Well, it can't be printed in full in the newspaper. Let's just say that Findlay's shirt sums up the sentiments of a host of his fellow bikers.

Findlay, from Falls Church, joined a crowd expected to be in the hundreds at Jamestown Campground for a statewide gathering and motorcycle rodeo over the weekend.

The bikers braved sweltering heat that sent some home early from an event sponsored by American Bikers Advocating Training and Education, or ABATE, of Virginia.

The organization is a motorcyclists advocacy group that promotes rider safety while monitoring state and federal regulations and legislation that affect motorcycles. Among the more prominent issues in motorcycling circles are helmet laws. "I wouldn't wear one if I didn't have to," Findlay said.

Describing himself as "pro-choice" - at least regarding helmets - Findlay said helmet laws were unfair to trained, skilled riders.

"It's very rare that trained riders get into accidents," he said.

Dale Owens of Hampton was attending his third ABATE event and became a member of the organization Friday.

He thinks that helmets should be an individual choice.

"Lots of times, I would still wear it," he said. "Like around Hampton, I would wear it."

But out on country roads, Owens said, he would go helmetless - preferring to feel the wind on his shaved head.

Originial Article by Matt Sabo