How dangerous is riding really?

[Marco]

Hey guys

Lately for some reason I've begun to think that I might like to own a bike - in fact, there's sort of a feeling that I've commenced down the long path to motorcycle ownership in my mind and it's only a matter of time :)

What I'd really like is something of a cruiser, with classic rather than sportsbike styling, and with a focus on a bit of comfort rather than all out performance.

Thing is, though, I read and hear so many stories of people being badly hurt or killed on bikes that are putting me off. I picked up a few issues of Two Wheels a little while ago, for example, and there were quite a few tributes to and stories about bikers who had been killed out on the roads.

I don't know that I'd be riding to work - although I might - so that would probably help to minimise my risk, but I'm still worried. So, in the collective experience, how dangerous is it really, and to what extent can you make yourself safer (ie by anticipating the mistakes of Camry drivers etc)?

[moose]

When I got into riding, the first thing i felt was very "exposed" for want of a better word. One you get used to that its fine. I rode in peak hour melbourne traffic every day for several years with only one minor incident.
It depends on how you ride, and yes you can learn to anticipate other drivers, well, you'll have to.
You can even become a better car driver from the experience. It amazed me the amount of times I saw someone do something stupid and tough "wow, i've done that a few times" and changed my driving habits too.
From the sounds of it, you have your head screwed on right, so you should be fine.
BTW, don't ever think you're too good to take riding courses, like aust. superbike school. Riding fast may not be your thing, but thats not all they teach.

[Gareth@Willall]

Mate play it safe. Stay alert and keep out in front and NEVER trust anyone else on the road!

And if you dont feel like riding or arent 100%. Dont ride!

[Leroy]

I've had a lot of big fast road bikes over about 5 years. I never fell off but I decided to swap to dirtbikes before I lost my licence or I had a big crash. I have never looked back although I have had a few big stacks in the bush.

If you just want to experience riding a bike, trail riding is a great option and I believe much more fun than road riding.

[moose]

If you just want to experience riding a bike, trail riding is a great option and I believe much more fun than road riding.

To each their own i suppose, I prefer the road.:thumbsup:

[Boom]

Dont do stupid things.
Beware of ALL other road users.
Think of everyone as out to get you.
After a while it becomes second nature.
Its great fun.

[aahsv]

- Note cruisers are heavier and usually don't have same ground clearance, maneuverability and braking that performance bikes have, makes it harder to avoid trouble. (My Suzuki M109R handles reasonably well for a cruiser)
- manage your risk by riding something thats suited to your real (not percieved) skill level - skill and experience takes time to build.
- Also always assume tinheads can't see you.
Happy riding :wave:

[DaveHAT]

Mate play it safe. Stay alert and keep out in front and NEVER trust anyone else on the road!

And if you dont feel like riding or arent 100%. Dont ride!

Spot on Gareth,

If you must ride ... try and watch (at a minimum) 3 cars ahead of you and 2 cars behind you. You can never look too far ahead.

Get to some driver training sessions where you can learn just how stupid car drivers are in a relatively safe environment. Without intent to sound extremist, ride as if you were a paranoid forum owner :D ... presume everyone is out to get you or run you down and adopt a defensive attitude when on the road.

Once you start riding you will become painfully aware of just how stupid/ignorant/short visioned etc motorist are. Don't be a lane splitting goose that annoys the shit out of car drivers and try and enjoy the experience.

My 2 cents.

[HDVZMonaro]

There is nothing like the freedom of riding a bike! I ride everyday and I don't think I could live without my bike now. You just have to learn to anticipate what other drivers are going to do, ie make eye contact, leave plenty of room etc.

I would also like to say is that it is totally different riding a bike than driving a car. Bikes accelarate and brake faster but are far more vulnerable with alot less protection. Riding can be dangerous, but as long as you mitigate the risks, you can reduce the likelihood of an accident significantly.

[Sonnymad]

I have been riding for 15years,i just recently hung my jacket as i have decidied i have gotten away with it for long time as i have lost over 15 mates including my best mate over the years,my last bike was the cbr1000rr,it sure is a dangerous thing and as gareth said dont trust anyone or driver ! draw a line and never step over it ,it worked for me,the only crash i had was at eastern creek turn 9.As much as i love riding and its killing me that i have stopped and especially honda releasing the repsol bike the one i have been waiting for ! damn ! :(

regards sonny

[clubbie]

GarethSS top post.

Can I add

Try to avoid riding in the wet - it's downright dangerous (especially on a sports bike)
Get the decent exhaust so other motorists can at least hear you - cause the sure as fcuk don't see you.
Don't ever ride when your angry/upset - you put yourself in way to much danger.
Don't ever ride after drinking (even if you are legal) - you get a false sense of speed and bravado.
Always wear your riding gear even if it's just a quick ride to the servo or something - murphy's law.

Clubbie

[Devil CV8]

some good advice above.

Without mentioning names back in early march there was a motorcycle fatality in Ipswitch street Fyshwick. According to the blokes workmates he pulled out to pass atruck and went straight in the back of a tanker waiting to turn. What freaked me out is a few days earlier my son and I were served by him while getting a full leather suit for my son, and he made the whole sale a pleasant experience. It's enough to make you think twice when someone who lives and works bikes can screw up in this way.

Ride as though everyone else is out to kill you

[SUX350]

theres some great advise here from every one. all i can add is that you can never stop learning. do as many rider training courses as possible you will learn so much and always wear the right gear.

[Satansfist]

As others have said, get all the rider training you can.

Hopefully the process of getting the correct license will put you through some sort of training.

I'd be interested to hear the number of guys/gals on the forum who consider themselves bikers first rather than drivers. I never drove a car or got my license to drive a car until I was 26. Before that I rode every day, everywhere, all weathers, as I got my bike license at 16 and had been riding for 3 years before that offroad. So that's umm....24 years...

In that time I've had one serious accident and one minor accident on the road...not bad I reckon. The serious one was when I was 17 so hadn't much experience under my belt, the minor when I was around 21. I think there's an increased risk of injury (usually serious) riding a bike as opposed to an increased risk of accident.

Maybe try offroad for a while to gain some skills and experience, it's more often a safer place to be than learning to ride a bike in traffic.

Anyway, hope you bike up, once you start it's always in your blood.

[LSX-438]

I've always wanted a bike, wifie will not let me, and she has a point unfortunately. I know a few people who have bikes, and they ALL have "the story" of their big stack.

Is it dangerous? Check out the australian transport safety bureau stats on fatalities per 10,000 cars - then check out the same statistic for motorcyclists. Unfortunately you are 4x as likely to be killed riding a bike. I think it is more grim than it sounds too, when you consider a lot of bikes are driven only occasionally.

I know there have been a few times where i just didnt see a bike when perhaps i should have. I think bikes just arent on the radar for most drivers, sub-consciously drivers just arent looking out for them. I know thats crap but i think thats the way it is.

[FatBoy]

My girlfriend is the same Duncan, no road bikes and it's not negotiable...

Have always had dirtbikes, and am about to get back onto either a YZ or WR 450F - at least when you stuff up off road it's usually your own fault not some goose who didn't see you...

Cheers,
Paul...

[Stelth]

Don't ride on the weekends . . That's my conclusion

that's when most of the bad drivers come out to play.

People that take public transport during the week decide to have a crack at driving on the weekend.

Do not use the bike to commute to and from work.

It's a numbers game.

The more time you are on the road the greater the chance.

And if you are day dreaming at the time ..... well you will never see it coming.

You have to be very road smart and already a great driver to stay alive as a rider.

Oh and shit loads of luck has got me out of trouble on more then one occasion.

Still freaks me out thinking about how things could of turned out .

[Titanium]

:teach:

I have been riding bikes for over 20 years ..... old fart!

I have had 1 accident and it was entirely my own fault (in my first year of riing), no serious damage.

My theory ... if you want to ride fast and furious, pay the $ for a track day, I try and do at least 1 a month, it gets the need for speed out of your system and helps develop good riding skills and lets you get to know your bike.

On the road, ride like you have a great big bulls-eye on you, everyone is out to get you! Ride skilfully and safe, do not take chances just because you can. If you have to think twice about making a move - don't do it.

Bikes do not kill people, people kill people. I read an interesting fact a couple of days ago, that 33% of motorcycle accidents in VIC involve a motorcycle being hit from the rear while stationary.

I do not commute, I have a K1200S purely for leisure riding, I get out early and stay off the main roads and out of the traffic. I ride with my lights on full beam in the day and have a loud zorst so people can here me.

I do not ride in the wet or in the dark (not soft, I just do not enjoy it). I have great tyres.

I always wear my protective gear - boots, gloves, helmet, leather jacket as a minimum. If going for longer more spirited rides I will wear leather pants and a back protector.

I ride 11,000 kms a year just having fun. :yahoo:

Cheers


Peter

[llucie]

I have been riding continuously since 1963 - raced for a few years on the Speedway and also did Scrambles (now motocross) - had a few stacks but mostly on the tracks that I raced on ; It's been mentioned many times -Training , Training and more Training , you are never too smart or too old to learn - after 44 years of riding I do a refresher course every couple of years and it's surprising the bad habits that you pick up and need the instructor to point out and correct - I don't own a car just motorcycles and enjoy even the shortest journey , consider all the other road users to be a threat , being as visible and audible as you can be helps the "cagers" know of your presence .

[HSV249]

I haven't ridden for about 10 years, but the extra skills learnt on a motorbike made me a better driver.

Leave your brain at home or think you are Wayne Gardner and you will get killed out there.

Use common sense and ride with the mentality that everyone is out to get you and you will be fine. Definitely get some advanced riding as soon as you can.

Never assume that anyone has seen you or leave yourself in a vulnerable position.

Always wear protective gear even on a 30+ day. I still cringe when I see guys on fast road bikes in singlets.

Learn to read the road surface. Little patches of oil, dirt, water, leaves etc.. that mean nothing to a car will get you unstuck.

Also, if you're out riding with mates, ride within your own confidence/skill level. I came unstuck on the Black Spur a long time ago trying to keep up with more experienced guys who knew the road well. If you're out on the road, have fun, it's not a race track.

Hope this helps. Good luck.

[whitels1ss]

I've always wanted a bike, wifie will not let me, and she has a point unfortunately. I know a few people who have bikes, and they ALL have "the story" of their big stack.

Is it dangerous? Check out the australian transport safety bureau stats on fatalities per 10,000 cars - then check out the same statistic for motorcyclists. Unfortunately you are 4x as likely to be killed riding a bike. I think it is more grim than it sounds too, when you consider a lot of bikes are driven only occasionally.

I know there have been a few times where i just didnt see a bike when perhaps i should have. I think bikes just arent on the radar for most drivers, sub-consciously drivers just arent looking out for them. I know thats crap but i think thats the way it is.


So true mate, well put!

[spank]

I have been riding for 15years,i just recently hung my jacket as i have decidied i have gotten away with it for long time as i have lost over 15 mates including my best mate over the years,my last bike was the cbr1000rr,it sure is a dangerous thing and as gareth said dont trust anyone or driver ! draw a line and never step over it ,it worked for me,the only crash i had was at eastern creek turn 9.As much as i love riding and its killing me that i have stopped and especially honda releasing the repsol bike the one i have been waiting for ! damn ! :(

regards sonny

then do what im going to do, buy one and just sit it in the garage and only ride it a couple of times a year, treat it more like a piece of art, i have mate of mate with about 15 bikes, doesnt ride any of them

[lpearce]

Alot of good info here.

One other thing I believe is very important. I do not scrimp no matter what when it comes to new tyre purchases for bikes. (you get what you pay for really comes into effect here)
when you take it that only too tennis ball size bits of rubber are holding you on that bend at 100kph on a 160-170 kg bike
I want too make sure there going to stick. Then you have wet weather which is another ball game altogether. I try to avoid riding in the wet when I can help it. (Just asking for trouble I reackon) especialy where there are lots of road markings or tram lines etc...

[Satansfist]

then do what im going to do, buy one and just sit it in the garage and only ride it a couple of times a year, treat it more like a piece of art, i have mate of mate with about 15 bikes, doesnt ride any of them

That's such a waste Spank!:p

There's something very un-biker like about buying a bike and keeping it in the living room...more investment banker than rider....

[Road Warrior]

There's something very un-biker like about buying a bike and keeping it in the living room...more investment banker than rider....

Accountants on their Harleys :lol:

[Satansfist]

Accountants on their Harleys :lol:

:lol: Boardroom rebels!

[CV860L]

I've been riding dirtbikes since I was about 13 or 14 and decided to go for a roady about 3yrs ago as my brother and mates had been riding them for years.
I thought I would do the safe thing and start out slow so I went for a Kawasaki Z750 as they were getting great reviews and seemed very user friendly.
I ended up selling it with 2,000k's on the clock as I just never felt safe on it, I am sure I could have went and done some riding courses and come to grips with trusting that front wheel but I decided to can the whole idea as there was a good chance I wouldn't have been around much longer.
At WOT it just gets to 200km/h+ way too quickly and easily, I don't know how you guys keep your licences (unless you run).
I even switched to ATV's 6 years ago instead of the 2 wheel variety dirtbikes, I feel a hell of a lot safer and confident on 4 wheels.

[chrism697]

i have always been cautious of road bikes, i have ridden and raced motocross bikes for about 18 years and had my fair share of broken bones and injuries they dont really phase me, just part of the sport, but i think on a road bike you are a lot less likely to break bones etc than a motocross bike, but much more likely to be involved in a fatal accident than on a motocross bike, which is the only thing that really scares me

basically i just dont think i could get away with riding a road bike like i do an MX bike, i would love to ride a road bike on a race track, but try and steer clear of bikes on the road,

thats my opinion anyway

[bermudablue]

I got to work this morning.Peter wasnt their...He's at Westmead Hospital
comforting his 15 year old son who had a terrible accident at Wagga-Wagga
this weekend.A talented young motorcross rider that is now a quadraplegic.
We are all shattered at work and are right behind him all the way.
The poor boy doesn't know the facts yet.He thinks he's going to be alright as he had an accident before where he was numb for a few days
This is so sad.
He's going in for an operation tonight as a bone is crushing one of his arteries
and causing all sorts of complications.Things could get worse if unsucessful.
Peter's family has travelled all over the country for his son to pursue a career
in motorcross...Now..their lives are changed forever.
I'm not here to talk about it now,though i may bring it up in the future.

My point is wherever you ride things can go wrong and be life changing in a
matter of seconds.
Take care of your families!

[cashie]

I have been riding for 15years,i just recently hung my jacket as i have decidied i have gotten away with it for long time as i have lost over 15 mates including my best mate over the years,my last bike was the cbr1000rr,it sure is a dangerous thing and as gareth said dont trust anyone or driver ! draw a line and never step over it ,it worked for me,the only crash i had was at eastern creek turn 9.As much as i love riding and its killing me that i have stopped and especially honda releasing the repsol bike the one i have been waiting for ! damn ! :(

regards sonny

Good post Sonny, I also gave up riding, too many near misses, too many idiotic car drivers and too many lost/badly injured friends.
All the best courses and keeping alert will NOT save you when that idiot in the car runs into you without warning... :cussing:
I think I am getting old as I now seem to value my own life more than ever before.

[Fezz]

I rode motocross for several years before getting bored of it so recently decided to get my bike license along with a super motard bike. I have to say it has been the most fun couple of months I've had and haven't had any close calls at all touch wood and I've done about 3,000kms on the bike.

Saying that I've done 3 track days in the last 3 weekends which is going to send me broke, but after doing them I sort of lost interest in riding on the road and now find myself waiting for the next dose of track riding. Riding on the track has improved my riding x100 and has made me feel so much more confident on the bike.

Saying courses, etc don't help you from idiot drivers, I disagree. I would say if you learn to ride your machinery properly and feel comfortable on the bike you will become more aware of what's happening around you and the idiots in their cars and be able to avoid 90% of the potential hazards on the road.

I know by learning my limits on the track it has made me a better and more aware rider on the road.

If you're worried about crashing the bike or injuring yourself, then to be honest don't get a bike. There's no point riding and having that lingering in the back of your mind, cause then something will go wrong.


Cheers,
Matt

[Hellbent]

marco.. this is something i was told a while back......there are 2 types of bike riders
1. riders who have come off....
2. and riders who are going to come off....
how true it is.

[moose]

If you're worried about crashing the bike or injuring yourself, then to be honest don't get a bike. There's no point riding and having that lingering in the back of your mind, cause then something will go wrong.


This would be one of the more sensible things said here.

As sad as bermudablue's friend's situation is, and I've lost friends too, you can have accidents doing anything at all, you shouldn't let that stop you from doing something you like.
I lost a very good friend a couple of years ago, at least he got to go doing something he loved (and was very good at). Plenty of people don't get that opportunity. Cancer, car accidents, shootings, stabbings. All are very unfortunate too.

[SUX350]

^^^^^^^^^^^
++++1000000000

[heavyduty1340]

If you have not had any experience with bikes , then it will be an eye opener for you .
People (Most) in cages (Cars) just dont look out for bikes
Ive been riding for 24 yrs and have come off twice - both Not my fault
One old lady went wide on a corner in a carpark as I was going around , and knocked me off at about 5 kmh - still bloody hurt :cussing:
Other one was at 90 kmh - semi trailer doing u-turn on blind corner 50m past a bridge - no recollection of hitting truck , woke up as I was getting loaded into ambulance , 13 weeks in hospital:mad: :flipoff:
Cops were more concered that my bike wasnt insured - not the fact that a complete dickhead nearly killed me - never charged him and he never paid for my bike either
Keep your eyes open and dont trust any cars
Good luck

[Dane VN V8]

I would never ride a bike on the road, I will ride a Dirt bike on dirt, etc but never on the road. I had lost a mate 1.5 years ago coming off his bike so that is what is stopping me for riding on the road. And plus I would be to much of a d*ck head riding in and out of traffic, I know I would get to cocky for my own good so I will leave the bikes to more mature/brave people.

Dane.

[Tombo]

I've been riding for over 20yrs and still love it. I agree with most of the comments on this thread. I will say though that you should do if you want don't be put off by the statistics. Just remember that you need to really concentrate on whats going on and take nothing for granted. Also take things real easy until you build up your experience and skills. I always think that if you really want to do something like get a bike you should or you will always regret it, just be safe while riding and enjoy the experience.

PS I've had a couple of close calls (not necessarily my fault)whilst riding and also whilst diving a car as well..

[bermudablue]

Heres the story on my mates 15 year old son(previous post)for those of you that are interested.
Operation to get the bone crushing his artery that was blocking blood supply to his brain was a success.
The bad part is they had fuse his spine to stop his head flopping around as he had no control over it.
Basically he is gone from the chest down.

[dgp]

I learned to ride when i was 8 years old on a friends farm. Spent my younger years riding motorcross and hacking around the neighbourhood estates - great fun.
Started riding on the road legit at 17 and 9 months and soon found the need for speed. You become much more aware as a bike rider and i beleive become a better driver if you have any sense.
I sold a couple of road bikes because i was beginning to go too fast when i was in my early 20's and didn't want to kill myself.
I had a really nice worked VFR in the mid 90's which i just loved but split up with my wife and was a bit crazy for a while and ended up putting it into a pole at 180kph.
This left me with a broken neck, fractured scapula (5 breaks), fractured pelvis (5 breaks), 3 broken ribs, a punctured lung and 3 holes in my spleen, oh and a chip off the top of my left leg.
The doctors told me i would never walk again but after a year of rehab i was back at work.
After the accident i bought another dirt bike was i was never the same....loved riding it but had lost all my confidence. I really do miss riding bikes due to the freedom feeling but i have a family now and that to me is much more important.

Moral of the story.......be bloody careful, there are too many dick head drivers on our roads:driving:, and idiot riders!

PS. and what the F*** is it with morons on road bikes not wearing all the correct protective gear? I hate seeing some bloke with his hot girlfriend on the back of his bike...both wearing shorts and T shirts - obviously never had a stack before!

[moose]

PS. and what the F*** is it with morons on road bikes not wearing all the correct protective gear? I hate seeing some bloke with his hot girlfriend on the back of his bike...both wearing shorts and T shirts - obviously never had a stack before!

This one always gets me too! They obviously think skin has good abrasive qualities against tarmac. Anybody ever came for a ride with me, they had proper gear or walk.
(besides, some chicks look hot in a set of leathers!)

[bambam]

Theyre called squids. Cos thats what their skin looks like after a prang! Generally theyre just the posers that break the bike out in summer to cruise the coffee shops. Usually the same guys that have 2" wide chicken strips on the sides of their tyres too!

[fz1 madman]

i came off (lowside) on monday heading from work to my bosses two blocks away. i had tracksuit pants on, no jacket no gloves. i had just got to work when the boss called and told me to pick up some gear from his house. silly me thought it is only around the corner and jumped on without any gear. i have skin off me all up my forearm, down my leg and my arse. a lesson i have learnt well! but to be honest i was giving it a bit when i came off.

now tell me! anyone who rides a road bike everywhere, when u go to the corner shop to get milk do u gear up??? leather pants, jacket, gloves???? ill get the responses like yes i do but to be honest most riders who ride full time dont!!! i have learnt my lesson by not riding in an idiotic way without gear! and to the topic "is riding dangerous" it is as dangerous as you want it to be, times two! the stats show you are more likely to be killed on a bike but wow you have to be a dumb **** not to know that. besides how many ppl die in car crashes every day?

[bambam]

Yeah i squid too if its only a small trip. Its the dipshits you see on the freeway in shorts and a tshirt that shit me. I couldnt care less if they tear their skin off in an accident but on quite a few occasions you see them with a pillion wearing as little as them. Sorry but nobody gets on my bike as a passenger without gearing up. At least jeans and a jacket. I couldnt live with myself if something happened.

The worst i ever saw was some dumbshit kid on a cbr600 i thnk it was. He was wearing thongs,shorts and a tshirt which is fine but his passenger, most likely his daughter who was probably 6 or 7 years old tops, was on the back in a skirt and a singlet. No shoes. Now a 6 year old isnt gonna have a full grasp of exactly how dangerous this is. She didnt even have her feet on the pegs. They were dangling probably an inch or 2 away from the chain on the left side and same for the exhaust on the right side. I tried to point out to him tha her feet were almost getting caught in the chain but he didnt seem to care.

At the end of the day it would be a great to be able to gear up everytime but in reality it doesnt happen. You gotta at least use some common sense and dress appropriately for the type of ride youre going on and if you are squidding, ride accordingly. BAck it down a notch or two.

[klink]

Hi Mate,

its good to see that you are asking questions and advice.

i have been riding road bikes for 18 years, and i love it.
Ownering a bike can be a wonderful thing and dont be discouraged by a few who say they are dangerous.

Ok yes they are but, you control 90% of your destiny when on a bike. the other 10 % is out of your control. It will/should make you a safer driver in your car as well as you will become more aware of your surrounding and who is where on the road.

Always ride within your own comfort level, and dont try and keep up with others if your not confident.

Always wear good quality protective equipment all times as it can mean the difference between life and death.

im no angel at times but there is a time and place for everything. take the time to get to know what ever bike you own and search for good mechanics in your local area and get the suspension set up for your body type as it will make the bike handle better, and ask them to explain what does what.

then as funds permit look at undertaking the australian superbike school course, i am looking at doing it when funds permit.

There are a wide veriety of bikes to choose from. (will use yamaha models as i know them not saying they are the best or will suit what you want)

r1 etc = superbike
then you get sports tourers like yzf 1000 (it is a milder version of the r1 but has a flatter seat making it a bit more comfy for longer trips)

r6 etc = super sport milder version of the r1
there are also sports tourers in the 600's as well if you hunt around.

then you go into naked biked which dont have all the fairings.

then you get your cruisers.

I am lucky that i am a short arse and i can ride my r6 as a sports bike or a tourer.

But go and have a loook at all the different brands etc sit on them and see how they feel for yourself and ask alot of questions and if the shop isnt willing to take the time to answer them go to the next shop.

best of luck and im sure others on here may be able to give you a personal preference on different bike they have owned etc.

sorry for the long winded reply.

hope this helps you with your choice

Paul

[bermudablue]

Re:..Young Chad 15yr old is just coming to terms with reality.Severly depressed but understands he will never walk again.
We haven't heard much news lately and thats no wonder as family pulls tight
in times like this.
Everyone at work wishes them all the best.

[moose]

Everyone at work wishes them all the best.

I'm sure everyone here does too.:(

[gaz84]

a family member of mine had been riding for years and one day took a bike for a test ride and never made it back to the guys hose who was selling it. he only took it for a ride around the block and a car hit and killed him..

but in saying that i ride a bit now and then but lately i tend to go trail bike riding with some mates..

[VTSSG3]

my uncle had a car reverse out on him in a built up area he was doing 60kms
he had leathers,helmet etc

he has a scar now that runs from his hip to his ankle(shattered leg)

its all good fun till a car doesnt see you!!

i love riding bikes(kawazaki 1000) but wouldnt do it every day its too risky!

[VTSSDUDE]

Re:..Young Chad 15yr old is just coming to terms with reality.Severly depressed but understands he will never walk again.
We haven't heard much news lately and thats no wonder as family pulls tight
in times like this.
Everyone at work wishes them all the best.

No good at all. All the best wishes for him.

[blackbettyhsv]

poor chad & his family I really feel for them, my brother had a similar experiance with some mates. two will never ride again {broken back & another lost leg below knee. a few more broken arms, he & others sold dirt bikes,he now rides a yzf 600, like me he rode dirt for nearly 20 years, had my fair share of stacks, been on the harley for 4 years now,only insident was in first year got ran off the road by a dick, slid in dirt but got out of it. dirt skills may have helped. like most of you have stated, we must watch all traffic or we are gonners, but what we have noticed in our group is the noisier bikes seem to be noticed more in traffic than quieter ones. so wether or not you like harleys or look a likes cruisers with noisy pipes the noise does help.
unless
some twat has her stereo pumpin.

[bermudablue]

Chad's doing ok!
Starlight Foundation has kindly donated 2 tickets to the NRL Grand final for
him and his Father.I think this will be his first time out of hospital/Rehab.
Ducati Moto GP team just sent him a load of gear too.
The help from strangers that have pitched in goods for fundraising is amazing.

[OneManEmpire]

Howdy fella, great to see that your taking the right steps by asking for advice
on here, plenty of knowledge to be had on this forum.

I've "been down the road" twice, 1st time is the most memorable.

I was bored one saturday nite and decided to read the paper to see what I could
buy to cure my boredom. I found a mint condition

http://i202.photobucket.com/albums/aa24/onemanempire/CBX750F_1987.jpg

for $2000. It was awesome. It was insanely fast, used bugger all fuel, and was the most fun I've ever had... for 24 hours.

This thing only did 184 kays an hour... didn't turn very well,
but having said that, it was a good bike to learn on.

I traded this bike on a FZR-1000T. Maaate, this was the stuff.
Rolling burnouts, insane wheelies and a
260 kay indicated top speed all with tears streaming from my eyes from the adrenalin rush.
Awesone!

I enjoyed it for a total of 4 days ... that's when I hit a tree doing 160 up in the hills trying to keep up with an expirienced rider.

BIG NO NO THAT. Got what I deserved...

So here's my advice for you:

If you think you can do it, DON'T.

KNOW that you can do it.

Chances are if your thinking about it all your attention will be used up doing it, and you will have none left to use if something else happens...

When sitting at a red light with other traffic, always lane split so you have a sheild around you. (the two cars)

The bike (as long as it is road worthy) will usually always do it. It's
you that won't.

When leaving a set of lights always look both ways when the lights are green.
It's saved my neck a few times... damm red light runners :vpo:

Never try and keep up if you feel even the slightest bit uncomfortable doing it.
I learnt that lesson the hard way (broken foot, smashed heel, cracked knee cap, shattered big toe, quite a few sore ribs) :eyes:

2 books I highly recomend reading are these:
Twist of the wrist (Keith Code)
Twist of the wrist II

http://www.motorcycle.com/products/a-twist-of-the-wrist-3967.html

These two books will give you all the insight you need to perfect the skill of being a better rider, whether it be at the track or on the street.
Think of it as a cheap insurance policy for your future,

cheers and good luck with your decision.

[Marklh69]

I'd certainly recommend some advanced rider training and remember to ride defensively at all times .. ride as though you are invisible to car drivers and you will be ok.
I've been riding for 20 years and commute through peak hour traffic every day and I haven't broken any bones yet .. so it isn't that bad.

[NefariousVX]

i came off (lowside) on monday heading from work to my bosses two blocks away. i had tracksuit pants on, no jacket no gloves. i had just got to work when the boss called and told me to pick up some gear from his house. silly me thought it is only around the corner and jumped on without any gear. i have skin off me all up my forearm, down my leg and my arse. a lesson i have learnt well! but to be honest i was giving it a bit when i came off.

now tell me! anyone who rides a road bike everywhere, when u go to the corner shop to get milk do u gear up??? leather pants, jacket, gloves???? ill get the responses like yes i do but to be honest most riders who ride full time dont!!! i have learnt my lesson by not riding in an idiotic way without gear! and to the topic "is riding dangerous" it is as dangerous as you want it to be, times two! the stats show you are more likely to be killed on a bike but wow you have to be a dumb **** not to know that. besides how many ppl die in car crashes every day?

to the above part, i have ony been riding for about 7 weeks now, i ride to and from work twice a day along the highway, in fairly heavy traffic. When im riding i always wear all the gear i have got, jacket, and gloves. I always wear denim jeans aswel, but when i go down to the shop (3 min ride), i normally only wear long pants , shirt and helmet. I must state tho that i ride in a totally different manner, and leave a hell of a lot more room around me.

mate all i can say is if you want to do it, GO FOR IT!

id wanted to get a bike for years but never did, because of all the horror stories i was told. Now that ive got one (only a 250 too, dont be a twat and get something to fast for a first bike) i love it, but i know understand how easy those horror stories can come home to roost. Ive had a couple of close calls on the way to work in the morning, but just being aware and not being silly is the safest way to go. If i see brake lights come on 3 or 4 cars ahead im off the accel, and tapping the brakes, getting ready for who knows wat?, then im checking if the idiot behind me has seen me start to slow down. Sometimes they dont and then it gets interesting, but all in all its a fun and freedom giving experience. You wont regret it.

Richard

[klink]

i came off (lowside) on monday heading from work to my bosses two blocks away. i had tracksuit pants on, no jacket no gloves. i had just got to work when the boss called and told me to pick up some gear from his house. silly me thought it is only around the corner and jumped on without any gear. i have skin off me all up my forearm, down my leg and my arse. a lesson i have learnt well! but to be honest i was giving it a bit when i came off.

now tell me! anyone who rides a road bike everywhere, when u go to the corner shop to get milk do u gear up??? leather pants, jacket, gloves???? ill get the responses like yes i do but to be honest most riders who ride full time dont!!! i have learnt my lesson by not riding in an idiotic way without gear! and to the topic "is riding dangerous" it is as dangerous as you want it to be, times two! the stats show you are more likely to be killed on a bike but wow you have to be a dumb **** not to know that. besides how many ppl die in car crashes every day?

I hope that you are all healed up over winter.

I can honestly say that i have never ridden any motor bike in shorts and a t-shirt. I never wear sand shoes on my bike. i only recall riding my bike twice without gloves, once i left them in my mates car, got them at the next traffic light.

If i am just going down the shops i wear draggin jeans, or very heavy denim jeans. instead of a jacket i wear a longsleave kevlar top to protect my skin in the event something goes wrong. gloves are a must.

I am no angel but i do everything in my power to protect myself when i take it out.

[Belzey]

Chad's doing ok!
Starlight Foundation has kindly donated 2 tickets to the NRL Grand final for
him and his Father.I think this will be his first time out of hospital/Rehab.
Ducati Moto GP team just sent him a load of gear too.
The help from strangers that have pitched in goods for fundraising is amazing.


The story about young Chad is devastating :( tragic that he will never do so many things that we take for granted.

I hate motorbikes I made my hubby sell his after we got engaged. I know 2 people that have been killed in accidents.

[klink]

The story about young Chad is devastating :( tragic that he will never do so many things that we take for granted.

I hate motorbikes I made my hubby sell his after we got engaged. I know 2 people that have been killed in accidents.




just out of curiousity is it the motorbikes that you hate or the people who ride them or the inatentive car drivers.

Unfortunately the minority in all walks of life give others with similiar interests a bad name.

I can understand to a point where you are coming from, as i have been hit by a car whilst in a car park. when the car came in a no entry area straight into me. So in that circumstance it was the car driver that caused the accident not the motorcycle. but yet i got abused for being there in a traffic lane.

i often get tooted by car drivers because i choose to sit in the lane rather than cut up in between the traffic which puts myself at risk. and alot of my friends are similiar, is that an indication of the intolarence to share the road by car drivers, i dont know, i dont care. My safety comes first and the safety of those sharing the road with me.

The same as when i drive a car. there is a time and place for everything, unfortunately some people live to tell the story others dont.

I read a story where a motorcyclist was rammed by a car in the hills in Adelaide, there where witnesses etc, yet the motorcyclist got the blame. is that fare, i dont think so, he has to live with induries caused by a car driver.



i go riding with a group here in Adelaide that enjoy motorbikes and the freedoms that it gives, I am only new to this group but they go for monthly rides etc and raise money for the lukemia foundation as well as breast cancer for which we are doing a ride on the 21st.


then you have to look at the big toy runs that motorcyclists do every year to provide toys etc to those less fortunate.


The bottom line is everybody needs to share the road and realise that they are in control of a lethal weapon that may not kill themselves but a loved one and have to live with that for ever..

[bambam]

I hate motorbikes I made my hubby sell his after we got engaged. I know 2 people that have been killed in accidents.

Sounds like he did the right thing in selling it as he probably wasnt that in to riding in the first place. Someone like that would be more prone to crash imho.

I wouldnt give up riding for anything or anyone!!

[paul05]

There is nothing like the freedom of riding a bike! I ride everyday and I don't think I could live without my bike now. You just have to learn to anticipate what other drivers are going to do, ie make eye contact, leave plenty of room etc.

I would also like to say is that it is totally different riding a bike than driving a car. Bikes accelarate and brake faster but are far more vulnerable with alot less protection. Riding can be dangerous, but as long as you mitigate the risks, you can reduce the likelihood of an accident significantly.

i think you'll find a car breaks more efficiently than a bike, specially at high speeds.the contact patch on the road is greater than a bike,i've been riding since i was 5 years old (dirt)then road at 16 and am now 41 ,i've never owned a bike that'll outbreak a car.abs makes a big difference on a car though.

[klink]

Sounds like he did the right thing in selling it as he probably wasnt that in to riding in the first place. Someone like that would be more prone to crash imho.

I wouldnt give up riding for anything or anyone!!

I would say that he did it because he loves his wife and doesnt want her to worry whilst out riding, out of respect. just a thought. it wouldnt have anything to do with being prone to crashing. it may have also come down to priorities within the relationship.

You can always buy another bike bike but replacing true love is almost impossible. and she didnt want to contemplate the thought of being without him.

I wont sell my bike for anyone either. but if i was asked not to ride it out of love and concern i would park it in the lounge as it has sentimental value to me.

My parents are more concerned about me having a my ss than having the motorbike, which may seem strange, even after having had 3 accidents in 18years of riding. But then i am relaxed after a ride and inner turmoil is gone.

Just ride within your own limits.

[SLugg]

I would say that he did it because he loves his wife and doesnt want her to worry whilst out riding, out of respect. just a thought. it wouldnt have anything to do with being prone to crashing. it may have also come down to priorities within the relationship.

You can always buy another bike bike but replacing true love is almost impossible. and she didnt want to contemplate the thought of being without him.

I wont sell my bike for anyone either. but if i was asked not to ride it out of love and concern i would park it in the lounge as it has sentimental value to me.

My parents are more concerned about me having a my ss than having the motorbike, which may seem strange, even after having had 3 accidents in 18years of riding. But then i am relaxed after a ride and inner turmoil is gone.

Just ride within your own limits.

very true Klink but Id have to ask myself if someone wants to take something you love away do they really love you or the person you will be after they alter you to suit themselves. I broke the news to my partner 4 months ago that I was returning to the ride after some time away her comment make sure its insured and does this mean youll be less wound up after work.

Riding is a state of mind thing , something that needs no reasoning no rational , car drivng is a necessity for some and a passion for others but no matter how much you love , drive , care for your car it will never be the same to you as a bike its a personal experience , a complete feeling of oneness and harmony with everthing , no longer trapped in a metal box protected from everthing , you experience the world as it is , wet hot windy hard and beautiful the only sound the bike and your own singing (many long trips on a bike to bathurst do make you a better singer) and when you ride there should be nothing else in your head but riding if there is , thats when problems arise , dont take your car brain to a motorcycle or your motorcylce brain to a pushbike etc , and as you put the bike in gear make sure your brain is engaged.

Ive sat wih a mate after a head on and his total blood supply had been changed his legs looked like stainless ladders and his pelvis was capable of two directions at once , his first words on coming around "hows the bike" and we started planning its rebuild and resurection.

Another close mate of mine hit a parked (no reflectors) trailer full of 2 tons of 1/2inch metal the trailer never moved nor did his bike but the double forward somesault and landing he performed gave him the nick name of circus for many years until depression from a bad and bloody relationship caused him to take his own life , the upshot of this rambling is there are many things that will kill you , old age cars and trailers but not to ride because of fear is no way to live.

:soap: :eyes:

[Miss_FX]

Bikes can be lethal ... they are like high-speed death traps, but only out of human error. You just never know on the roads ... so please do not underestimate it. Your life could be over around that next bend ...

I just lost someone very special to me in a motorcycle accident, who has been riding for a long, long time. 4WD pulled out.

When your number's up, your number's up.

[klink]

Bikes can be lethal ... they are like high-speed death traps, but only out of human error. You just never know on the roads ... so please do not underestimate it. Your life could be over around that next bend ...

I just lost someone very special to me in a motorcycle accident, who has been riding for a long, long time. 4WD pulled out.

When your number's up, your number's up.

My Sympathy to you and all concerned.

I always cringe when you hear of a motorcycle death etc, is it a mate what hapened.

Like Slugg says its a state of mind and you must be aware of things as its a different world. you are more aware of things around you yet you are relaxed, which may not make sense until you experience it.

Its like sky diving, the rush/noise of the free fall is exciting yet once the chute is deployed it is so peaceful and relaxing. Or scuba diving 30odd mtrs under water its so peaceful and relaxing yet can be dangerous if you dont follow correct procedure or push beyond your limits.

I would not get rid of my bike for anything in the world, it is the one thing that enables me to function and relax. Doesnt matter what is going on in my life a bike ride just releases all the stresses.

I gave up drinking etc around the same time i got back into bikes as i knew that if i didnt the alcohol would have killed me. Now my release is my bike, others drink, take drugs etc that is there choice and their way of dealing with reality. Me id rather ride my bike and within the time it takes to start it and throw the leg over it im calm relax and happy within.

I dont expect anyone to understand this mentallity as it may seem strange but think about how going for a drive calms you down etc, then multiply it by 100 and that may start to come close to the feeling a bike can give you.

That being said they are dangerous in the wrong hands and do not go with drugs or alcohol. so you need to use your head.

Paul

[VU_SS_UTE]

At WOT it just gets to 200km/h+ way too quickly and easily, I don't know how you guys keep your licences (unless you run).

One thing all bikes share in common - they don't go any faster unless you turn the throttle further!


Anyway I think this quote I got from somewhere really sums it up:

"I don't try to explain to people why I ride a Motorcycle. For those who understand no explanation is needed! For those who don't understand, no explanation is possible..."

[klink]

One thing all bikes share in common - they don't go any faster unless you turn the throttle further!


Anyway I think this quote I got from somewhere really sums it up:

"I don't try to explain to people why I ride a Motorcycle. For those who understand no explanation is needed! For those who don't understand, no explanation is possible..."

That is the best quote out there, it is a persons signature on another forum and i think someone has posted it somewhere on this forum.

Thats so true bikes are like cars they only go as fast as the driver/rider wants.

[xploit]

I cant wait to start riding...

Top post though, about 6 months back i had a beautiful 250rr lined up all the gear lined up and the cash to boot, licence booked the works.

I know it will sound odd to the fully licenced blokes, but a 250 to me is still farkin quick, considering i still drive a 6 cylinder commo (still a p plater)

Then had one of my mates killed after a car cut him off and ran over him, kind of totally put me off, and now im really really keen again..

but i still have the same fears... is it really that dangerous? and the question can/will it happen to me...

and is it true that bigger bikes are safer than the 250's? ive heard alot of those arguments.

still have some massive fears, but im amped at the same time!

Thanks for this thread!

Dave

[SLugg]

I cant wait to start riding...

Top post though, about 6 months back i had a beautiful 250rr lined up all the gear lined up and the cash to boot, licence booked the works.

I know it will sound odd to the fully licenced blokes, but a 250 to me is still farkin quick, considering i still drive a 6 cylinder commo (still a p plater)

Then had one of my mates killed after a car cut him off and ran over him, kind of totally put me off, and now im really really keen again..

but i still have the same fears... is it really that dangerous? and the question can/will it happen to me...

and is it true that bigger bikes are safer than the 250's? ive heard alot of those arguments.

still have some massive fears, but im amped at the same time!

Thanks for this thread!

Dave

remember a life lived in fear is never really lived

just take your time find some open roads to practice on
and not just opening up the throttle but try a few crash stops so you know what to expect when it happens , treat every motorist as an idiot trying to kill you and look for the little things as your ride

IE: the exhaust smoke from that parked car , is he pulling out
dont sit in the blind spot move up till your alongside the window so they know your there
get a loud exhaust people often hear b4 they see.

ride with at least one finger on the brake lever at all times I use the last 3 on my right hand with the pointer and thumb wrapped around the throttle.

do not drink and ride for at least a few years and never over the limit.

make sure tyres and chain etc are always maintained.

look ahead a long way know whats going on behind you (mirrors adjusted so you can see your blind spots) and above all enjoy it , if your scared youll be tentative and hesitation or second guessing will get you in trouble.

find some older riders to hang with , if they have got old on bikes and survived they are worth listening to for some tips. always and I repeat always wear helmut leather gloves protective jacket , jeans or leather pants , riding boots

try to buy a sit up bike for your first one bent over in the fetal position is not very comfortable or easy on a learner.

90% front 10% rear brake (unless its wet)

think about turning at speed on a bike you dont actually turn the bars you lean and tilt the bars in the oposite direction to the way your turning
sounds weird but youll understand once youve done it a few times

dont ride angry or upset , b4 you engage first gear engage your brain.

a good test for riding equipment is to wait for the hottest day of the year go to a car park or some other safe area and lie on the ground for a few minutes if you feel ok no burns and the heat dosnt get through your clothes you probably dressed for a bike.

try all htis and you too will one day be saying this to someone else
welcome to the gr8 world of bikes

[klink]

I cant wait to start riding...

Top post though, about 6 months back i had a beautiful 250rr lined up all the gear lined up and the cash to boot, licence booked the works.

I know it will sound odd to the fully licenced blokes, but a 250 to me is still farkin quick, considering i still drive a 6 cylinder commo (still a p plater)

Then had one of my mates killed after a car cut him off and ran over him, kind of totally put me off, and now im really really keen again..

but i still have the same fears... is it really that dangerous? and the question can/will it happen to me...

and is it true that bigger bikes are safer than the 250's? ive heard alot of those arguments.

still have some massive fears, but im amped at the same time!

Thanks for this thread!

Dave

Hi Dave,

unfortunately accidents happen. You could get hit by a bus no matter how many times you watch the road.

Just remember people can still cut you off in your car etc.

Some 250 are light and can be blown around alot in the wind, that being said my r6 can have the same happen.

The fact that you accept and know the dangers should make you a better rider in the long run as you will always be aware of whats going on around you. and in time you will feel comfortable and it will become as natural as driving your car and you wont think about it.

The added bennefit is you will become more aware of bikes yourself when driving, unfortunately sometimes it takes an accident to wake up some car drivers.

If it is something you would like to do by all means do it, but rememeber to always were the right safety equipment. it can save your life.

Untill you get out there you will never know exactly how the death of your friend is going to effect you. But take him riding with you in your heart and mind, im sure its something he would have wanted.

take your time and learn the bike etc and ride within your own abilities and dont fall to peer group preasure to ride beyond your means.

Paul

[VU_SS_UTE]

try to buy a sit up bike for your first one bent over in the fetal position is not very comfortable or easy on a learner.

Couldn't agree more with that one, which is why i'm of the opinion bikes such as the SV650 and Kwaka er6 for example should be looked at for the LAMS list...Much better to learn on that a (no offence meant here) shitbox 250 "racer". They have a little bit of power to get you out of trouble, and they sit you in a much better position to be aware of whats around you, not to mention they have brakes that actually do something too!

[madd0g]

Hey mate, i am 18 and have been racing motorbikes since i was 9, mainly motocross's but just been gettin into road bikes. the way i look at it is, its dangerous for sure but so is everything else, and the feeling you get way outways the risk. in the last month, however, i lost a good mate, he had a head on with a ute, and just last week my brother was in the same situation, going around a blind bend and a 4x4 was right there and cleaned up him and his mate, fortunatly they both survived but suffered from serious injuries. this wont stop me from jumping on my bike, but it will definatly change the way i ride. As long as you limit your risks you will have a long and happy riding life. haha, thats my 2 cents anyway.