You hear a lot about close calls and danger when looking at motorcycles from the outside. I’m looking at motorcycles now for the first time, and my wife is concerned. As I just want a chill cruiser, I thought maybe some perspective from actual riders might help with the perceived danger. What do you guys think? Do you have any stories or opinions? Anyone experience any accidents that armor/air vests came in clutch? I appreciate any insight you guys may have!
As long as you drive responsibly and with the attitude that everyone else out there are probably trying to kill you, you’ll be fine.
The second part depends greatly on your region.
Remember to dress for the slide not for the ride ;)
Definitely don’t skimp on gear, or screw around in the rain. I’ve had half a dozen accidents over the years and no major injuries thankfully due to always wearing my gear. The majority of those accidents were when it was wet, or rainy, or misty out.
Always give yourself a way out, and expect people to do the dumbest thing they can.
First, take a class on riding. The Motorcycle Safety Foundation (MSF) and many Harley dealers offer them. An advantage is that passing the class will give you the endorsement on your DL, which you need to legally ride.
Next, start small. Getting used to a smaller bike will help you get a feel for how to deal with the nuances of controlling a bike and how to deal with traffic. As others have said, get the right gear and use it. Even if your state doesn’t have a helmet law, wear one.
When you’re ready to move up, you can easily sell the smaller bike and get the one you want.
And when you’re out on the road, assume nobody can see you. Be vigilant and always look for a way out of a situation.
Most motorcycle crashes happen at low speed, then inexperienced riders, then after winter, or something like that. So, ride year round, a lot and always fast (don’t).
Fortnine has a good video about it with some statistics, it kinda boils down to always wear all the gear, like others here have said, and ease into it after a break. Whether it’s a week or 6 months, a day you haven’t ridden, is a day you’ve lost feeling for YOUR bike. (that last sentence is my addition)
I ride a lot, have for years, ride like a hooligan sometimes and have laid down my bike 3 times, all below 30km/h.
Biggest danger on a motorcycle is your lack of visibility for other drivers. Always make the assumption they did not see you.
Other than that, I would say, if you drive safe, you won’t have more accident BUT each one of those can be a lot more violent on your body.
