How dangerous are motorcycles?
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- เผยแพร่เมื่อ 28 ก.ย. 2024
- How dangerous is it to ride a motorcycle? Are there misconceptions about the dangers of riding a motorcycle or is every motorcycle rider doomed to crash?
This week on MCrider we look at some of the dangers of riding a motorcycle and what you can do to increase your safety.
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Thanks for watching,
Kevin
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35 years on 2 wheels and not even a scrape. What do I attribute that to? NEVER EVER thinking I am invincible. I won't even get communications in my helmets because I don't want my passenger talking to me. I won't go near alcohol if I am getting in the saddle. I avoid riding at night wherever possible. I ride as if I am invisible.
Your point with no communications is a very good one. I am a beginner rider and I see on the internet all kinds of headset or bluetooth communication sets. And many riders write about hearing music while riding. I don´t think that hearing music or telephoning while riding is sensible/safe even if it´s a very long journey.
One of the most important lessons I learned in the motorcycle safety course at Awesome Cycles is to
“ Ride like they don’t see you “
Keeping this in mind while I’m riding has come in handy numerous times.
@Michael That's what I was talking about when I posted my comment to Kevin, there are bad drivers there with only a few years of driving experience, killing motorcycle riders with over 30 years of experience.
I use Bluetooth because I ride my own bike and want to communicate when its time to pull over or I may want to give a heads up. Very handy in deer-prone areas if you see one by the roadside. we don't talk just for fun and I don't listen to the radio, either.
I usually seem to be the only one in the group without music or comms on the ride. The engine is my music.
Our brains do a weird thing where if we do something dangerous and get away with it, we start to think it is not dangerous.
Oklahoma Hank
Only if we lack wisdom. But yes, many of us lack wisdom.
Rata 4U I probably overgeneralized. I mean things riding with no helmet, running stop signs, etc.
I think that "weird thing" might be complacency. When something begins to become routine, we can start to just go through the motions and let our guard down - forgetting, or at least downplaying the need for the skills & vigilance we had focused on earlier.
Rata 4 u. That may be why you ride a motorcycle, but definitely not why i do. one i'd never wing suit fly or rock climb to me thats just insane and reckless, i value life more highly than a quick adrenalin rush . I ride a bike for so many reasons, because its dangerous isn't even a factor. The fact it was dangerous was the main reason i never started riding until i was 32. I now do all i can to make it as safe as i can, hence why i am here. If they made riding 100% safe that could only be a good thing? it would not make it less enjoyable? I just don't understand the comment. Rollercoasters are meant to be 100% safe but people still get a thrill out of them. I don't think people ride, fly SKYDIVING ( if they make it 100% safe i'm not going to skydive again ???)etc because its dangerous! its because its fun! and accept the danger as a trade off. but do all they can to do it safely, so they can keep enjoying their hobby for as long as possible.
If you dwell on how dangerous something is you are settling your self up for failure. I like to have confidence in my ability. But I still know the danger.
My first MSF instructor put it very simply in a way that sticks with me 20 years later.
Motorcycling is risky and dangerous. But we mitigate that danger by consciously managing the risk. Proper safety gear, concentration, being sober, staying within limits, and most of all, humility.
Riders don't like to take responsibility for accidents. Respect 4 U MCRider :-)
Dead on. The "7x" more likely to die on a motorcycle takes into account the vast majority of motorcycle deaths that involve "VERY" irresponsible riders.
Well said Todd.
Todd Vierling are you keeping up with the Commodore?
Kevin, you're killing me (pun intended)...you're starting to sink in. I'm young, (relatively) and I've always had a tendency to push the limits because I enjoy the feeling it creates. Moving an 800 lb. bike through some S turns with some pace is a lot of fun. But since I have started watching you, I've seen myself slowly begin to adjust. I've started wearing gloves. I've started wearing my Tourmaster riding jacket. And I'm starting to have the desire to switch to riding with my full face versus my half helmet. But now, watching this video and thinking about my little ones, I want to be able to ride my motorcycle for many many years - especially with my son. I need to change my riding style. You have won me over!! Thank you!!
Best comment of the day Mike, thank you.
Sissy !!!
No, i'm kidding ya !
Actually, the more i watch TH-cam videos of people falling, the more i feel like you...
Being more cautious 😁
I'm 51+ years old, so age factor might help too.
Mike Foltynski God bless.
May you stay safe for many years to come Mike !
I appreciate all the comments guys!
The fellow who quit riding, started his comments with "I considered myself immune." BAMMMM! Anyone who believes they are immune ought to get off the bike, TODAY! Always, always, always admit you have limitations as a rider and start every ride thinking "I will not exceed my skill limitations!" Good vid as always. Glad to support you as a Patron. You are "Preaching to the choir" but, to be sure, you remind all of us of what we frequently need to be told.
Richard Mourdock. Correct. He was a Royal Jackass by his description (Maple flavor in his case but I see many in Atlanta/Chattanooga)
We all need to come to the Zen and the Art of Motorcycle Maintenance realization that,
"We aren't IN traffic, we ARE traffic"
He had a responsibility to all drivers, pedestrians and riders on that road to ride reasonably and well. He was, in fact, a poor rider and a very poor citizen of the community.
YUP! I agree.... go out on your bike and remember... it CAN happen to you, and it MIGHT happen to you. All you can do is be careful, be aware, use common sense and don't invite an accident. Be prepared and educated about the facts. Richard is right... " "I considered myself immune." BAMMMM!". No one's immune and no one is invincible. I can crash, you can crash, Richard can crash, hell, even MCRider HAS crashed. Lets just all ride realistically and not in a fog of unrealistic beliefs and assumtions.
Your comment is right on the money.
MCrider is such a great asset to the riding community. Please allow me to add to your excellent observation regarding "I will not exceed my skill limitations":
Training, gaining as much knowledge as possible, and of skills practice, initial and never ending, bring us to knowing what those limitations are.
Excellent point Brian.
When I started riding about three years ago in my mid-50’s, I told my wife I’d do everything to manage my risks appropriately. By not drinking, not speeding, not riding at night, wearing hi-viz gear, running added lighting, and keeping my bikes in good shape I like to think I’ve cut the odds significantly more in my favor. Oh yeah, I also know I’m not invincible.
I posted this in a MC forum I frequent. This happened to me today.
"Beautiful day. I just happened to watch an MC Rider video on the dangers of MC riding before heading out. For the entire ride I kept reminding myself, "ride within your skill set", "no road rage", "no over-confidence", etc. I was enjoying a wonderful country ride. County roads, very little traffic. 50 mph cruising. Then it happened.
I came up behind a farm tractor with a huge implement. Two cars following it and I'm trailing behind the cars a couple hundred feet. Long tangent stretch, cars pass OK then it's my turn to pass . I did everything I was supposed to except maybe one thing. I looked at the tractor for turn signals, Looked for a farm driveway, looked for field access road, an intersecting road, high beam on. No turn signal on the tractor, no driveway, no field access (that I could see anyway). At about 40- 45 mph I signal and execute the pass. The farmer has a passenger in the cab (distraction, potentially). As I came alongside and passed the huge implement the tractor started to cross the center line to turn into an access road I couldn't see (tall grass). I couldn't brake or the implement would have hit me, so I did the only thing I could do. There was about a 2 ft + gravel shoulder. I rolled off the throttle and onto the shoulder and prayed to God the farmer saw me and would stop the turn. The shoulder was slopped a bit and I was afraid of sliding into the deep ditch. Being as cool as I could I kept the bike on the shoulder and prayed the VTX would stay upright. It did. Thankfully at that point I think the farmer saw me and aborted his turn. I stayed on the shoulder until I slowed enough I could get back on the pavement safely. I checked my mirror and the farmer had stopped in the middle of the road waiting, I suspect, to see what happened to me. It happened all so fast.
I stopped at a gas station a couple miles down the road and got a cup of coffee and thanked God I was safe. That was as close as danger can get without harm. I could have reached out to my right and touched the front tractor tire when I was on that small shoulder.
Man, the hazards are out there. In the middle of nowhere. I've passed many farmers and their tractors. This is the kind of area I love riding. The only other thing I think I could have done was lay on the horn before and during passing. I'll probably do that from now on. However, he was in an air conditioned closed cab with a passenger.
I'm happy to be typing this and not laying in the ER of a rural hospital or worse. I'm so glad my instinct to brake didn't kick in or that implement would have owned me as it was wider than the tractor and I was tight against the tractor.
I'm posting this so you guys out in rural America may read this and remember the hazard these tractors/implements pose!!
Ride safe! Don't take anything for granted!"
Rog
Rog, I had nearly the same experience 2 weeks ago riding the back roads around Torch Lake in Michigan. Large farm tractor pulling an implement. I followed along for a couple hundred yards at a safe distance, the tractor pulled onto the right shoulder. I read this as he had seen me and was giving me a chance to pass him as we were in a place where the road ahead was unobstructed. As I pulled into the oncoming lane to pass him, he immediately turned left onto a dirt 2 track that was invisible to me due to the trees. Luckily for me I had adequate distance to perform an emergency stop! I am a returning rider after 50 year hiatus. Riding a 1978 Triumph Bonneville. I found Kevin’s site, became a patron and weekly go over to the local high school and practice the skills in the field guide. If not for that, I may well have been a static. My strategy going forward will be to follow farm equipment at a safe distance and never attempt to pass unless I have eye contact and am waved on by the driver.
Thank you again Kevin and McRider
Rick
This video single handedly made me a motorcycle rider. I was scared to death to ride a motorcycle but really want to ride with my Dad before he decided to hang it up.
I'm from the UK and have just turned 17. I have completed my compulsory training and am ready to get my bike. I really appreciate your work as it really does help new riders to have the information you can only get from a very experienced rider such as yourself that can one day help save our life. God bless and thank you.
I've been watching these since before I even had a bike, and now that i actually ride, your videos have helped me greatly, so thank you.
Same here! Regards to everybody from Madrid, Spain!
Love this channel. You’re an honest guy that tells it like it is and I’ll always have respect for that. Thank you Kevin and keep the videos coming.
me too.
Hi Kevin. Another awesome video. Thank you. My story-I’m a new old rider or a old new rider depending on how you look at it. At 57 I picked up riding again last year and wish I had never quit in my early 20’s. I love it. I was an accomplished motocrosser and rode a little on the street. Quit riding on the street when a dump truck pulled out in front of me. It had just rained and streets were still wet. I didn’t crash but I got an incredibly close look at the back end of that truck. Motocross skills saved me. I put that bike in a full lock side slide and didn’t touch the front brake and did not go down. That was the end of street riding for me for 35 years. BUT looking back that situation was all my fault. I put myself there due to lack of street skills. The love of riding never left my blood though and I bought a Sportster last year. I take safety very seriously and wear gear. Very often I go practice at the open school parking lot and also work on road strategies. Your videos inspire me. I find riding very therapeutic and am happy to be back in the saddle.
Kevin another thought provoking message. I have been riding for twelve years and ride every day about 80miles. You always make me think about my riding and how to behave. Great videos thank you.
ianwhunter
MCrider, I don't know if you've mentioned it, but for me, just as important to me as "don't drink and ride", is my insistence that I WILL NOT get on a motorcycle unless I've had at least 7 hours of sleep. If I'm tired at all, it's as bad as being drunk. I know the risks and I know how important it is that I'm alert and have quick reaction time. Being super tired while riding is as stupid as chugging a vodka before riding.
I have not ridden for over 35 years and now I am strongly considering buying an enduro .
Looking back at my riding history, it's no wonder I stopped riding. About half of my riding buddies are dead or extremely disabled.
I stopped riding after writing off my sports bike .
But in all honesty I'm surprised I'm still alive, I was a loose cannon.
I use to do all the stupid things like alcohol and drugs excessive speeding tail gating and I was an angry rider. I knew how to throw a bike around but no commen sense at all.
What you are doing with this Chanel will for sure save lives Thanks again for everything you do.
MCrider, thank you for your work! I'm a recent rider and have learned a lot from you, since from the start i didn't have a clue what i was doing. Thanks to you and people like you i decided to start using proper gear, with bright colours, and decided it was worth spending more money on a new bike in good condition, with ABS, good tires and safety features. You are really saving lives. Greetings from Portugal!
Nine yrs ago, a first warm spring day i went for a ride along quiet rural farm highways along the Ottawa River in Quebec. Almost home, on a flat, straight stretch, i hit the throttle for a little sprint. The snow melt had washed out under the pavement, but left the pavement looking perfect. The pavement fell from underneath, bike flipped me sailing over the handlebars, and i rolled seemingly forever, then slid seemingly forever. The bike caught up sliding into me. I managed to get up after minutes, tip up the bike, ride home with a cleanly snapped radius, just before the wrist. Day surgery and a little plate fixed that. Now, at 55, having only ridden once after recovery, i have the itch again. There also seems to be improved safety gear. Thanks for your vids, and... good timing. :)
In addition to what you've said, i believe if DMV's promote motorcycle awareness and education for all drivers, it would further help casualties and fatalities.
The DMV is only there to take your money. And even if they did promote mandatory cycle awareness people would forget everything they learned the next day.
Teaching drivers to be more aware is pointless. the only person responsible for your safety is yourself and a lot of riders rely on others instead of slowing down or moving out of the way. teach the riders not to be dicks
I bought my first bike one month ago (a chinese 150cc café racer) and I'm still learning to ride. I still get scared everytime I hop on it but I try to use that fear for my advantage and not let it get the best of me. I've been driving for 7 years now and I'm a really safe driver, and I've realised that it has been great to have decided to pick up riding now, since I've lost that "fast and furious" mindset you have when you are young. I still get frustrated by the fact that my small bike scares me, but then I remember I used to feel the same way back when I was learning how to drive. Your videos have been of great help, thank you very much.
I ran into that same article while researching this very topic. I'm still debating if i'm going to stick with riding or not. I was never planing on getting a bike, a Friend of mine gave me a bike he bought cheap as a project bike, he got stumped on what was wrong with it almost right away and it sat untouched for awhile. He gave it to me just to get it out of his garage. I though I could give fixing it a shot and then sell it. In a matter of 2 weeks I had it running great. I took it out for a ride around on my property and I started loving it right away. From watching your videos Kevin I'm getting an idea of the commitment involved to riding and becoming a safe rider. If I decide to stick with it I will definitely be taking the course before I take to the streets. Love the videos keep up the great work.
hell yeah, took me till I was like 26 to stop trading what I wanted to do for the convenience of others. Before then I always wanted one but would remember my family/friends' guilt trips and fear mongering, put my head down, and walk away.
Over 30 years of motorcycling have taught me to never ever think I'm a good rider, never ever think I have the risks under control. Actually now I probably ride faster on average than when I was 17 but that's not the point, I ride relatively fast when the conditions are good and I really slow things down when the input of information exceeds my ability to process it. In fact there are times in the busy city when blasting ahead of the traffic makes you safer and there are plenty of times when someone's doing a stupid U turn in front of you that you need to take it easy or have a very bad day. You're doing a great job Kevin.
Great video, Kevin! Thanks for the quality information! Greetings from Brazil!
Motorcycling is a skill that learns a lifetime, meaning i started on mini bikes, mopeds, dirt bikes, ten speeds, mountain bikes, super bikes, choppers, enduros and Harley’s. It’s been awesome and I want to keep it that way. I make time to stop and think now about conditions. How is the weather? Is it dusk? How’s my fatigue level? How are the machines only I maintain? The gear choices for today’s ride. So much to consider sometimes I decide it’s a no go. But you must know your helping people stay alive and enjoy the sport longer. The dead don’t ride.. I know.... I’ve met too many friends that one time they rode with me.... now they can’t..
Good luck Mike. You do good
I like you man (and hour bikes). This is really good stuff. I enjoy your videos alot. Safety is always top of mind. Thank you for making them.
You have hit on about every reason why I subscribed to your channel and look for information and the best tips to be safe as possible to keep two wheels planted on the ground or on the road for the best enjoyment of riding a motorcycle! I love your channel!
Mr. Morris you did it again, but this time you took a Grammy with such a great video, I think every dealership, mc class and the DMV from everywhere should show this video, you made an awesome point, thank you one more time for such a great job. May God bless you.
I just started riding a real bike last weekend. I used to ride a 49cc scooter for a few seasons.
My mom has recently boughten me a 2001 Suzuki GSX600F. I have been commuting to work 120km round trip. I am 38, and wish I had started riding years ago.
I’m happy I’ve found your channel, I’ve been binge watching after my rides.
Thank you for this great channel.
I will always wear gear and ride sober.
Excellent video as always. Forty years ago when I got my first bike as a teen I watched a short interview of a motorcycle racer. He was asked what he did to be safe on the road. His answer. Every one on the road wants to kill me so always be alert. That thought is always in the back of my mind when riding forty years later. It does not take any enjoyment away from my riding, it just reminds me to be alert and drive defensively.
I must say I really like this channel. Being a returning rider (again x2) I've learned so much. When I started on motorcycles over 25 years ago this kind of resource wasn't remotely available. That...and I'm now older and wiser. Having been an off and on again rider I really like the no nonsense presentation and the emphasis on safety and strategy. Am now a patreon and ordered a t-shirt to promote and support the channel. Thank you for teaching me the skills to make me a safer and better rider! I practice all the time using the techniques shown here.
Hey Devin, thanks for supporting MCrider. 👍👍🏍️
Everyday I ride as if I'm invisible, wear full gear with hi Viz, and ride responsible leaving braking and manoeuvre space so i live to ride my wonderful bike another day.
Love your videos Kevin .
Kevin, delighted to see the scene from "Christmas Story". It perfectly captures the warnings and negative comments I received as a teenager and young man. Now I'm a "man fully growed" and I still struggle with hearing those voices from the past. Thanks for all you do for the motorcycle community. And I am a Patreon subscriber.
Richard Stuckey
"I was riding too fast and assumed the road conditions ahead of me today was the same as yesterday. No doubt about it - motorcycling is UNSAFE, so I'm out!!!" That's pretty much how I read this guys story. Great post Kevin.
For years. Motorcycle riding has been a form of therapy for me as I'm sure it is for many. The freedom the feeling of being g closer to the great out doors than you can be in a car.the solitude just you the bike and the road . nothing like it. Keeps me sane . I always return relaxed and with a smile. How I love my hobby.
Amazing video! I plan on getting a bike and EVERYONE continues to tell me not to with the same exact reason, "its too dangerous" will definitely be using this information to help others understand the situation further.
Greetings from Romania, I love your channel and all the advices you're giving, I'm a new rider also and I was thinking about riding dressed up in black leathers and all,that until I have seen how less visible we are for the other road users, now I love my hi-vi jacket and I love riding the safe way so I can enjoy my motorcycle for many years to come! Thank you so much for your kindness,patience and hard work to provide us with your experience in riding! I deeply appreciate your work! God bless you!
I'm that guy who absolutely has to ride! You are doing us all a great service and I thank you!
In the last two weeks in Cincinnati there has been two rear end crashes into motorcycles. Needless to say it didn’t work out for the people on the bikes. Thanks for the heads up for escape routes while sitting in traffic.
Thank you for the very honest, informative, non-sarcastic, well produced video. I know many people will benefit from this video, keep up the good work
Such an Awesome channel, glad I found it! I also laid my bike down because I thought I was “invincible.” Man, That crash scared me so bad. Nobody or nothing to blame either - It was all my fault. I couldn’t even ride my bike for over a year after that. I thought I was done…
Eventually I remounted my bike and i needed a new strategy. Now.. I ride smart, and I ride fully geared up! I’m 100% defensive instead of 100% offensive.
Thanks for this video, you’re the man!
Great to hear that there is much we can do to stay safe on the roads!
As a newbie about to do my CBT in the UK at 25, I want to do it right and experience this art form of riding motorcycles!
Thanks
My brother and I have been riding since we were 8 years old (I'm 54 and he's 49). EVERY single time I get on my bike, I say the mantra he and I came up with as we gained experience and improved as riders, "Assume everyone, every vehicle, and every THING is trying to kill us at ALL TIMES," and ride, accordingly.
Kevin,
I have watched most of your videos, and many, more than once. I am pretty sure your advice and tips have saved me from an accident many times.
I live in Canada, and ride a Suzuki GSX1250FA. I have all the touring bags, and ride because it is the best way to tour my beautiful country.
My riding style is safety at all times, alert at all times, and sober at all times.
Being alert at all times is relaxing because my mind does not think about anything else but the bike ride (you have said this), reminds me of airplane flying, and why pilots like it so much.
If you are not sober, you will not experience the real joy of the ride.
I cannot find the words to express my appreciation for your contribution to safe motorcycle riding.
Mike
Thanks Mike, I appreciate the kind words. 👍👍🏍️
Great perspective of the real dangers of biking..... I rode a bike for about 20 years until some geezer pulled out of a side road and knocked me into oncoming traffic. Luckily I got away with just a broken arm but that was it, my missus had had enough and forced me to stop riding. Still got my bike in the garage though, a 1969 Triumph Bonneville and here I am 20 years later still pining to get back on the road every time I look at her (the bike , not the missus). I realise after watching your video's that my road awareness back then was sadly lacking and can see that the accident was partly my fault and could have been avoided by not tailgating and proper positioning at junctions. Keep up the good work friend, cheers.
All simple information, very basic information. Probably one of the best motorcycle related videos I've ever watched. Novice or 'expert', the basics are ALWAYS relevant and never to be overlooked. Kudos, Kevin!
4 wheels move the body 2 wheels move the soul..
wow!!!
1.1.1990 our government set a law, that after that date all the new drivers (car) are not allowed to drive motorcycle with same licence.
So before it was possible. As long as you have driver's license witch allows you to drive car, you were able to drive MC as well.
I had my license at 1987 and despite that I never had drived motorcycle, I have license to do so! Without any limitations of CC.s
Now as I'm having my middle age crisis 😂 I have had this obsession to buy my first motorcycle..
I have watched many of your videos and I'm so happy that I have found these!
First I was just going to go and buy a motorcycle, but now I believe that it is much more better idea to go on these MC courses that are available for us beginners.
Keep up the good work with these videos!
Greetings from snowy Finland!
Glad you make videos that mean something. Not just coming up with lot of useless thoughts just to flood utube with videos just to see yourself. Once a week is great! Keep up great work
Great video. I continually contemplate the dangers of riding and have modified a lot of what I do on the street because of it. I also watch a lot of crash videos. We do, unfortunately, learn more from our failures than our successes. I hope to learn from the failures of others. The lessons that I learned on my own still sting from forty years ago. Great answers to reducing ones risk. Don't drink, big take away.
Thank you for your videos. I haven't ridden in years. My son now wants to get a motorcycle. I told him I would only allow it if he agreed to only ride with me for the first year so I can make sure he's developing good riding habits. Both of us will be taking a Basic Rider Course since I have not ridden in 25 years. We'll be starting off on 250 cc bikes. I have required him to watch all of your videos before we start riding. It's sill a little scary having him on a motorcycle.
Great job Kevin. I am a certified instructor up here in Canada and love your videos.
This was very informative and I appreciate you taking time to educate everyone about the safety in riding . I know you have helped me become more aware of the moves I do wrong while riding . Thanks again and keep up the good work !
Great video Kevin! Once that fellow said, "On the street, I was invincible", the issue was evident. I think that although, we should never fear riding, we must always "respect" it! Thanks again for providing great information and great learning opportunities.
Thank you for sharing other riders stories and your own input. I just started riding 2 months ago and began doing my research on riding through your videos. I made sure to enroll in MSF basic rider course and it was the best decision I have made. These videos help me to focus on myself as a rider. Always asking myself what can I do to return home safely all the time when riding. I know I fall into that speeding category at times, but I watching these videos help to bring me back to reality.
Fantastic video. You backed up what many of us already knew with statistics. Yeah, I know you can use statistics to paint any picture you want but it still has more impact when you have the numbers. I try and tell people that don't ride these things all the time. A few actually seem to get it but most think I'm crazy for riding.
I admit you've changed my ''ride habits'' and i learn a lot from you and always hoping for more. Since i got my 1000cc bike all i've heard was ''that bike is dangerous - you gonna crash - you gonna lose members' , only one dear friend to me who is a rider with more than 30 years on bike said ''congrats on your new bike, welcome to 1000cc world''.
I tell you, i do my ''speeding'' once a week just to keep engine ''clean'' and for few seconds, the whole time, like my friend taught me, i don't do stupid things on a bike and im no *steel termite* like he calls ppl whose buy bikes to be idiots on it and crash it after some miles.
He has a Kawasaki ZX14 (1441cc) and BMW S1000rr and he is over 50y/o. We ride nice and cool just for loving bikes as much as i believe u do Kevin.
Thank you for always being sharing your knowledge with us.
Great channel here !....amazing to me the amount of riders that don't even have an m/c endorsement . take riding classes and take advanced courses, I have taken 2...saw a rider at the dealership yesterday making a u turn in the parking lot at least 30' across, could not even do that , had to stop and back up and duck walk...just amazing.
Thanks for your dedication to rider safety
Luckily my first motorcycle was a Honda 305 Dream. After a few years, I stepped up to a KZ650. When you mentioned inline 4 it reminded me of the sound of the 650. I miss that bike, but I like that the slower acceleration of my R1200RT that forces self control.
You're the man Kevin. Much love from the West Coast. Thanks for being a force for enjoying the ride in a safe, but fun way, and to dispel the common misconceptions from riding. YOU ARE THE MAN.
I’m a retired firefighter and I hear from people all the time...”don’t you know what those things will do to you?” My reply is “yes, and that’s what helps me ride the way I do”. You echoed many of the points I find key to riding. It’s not a car so don’t drive it like one, we complain about distracted drivers and while that is a problem, we have even a greater responsibility to not allow ourselves to become distracted or complacent.
Kevin - you're nailing it. "Bland" statistics don't say much, and are often quoted based on bias. The cIrcumstances and facts surrounding any accident are blindly overlooked, often by people who want to press an agenda (all motorcycles are dangerous, for example). Understanding the circumstances behind an accident can change perception from agenda-based (biased statistics) to fact-based (useful statistics). It would be great if accidents were categorized to separate rider-fault accidents from others, instead of lumping them all together and claiming that motorcycles are dangerous in all cases.
Another well explained subject, thanks. I'm glad you mentioned sport bikes in stats . I was with NYPD for 5 years and FDNY for 21 years and probably responded to thousands of motor vehicle accidents ( lost count lol ) . I would say in regards to the motorcycle accidents i responded to , 95% were sport bikes with young riders and rarely cruisers with older/wiser riders. Just the experience of one ff but i hope it gives a little comfort to the older cruisers and WAKES up the younger sport bike riders . Stay safe.
I worked in a regional trauma center hospital for about 8 years. During that time one of the ER nurses and I (both riders) kept a rough survey and found about 90% of the motorcycle accidents had two of three factors: 1) no helmet 2) alcohol 3) tattoos (indicating a rebellious attitude). We figured if we avoid those indicators we were pretty safe riding bikes. Of course there is always luck. One poor guy was sitting at a stop sign in full protective gear when a cement truck took a corner too fast and tipped over, landing on top of the biker! No about of gear protects you from 60,000 pounds of cement and truck landing on your head.
Thanks for the videos, Kevin. I live in North Texas as well and am a new motorcyclist. I watch your videos before I go out riding each day just to reinforce everything we learned in the MSF course! Keep up the great work! We all appreciate it!
Subbed, about to get my first bike and channels like these help me make proper decisions, I won't be getting a sport bike like the rest of the crowd, I'll be getting a 650 v-star or a vulcan s with all the proper gear and will definitely be doing the speed limit.
Another great video!! And as I ride I can always hear you say about using the road strategies to help avoid issues on the road. I too greatly enjoy riding my motorcycle, it's my passion and I hope to be riding for many years to come. Thank you and keep up the good work!!
I love this guy's videos. He teaches you to be a responsible rider. I live in Cali; I split lanes and ride a little faster than I probably should. But I ride within my means and I assume every car on the road is either going to cut me off or squish me (when I'm splitting) so if you ride like that, those are your best chances. (You can't prevent asshole running red lights or swerving lanes without a blinker.)
Great video Kevin! I just started riding (Honda CBR300R) a few weeks ago and watching your videos greatly improved my confidence. I have no doubt that you have made me a safer rider, keep up the good work.
I definitely relate to this. Everyone loves to tell me how dangerous and irresponsible it is to ride a motorcycle. Driving a car is dangerous. walking down the street is dangerous. Really appreciate your videos.
Thanks Kevin. I almost always feel better while riding my motorcycle and especially when I focus on riding better.
Couldn't agree more. NEVER drink or do drugs and then get behind the controls of a motor vehicle - not just for you, but for those you're riding / driving around.
I added Driving Lights to my Indian Challenger so I can see AND BE SEEN both at night AND during the day, and in bad weather. They're ALWAYS ON when I'm riding.
I have been riding for 27 years and never drop a sport bike and I have never taken a safety course aim just self taught but aim not condemning training I just taught myself why aim I still riding because I respect the bike and people around me but I plan to take the safety course because it's the rigth thing to do thanks for your vid brother
Great video Kevin! I agree. I am a certified motorcycle instructor and training and practicing ones skills is so important. Here's an interesting stat: More pedistrians are killed every year than motorcyclists. Be safe out there.
Thank you for thinking and spreading the word. New sub and like. Forty + years no drops, no crashes (guess I'm not doing it right?") Rubber side down, shiny side up. I ride with the intention to never need to pull the chute.
The best video!! Greetings from Brazil, one of the dangerous places to ride a motorcycle!!
Nice video Kevin, just this year 2018 I went to Daytona Bike Week with my father, it was my first time going, and I saw a little bit of everything. What I didn't expect to witness was a motorcycle accident, happened on the street in front of the Speedway, it was very late and dark, some young guy on a sport bike collided with an older couple in a HD Bagger style bike, all I heard was a sport bike revving like crazy and next thing I knew there was pieces of both bikes everywhere, and three people on the floor, unconscious and bleeding badly, specially the sports bike guy who barely had any gear on. I'd like to learn how to ride someday, but seeing an accident like that really sinks into you how dangerous it can be, I hope they made it out. there's a video around on TH-cam of the crash.
Well done. There is a LOT we can do to improve safety while riding.
What an irony it almost was, I rode for 5 years without a scratch, but at age 28, my very first ride on a Honda 450, only a mile down a country road, about 45 mph, as I crested a small hill, two kids on an unlicensed minibike on the right edge of the road, made a crazy blind left turn directly across in front of me. I hadn't a chance to avoid, and how I missed them, I honestly do not know.
Another awesome video!! I'm fairly new with about two years under my belt of pretty mild riding with my '09 Ninja 250, and I have to say it's really enlightening learning new ways to become a better rider.
I've always been aware of the risks, and I wear my gear almost 100% of the time, but it's really refreshing to learn so many new concepts and to see myself gradually adjusting to be a safer and more confident rider. Frankly, my experience with riding has turned my appeal more towards the ride rather than any sort of thrill, even though I'm still on a pretty tiny bike. Thanks for all the effort you put in your videos. They are much appreciated! :)
Brother KEV, NEVER EVER assume that you’re preaching to the choir. You’d be very surprised at how many riders aren’t equipped with a competent skill set and information. Don’t ever think that you’re dumbing it down or being redundant. This is life saving shit that every rider needs on repeat.
Appreciate you man.
Thank you i ride every day 20 k miles per year 7 years in a row not one accident .. i dont drink i wear safery gear and respect my bike ....God Bless and ride on..
Gracias Amigo
Thanks Kevin! From one Kevin to another, I can’t thank you enough for your videos. I just begun riding myself at the age of 22. I’ve always be extremely careful and cautious about my safety. Especially for my age. Once I got my 500cc bike, I knew I needed to properly educate myself on how to use those beautiful machines. Mainly because my uncle died due to a motorcycle accident. I just started riding yesterday but only riding in my front and back yard to get the feel of everything. I may not leave my property lines with my bike for another 6 months but that’s alright with me. I want to be safe above everything thing and be comfortable on the road. I’ll be binge watching all of your previous videos for sure and look forward the ones in the future. Thank you again
And this is why I support this channel in every way possible. Keep up the good work Kevin. 👍🏻
Love this channel. Best motorcycle training videos ever. Greetings from Mexico
Brilliant stuff MCrider, sir, and with such quiet passion and expertise !! Been motorcycling for over 60 years, and still learnt much from your vids.!!!! Thank you !!!!
I just started riding again this year. I am really liking your channel and your focus on safety. Great episode!
Thanks for doing this. I have learned so much from you channel. I recently got my license but don't feel ready to get on the roads just yet so I practice around my neighborhood. You have helped me become much better. Thanks again.
I quit riding for 20 years after being side dropped twice in 3 months. I realize now that pay off the issue was my road strategy. I was choosing a lane position that put me to close to vehicles in the next lane. Now, I just need to figure out how to stay cool and hydrated in this 100 degree heat.
Love your Videos and they taught me a lot not only skill wise but mentally wise. Thank You!
Always ride to the best of my knowledge and experience. 2 bikes went down within 5 years while traveling in the down pour of rain in construction zones at night within the uneven lanes and lanes lifted as high as curbs. Thinking a mile of tore up asphalt and no road markers isn’t that bad and taking a different route to save time isn’t worth it...Let’s say I still ride daily and avoid all the heavy road constructions. Learned the hard way and walked away safely. God Bless.
Like to have some strategy videos on if a car crosses the yellow line and veers into our lane. Ive heard to many accidents of motorcycles getting hit head on. Keep the videos coming
Great, well researched and thoughtful video. Really make me think. I live in the UK
Hi, Kevin!
Everywhere in the world the "motorcycle" situation is the same! I am from Bulgaria and here we have the same problems - bad initial training, riding without proper gear (or without...), many young riders don't assess the road situations and treats, think they are invincible etc. I am trying to bring to their attention to start thinking, but it is not easy, especially when the authorities doesn't have proper policy. Often, almost every week we are organizing group riding (newbies...) to ride around the country and there is a good place to discuss safety. But the big problem is here in Bulgaria I can't find statistical data about accidents involving motorcyclists; only official data is number of accidents on the road per year (all types of vehicles...), number of injuries etc. Even the government has an obligation yearly to report on EU level such a statistic, but there is no info on Eurostat since 2003 either... That is why I highly appreciate your information and will be very thankful if it will be possible to contact you in the future with the subject. People's life is most important, everyone has to be responsible for himself, but it is necessary to realize it first. In this we can help many riders I believe!
Allways ride safe!
For me, it was either a case of "Get busy living or Get Busy dying". As a man living with depression for a number of years, I was dead already. Riding a motorcycle gave me life again. So I can either not ride a motorcycle and die immediately, or ride a motorcycle and (perhaps) die eventually. It's really not a difficult choice in the end. I don't have a death wish, I take serious steps to mitigate my risk including safety gear, advanced training and enhanced awareness techniques. In the end, as most true motorcyclists know; we don't live to ride, we ride to live.
THANK U MAN FOF
FOR GIVING SUCH GOOD TIPS, I HAVE IMPROVED SO MUCH AFTER VIEWING UR VIDEOS, STARTED WEARING HELMET AND I HAVE ALSO REDUCED MY SPEED CAUSE I LIVE IN PAKISTAN KARACHI AND U CAN LITERALLY CAN RIDE AS FAST AS U CAN CAUSE THERE IS NO SPEED LIMIT. BUT U HAVE PUT SENCE INTO ME AND KNOW I RIDE FOR JUST FUN. SPECIALLY YOUR COUNTER STEERING TECHNIQUE, I'VE IMPORVED SO MUCH AFTER THAT.
27 times more likely to die on a bike, last I heard. Kevin teaches basic skills to minimize those numbers; I recommend all new riders watch his videos. I’ve been riding (and learning) since 1975, but I still watch them in the evening in case I could learn something new.
This is my second season riding a ninja 250r I bought used after taking a local MSF course near me. I've now ridden just over 7000 miles on said bike. I still consider myself a novice at this point. I low sided last year after going into a right hand turn lane at an intersection leaned over at speed as the light was green. I didn't expect an on coming vehicle to be right in my face exiting the turn.
I had just got on my bike that day, tires were cold and I had to grab the front break to avoid the other vehicle. My crash had everything to do with inexperience and over confidence as a new rider. I wasn't wearing my jacket as it was a hot day (80+) but luckily I had my gloves and full face helmet on and was able to walk away with only a fractured elbow and wrist as well as a few scrapes. I spent two months letting my arm heal and another in PT. I had to spend all winter getting the bike back in shape.
But let me tell you, I learned my lesson.
I now make sure I have all my gear on, including a jacket with D3O. I take it easy for the first few miles to make sure my tires are ready. And most importantly I will NEVER approach an intersection the way I did that day. Always take it easy going into an intersection, you never know what traffic will decide to do.
Like for many of you riding is my place to think, clear my mind, de-stress and have a true sense of freedom. Now that I ride I cant imagine life without a bike. While it is fun watching motovloggers like Fooligan, DoitWithDan, Brian636 and JaketheGardenSnake wheelieing though traffic, its not what a beginner should strive for. Listen to what MCrider is saying, learn from his and others experiences.Take it easy especially in cities and in traffic. Practice the fundamentals. It might just get you home in one piece someday.
Rant over.
Check out my IG @ noble_rider_
Ride safe out there.
Hey Kevin, This vid really hit the spot. I rode, mostly on-road, for decades and loved it. Still like to keep a toe in the water so to speak and MCrider is better than most. Great vid/s. Cheers.
Thanks Kevin. Great topic as always. The underlying reasons for motorcycle crash fatalities should be discussed more. Riders that are still here ( haven’t gone down yet) should admit and realize the risks they take to look or feel cool when they ride.
Ride safe. We’ll see you on the road. 😉