I truly believe in the old saying that riding is 90% mental and 10% physical. I’m 67 and will ride as long as I’m physically able. If this class ever comes out west I’ll take it for sure.
@@GadgetMart lol Well, I ride a 963 lb. (437 kg.) Yamaha Venture two up with no problem. But then again, I try not to get myself into the situation you described, lol.
@@gabbyhayes1568 That’s the problem Gabby, I live in the Peak District near Manchester, where many USA bombers crashed on the moorlands returning from missions because they didn’t expect the high hills (I’m right near B29 ‘over exposed’) There are many tight turns and uneven hills & cambers where I live. Moving isn’t the problem, it’s when you stop because of traffic. (My comment below was a joke btw)
My wife and I are near 70 and we still ride. She has her own Harley. I have been riding 55 years. I have friends in their 70s and ride great. However, I have distance limits now. But you have to be street smart and know your limits based on age. If I am able to hold my heritage up at 80, God willing, I will still be out there. Good subject Jerry.
I decided to learn to ride at 69 years old (April 2017). Took a H-D beginners class on a weekend. I joke (somewhat) and tell people I spent the first year more horizontal than vertical. Took one of Jerry's franchisee's classes 3 times that summer (Jeff in Pittsburgh twice). Hoping to take it again with Jerry this winter (snow birding) . Own 2 bikes, Street Glide (put over 22,000 miles on it so far) and a Heritage. I've done the "Tail of the Dragon", "Back of the Dragon", and a couple of other Dragon like routes. If it wasn't for your classes I truly don't think I'd have accomplished that. Your never too old to me, just don't give up you'll get there.
Great story Tom, proud of you. Glad my classes with Jeff in Pittsburgh helped, as I always say, the more we train, the better riders we become. Looking forward to seeing you this Winter at one of my classes.
I took my first advanced course at 67 after 50 years of riding without any training...then took your Ride Like a Pro course in MA at 69 and I know I have improved 100%. I’m turning 71 in a few weeks and will be taking your course again in the spring. Don’t give up on us geezers! As Robert Simmons says: practice, practice, practice! But since it’s 26 degrees today in NH I can only watch instructional videos. I feel your empathy Jerry! Haha!
The bike sounds great to me. I’m 67 I purchased a new HD Iron in 2018 then took their HD school. I only ride around my area if I hit 50 mph it’s rare. I put 6500 miles on it so far. 30 miles is enough for me with the small bike. The thing is I’m addicted to it. I live 20 miles north of Chicago so it get really cold and hot and humid very little in between. I had it out Christmas Day for a short ride.
I get it; I just turned sixty one. Had lower back and shoulder surgeries, and I am more than ok w/just riding around, and it is rare if I go 50 mph. My Sportster 1200 does me just fine. I too am addicted. It makes for an awesome day when you can go for a ride. Am all for tips on riding and I can never practice enough:) Better to burn out than fade away. Life is awesome.
As every m/c season comes around here in Canada i go to the scales car park and re educate myself on slow riding making good quality turns moving head and eyes all the good stuff you teach. With such a long layoff i feel i need a refresher course so i give myself one. It’s fun, its riding and its good prep to survive another season without smashing my beloved bike up. So all in all well worth doing.
Do you feel lucky punk? Well, I do, 150,000 miles & 40 years on bikes and just very minor scrapes with last bike being a 1200 Katana. Stopped riding for awhile and got back into at age 70. So now the funds are there and what do you get, Harley Ultra Limited. Don’t know how I made it home from the dealer and can’t recall how many close calls I had with cagers/trucks. Found Jerry on the web and bought his videos. Practiced some then took his course in New Jersey. If Jerry was there, I am sure he would have thrown me out. Got back home and practiced Jerry’s techniques every day. Down in Florida now and 3 years & 15,000 miles later I “feel” like a pro. Honestly, I can say Jerry saved my life. Thanks
I am 67 and I started riding again about four and a half years ago with a Kawasaki Vulcan 900 classic rode that for a while until I test road a Harley-Davidson Electra Glide classic needless to say I sold the Kawasaki some months later. I did take the Harley-Davidson beginners class and picked up a lot of good skills. A 900-lb bike is a lot different than riding a 3 to 500-lb bike. I'm waiting for an advanced class in my area. I doubt that I get down to Florida anytime in the foreseeable future. But motor man is right. No matter how much experience you have or don't have take a basic class. You can only improve on your skills.
61 I started riding again now that my youngest daughter Finish her master's. Picked up a low mileage 2014 883 iron Sure is different then my 76 ironhead. NO PETCOCK, I LOOKED ALL OVER FOR IT. LOL. my only disease is My knees in the breeze
Hey motorman what can i say ? well here's what . I have to agree 100% with what your saying ,now im a returning rider after a 10 year layoff i could have afforded to go out buy a goldwing or a voyager or a harley tourer but i didnt. I thought about it and realized my skills are crap and i need to get them up to speed first before i do anything ,so i settled on a cb500x still got power for the open road , been told its a girls bike as well ,but get into the twisties and im nipping at their heels . Its light very manouvarble and if it falls over i can pick it up , you gotta know when to stop riding and for getting my skills back i think its a good choice .
No age limit. "OLDER" riders need the class as much as "Younger" drivers. All riders need the basic course Many "experienced" riders have never had even a basic class, period.
I agree, ole folks need it also. I didn't start riding till 47 and never had any basic or advanced training. I did ride a "dirt mini bike" as a kid but no bigger bike at all. I did attend a Police sponsored expo ,,,, was put on by a local H-D dealer... no rider course but they did give us great safety tips and advice. Was a good day to be out among the Guys in Blue.
I’ve been riding since my mid twenties but took my first rider safety course at 48. That was 20 years ago. You’d be surprised at what you learn. I highly recommend it to anyone who hasn’t taken one.
I had a friend that decided to buy a HD Roadking. He had ridden dirt bikes for many years. On the way home I was following him on the highway and coming up to our exit I saw him start veering towards the median! I'm screaming at him Push!!Push!!! Finally he slowed down enough and made the exit ramp. I had to tell him later how to make highway speed turns. His riding career almost ended that day...
@@gabbyhayes1568 well one of the basics of riding is counter steering and looking where you are going. At speed you need to counter steer to induce the lean to get your bike to turn. It is accomplished by pushing the right side of the handle bar if you want to go right and left side if you want to go right. At slower speeds you turn the bars towards the direction you want to go, slow as in 5 miles per hour
I have watched many of your videos. I am 63 and ride a 2012 ultra. I would gladly take a beginner course then an advanced one. I have about 50 years in the saddle but took some off to raise my kids. There has been a great deal of info in yours and others video's that have taught me a great deal. And yes, being in the north this time of year doesn't help.
When I took the MSF course two years ago . They asked in the description of the course if you could ride a bicycle and had good balance. Maybe you could ask these questions when people apply for your course. And if you notice a questionable rider . You could ask them to ride the bike to assure they had good balance. Love the videos. Keep up the good work
10 years over the road. Trucking school does not teach you much. It's a hard learning curve many drivers die. The best thing that ever happened to me was taking the Smith System safety course. where they emphasize take control of your space all around and scan 1/4 1/2 Mile 3/4 ahead. Anticipate what other vehicles may do after a while you just know. Never drive past your abilities. Or road conditions. Constantly scan your mirrors. Slow is better. Listen to motorman he knows what he's talking about. Be safe always and live to ride another day. 👍
An older person needs both physical capability and skills capability and the ability to follow instructions and not mistake instructions for criticism !!!
@@leonbridges1802 I have ridden for 43 years and owned 20 different motorcycles. I have been crash free / no demerit points / no insurance claims / no tickets / ridden in all kinds of Canadian weather including 8 inches of fresh snow on a B.M.W. touring bike. I have instructed at 2 motorcycle safety schools. I think I know the requirements for any age rider ;)
At 62 I can do more on a Electra glide than than anything I have ever owned, thanks to Jerry. And thanks to DK products It runs great. Intake and exhaust changed on m8 no tunning necessary.
I'm 72, been riding on and off for 56 years. Just bought a Suzuki V-Strom.( Some of my workmates have Harley's, they like to ask me how I'm going on my "Scooter"!) Started watching your video's Jerry. What a revelation! Never knew about counter steering, traction zone, Looking techniques etc. Never had any training whatsoever, but now when I make a mistake I can reference what I did back to what I have learned from you. I am still working and ride to work everyday on the bike unless it's raining. Which is not too often a problem as I live in sunny Queensland Australia, perfect one day, beautiful the next, bit like Florida! Thankyou Jerry.
I am soon to be 77........never been on a bike as a passenger or driver.....bought a barn find 1970 honda cb350 and over the past year have completely restored the bike with many upgrades. Took the Honda motorcycle course last fall (two day weekend course) and got my feet wet driving a bike......only got into second gear for about 75 feet, the rest of the time in first gear only.....learned bunches and had a great time.....this coming spring we will finish the bike and I will be off and riding.....I will take an advanced course at some point next summer. very excited to join the riding side of biking
A great video, Jerry, and the reason at 73 (now 74) why the 09 Road Glide is gone and a 2021 Can Am Spyder RT Limited is in the garage for the winter. Ride safe and as we in the Blue Knights say, Ride with Pride.
I have been riding various bikes for 50 years and stumbled on your channel. I have subscribed as it is clear that I have much to learn! But, I WILL keep on biking as it is in my soul. Thanks (from the UK).
I’m a new rider at 54 with a softail and I totally agree. Ride and drive limitations realisation, must come from honesty. You can be young “old” and a danger or 75 and totally safe. Reactions do slow with age so be safe out there everyone and if you don’t know your limitations, take a course ! Happy riding.....
Absolutely not, there is no age limits, I’ll probably answer that question with another. At what age is ok then to stop improving yourself??? At what age is OK to stop trying to be better than yesterday?? I’ll like to take this opportunity to thanks you Mr Palladino, for never stopping, even after retirement, you could have easily put your feet’s up saying that you have done your share, but not, you keep bettering your self by sharing your experiences with us!! Thanks you , and I always hope to be able to join one of yours training courses, you never know, one day the opportunity may arrive .
1st time on MSF - dropped bike 3 times. My mind was not at the course. 2nd time - mind on course - completed without incident and passed with ease. Pure economics pushed moved me onto a small bore bike. When I have saved up enough and honed my skills on the my mini me, I plan on getting bigger bike and do the advanced course.
I would say skill level requirements, not age. As you said, you can determine if they are skilled enough in the first 30 mins of the class. Send or offer a basic course for those lacking.
Thanks Motorman you confirmed what I thought would be best for me, I'm getting older and I haven't ridden for a while so I thought it might be best if I take a beginner course and then take the Ride Like A Pro class .
I am 68 ....been riding since I was 16...and I took 2 Ride-Like-A-Pro advanced classes. Is it tough? Yes. Was I tired after 16 odometer miles around the cones at slow speed. Yes. However I outperformed everyone in the classes. This the best investment I have made in improving my riding skills in 52 years. Age should not be limiter if you have the physical ...and mental ability. It is challenging...but as much mental as physical. I ride often and practice what I have learned. Outstanding class.
Like many, I rode during my teens and twenties and then hung it up until now (mid 60’s). Riding then and now is vastly different. Not only am I older and reflexes a bit slower along with reduced vision and hearing, but I,m also contending with more crowded roadways and distracted drivers. The videos have been a huge help in improving my skills and I will hopefully make a pilgrimage to Florida in the near future take the course. That is assuming that a 650cc bike is welcome.
I had a 30 year break between riding, but before I quit riding I had amassed over 250K miles on 4 or 5 different bikes, the last a Honda Gold Wing. I just started riding again and completed the basic riders course last Oct. So far I put over 1700 miles on my Harley and plan on attending the RLAP course in Tucson AZ next March. ALL riders should take advanced riding courses when able. Age be damned, by the by I just turned 70, Oh also I CAN ride a slow race with no problems LOL
A couple of thoughts on this: First: it's Florida! Forget bikes, this state has a reputation for drivers who shouldn't still even be driving CARS! Second: I would advise that, before you set a policy on this, that you have all your instructors check their individual states' laws regarding age discrimination. In some states, you might find yourself facing a lawsuit for turning away a rider based on their age. I don't expect I have to tell you how litigious our society is these days. Finally, I was really chuckling as you were riding around doing this video. I was actually watching what the traffic around you was doing. All I can say is that the motor cop in you must have been going positively insane, wanting to hit the lights and write some tickets! LOL
It is extremely important that EVERYBODY has the advanced course at the BEGINNING of their riding career. (It should actually be Mandatory) Not only is it for their own safty, but that of all other road users including pedestrians This is the reason that there should be an age cap on motorcycle riding classes.
I just bought a Harley Davidson Sportster XL883 and am a re-entry rider. I am loving it but not riding my wife on it until after I have mastered your slow speed course exercises.
I'm 73 and ride. I've done a couple of classes (Not in the USA) and I've done a lot of kilometers working on cornering, braking and so on. I often regard a ride as a training exercise and for example, on one ride I'll focus on right hand corners and on another ride I'll focus on something else. Other times I just enjoy the road. I do lots of rides of several hundred kilometers, sometimes staying over night. I enjoy the corners - that's mainly why I ride - and I enjoy riding with mates. I've set myself a speed limit, I'm careful, I take riding seriously and get a real buzz out of a good fast windy road. The classes were a real help. Before them I had just climbed on a bike and ridden without having any idea. (I got my licence in 1972) To discover in recent times that there were instructors around who could sharpen up my skills and get me to think about the ride was a revelation. The result is that I reckon I ride better safer than ever.
I’m 52 years old and have been riding cense I was 9. I plan on riding till I die but hope when the time comes that I realize when it’s time to move to a trike.
Years ago, I had a 70 year old come though my ERC class, and he did just fine. He had been taking an ERC class every 5 years, just to ensure his skills were up.
Extremely good information. Your completely correct, an age cap isn't the way to go. Its got to be whether they have the skill and the physical ability to ride and yes they should downgrade if the bike becomes unmanageable. I ride a Honda Deauville which I can control at the moment, as soon as I find it unmanageable I will down grade to a 125 or a 250. Stay safe 💙 and enjoy the ride 🤓
Well, Motorman, I am depressed. I am 71, been riding since I was 17. I’ve taken the New Rider, Intermediate, and Advanced courses, as well as Ride like a Pro NC. I will try the SC Ride like a Pro this year. Last year I enrolled in your class, but had my bike go down on Christmas Eve. I was surprised that you answered the phone yourself! I look forward to riding down from Charleston, SC next year, and taking your training. BTW, just wondering, just how old are you? 😎
happy new year! i have been riding almost thirty years and still learn things from ur vids. trying to grow my channel in this new year and do some more motorcycle vids
Hi Jerry , I follow and enjoy your videos, have had motorcycles on and off since I was 20, I'm now 73 and I appreciate your concern, after a 5 year break I have acquired a BMW F800GT, local training courses here closed due to? Your comments regarding the gentleman in his 70s who was struggling made me think, he got in a muddle following your route and dropped his bike, makes me think it's worth checking him for dementia, a few simple questions should clarify the situation, training centres here require proof of ; valid insurance, up to date road fund , MOT roadworthyness for the bike and candidates have to pass eyesight test before starting . You could make it policy that candidates say over 65 answer a mini dementia screen, would only take a couple of minutes . Thank you for your excellent training advice. Cheers John du Heaume. UK. PS, this comment I anticipate will enrage some good folks .😟
i just turned 73 a couple weeks ago i dont see a need for age limit, as long as one can get on and off with out help. I try these skills at least once a week. it helps
It’s quite strange, and I say this as a former motorcycle instructor here in the U.K, that what you Jerry call a small bike for learners, I.e the Sportster, we would regard as large, and in fact we would probably provide a 500cc with the weight distribution lower down, bike as a maximum size. As regards to age, I have seen a rider who was well over 90 years old riding a Goldwing very competently , safely and well. Age I do not believe is an issue if the rider has been riding continuously and also is in good health and alert.
I learned at 15 and at 57 finally got my licence Oct 30 2020 at Edmonton Alberta on a new 2019 Suzuki C50. I will admit with life choices some mornings my body feels like it's been through a ringer.
I agree wholeheartedly that for advanced rider classes it requires a lot from the mentor and even more from the student. Next to skills, experiences & such, I would think that agility would also come into play. Riding a motorcycle demands sound of mind and sound of body and any limitation can affect the success for the student. However, I also believe the will of a student to overcome any limitations can make such things of a lesser degree. I know off riders who lost limbs due to accidents (farm-equipment, traffic, etc, often not due to their direct own mistakes) who ride well above average to very good and would be able to attend such advanced courses and do the exercises probably flawlessly. But they also will be the first to admit, that ANY rider should also have the expertise/insight to correct for the mistakes that other road users make. A rider should be able to solve any mistakes & mishaps in traffic even when it is not due to their own mistakes. That is my motto, I'm trying to become an expert in recognising ahead of time whatever can or will happen on the streets, traffic and fine-tune my abilities via repeated training. I think the bigger issue is that our own ego's stop us being honest to ourselves, often taking bigger bites than we can chew. So age is not the main factor, in my perception. I always say to myself, I only will ride a bike that I get a good & confident feeling about as if it was a bicycle, moped, for lack of a better term. (swerving, steering, counterbalance, braking, etc) Meaning, I must always under all circumstances have full control over the bike. Yes, a 250cc, oor perhaps even lighter, motorcycle can give you also much enjoyment, that was the bike I started out in my youth years. One rule for all, you should never ride above your abilities. You should be able to maintain control of your motorcycle under all circumstances, your bike should feel as an extension from you, not the other way around. That is why I fully support any training, as instructors often have a keen eye about a student and when asked, will give you constructive feedback. And bottomline is thus not (as much) the age of the rider, but the ability, agility, confidence, and such. We as riders must constantly train and improve, that is the life on a motorcycle, that is why even the professionals have their annual trainings! (too) And your motorcycle thus also be fitting to you and your abilities. Stay true to yourself and stay safe. And train. And repeat, train. And repeat. I wish all bikers a happy & very safe New Year!
Honestly some manufacture should come up with a guard for the rear of sportsters or other small motorcycles as it stands the only real way to protect sportsters rear from drops, is a cheap set of ridged bags.
I limp and "drag" while walkin'.... but managed to put 50K miles on my ole bike...lol. But I agree..... don't let ole guys like me.... get on a huge bike...lol. Great Video, Motor Man!
Aging is a fact of life, and in most cases, is accompanied by a loss of physical strength and dexterity....it happens to us all, at some point...but not always at the same point. Hence, selecting any specific age limit would be difficult and not necessarily fair. An objective skills evaluation, either pre-course or as the course progresses, would be the fairest method.
I am 70 yo and have been riding for 40 years on touring bikes of all kinds. I wrecked my first goldwing twice but have never had a accident since or a moving violation. FYI, I have dropped my bike about 4 times because my foot slipped while stopping. My slow skills are bad and I took the Ride Like a Pro course (not with the Motorman). I rode 250 miles through inner city interstates to get to the training site. My experience was that every class member dropped their bike during the course and some several times so expect it. I failed the off-set weave and the circle drills because I did not want to risk dropping my $30,000 bike. This is most important training but regardless of your age understand that this training is for advanced riders or at least for very daring riders. The training pace is quite fast offering 3-4 times through each exercise with no allowance for slow learners. My instructors were great riders. My failure reflects on me not on the training. I am continuing to practice and improve my slow skills. I watch all of these videos.
Sounds like you need to invest in the crash bar protectors, that will eliminate any worry of dropping your bike. www.motorcycledropguards.com, give Jay a call, tell them I sent you, get a 10.00 discount with the RLAP10 code. After installing them, no more excuses, get out there and practice.
Mr. Motoman, thanks for all your work. I submit: its the experience threshold and not the age threshold that makes the cut. If a "rider" cannot ride a bicycle through your course, then a 150 cc then a 350 cc then a 650 cc...... that person has no place trying to get a 950 lb Harley through your course. A pre course test should have the basics tested first before advanced. Sounds ego busting from someone to have to admit He/She needs to get pre tested, but it's the safer way. Age...it's just a number!
Pride can be a terrible thing sometimes. I had an ex-GF who rode a beautiful HD Custom Sportster, and had been riding for years, but it was clear to me she lacked some basic skills. She could not/would not lean into a slower, sharp corner like a city intersection making a right hand turn. Her turns were slow and upright. She's in her mid-60s now and I don't think she rides anymore, but I could be wrong.
I don’t think you should have an age. Based on how they do you should reserve the option to remove them from the course if they pose a danger to others or themselves. We all need to be aware as we get older it may be time to switch to 3 wheels if we want to stay on a bike. Or as you said switch to a smaller bike first before three. Love your videos. Just came in from blowing 6 inches of snow here in Iowa. No riding for a while here.
Greetings, I have a pro tip for you Jerry. You shouldn't be riding in the middle of the lane , always on one of the car tire tracks of the lane. This is something very basic I learned many moons ago ( I have been riding for several decades) I think from one of the exceptional motorcycle magazines, when print media was still pervasive. Not sure if it was " sport rider" or " motorcyclist" magazine but one of those publications. The reason for this is because oil and other slippery fluids tend to fall down in the middle of the lane from cars traveling there, and can be picked up by your motorcycle tire and cause a crash. This is especially true at stoplights, where cars sit for red lights and you will notice large oilly spots. For some reason I see a lot of Harley riders do this, not sure why. One of our riding partners almost slipped and fell over in that situation. Anyways I am very grateful for the many riding tips I have learned from these magazines. I enjoy seeing videos of people who have done the iron butt ride ( 1000 miles) in 24 hours , that is so impressive. I could never go that far in a day on my sportbike, but over the years have learned to ride in the A group at my favorite racetrack, so I'm not the slowest one there. Your discussion about being too old to ride is interesting, I'm 64 and have severe arthritis, there are days when I ride 50 miles and when I get back home I can barely get off the bike. Then I walk like Frankenstein for the next 30 feet. But it comes and goes, another couple of years who knows. I had to laugh when you called 250 cc bikes "toy" bikes, these actually sold like hotcakes 45 years ago in the US. They were inexpensive, gave great gas mileage ( over 100 mpg) and were lightweight, so maneuvering them in and out of the garage was a snap. They still sell well in the rest of the world. Americans always think the bigger the better, not always! I also envy how these u tubers know to make these fancy videos. I'm very media illiterate, could never do that. But I do know a bit about motorcycles. Anyways I always enjoy watching your videos, and it's great how you help newer riders become better and safer riders. Please keep the videos coming! Cheers!!!!!!!!!
Listening to you talk while your ride I remember the movie Downsizing. All these guys have to do is match their skills and age to a bike that they can handle comfortably. I think it's ego with a lot of them that they have to be seen on a big humongous Harley-Davidson motorcycle. They don't look so good when the bike is on top of them though.
I am 41, very fit, and a new rider. I have been to the BRC and have a season of riding on and off road under my belt now on taller ADV bikes (KLR and Africa Twin). I see a lot of older guys on these giant cruiser bikes and it is obvious that they can barely control them and hold them up. Enormous turns, handle bars moving erratically back and forth. Stuff like that. How is it even enjoyable for them? They have to constantly be stressed out. If the bike goes down there is no way they can pick them up.
strong will if you can still dress yourself and in your right mind if you want something bad enough you learn how if you need to get better physically you do it I have lived with rheumatoid arthritis for 12 years now and could be on disability but I refuse to I take the medicine and go to work everyday I'm not as strong as used to be by no means I watch this platform and others when I can't practice because of the weather or work these videos sure help there 8s a technique to picking up the bike and you've showed but just like that if the clutch pull is to hard look into how to fix that problem and others like getting the ergonomics just right for you and if you absolutely need a lighter bike get a spunky one trust me they're a lot of fun Adam Sandavol says stay stubborn I watch to many ytube videos its cold here
Hey Jerry, we could swap pipes! (I'd just have to find a way to keep the wife from noticing her mufflers were missing during the shipping time) 😂 Her bike is a stock '17 XL1200C. (she honestly prefers her quiet exhaust). I have a great time stirring up the oil in that bike! I call it the "1200cc mini-bike". I occasionally scuff the floorboards on my Ultra however, when riding the Sportster. those little knobby things on the bottom of the foot pegs, really get ones attention! I have found them with every outing on that bike! (Fwd controls). We both are 62, with zero intensions of hanging up riding any time soon! When are you going to come on out to the other coast?
2004 to 2013 Sportsters have the same exhaust. But 2014 to 2020 are different. My trainer is a 2012. Somebody is supposed to be sending me a stock exhaust.
I have travelled from The Southern Highlands of New South Wales (Near Sydney) to Phillip Island to Flag Marshall four times in the last two years. Age undaunted.
As long as they can pick the bike up and keep it upright when stopped then its all good in my opinion. Age should not be a determining factor physical ability should
I don't think that is an age question. I have seen guys in their 70s doing those exercises you teach. And I have seen people in their 40s freaking out on their bike when they should do a simple u-turn. You own the business and you make the rules. Maybe MSF basic can serve as a qualifier ... Maybe even the MSF advanced ... But honestly I think as usual in life, the rider should apply good human sense and good decision making. Making bad decisions should disqualify the rider from operating a motorcycle independent of it's size. The comments in the video regarding the basic skills required to attend your class imply that essentially everyone who has a bike license or endorsement can participate. Not sure that was your intention ... Maybe you come up with a short questionnaire that people can fill out to understand if your course is for them or if they better do a MSF training first and then show up for your class. Like your videos, keep them coming 🙂
Don’t get me wrong but I think that gentleman was pulling your leg when he was describing his skill level. Had he actually watched any of your videos? I belong to the vintage motorcycle club of Western Australia (1600 members with probably an average age of about sixty) so vintage is a good description of the members as well as the motorcycles having said that we have several octogenarian members who still ride and do so with great skill as some of the very early motorcycle are a lot more difficult to ride than a modern bike in addition there is no difference between a scooter and an Electra glide once it’s in motion Thanks for the great videos some day I would love to to do one of your courses when we’re not restricted by COVID-19 to travel Regards Tim
I'm sure he was B.S. ing me. But I hear this all the time from people. Usually it's, I had no problem on my, fill in the blank, motorcycle''. ''But this bike is different''. Recently I got that line from a student who had a new Indian Challenger. I asked what he had before and he said a Heritage. I said like the one your wife is riding? He said yea. That was my bike. I said well get on that Heritage and run the course. Show me how you had no problem on the Heritage. He refused. Case closed.
I am 71 in the gym 5 days a week better shape than most guys in their 20's. I live in Colorado ride the mountains all the time. Oh I do warm up circles all the time. So don't tell I can't ride.
It is ability, not age. If a person wants to do the course and is capable, then of course they should do it. I'm 69, a ex Military Police motorcycle display team rider. I currently ride a kawasaki Vulcan 1600, about 360 kg. I can keep up, and most times stay in front of a lot of sports bikes through the twisties. Constantly scrape the foot boards though on the Vulcan, but still have confidence in the skills that I have acquired over the years. I will be riding as long as I can, I can assure you of that!
Yes. I as stated in the video, if you have good skills at age 50, you should have good skills at 70. But, if you have no skills at 70, it's going to be a lot harder to learn those skills especially on a 900 lb bike. While I have helped people over 70 to become skillful riders, it takes a lot longer and a really dedicated student.
@@motorman857 I think that is too much of a generalization. Learning of skills is mostly a mental attitude. Willingness and a desire to learn, coupled with self confidence, is not dependent on age. As a instructor you would have seen, some people grasp the concepts easily and have the confidence to put it into practice, while others struggle from the start. This is obvious regardless of gender or age. Studies in learning amongst humans and animals were very interesting. It found that in animals learned best when young, during their "play" phase. After a certain age they no longer played, and also a appeared to loose the ability to learn easily, hence the saying that you can't teach a old dog new tricks. This veried greatly between animals. Some scientists believe that mankind's sense of humor and "childishness" enabled us to become the most advanced species on the planet by increasing how long we learn, compared to other animals. I have also observed that to some extent myself. As an instructor I have found that the mental attitude of a student is the determining factor in success or failure to a greater degree than gender or age.
I would rather they take a course than to be turned away and ride anyway. Any training and advise is better that not having any at all. Just my thoughts.
Jerry, what pipes do you have on that sportster? I really like the way they sound! I just bought a 2015 sportster 1200 and it still has the original pipes. Only 500 miles on it though, so i guess that's expected.
I've learned a lot from your videos. Well done. I've been riding (legally) for 64 years - all weights and sizes. Why do you say you wouldn't ride a Sportster on a 500 mile trip? Thanks for your teaching videos.
Because the seats uncomfortable as is the riding position and the suspension bottoms out too easily. And I have 2 touring bikes for long rides that are the exact opposite of the Sportster.
@@motorman857 That makes sense. I guess I have always enjoyed the ride even if I’m uncomfortable. Most times in the past, I only had one bike to ride. We pulled a trailer riding double on a Kawasaki Spectre 750 from Indiana to Sturgis and back. Previously, we rode a 1947 Indian to South Dakota. I will admit the Yamaha Venture Royale is more comfortable. Thanks again for your instruction and videos. I recommend them to my grandsons who are riding big Harleys and Indians.
Everyone should take the basic course or at least have the ability to pass that course before taking my course. It's been mandatory here in Fl. for some years now.
Sounds like the question shouldn’t be centred on age but on whether the student has taken your basic course before enrolling in the advanced. I’m assuming you have a basic course.
I don't have a beginner course but those courses have been mandatory in this state for about 10 years and there are dozens of them all over the state and country.
No matter how young or old you are, as long as you're mentally and physically capable, then by all means take the advanced rider classes if you so desire to.
It sounds like you have a few instructors. Why not on the first day when you have someone come through that doesn't know the basics have the second instructor take that person through that. The second instructor would only have to be there for the first day. Here in Australia at Stay Upright, beyond the learners they have a "show me you can ride" that you have to pass before they let you advance to the on road part of the course or assesment. May be you could do something similar. Add an assessment part at the beginning and divide off anyone that doesn't pass the basics. Make is a clause in any sign up docs you have. You can't turn these people away as they want to learn and they will ride anyway possibly killing themselves or worse someone else.... Maybe have a course aimed squarely at returning riders. That first day is basics basics basics ....
I truly believe in the old saying that riding is 90% mental and 10% physical. I’m 67 and will ride as long as I’m physically able. If this class ever comes out west I’ll take it for sure.
I will remember that when I’m holding up a 250kg GS & pillion on an uneven hill
@@GadgetMart lol Well, I ride a 963 lb. (437 kg.) Yamaha Venture two up with no problem. But then again, I try not to get myself into the situation you described, lol.
@@gabbyhayes1568 That’s the problem Gabby, I live in the Peak District near Manchester, where many USA bombers crashed on the moorlands returning from missions because they didn’t expect the high hills (I’m right near B29 ‘over exposed’)
There are many tight turns and uneven hills & cambers where I live.
Moving isn’t the problem, it’s when you stop because of traffic.
(My comment below was a joke btw)
@@gabbyhayes1568 I would love to do Jerry’s course btw. Ride Safe (I would also love to try the new Honda Goldwing)
@@GadgetMart My response was a joke as well.
My wife and I are near 70 and we still ride. She has her own Harley. I have been riding 55 years. I have friends in their 70s and ride great. However, I have distance limits now. But you have to be street smart and know your limits based on age. If I am able to hold my heritage up at 80, God willing, I will still be out there. Good subject Jerry.
I decided to learn to ride at 69 years old (April 2017). Took a H-D beginners class on a weekend. I joke (somewhat) and tell people I spent the first year more horizontal than vertical. Took one of Jerry's franchisee's classes 3 times that summer (Jeff in Pittsburgh twice). Hoping to take it again with Jerry this winter (snow birding) . Own 2 bikes, Street Glide (put over 22,000 miles on it so far) and a Heritage. I've done the "Tail of the Dragon", "Back of the Dragon", and a couple of other Dragon like routes. If it wasn't for your classes I truly don't think I'd have accomplished that. Your never too old to me, just don't give up you'll get there.
Well done sir, keep up the good work
Great story Tom, proud of you. Glad my classes with Jeff in Pittsburgh helped, as I always say, the more we train, the better riders we become. Looking forward to seeing you this Winter at one of my classes.
I learned at 66 y0. Best covid worries cure is a motorcycle ride..
I took my first advanced course at 67 after 50 years of riding without any training...then took your Ride Like a Pro course in MA at 69 and I know I have improved 100%. I’m turning 71 in a few weeks and will be taking your course again in the spring. Don’t give up on us geezers! As Robert Simmons says: practice, practice, practice! But since it’s 26 degrees today in NH I can only watch instructional videos. I feel your empathy Jerry! Haha!
The bike sounds great to me. I’m 67 I purchased a new HD Iron in 2018 then took their HD school. I only ride around my area if I hit 50 mph it’s rare. I put 6500 miles on it so far. 30 miles is enough for me with the small bike. The thing is I’m addicted to it. I live 20 miles north of Chicago so it get really cold and hot and humid very little in between. I had it out Christmas Day for a short ride.
I get it; I just turned sixty one. Had lower back and shoulder surgeries, and I am more than ok w/just riding around, and it is rare if I go 50 mph. My Sportster 1200 does me just fine. I too am addicted. It makes for an awesome day when you can go for a ride. Am all for tips on riding and I can never practice enough:) Better to burn out than fade away. Life is awesome.
As every m/c season comes around here in Canada i go to the scales car park and re educate myself on slow riding making good quality turns moving head and eyes all the good stuff you teach. With such a long layoff i feel i need a refresher course so i give myself one. It’s fun, its riding and its good prep to survive another season without smashing my beloved bike up. So all in all well worth doing.
Do you feel lucky punk? Well, I do, 150,000 miles & 40 years on bikes and just very minor scrapes with last bike being a 1200 Katana. Stopped riding for awhile and got back into at age 70. So now the funds are there and what do you get, Harley Ultra Limited. Don’t know how I made it home from the dealer and can’t recall how many close calls I had with cagers/trucks.
Found Jerry on the web and bought his videos. Practiced some then took his course in New Jersey. If Jerry was there, I am sure he would have thrown me out. Got back home and practiced Jerry’s techniques every day. Down in Florida now and 3 years & 15,000 miles later
I “feel” like a pro.
Honestly, I can say Jerry saved my life. Thanks
Glad to help.
a man’s got to know his limitations....Harry Callahan
But practice your limitations until they are not anymore.
Yeah, he's a legend in his own mind. Gotta love Clint.
Absolutely not! Age is simply a number... Ride on Right on! Thank you Jerry.
I’m 61 - and have my licence ; but haven’t ridden in years.... I really want to start again!
Then take a beginner course.
I am 67 and I started riding again about four and a half years ago with a Kawasaki Vulcan 900 classic rode that for a while until I test road a Harley-Davidson Electra Glide classic needless to say I sold the Kawasaki some months later. I did take the Harley-Davidson beginners class and picked up a lot of good skills. A 900-lb bike is a lot different than riding a 3 to 500-lb bike. I'm waiting for an advanced class in my area. I doubt that I get down to Florida anytime in the foreseeable future. But motor man is right. No matter how much experience you have or don't have take a basic class. You can only improve on your skills.
@@BeaverDaveECV Go to ridelikeapro.com and click on training locations for a Ride Like a Pro school near you.
@@motorman857 Unfortunately, it looks like Colorado Springs is the closest which is still an 8 hour + ride. You need a southern Utah instructor.
61 I started riding again now that my youngest daughter
Finish her master's.
Picked up a low mileage 2014 883 iron
Sure is different then my 76 ironhead. NO PETCOCK, I LOOKED ALL OVER FOR IT. LOL.
my only disease is
My knees in the breeze
Hey motorman what can i say ? well here's what . I have to agree 100% with what your saying ,now im a returning rider after a 10 year layoff i could have afforded to go out buy a goldwing or a voyager or a harley tourer but i didnt. I thought about it and realized my skills are crap and i need to get them up to speed first before i do anything ,so i settled on a cb500x still got power for the open road , been told its a girls bike as well ,but get into the twisties and im nipping at their heels . Its light very manouvarble and if it falls over i can pick it up , you gotta know when to stop riding and for getting my skills back i think its a good choice .
No age limit. "OLDER" riders need the class as much as "Younger" drivers.
All riders need the basic course
Many "experienced" riders have never had even a basic class, period.
I agree, ole folks need it also. I didn't start riding till 47 and never had any basic or advanced training. I did ride a "dirt mini bike" as a kid but no bigger bike at all. I did attend a Police sponsored expo ,,,, was put on by a local H-D dealer... no rider course but they did give us great safety tips and advice. Was a good day to be out among the Guys in Blue.
I’ve been riding since my mid twenties but took my first rider safety course at 48. That was 20 years ago. You’d be surprised at what you learn. I highly recommend it to anyone who hasn’t taken one.
I had a friend that decided to buy a HD Roadking. He had ridden dirt bikes for many years. On the way home I was following him on the highway and coming up to our exit I saw him start veering towards the median! I'm screaming at him Push!!Push!!! Finally he slowed down enough and made the exit ramp. I had to tell him later how to make highway speed turns. His riding career almost ended that day...
@@buellfuel2001 That’s interesting. You’d think a dirt bike rider would have a handle on all aspects of steering.
@@gabbyhayes1568 well one of the basics of riding is counter steering and looking where you are going. At speed you need to counter steer to induce the lean to get your bike to turn. It is accomplished by pushing the right side of the handle bar if you want to go right and left side if you want to go right. At slower speeds you turn the bars towards the direction you want to go, slow as in 5 miles per hour
I have watched many of your videos. I am 63 and ride a 2012 ultra. I would gladly take a beginner course then an advanced one. I have about 50 years in the saddle but took some off to raise my kids. There has been a great deal of info in yours and others video's that have taught me a great deal. And yes, being in the north this time of year doesn't help.
When I took the MSF course two years ago . They asked in the description of the course if you could ride a bicycle and had good balance.
Maybe you could ask these questions when people apply for your course. And if you notice a questionable rider . You could ask them to ride the bike to assure they had good balance.
Love the videos. Keep up the good work
10 years over the road. Trucking school does not teach you much. It's a hard learning curve many drivers die. The best thing that ever happened to me was taking the Smith System safety course. where they emphasize take control of your space all around and scan 1/4 1/2 Mile 3/4 ahead. Anticipate what other vehicles may do after a while you just know. Never drive past your abilities. Or road conditions. Constantly scan your mirrors. Slow is better. Listen to motorman he knows what he's talking about. Be safe always and live to ride another day. 👍
Shouldn’t be an age limitation. It should be a physical capability limitation.
I disagree - it should be skills capability test.
An older person needs both physical capability and skills capability and the ability to follow instructions and not mistake instructions for criticism !!!
@@leonbridges1802 I have ridden for 43 years and owned 20 different motorcycles. I have been crash free / no demerit points / no insurance claims / no tickets / ridden in all kinds of Canadian weather including 8 inches of fresh snow on a B.M.W. touring bike.
I have instructed at 2 motorcycle safety schools. I think I know the requirements for any age rider ;)
@@firstchoicelastchoice28 sweet deal
@@leonbridges1802 agreed!
At 62 I can do more on a Electra glide than than anything I have ever owned, thanks to Jerry. And thanks to DK products It runs great. Intake and exhaust changed on m8 no tunning necessary.
I'm 72, been riding on and off for 56 years. Just bought a Suzuki V-Strom.( Some of my workmates have Harley's, they like to ask me how I'm going on my "Scooter"!) Started watching your video's Jerry. What a revelation! Never knew about counter steering, traction zone, Looking techniques etc.
Never had any training whatsoever, but now when I make a mistake I can reference what I did back to what I have learned from you. I am still working and ride to work everyday on the bike unless it's raining.
Which is not too often a problem as I live in sunny Queensland Australia, perfect one day, beautiful the next, bit like Florida! Thankyou Jerry.
I am soon to be 77........never been on a bike as a passenger or driver.....bought a barn find 1970 honda cb350 and over the past year have completely restored the bike with many upgrades. Took the Honda motorcycle course last fall (two day weekend course) and got my feet wet driving a bike......only got into second gear for about 75 feet, the rest of the time in first gear only.....learned bunches and had a great time.....this coming spring we will finish the bike and I will be off and riding.....I will take an advanced course at some point next summer. very excited to join the riding side of biking
Fear (in a class) is the enemy at any age.
A great video, Jerry, and the reason at 73 (now 74) why the 09 Road Glide is gone and a 2021 Can Am Spyder RT Limited is in the garage for the winter. Ride safe and as we in the Blue Knights say, Ride with Pride.
I have been riding various bikes for 50 years and stumbled on your channel. I have subscribed as it is clear that I have much to learn! But, I WILL keep on biking as it is in my soul. Thanks (from the UK).
I’m a new rider at 54 with a softail and I totally agree. Ride and drive limitations realisation, must come from honesty.
You can be young “old” and a danger or 75 and totally safe.
Reactions do slow with age so be safe out there everyone and if you don’t know your limitations, take a course !
Happy riding.....
Absolutely not, there is no age limits, I’ll probably answer that question with another. At what age is ok then to stop improving yourself??? At what age is OK to stop trying to be better than yesterday??
I’ll like to take this opportunity to thanks you Mr Palladino, for never stopping, even after retirement, you could have easily put your feet’s up saying that you have done your share, but not, you keep bettering your self by sharing your experiences with us!!
Thanks you , and I always hope to be able to join one of yours training courses, you never know, one day the opportunity may arrive .
1st time on MSF - dropped bike 3 times. My mind was not at the course.
2nd time - mind on course - completed without incident and passed with ease.
Pure economics pushed moved me onto a small bore bike. When I have saved up enough and honed my skills on the my mini me, I plan on getting bigger bike and do the advanced course.
Thanks lol up north yup cold and sucks but always glad to see your vids which get me through the winter
I would say skill level requirements, not age. As you said, you can determine if they are skilled enough in the first 30 mins of the class. Send or offer a basic course for those lacking.
Absolutely not. There is nothing wrong with wanting to get better
No age limit. As long as your insurance covers you. 70 degrees? That just kills me. 6 degrees this morning in Bend, Oregon.
Thanks Motorman you confirmed what I thought would be best for me, I'm getting older and I haven't ridden for a while so I thought it might be best if I take a beginner course and then take the Ride Like A Pro class .
I am 68 ....been riding since I was 16...and I took 2 Ride-Like-A-Pro advanced classes. Is it tough? Yes. Was I tired after 16 odometer miles around the cones at slow speed. Yes. However I outperformed everyone in the classes. This the best investment I have made in improving my riding skills in 52 years. Age should not be limiter if you have the physical ...and mental ability. It is challenging...but as much mental as physical. I ride often and practice what I have learned. Outstanding class.
Like many, I rode during my teens and twenties and then hung it up until now (mid 60’s). Riding then and now is vastly different. Not only am I older and reflexes a bit slower along with reduced vision and hearing, but I,m also contending with more crowded roadways and distracted drivers. The videos have been a huge help in improving my skills and I will hopefully make a pilgrimage to Florida in the near future take the course. That is assuming that a 650cc bike is welcome.
I had a 30 year break between riding, but before I quit riding I had amassed over 250K miles on 4 or 5 different bikes, the last a Honda Gold Wing. I just started riding again and completed the basic riders course last Oct. So far I put over 1700 miles on my Harley and plan on attending the RLAP course in Tucson AZ next March.
ALL riders should take advanced riding courses when able. Age be damned, by the by I just turned 70, Oh also I CAN ride a slow race with no problems LOL
A couple of thoughts on this:
First: it's Florida! Forget bikes, this state has a reputation for drivers who shouldn't still even be driving CARS!
Second: I would advise that, before you set a policy on this, that you have all your instructors check their individual states' laws regarding age discrimination. In some states, you might find yourself facing a lawsuit for turning away a rider based on their age. I don't expect I have to tell you how litigious our society is these days.
Finally, I was really chuckling as you were riding around doing this video. I was actually watching what the traffic around you was doing. All I can say is that the motor cop in you must have been going positively insane, wanting to hit the lights and write some tickets! LOL
It is extremely important that EVERYBODY has the advanced course at the BEGINNING of their riding career. (It should actually be Mandatory) Not only is it for their own safty, but that of all other road users including pedestrians
This is the reason that there should be an age cap on motorcycle riding classes.
I figure when I get old enough that I can’t manage a bike safely I’ll switch to a trike, no tears
Porsche.
New Corvette
I just bought a Harley Davidson Sportster XL883 and am a re-entry rider. I am loving it but not riding my wife on it until after I have mastered your slow speed course exercises.
I'm 55. I only have 40 years experience with 2 wheels.
When I'm 60 I'll take your class. (Please don't retire)
I'm 73 and ride. I've done a couple of classes (Not in the USA) and I've done a lot of kilometers working on cornering, braking and so on. I often regard a ride as a training exercise and for example, on one ride I'll focus on right hand corners and on another ride I'll focus on something else. Other times I just enjoy the road. I do lots of rides of several hundred kilometers, sometimes staying over night. I enjoy the corners - that's mainly why I ride - and I enjoy riding with mates. I've set myself a speed limit, I'm careful, I take riding seriously and get a real buzz out of a good fast windy road. The classes were a real help. Before them I had just climbed on a bike and ridden without having any idea. (I got my licence in 1972) To discover in recent times that there were instructors around who could sharpen up my skills and get me to think about the ride was a revelation. The result is that I reckon I ride better safer than ever.
I’m 52 years old and have been riding cense I was 9. I plan on riding till I die but hope when the time comes that I realize when it’s time to move to a trike.
Years ago, I had a 70 year old come though my ERC class, and he did just fine. He had been taking an ERC class every 5 years, just to ensure his skills were up.
Extremely good information. Your completely correct, an age cap isn't the way to go. Its got to be whether they have the skill and the physical ability to ride and yes they should downgrade if the bike becomes unmanageable. I ride a Honda Deauville which I can control at the moment, as soon as I find it unmanageable I will down grade to a 125 or a 250. Stay safe 💙 and enjoy the ride 🤓
Like the bike sound. We could hear you just fine.
Well, Motorman, I am depressed. I am 71, been riding since I was 17. I’ve taken the New Rider, Intermediate, and Advanced courses, as well as Ride like a Pro NC. I will try the SC Ride like a Pro this year. Last year I enrolled in your class, but had my bike go down on Christmas Eve. I was surprised that you answered the phone yourself! I look forward to riding down from Charleston, SC next year, and taking your training. BTW, just wondering, just how old are you? 😎
Thanks for the ride
happy new year! i have been riding almost thirty years and still learn things from ur vids. trying to grow my channel in this new year and do some more motorcycle vids
Hi Jerry , I follow and enjoy your videos, have had motorcycles on and off since I was 20, I'm now 73 and I appreciate your concern, after a 5 year break I have acquired a BMW F800GT, local training courses here closed due to?
Your comments regarding the gentleman in his 70s who was struggling made me think, he got in a muddle following your route and dropped his bike, makes me think it's worth checking him for dementia, a few simple questions should clarify the situation, training centres here require proof of ; valid insurance, up to date road fund , MOT roadworthyness for the bike and candidates have to pass eyesight test before starting . You could make it policy that candidates say over 65 answer a mini dementia screen, would only take a couple of minutes . Thank you for your excellent training advice. Cheers John du Heaume. UK.
PS, this comment I anticipate will enrage some good folks .😟
So much truth in this video!!!!! Thanks Jerry.
i just turned 73 a couple weeks ago i dont see a need for age limit, as long as one can get on and off with out help. I try these skills at least once a week. it helps
Good advice. Ride safe.
know when to say when
It’s quite strange, and I say this as a former motorcycle instructor here in the U.K, that what you Jerry call a small bike for learners, I.e the Sportster, we would regard as large, and in fact we would probably provide a 500cc with the weight distribution lower down, bike as a maximum size. As regards to age, I have seen a rider who was well over 90 years old riding a Goldwing very competently , safely and well. Age I do not believe is an issue if the rider has been riding continuously and also is in good health and alert.
Hope not ! I just learned riding a motorcycle at 59.
I learned at 15 and at 57 finally got my licence Oct 30 2020 at Edmonton Alberta on a new 2019 Suzuki C50. I will admit with life choices some mornings my body feels like it's been through a ringer.
I got my first bike couple of years back at 43. Try to get hold of it gradually. It is seen a little odd here in India. Even in my home.
I agree wholeheartedly that for advanced rider classes it requires a lot from the mentor and even more from the student.
Next to skills, experiences & such, I would think that agility would also come into play.
Riding a motorcycle demands sound of mind and sound of body and any limitation can affect the success for the student.
However, I also believe the will of a student to overcome any limitations can make such things of a lesser degree.
I know off riders who lost limbs due to accidents (farm-equipment, traffic, etc, often not due to their direct own mistakes) who ride well above average to very good and would be able to attend such advanced courses and do the exercises probably flawlessly.
But they also will be the first to admit, that ANY rider should also have the expertise/insight to correct for the mistakes that other road users make.
A rider should be able to solve any mistakes & mishaps in traffic even when it is not due to their own mistakes.
That is my motto, I'm trying to become an expert in recognising ahead of time whatever can or will happen on the streets, traffic and fine-tune my abilities via repeated training.
I think the bigger issue is that our own ego's stop us being honest to ourselves, often taking bigger bites than we can chew.
So age is not the main factor, in my perception.
I always say to myself, I only will ride a bike that I get a good & confident feeling about as if it was a bicycle, moped, for lack of a better term. (swerving, steering, counterbalance, braking, etc)
Meaning, I must always under all circumstances have full control over the bike.
Yes, a 250cc, oor perhaps even lighter, motorcycle can give you also much enjoyment, that was the bike I started out in my youth years.
One rule for all, you should never ride above your abilities.
You should be able to maintain control of your motorcycle under all circumstances, your bike should feel as an extension from you, not the other way around.
That is why I fully support any training, as instructors often have a keen eye about a student and when asked, will give you constructive feedback.
And bottomline is thus not (as much) the age of the rider, but the ability, agility, confidence, and such.
We as riders must constantly train and improve, that is the life on a motorcycle, that is why even the professionals have their annual trainings! (too)
And your motorcycle thus also be fitting to you and your abilities.
Stay true to yourself and stay safe.
And train. And repeat, train. And repeat.
I wish all bikers a happy & very safe New Year!
Happy New Year
Honestly some manufacture should come up with a guard for the rear of sportsters or other small motorcycles as it stands the only real way to protect sportsters rear from drops, is a cheap set of ridged bags.
Or, as I show in the video, Highway pegs mounted upside down.
Checkout bungking.com. They have crash protection for the sportsters “Sportster Upper Shock Sliders” come in two lengths.
@@jasonupchurch566 nice, I saw some with saddle bags attached, they do not look out of place at all, they look odd without bags, but with, look great.
Good info
that is great advice and very true excellent video thanks for sharing stay safe
I limp and "drag" while walkin'.... but managed to put 50K miles on my ole bike...lol. But I agree..... don't let ole guys like me.... get on a huge bike...lol. Great Video, Motor Man!
Thanks Motorman. Sage advice indeed.
Aging is a fact of life, and in most cases, is accompanied by a loss of physical strength and dexterity....it happens to us all, at some point...but not always at the same point. Hence, selecting any specific age limit would be difficult and not necessarily fair. An objective skills evaluation, either pre-course or as the course progresses, would be the fairest method.
I am 70 yo and have been riding for 40 years on touring bikes of all kinds. I wrecked my first goldwing twice but have never had a accident since or a moving violation. FYI, I have dropped my bike about 4 times because my foot slipped while stopping. My slow skills are bad and I took the Ride Like a Pro course (not with the Motorman). I rode 250 miles through inner city interstates to get to the training site. My experience was that every class member dropped their bike during the course and some several times so expect it. I failed the off-set weave and the circle drills because I did not want to risk dropping my $30,000 bike. This is most important training but regardless of your age understand that this training is for advanced riders or at least for very daring riders. The training pace is quite fast offering 3-4 times through each exercise with no allowance for slow learners. My instructors were great riders. My failure reflects on me not on the training. I am continuing to practice and improve my slow skills. I watch all of these videos.
Sounds like you need to invest in the crash bar protectors, that will eliminate any worry of dropping your bike. www.motorcycledropguards.com, give Jay a call, tell them I sent you, get a 10.00 discount with the RLAP10 code. After installing them, no more excuses, get out there and practice.
Mr. Motoman, thanks for all your work. I submit: its the experience threshold and not the age threshold that makes the cut. If a "rider" cannot ride a bicycle through your course, then a 150 cc then a 350 cc then a 650 cc...... that person has no place trying to get a 950 lb Harley through your course. A pre course test should have the basics tested first before advanced. Sounds ego busting from someone to have to admit He/She needs to get pre tested, but it's the safer way. Age...it's just a number!
Pride can be a terrible thing sometimes. I had an ex-GF who rode a beautiful HD Custom Sportster, and had been riding for years, but it was clear to me she lacked some basic skills. She could not/would not lean into a slower, sharp corner like a city intersection making a right hand turn. Her turns were slow and upright. She's in her mid-60s now and I don't think she rides anymore, but I could be wrong.
I don’t think you should have an age. Based on how they do you should reserve the option to remove them from the course if they pose a danger to others or themselves. We all need to be aware as we get older it may be time to switch to 3 wheels if we want to stay on a bike. Or as you said switch to a smaller bike first before three. Love your videos. Just came in from blowing 6 inches of snow here in Iowa. No riding for a while here.
Greetings, I have a pro tip for you Jerry. You shouldn't be riding in the middle of the lane , always on one of the car tire tracks of the lane. This is something very basic I learned many moons ago ( I have been riding for several decades) I think from one of the exceptional motorcycle magazines, when print media was still pervasive. Not sure if it was " sport rider" or " motorcyclist" magazine but one of those publications. The reason for this is because oil and other slippery fluids tend to fall down in the middle of the lane from cars traveling there, and can be picked up by your motorcycle tire and cause a crash. This is especially true at stoplights, where cars sit for red lights and you will notice large oilly spots. For some reason I see a lot of Harley riders do this, not sure why. One of our riding partners almost slipped and fell over in that situation. Anyways I am very grateful for the many riding tips I have learned from these magazines. I enjoy seeing videos of people who have done the iron butt ride ( 1000 miles) in 24 hours , that is so impressive. I could never go that far in a day on my sportbike, but over the years have learned to ride in the A group at my favorite racetrack, so I'm not the slowest one there. Your discussion about being too old to ride is interesting, I'm 64 and have severe arthritis, there are days when I ride 50 miles and when I get back home I can barely get off the bike. Then I walk like Frankenstein for the next 30 feet. But it comes and goes, another couple of years who knows. I had to laugh when you called 250 cc bikes "toy" bikes, these actually sold like hotcakes 45 years ago in the US. They were inexpensive, gave great gas mileage ( over 100 mpg) and were lightweight, so maneuvering them in and out of the garage was a snap. They still sell well in the rest of the world. Americans always think the bigger the better, not always! I also envy how these u tubers know to make these fancy videos. I'm very media illiterate, could never do that. But I do know a bit about motorcycles. Anyways I always enjoy watching your videos, and it's great how you help newer riders become better and safer riders. Please keep the videos coming! Cheers!!!!!!!!!
The cameras wide angle lens is deceiving. I ride to the right or left of the center of my lane.
Well said
Listening to you talk while your ride I remember the movie Downsizing.
All these guys have to do is match their skills and age to a bike that they can handle comfortably. I think it's ego with a lot of them that they have to be seen on a big humongous Harley-Davidson motorcycle. They don't look so good when the bike is on top of them though.
I think you should have a 2-up class. Rider and their significant other I think that would be awesome.
I am 41, very fit, and a new rider. I have been to the BRC and have a season of riding on and off road under my belt now on taller ADV bikes (KLR and Africa Twin). I see a lot of older guys on these giant cruiser bikes and it is obvious that they can barely control them and hold them up. Enormous turns, handle bars moving erratically back and forth. Stuff like that. How is it even enjoyable for them? They have to constantly be stressed out. If the bike goes down there is no way they can pick them up.
You could add a basic class for people. They pass that class and then do the advanced class. Win, win for
everyone involved. Something to think about.
what part of “advance” don’t they understand??
strong will if you can still dress yourself and in your right mind if you want something bad enough you learn how if you need to get better physically you do it I have lived with rheumatoid arthritis for 12 years now and could be on disability but I refuse to I take the medicine and go to work everyday I'm not as strong as used to be by no means I watch this platform and others when I can't practice because of the weather or work these videos sure help there 8s a technique to picking up the bike and you've showed but just like that if the clutch pull is to hard look into how to fix that problem and others like getting the ergonomics just right for you and if you absolutely need a lighter bike get a spunky one trust me they're a lot of fun Adam Sandavol says stay stubborn I watch to many ytube videos its cold here
I live up here in the way north I ain’t cold lol I just wanna ride couple months to go can’t wait to smell the smells and feel the wind.
Hey Jerry, we could swap pipes! (I'd just have to find a way to keep the wife from noticing her mufflers were missing during the shipping time) 😂 Her bike is a stock '17 XL1200C. (she honestly prefers her quiet exhaust). I have a great time stirring up the oil in that bike! I call it the "1200cc mini-bike". I occasionally scuff the floorboards on my Ultra however, when riding the Sportster. those little knobby things on the bottom of the foot pegs, really get ones attention! I have found them with every outing on that bike! (Fwd controls). We both are 62, with zero intensions of hanging up riding any time soon! When are you going to come on out to the other coast?
2004 to 2013 Sportsters have the same exhaust. But 2014 to 2020 are different. My trainer is a 2012. Somebody is supposed to be sending me a stock exhaust.
@@motorman857 Darn, just my luck!
I have travelled from The Southern Highlands of New South Wales (Near Sydney) to Phillip Island to Flag Marshall four times in the last two years. Age undaunted.
Check out bungking.com they make crash protection for the sportsters. They have a frame slider that mounts to the upper shock mount.
Jerry im 70 n do very well with a 600lb BMW RT. I wish harley would come out with a middleweight sporty tourin bike!
As long as they can pick the bike up and keep it upright when stopped then its all good in my opinion. Age should not be a determining factor physical ability should
I don't think that is an age question.
I have seen guys in their 70s doing those exercises you teach. And I have seen people in their 40s freaking out on their bike when they should do a simple u-turn.
You own the business and you make the rules. Maybe MSF basic can serve as a qualifier ... Maybe even the MSF advanced ... But honestly I think as usual in life, the rider should apply good human sense and good decision making.
Making bad decisions should disqualify the rider from operating a motorcycle independent of it's size.
The comments in the video regarding the basic skills required to attend your class imply that essentially everyone who has a bike license or endorsement can participate. Not sure that was your intention ...
Maybe you come up with a short questionnaire that people can fill out to understand if your course is for them or if they better do a MSF training first and then show up for your class.
Like your videos, keep them coming 🙂
Thank you.
4:00 you cannot be anything less than an advanced rider on the road or you get a big boom boom
Don’t get me wrong but I think that gentleman was pulling your leg when he was describing his skill level. Had he actually watched any of your videos? I belong to the vintage motorcycle club of Western Australia (1600 members with probably an average age of about sixty) so vintage is a good description of the members as well as the motorcycles having said that we have several octogenarian members who still ride and do so with great skill as some of the very early motorcycle are a lot more difficult to ride than a modern bike in addition there is no difference between a scooter and an Electra glide once it’s in motion
Thanks for the great videos some day I would love to to do one of your courses when we’re not restricted by COVID-19 to travel
Regards Tim
I'm sure he was B.S. ing me. But I hear this all the time from people. Usually it's, I had no problem on my, fill in the blank, motorcycle''. ''But this bike is different''. Recently I got that line from a student who had a new Indian Challenger. I asked what he had before and he said a Heritage. I said like the one your wife is riding? He said yea. That was my bike. I said well get on that Heritage and run the course. Show me how you had no problem on the Heritage. He refused. Case closed.
Pride can be a painful thing to loose
I am 71 in the gym 5 days a week better shape than most guys in their 20's. I live in Colorado ride the mountains all the time. Oh I do warm up circles all the time. So don't tell I can't ride.
It is ability, not age. If a person wants to do the course and is capable, then of course they should do it.
I'm 69, a ex Military Police motorcycle display team rider. I currently ride a kawasaki Vulcan 1600, about 360 kg.
I can keep up, and most times stay in front of a lot of sports bikes through the twisties. Constantly scrape the foot boards though on the Vulcan, but still have confidence in the skills that I have acquired over the years.
I will be riding as long as I can, I can assure you of that!
Yes. I as stated in the video, if you have good skills at age 50, you should have good skills at 70. But, if you have no skills at 70, it's going to be a lot harder to learn those skills especially on a 900 lb bike. While I have helped people over 70 to become skillful riders, it takes a lot longer and a really dedicated student.
@@motorman857 I think that is too much of a generalization. Learning of skills is mostly a mental attitude.
Willingness and a desire to learn, coupled with self confidence, is not dependent on age. As a instructor you would have seen, some people grasp the concepts easily and have the confidence to put it into practice, while others struggle from the start.
This is obvious regardless of gender or age.
Studies in learning amongst humans and animals were very interesting.
It found that in animals learned best when young, during their "play" phase. After a certain age they no longer played, and also a appeared to loose the ability to learn easily, hence the saying that you can't teach a old dog new tricks.
This veried greatly between animals.
Some scientists believe that mankind's sense of humor and "childishness" enabled us to become the most advanced species on the planet by increasing how long we learn, compared to other animals.
I have also observed that to some extent myself.
As an instructor I have found that the mental attitude of a student is the determining factor in success or failure to a greater degree than gender or age.
I would rather they take a course than to be turned away and ride anyway. Any training and advise is better that not having any at all. Just my thoughts.
Jerry, what pipes do you have on that sportster? I really like the way they sound! I just bought a 2015 sportster 1200 and it still has the original pipes. Only 500 miles on it though, so i guess that's expected.
I met a m old man at 94 riding a Ultra glide bike ! If you ride a bike mo problem!
The age limit should be when you can not ride a pushbike. I am 78 and I will continue to ride until I feel that I am a danger to others.
I've learned a lot from your videos. Well done. I've been riding (legally) for 64 years - all weights and sizes. Why do you say you wouldn't ride a Sportster on a 500 mile trip? Thanks for your teaching videos.
Because the seats uncomfortable as is the riding position and the suspension bottoms out too easily. And I have 2 touring bikes for long rides that are the exact opposite of the Sportster.
@@motorman857 That makes sense. I guess I have always enjoyed the ride even if I’m uncomfortable. Most times in the past, I only had one bike to ride. We pulled a trailer riding double on a Kawasaki Spectre 750 from Indiana to Sturgis and back. Previously, we rode a 1947 Indian to South Dakota. I will admit the Yamaha Venture Royale is more comfortable. Thanks again for your instruction and videos. I recommend them to my grandsons who are riding big Harleys and Indians.
That's a tough one. How old IS too old to ride? Depends on their skill level and reaction time?? Too many variables. Ride your own ride I say.
At 74 I’m still riding but I’m not as flexible anymore and if I snap my head around hard to make a tight turn it might just stay that way, 😆
No, age is just a number. Some people are old at 50, some are young at 70. It all depends if they are strong enough and aware enough.
Maybe the older people need to take the basic course before taking your classes!
Everyone should take the basic course or at least have the ability to pass that course before taking my course. It's been mandatory here in Fl. for some years now.
It should always come down to ability over age!
In this video you mention additional crash bars (guards). Do you sell these or have vendor contact information. I ride 2005 Ultra Classic.
www.motorcycledropguards.com
Sounds like the question shouldn’t be centred on age but on whether the student has taken your basic course before enrolling in the advanced. I’m assuming you have a basic course.
I don't have a beginner course but those courses have been mandatory in this state for about 10 years and there are dozens of them all over the state and country.
Great video!
I have a 2020 FLHTK Ultra Limited blacked out. Do you sell the front, rear and primary tip guards in black? Thanks MM
No matter how young or old you are, as long as you're mentally and physically capable, then by all means take the advanced rider classes if you so desire to.
It sounds like you have a few instructors. Why not on the first day when you have someone come through that doesn't know the basics have the second instructor take that person through that.
The second instructor would only have to be there for the first day.
Here in Australia at Stay Upright, beyond the learners they have a "show me you can ride" that you have to pass before they let you advance to the on road part of the course or assesment. May be you could do something similar. Add an assessment part at the beginning and divide off anyone that doesn't pass the basics. Make is a clause in any sign up docs you have.
You can't turn these people away as they want to learn and they will ride anyway possibly killing themselves or worse someone else.... Maybe have a course aimed squarely at returning riders. That first day is basics basics basics ....