I have fought all of my tickets for the last ten years in court. You can usually get the fine reduced. To get a dismissal you have to be able to show that you didn't do it by producing evidence or getting the officer to admit to things in your favor or contradict himself. Best deal is if the officer does not show. But that is becoming more rare. Or else you have to give some reason that they should reduce the charges, like circumstances that caused the act, but not dumb stuff like you didn't see the sign or other people were going fast. You have to read what you were charged with in the vehicle code and find reasons why the officer can't prove it. Everything is negotiable more or less depending on your record. If this happened in Redwood City though forget it. Zero tolerance zone. I had a great case, brought up all kinds of good points and they didn't care. One of my few losses. Hate to say it but 50 something in the 25 is a silly one. I fought one like that, I produced a picture to show that the 25 sign was blocked by a bush and the previous sign was 40. If you admit to anything over 25 you are guilty and it is just a matter of how much fine. So if you are going to fight it you have to have something to say for yourself, otherwise plead guilty and mention first offense and how you are remorseful. Which they will be reluctant to believe since you ride a sport bike. The best way to avoid tickets is to go slow where they can see you and have fun in the twisties. I am not a lawyer and these are just my observations based on spending time sitting in court.
