We're sure to see some increased motorcycle traffic around Sarnia-Lambton this weekend.
The sixth annual Ride of Respect will take place on Saturday afternoon.
The event pays tribute to first responders but also acts as a reminder for both motorcyclists and car drivers to be extra cautious on area roadways.
Organizer David Burrows said staging starts at 11 a.m. at Preferred Towing on Indian Road in Sarnia.
The kickstands will go up, and they'll leave for their trek around noon.
They'll travel through Sarnia, Bright’s Grove, Camlachie, Wyoming, Petrolia, Corunna, and Aamjiwnaang.
"Originally, the ride started over COVID to show respect to first responders and people in the medical field," said Burrows. "Since then, it's turned into just having respect for the road. That means motorcycles, cars and bicycles respecting the road and looking out for each other. We want to respect one another in the community."
Burrows expects 50 or 60 riders to take part.
"When you see a group of motorcycles out, it's hard not to notice them," he said. "We appreciate that two wheels, compared to four, can be hard to see sometimes. We're asking people for an extra pair of eyeballs. And, when you're cutting your grass, don't blow it into the road. That's like ice for a motorcycle."
Burrows said all riders will receive a commemorative Ride of Respect patch as a thank-you for participating.
The ride will finish at Moose Lodge 1046, 874 Phillip Street, in Sarnia where there will be prizes and other fun activities.
Donations are being collected in support of Ohana Landing transitional housing for youth, and it's hoped they can bring in at least $2,000.
The inaugural event, which took place in May 2020, had 125 motorcycles riding a 50 kilometre route through the city to pay respect to frontline workers.
More information can be found at www.rideofrespect.ca.