noise of a group of bikes also calls attention to the fact that something out of the norm is near to approaching vehicles that are not always watching out for others. Increasing visibility with flags, clothing, lights also helps.

Do I have to purchase and wear a vest and patches?

NO. This is optional. However, it’s encouraged since it shows your support, pride and enthusiasm for our association and chapter. It also indicates to the public that you are helping to promote our unified mission. Wearing of STAR and Chapter patches is limited to STAR and chapter members.

Do I have to wear leathers?

NO. Although leathers do protect you in minor accidents and from flying debris thrown up from cars and trucks.

What are the rules for a ride?

All riders must have a valid driver’s license endorsed for motorcycle operation (class DM). All riders must sign a Ride Waiver and Release Form, which we will keep on file for all rides.

Your bike should be maintained in a safe condition. Motorcycles with malfunctioning lights, brakes and worn tires or other items in disrepair deemed a hazard will not be permitted to participate in Chapter rides.

All traffic laws will be strictly obeyed. Drinking alcohol or the use of drugs while riding will NOT be allowed - we observe a zero-tolerance policy.

Never ride over your personal comfort zone, no matter what. The Road Captain and Tail Gunner will make sure you do not get left behind.

Always be alert, scanning front to back and side to side for unexpected obstacles, other vehicles and other bikers.

Watch for everything just as if you were riding solo.

Ride in staggered formation unless directed otherwise by the Road Captain. Riding in staggered formation gives each biker time and space to react to the potential unexpected mishaps without compromising or endangering the safety of his/her fellow riders in the group.

Watch for hand signals given first by the Road Captain and passed back through the group. Pay attention to the bike in front of you. Learn and use all appropriate hand signals.

Curves should be taken one bike at a time whether in a staggered or single file formation to allow enough radiuses for each bike to turn. Each rider and each bike turns differently. Don't assume you know what the bike near you will do.

Reference our "Rules/Guidelines" page for more information.

Why are there rules and By-Laws?

To protect you and other members, our children riding and grandchildren's safety. To protect association members from bikers who don't practice safe responsible riding. To promote a positive image and family friendly environment to our members and to the public. To unite and unify our association nationally and worldwide toward the same mission statement. We are family! To promote STAR in a unified manner while setting an example in our respective communities and helping others less fortunate than us.

How do I join the Chapter?

Contact our Chapter President or attend a chapter meeting. Remember, you need to participate in at least three (3) rides before being considered for Chapter membership. You will be partnered with one of our experienced, veteran members (called “Shepherds”) to help you learn the ropes. After you have completed the three rides, you can request membership. The current Chapter Officers will then vote to accept your membership.