Aiken to Host Motorcycle Safety Awareness Event Saturday Amid Fatal Crash Increase

American Legion Riders Chapter 26 will hold a Motorcycle Awareness event from 9 a.m. to 2 p.m. Saturday, April 18, in the parking lot of Millbrook Baptist Church. The gathering happens alongside Aiken Horsepower's Fellowship of Spring car show.

Organizers want drivers to notice motorcyclists more. They hope to teach habits that protect everyone on the roads. A Distracted Driving Simulator will be available at the event.

Two riders died in crashes around Aiken during the first months of 2026. Six motorcyclists lost their lives in 2025. The event is designed to raise awareness among drivers to "Look Twice, Save a Life" and to "Share the Road, Save a Life", per Aiken Standard.

American Legion Riders Chapter 26 has joined with the Aiken Horsepower Association to bring car lovers and bike riders together. This partnership works to build awareness and improve safety in both groups.

Several organizations will have representatives there. American Legion Riders Chapter 26, Aiken Motorcycle Sales & Service, Aiken County Sheriff's Office, Aiken Department of Public Safety, Mothers Against Drunk Driving, Moto Masters of Augusta, and Aiken Horsepower Association plan to participate.

On April 25 and 26, 200 American Legion Riders will ride across South Carolina for the Department of South Carolina American Legion Riders Legacy Ride. This annual fundraiser supports American Legion charitable programs.