Want a friend? Be a friend.

If you've ever ridden to the state capitol to meet your legislators, you know how important it is to make a good impression. You're on your best behavior, of course. A lot of motorcycling issues are at stake, and you certainly want a majority of legislators to be on your side.

But are you on their side?

As important as your trip to the capitol may be, it should NOT be the only time you have personal contact with your legislator. Ideally, your meeting should be more akin to reuniting with an old friend. And rather than talking them into helping you, they should instead be thanking you -- for helping them get there in the first place.

The reason is pretty clear. Politicians are just as passionate about winning elections as bikers are about riding motorcycles. So when you volunteer for a candidate during the campaign season, you make a lasting impression. And the harder you work for them on the campaign trail, the harder they'll work for you at the state capitol.

But when it comes to making a first impression, the legislative session is probably the least opportune time. Legislators are busy, trying to move their own agenda forward. Meanwhile, everybody else is clamoring for their attention, and asking them for favors. How can you possibly make yourself stand out from all the political moochers?

By not being a moocher, of course.

This doesn't mean you shouldn't go to the capitol if you’re new to election politics. Far from it. The more that legislators see you, the better. But think of the advantage you'd hold over other constituents -- and even professional lobbyists -- if you had been an important part of their winning campaign.

By all means, make that trip and tell them what you think. Just keep in mind that if you want to see more “biker friendly” legislators at the state capitol, then make sure they see more “friendly biker” volunteers on the campaign trail.

-RIDE2REPEAL@gmail.com