Just how do ordinary riders make a difference when it comes to dealing with law-makers. Like the routine maintenance on your ride, you need the right tools for the job when dealing with legislators:

Visit: Be civil, but be yourself. Whatever "ride of life" you come from, whether your collar be blue or white, whether you ride a two, three or four-wheeler, don't try to be something that you aren't. If you and your group have long-hair and tattoos don't be afraid to organize with other clubs that wear ties to work; like-minded, but culturally varied groups show the politicians that riders represent a wide base of their constituents and they'll get the message.

Write: Handwritten letters have the most impact, but typed or word-processed letters with a signature work fine. Keep your letters short, direct and civil. Make sure that you always include your full name and mailing address or your carefully-crafted words will end up going out with the day's garbage.

Call: Pick up that phone when time is short before a vote. Like an in-person visit or a letter, the more clearly you state the case, the better off you are. Ask for and note the full name of the staff member that takes your call and thank them for their time. Legislators often rely on their staff to be up on not only the wording of a bill, but also the public response. Knowing the name of a staff member automatically give you a "contact" in that office.

E-mail: Like a phone-call, e-mail is best reserved for last-minute efforts or immediate-vote issues. Like letters, they will only be read if you include your full name and mailing address (not just your e-mail address). E-mail is quickly becoming an effective and respected form of public lobbying.

Form Cards & Letters: While not as effective as an individual visit, letter, phonecall or e-mail, form cards and letters do have their uses. If you are part of an organization and can gather thousands of such forms, they will have impact when dropped off at a legislator's office.

Petitions: By themselves, petitions are the least effective tool, but can be used to good effect in conjunction with a combination of the above communication methods. are the least effective tool. Petitions should only be used to augment a greater effort.

The most important tool, as with working on a rig, is your head. Search for current bills being floated through the legislature. Research the lobbying groups and join the one(s) you feel will do riders the most good. Read up on the "heavyweight" documents: the Bill of Rights, U.S. Constitution and the constitution of your state. Finally, know the positions of those running for office before you vote!