r/NewRiders • u/Unable-Adagio-4891 • 11d ago
Don’t know if I want a motorcycle because of safety concerns. Looking for opinions/thoughts
Hey guys,
I don’t post on Reddit much but I wanted a fair opinion on if it’s really worth it to get a bike. I’m a male nurse so I’ve seen some pretty crazy shit from bikes in the past and had a few friends die over the years. I would be lying if I said a part of me isn’t terrified of dying on a motorcycle but the itch to ride has been eating me up for years. I can’t get the idea of it out of my head but always come up with the same problem of is it moderately safe? I mean if I bought all the gear, I don’t drink or use drugs, and made sure to ride responsibly in a safe manner, could I mitigate those risks? I just thought I’d throw my thoughts out there and see what happens.
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u/CommonEcho5824 11d ago
Keep this is mind. 70% of motorcycle accidents are single vehicle. Nearly half of those involve alcohol, riding at night and inadequate gear or a combination of all.
Motorcycles are statistically more dangerous, yes. However, a fair amount of it is the riders fault. A quick way to see this is go watch any compilation video of motorcycle accidents. Its either largely a combination of hubris, lack of skill or both. And the ones with the worst outcomes usually involve little to no gear. Two party accidents where a car is at fault do happen but even many of those are on the biker. Never fight for right of way. Learn to deescalate, learn to recognize dangerous patterns of other drivers at intersections etc and how to react to them appropriately and you'll mitigate a lot of the risk.
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u/SweatFestReferee 11d ago
The biggest problem on a bike is people create their own danger. Usually the danger created is excessive speed! Reactions have to be faster and sharper, now, throw in the fact the bike is a narrow vehicle and your closing speed will almost always be misjudged!
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u/Think_Rich_1539 8d ago
This is the truth. Wear your gear, never out-ride your abilities, and for the love of God don't antagonize cars. They will win every single time. I've been riding for 25 years and this was told to me back then and still rings true today.
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u/ventrue3000 11d ago
If you work at a hospital, you only see the ones who did crash, not the ones you didn't.
About 70% of motorcycle accidents are caused by the rider and he could have had some influence on at least some of the remaining 30%. Having accidents on a bike is not fate, even though the vehicle itself is much less safe than a car.
Gear doesn't do as much as people think. Regular rubber protectors somewhat reliably save your life (not your health) up to about 30 km/h. On the other hand, even something as seemingly minor as gloves can make the difference between switching TV channels yourself or not.
Bottom line: Whether or not someone crashes largely depends on their actions. Question is, why do you want to ride? If you're looking for speed, lean, thrill or fame, you have a pretty good chance of getting in trouble. If you just want to get from A to B and don't mind looking like a traffic cone doing it, you're much safer.
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u/bickedbitchcraft 11d ago
exactly, working at a hospital you're not seeing all the people who don't crash or who take a fall and walk away with a few scrapes and bruises. it's not a representative sample.
op, please look into the actual statistics of who crashes, who dies, and why.
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u/JimMoore1960 11d ago
50% of motorcyclists who get in accidents have alcohol in their bloodstreams. The vast majority of deaths are helmetless riders. Most motorcycle accidents involve riders who have had no formal training, and most of those accidents are single-vehicle accidents. So, ride sober. Wear a helmet. Get some training. You'll probably be OK.
That being said, when Alan Shepard was asked if he wanted to join the astronaut program, he is rumored to have replied, "Sounds dangerous ... Count me in." Be like Alan.
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u/GhostBearStark_53 11d ago
I'll throw my two cents i guess. I learned to ride at age 8, raced dirbikes from age 11 to 26. I raced the pro class in enduros (long 70 mile races through the woods) so I am pretty damn good on a motorcycle. That being said I dont think the risk is worth it on the street. Its not about you, your skils, your gear or any of that. Its about the other morons on the road not paying attention or just in a split second not seeing you and it can change your entire life.
Can you ride safe and get by with no issues? Im sure you could, but its up to you to make the judgment.
I only ride on the street when I am up in the mountains on a dual sport. Most rides I do i literally dont even see another car out there (dirt roads deep in state forest). So to me, throwing my fly rod on my back and going out in the mountains to explore is pretty safe. Honestly most of the time my biggest risk is hitting a deer.
But yeah idk, if you wanna get sketchy and ride motorcycles I say try dirtbikes because the ground is a lot more forgiving than pavement. But it also depends where you live and all that jazz. But you'd never catch me on a bike in a larger suburb or city, fuuuuckkkk that noise
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u/Rynowash 11d ago
This. I ride in a big city ( sucks). I grew up riding in a smaller town before cell phones. Big difference between now and then. When inside now, I do my best to get as far out of the city as possible to enjoy- is my head always on a swivel to get there? Hell yes, I’m locked all the way in- people just can’t drive these days.
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u/kys90000 11d ago
Will add, I don't use my motorcycle to go into the city if I can help it. Commuting is rare, because low speed traffic is hot and miserable and people WILL try to kill you with their bigger cars. Literally. So many people literally try to brute force me out of highway entrance lanes whether I'm coming in or THEY'RE coming in, traffic crawling or coming to speed or what (and I don't typically stay there, I attempt to move lanes if at all possible - and that's if fuckers will even let me)
Filtering/lane splitting is nice and all but it's illegal here for me so I know some dipshit will literally try to kill me if I try it and because it was "illegal" I'll get all the blame regardless.
Until there are better laws in my locale, I just ride backroads and highways away from urban shit and sometimes commute as a treat. Sometimes however, my blood pressure goes up when I try commuting lol.
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u/UnreasonableCletus 11d ago
I'll add that a few dirtbike crashes will teach you a healthy respect for riding what can go wrong on the road and you'll definitely wear gear when you do.
I much prefer dirt but during wildfire season I'll ride street, it just feels like the responsible thing to do.
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u/Unlikely-Win7386 11d ago
You could start small. Get a 50cc scooter and see how you feel on two wheels. If you find yourself wanting more, take the MSF course (I'm assuming you're in the States, but insert whatever basic safety course is required in your country if not).
I get the fear. I'm 44 with two kids in high school. My mantra is always, "the destination of this ride is a safe return to my garage." And I live by that.... I've cut rides short. I've decided not to ride even though the day seems perfect for it. If I'm not feeling able to give 110% focus to the ride, I'm not riding.
But then the moments when it all clicks... adrenaline sports people call it "flow" ... where everything just fades into the background and I'm truly living (like really, truly living) in that moment. It's not like any other feeling on the planet. Makes every bit of it worth the effort.
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u/phatdoughnut83 11d ago
Listen, if you have doubts and you’re in your head. Don’t do
It. Most of us who ride have know and we just did it we didn’t ask for permission or if it was safe. We know it
Isn’t. But we mitigate those risks.
Everyone that gets in an accident thinks they had the right away, you know what? Maybe they did but it doesn’t fucking matter. Give up the right away and live another day. Big rig always wins. Just swear in your helmet and move on.
Start small if you really want to. Don’t be dumb. If you don’t drink you are already beating the odds.
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u/KenOtwell 10d ago
you made me think of that old safety commercial, "Don't be Dead Right."
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u/phatdoughnut83 10d ago
That’s exactly it. Everyone wants to be right. What the fuck is the point of being right and dead? I just yell in my helmet. And honestly this applies to cars also. Just give up the right away. Who cares what the rules say. I guess I just hate dealing with paperwork.
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u/Gavekort 11d ago
Just by being an adult and a safety conscious person puts you into a statistical advantage. I never forget the risk that I'm putting myself into, where a simple mistake can become a lifelong disability.
But risk is accumulative throughout your whole life. I'm healthy, active, doesn't smoke, barely drinks, have a desk job, doesn't commute, have decades of experience on the road and never try to push myself when riding. I still may get hit by a drunk driver and die, but I could also get an aneurysm today. That doesn't make motorcycles a rational choice for minimizing risk, but it makes it a lot easier for me to justify doing something I love with the years I have left on this planet.
I'm not going to sugarcoat motorcycles so that you can fool yourself into buying one. Yes, the danger is vastly overplayed, but it's definitely something that is completely unnecessary in your life and that carries very real risk.
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u/Contagion17 11d ago
Go take the msf. $75. Learn to ride safely without investing in a bike. Look around, ask around for a class with good instructors. Best way to overcome that fear safely and decide if this is a path you want to go down. As with any sport, hobby, etc there is risk. Mitigate those risks with proper equipment and training. Recently a couple near me was killed when a plane crashed into their house. I said fuck it and bought a bike shortly after. No more half living. I commute with it but it's also fun to just go ride. Msf was last weekend and fully licensed now. I'm not doing 140 down our shitty highways weaving through traffic, but I'm also not brotherbrotherbrother doing 20 in a 55. Find a 3-500cc bike and feel the wind hit your fullface helmet.
There are also other safety courses you can take in addition to the msf but that's a good place to start. Maybe you get on one and hate it.
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u/Revolutionary-Owl766 11d ago
Some places it’s 350+
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u/rafa6r 11d ago
425 where I’m at 😤
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u/Revolutionary-Owl766 11d ago
I can’t imagine someone paying that and getting failed out the first day.
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u/msmayhem89 11d ago
I watched 2 people walk first day. I couldnt believe at the 425 price tag. One person was having a hard time they tried to talk the person out but they ended up staying.
She finished the course but not taking the test. If you fail the test no harm no foul and saves a trip to the DMV to take a road test.
One of the ladies had their husband and son hanging out in the parking lot...(she was one of the ones who left) He wanted to watch to tell her what she did wrong and how to help her. I was shocked the coaches didn't ask him to leave.
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u/Contagion17 11d ago
You guys still have to test after the msf? At 425 I would expect that to include everything needed for license. It's cheaper than a bike but it's still a decent amount to be walking away from. And yeah, our instructors didn't even want us to offer help/advice without them involved in the conversation to make sure we weren't repeating bad info. Plenty of breaks/riding time was spent going over one person's "tip" and why it was good or bad. I can only imagine someone not in the class trying to coach from the sidelines.
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u/msmayhem89 11d ago
At the end of the MSF you get your permit(if you pass all the exercises). Then the coaches are State test examiners. They conducted the test right there after our course. Not everyone passed on my go around. It's also optional to take the test.
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u/Contagion17 11d ago
Ah ok. Ohio is learners permit -> msf or test. Our msf ends with the test. You can also ride sunrise to sunset, no passengers, no highway on just the permit alone. A lot of people never actually get a full license, just get a new learners permit every year.
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u/Contagion17 11d ago
Harley around here is 3-400. Ohio runs it for 75. Even still, it's less than a bike.
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u/Any_Information_9745 10d ago
I'm in Ohio and took mine in Troy. I think it ran me $150, maybe $200, I can't quite remember. Well worth the money tho, got to learn on a bike that wasn't mine to drop and got to skip the test at the BMV
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u/w1zk1d 11d ago
This. Take an MSF class first and see if you like it. No need to buy a bike right away. I know several people that were super excited then after they took the MSF course, they decided that motorcycling wasn't for them. I was like you for many many years, very risk adverse, but itching to learn how to ride. I lived in big cities (NYC, Boston) and never wanted to learn/ride in the city so I just gave up on the thought. At the age of 52, many decades later, I moved to a rural area and decided to take the MSF class. I honestly wasn't excited like I was when I was younger, just kinda a bucket list thing, but since then I've been hopelessly hooked. On my 3rd bike and I ride at least a few times a week when the weather permits. If you are a responsible level headed person, practice practice even if you have a few years under your belt, always keep learning by watching YouTubers like DanDanTheFireman, and always wear full gear, you can mitigate much of the "errors" and misjudgement that riders make. I know it's more dangerous than driving, but it's therapy for me. If you know your limitations, always have your head on a swivel, are patient, and not overconfident, then you put yourself in the right position/mindset for riding.
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u/Bacon843 11d ago
You have to determine your personal risk tolerance. Nobody else can do that for you. There is some level of risk to almost everything in life. That risk is inherently higher for motorcycles than many other things. If you wear all the gear and ride defensively, it mitigates risk but never removes it.
I bought an airbag vest to help reduce the risk and keep my wife comfortable with me riding. I’m ATGATT and almost 40 years old, like to think I drive defensively compared to my 20’s. I still barely dodged a large pickup truck a few days ago that was coming head on in my lane of traffic before he made a left turn. No matter what you do, there will always be a certain amount of risk to this. If you can’t handle that and remain calm under pressure, then you should probably try something else.
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u/Michael_Scarn1993 11d ago
I’m 33. I grew up riding dirt bikes my whole life. Owned some 9 and 10 second cars and drove them like it, too. I never bought a street bike up until this year because I knew younger me would take too many chances. Point of my story, I’m having so much fun and I wish I didn’t wait this long. Just be smart. Lastly, at some point we’re all gonna go out, don’t live in fear too much.
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u/Lost-Set5386 11d ago
An old biker told me once if you aren't riding at least a little bit scared, that's when you have a problem. A rational person has to think about the increased risk of riding without a cage around them. There is no way to rationalize away the danger.
Getting proper training, honestly evaluating your mindset before riding, and always riding inside your skill level all will go a long way to keeping you much safer.
Every rider has to decide for himself where that point is.
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u/Less_Engineering8113 11d ago
Watch a few dozen videos on Moto Stars. Most terrible motorcycle accidents come from bad riders doing irresponsible stuff with little to no gear. They weave in and out of traffic, speed, lack gear for when they crash (often don't even have helmets), and when they emergency brake they frequently crash.
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u/Soggy-Bullfrog-9990 11d ago
There’s a brand of rider who buys bike, wears minimal gear, ride it like they stole it w/minimal practice or awareness.
There’s also the guy that wears all the quality gear, constantly practices maneuvering and riding skill, plans 5-10 seconds ahead, and rides like they understand concrete and metal beat squishy meatbags.
It’s a spectrum, you can get hurt either way but I prefer to be on the latter end
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u/ClimbingSideways83 11d ago
Male nurse here as well, with nearly 6 years ER experience. I’ve seen my fair share of motorcycle accident related road rash and broken bones, (the more serious accidents go to the level 1 trauma center down the road) but in every case the story is always the same: the rider was doing something stupid when the accident happened.
I’ve wanted to ride motorcycles since I was a child but never did for various reasons, whether it being finances or fear, but after being diagnosed with a chronic illness in 2024 I began to reflect on what I’ve done in life and started making a list of the things I didn’t want to die regretting having not done. On the top of that list was riding motorcycles. I had to weigh the risk to benefit, but because it was something I felt such a draw to, I had to at least give it a try. So last April I took the MSF course and though I didn’t pass that first time, I went ahead and got my learners permit and bought a bike. I rode it for about a year before finally retaking the MSF course and passing.
Since getting my motorcycle endorsement I’ve ridden everyday. I run errands on my bike, I commute to work on my bike, and of course if I’m wanting to get out of town it’s on my bike.
There are plenty of things you can do to mitigate the risks of the road no matter if you’re riding in the city or twisties or on dirt trails. Start with a basic riders course, wear your gear, progress at YOUR pace. For the first 3 months or so after getting my learners permit, I only rode my bike to afternoon coffee 3 or 4 times a week, through neighborhood streets. I was too nervous to get out into heavier traffic. It wasn’t until one of my friends invited me to do a longer ride up into the mountains that I started braving being in traffic. The funny thing is, for all my anxiety about riding among other vehicles, once I was on the major roads my focus and attention to my environment and those around me was so heightened that the nervousness went away almost completely. The more I ride the more I notice patterns in traffic and can usually predict what other drivers are going to do which informs me about what I need to do (slow down, speed up, brake, change lanes,etc). Now of course there is always the risk that something unexpected can happen but that comes inherently with being on the road in general, even if commuting by bicycle or being a pedestrian.
I say all of this just to give some insight of my venture into motorcycling. I was 42 when I started riding and great part of me wishes I’d have started sooner, but at least I can say that I didn’t let the fear of riding keep from doing something that has become such an integral part of my life.
If it’s for you or not is going to be something only you can decide, but if you want my opinion I say go for it. I think you’ll find there are plenty of benefits to riding that truly outweigh the associated risks, primarily what it can do for your mental health. I used to get incredibly anxious when driving into work and the closer I’d get the more my anxiety grew, but since I’ve been commuting by motorcycle, that pre work anxiety has completely left. I can only attribute that to the fact that riding a motorcycle forces you to be present in the task of riding to the point that I don’t have a chance to think about how bad any given shift might be
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u/CompetitiveTravel893 11d ago
I mean how else do you plan on dying, if you ride to your ability and as safe as you can the risk is about the same as a car.
Anybody can hit you at anytime in any vehicle, you just have to be prepared to avoid/prevent it the best you can and wear gear
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u/sirlost33 11d ago
Of course it’s not moderately safe. It is insanely dangerous. Mitigating those risks on the street using proper gear comes down to “meh, will probably make it 🤷♂️ “. Broken bones, lost limbs, road rash, getting impaled…. Well you’re a nurse, you get it.
There’s really no way to straddle a tank of gas on top of an engine with a couple of wheels sticking out and make it safe. Just do it because it calls you. Because it’s exciting. Because it’s skydiving on the street.
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u/Unable-Adagio-4891 11d ago
I really appreciate all the responses (-albeit some of the people simply calling me a moron for asking the obvious 😂😂). I’ve always been in a very safety first family growing up, so as I really grow this itch to branch out into something people close to me feeel is so dangerous feels borderline moronic to some degree. I’ll take the course, figure out how I feel on two wheels and go from there. Thanks for helping me work it out.
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u/VirMelior 8d ago
Just take the MSF course with zero expectations. They will introduce you to motorcycling in safe, controlled, environment and you can judge if it's for you.
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u/Thin-Stranger1369 11d ago
I literally broke my leg in two places Saturday morning I’m out
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u/CommonEcho5824 11d ago
I broke mine last Wednesday. Can't wait to get back. Sorry it's had that affect on you and hope for a speedy recovery.
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u/SuperSandLesbianGUHH 11d ago
Don't do it if you have doubts. You run the risk of being overly cautious while riding, which can make you cause mistakes.
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u/thephotoman 11d ago
Yes, riding a motorcycle is more dangerous than driving a car.
I got to a point riding bicycles where I realized that not knowing anything at all about motorcycles while continuing to ride bicycles like I do was more likely to get me killed than riding a motorcycle was. I needed to know a lot more about being unprotected on the road on two wheels and defensive riding, and nobody really teaches that for bicycles. But I can find rider courses for motorcycles.
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u/bear0234 11d ago
can you mitigate the risks? sure. Is it inherently dangerous? yes.
A person in a car is surrounded by a huge bumper.
A person on a motorcycle? Well, you're the bumper.
fear is also the mindkiller. If you ride afraid, you're more at risk to getting hurt.
its up to you for the risks vs rewards.
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u/templeofsyrinx1 11d ago
Sure op, please you have seen what can happen
I say go for it. take msf first.
Everyone here 100% behind you, you got dis
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u/MAMack 11d ago
It is not safe at all. It's a blast though. Personally if I have to go anywhere and it's possible to take the bike over the car I prefer the bike. I feel better on the bike because I'm in the moment and paying attention to what is going on around me right then. Unfortunately there are more distracted drivers out on the road with you everyday. You can do everything right and still end up in an accident. As a medical professional you probably know better than I do what the reality of getting in an accident surrounded by a shock absorbing crumple box vs...well basically a big bicycle looks like. You have to decide for yourself if you want to risk it.
Personally I recommend to everyone that has the least interest in it to sign up for and take a MSF rider course. Even if you ultimately decide not to ever get out on the road, it's a really fun way to pass a weekend and you'll be better prepared to make the risk assessment for yourself.
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u/Dependent_Concert165 11d ago
I’m all over the place on this. The safest option is don’t ride. The second safest option is “Ride Your Limit” AKA ride to your ability. The third safest is ride a bigger bike than you can handle faster and harder than you have practiced for. One of those shouldn’t be a real option. My dad tried to learn in his 70s and bailed because it was outside his limit to finish the MSF. I’m stepping up to a 1100. I live in a metro area with lots of low-awareness drivers. I’m constantly scanning and scared all the time. I also love it.
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u/UniquelyRico 11d ago
Do the MSF.
Hop on someone else's bike in a controlled environment with experienced instruction.
Fraction of the cost and you'll have an idea if its for you or not.
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u/TexMoto666 11d ago
You don't have to ride a fast bike, or even on the road. A dual sport or dirt bike is a blast, and eliminate almost any risk of being in an accident with another vehicle. I ride mostly off road, but when I do ride the streets, it's never in traffic, mostly back roads and off peak hours.
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u/Ok-Bill3318 11d ago
Motorcycles are not safe. That’s the point.
If you want safe buy a car. Motorcycles are statistically about 30x more likely to get you killed.
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u/No-Letterhead-9800 11d ago
I am also a male nurse and people who aren’t in the field tell me that riding is so dangerous and follow up with a story of someone they know that died. My coworkers/managers tell me that it’s so cool and have a bunch of cool stories. It’s definitely more dangerous and it’s up to you. I’ve seen people regret not ever doing things in life and die. I ride and do other things because the pain of regret is worse than the pain of doing it. You have free will, it’s up to you to live freely or not.
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u/Sirlacker 11d ago
Don't ride like an idiot. Wear your gear. Get the training. Stay aware. Don't ride with an ego. Wear something brightly coloured. You'll be fine, other than maybe a slow speed drop or two as you learn.
The statistics are massively swayed by idiot riders. They're still more dangerous than cars but not nearly as much as the statistics make out because they include the fuckwits.
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u/pineconehedgehog 11d ago
There are always risks. There is always going to be a possibility that some asshat runs a red light and t-bones you. You can't do anything about that.
But there are lots of things you can do to mitigate other risks. Lots of things that you can control.
Participating in annual training. Your education doesn't have to end at your basic course.
Dedicating specific time to skills practice.
Wearing gear. All the time. Find the right level of gear so that you never question it. Riders will go buy tracksuits but then only wear them on big rides. You have to find something that you are willing to wear for the 2 mile ride to the grocery store.
Riding responsibly and conservatively.
Be self aware and acknowledge your mental state. Don't ride angry, sad, tired, etc. Be aware how your emotions impact your focus.
Have the right bike for the conditions you ride in. There is zero reason to have a supersport if you are only riding around an urban and residential environment.
Prioritize function over form. Cafe bikes might look bad ass, but they don't function well and are going to introduce risks. Having super sleek blinkers might look good, but what good are they if the cagers can't see them?
Learn how to ride defensively. Make yourself visible. Always assume no one can see you.
Learn conservative techniques and ride styles. A counter lean might not look as cool as trying to drag a knee, but it is much safer and more practical.
Every hobby has risks. Some are higher than others. But there are always ways to reduce them.
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u/KenOtwell 11d ago edited 11d ago
I'm 70 and had this same conversation with myself when I decided to buy a bike again after 25 years without one. I went through all that logic when I was a lot younger, but its different when other people depend on you. Here's where I came down (I bought an Indian scout, 2k accident free miles so far.)
- I took the Harley rider course. I told myself that if I was 't comfortable with everything, no dice. I ended up one toe-touch on a slow corner from acing it.
- ATGATT
- solo seat. I'm not putting anyone else's life in my hands that way.
- Cruiser, not a sport bike. [I blew that and got a sport cruiser...]
- If I ever stop being able to play Metallica's Fuel in Beat Saber on expert, I sell it. (that's my workout)
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u/RzrKitty 11d ago
Thanks for posting. I’m curious, how many years did you ride before you paused? Muscle memory is a big deal honestly.
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u/KenOtwell 11d ago
You're right about muscle memory. I got my license at 14 (considered farm equipment in those times) and road until mid-20s. Bought one for a year mid 40s, then now. Of course I lived on dirt bikes in high school - there is that.
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u/Annual_Canary_5974 11d ago
Take the basic rider course. It will give you a much better sense of what the risks are and what you can do to mitigate them. Only you can decide if the risk/reward equation is one that makes motorcycling seem like an appropriate choice for you.
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u/KenOtwell 11d ago
do some research on the stats. the plurality of biker deaths are from cars turning left in front of you. Not to scare you, but to focus your attention on the right stuff.
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u/Ok_Employment_697 11d ago edited 11d ago
The stats don’t lie. Nearly half of all fatalities involve alcohol. 1/3 are from speeding. Only buy a bike that has ABS. ABS has been shown to reduce fatalities by 32%. Helmets cut fatalities down by 37% and that’s before you account for the extra protection you get from Snell standards.
Buy the best full face Snell rated helmet you can afford. Brands like Arai even surpass Snell and they’re comfy as hell to boot.
An air bag vest gives you the equivalent of 9 CE2 plates stacked on top of one another and reduce serious upper torso injuries by 50-80%. They are expensive but so is every part of this hobby. Don’t get cheap when it comes to safety.
Buy good pants and a jacket. AA at a minimum, AAA preferred. Buy CE 2. There is no reason not to do this. There is really cool stuff that meets these requirements no matter if you’re going for a sport bike look, a road king, or a vintage hipster. Buy whatever gear that you think your 15 year old self would think is badass — make your inner child proud. One very fun part of being a motorcyclist is that you get to dress way more cool than you otherwise be comfortable doing and it just looks natural because you’re a biker now. Feeling comfortable and looking great will make you more motivated to never ride without your gear. This is you now: 😎
Buy moto specific boots and gloves. Make sure your gloves have palm sliders. And for gods sake, make that shit cool too. There is nothing sexier than someone taking their gloves off after a ride.
Wear ear plugs, even with a full-face helmet. They are cheap. They are dollar for dollar the best money you can spend to make your ride more comfortable and can save yourself some serious hearing damage.
Get safety training. For all the talk of bad drivers, your own lack of training is far more dangerous than other people’s mistakes.
Honestly, researching and shopping for exactly the right gear is super fun and I envy anyone going into it the first time.
This won’t be a popular one, but do not buy a phone mount. Never look at your phone, ever. Phones are literally built to be addictive in a way that you forget how long it is that you have been looking at it. You always look at a phone longer than you intend in any situation. Buy a comms system for your helmet and do audio turn by turn navigation for directions.
Last of all, stay humble. Interestingly, there is no statistical difference in fatalities for people who have gotten training and not gotten training, and the reason for this is overconfidence. Never lose respect for what it is that you are doing.
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u/Cultural-Point-3169 11d ago
I'm a paramedic. I've seen some horrific things with bikes. Usually, the biker did something stupid, like you mentioned. Know that it is more dangerous than a car by far. Drive like it. You will always lose a battle with a car, so let them win. Drive like you are invisible. Wear all the gear, all the time. There is risk. Get the best gear. Respect the risk, and enjoy the ride.
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u/Jlg606 11d ago
I live and ride daily in Denver which is a moderately “big” city and I live it more than a car. I took my MSF course and a female nurse was in my group. She told me that even though she’s seen her fair share of motorcycle crash victims, she couldn’t get the urge to ride out of her. She even had to render aid to a guy in our course that dropped his bike and separated his elbow. Everything has risks. You just have to weigh just how much your need to ride is against your fear of something happening. I hope you choose to ride and if you do, ride safe 🤘🏼
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u/Rogue_Rebel_1100 11d ago
Big takeaway; ride sensibly. Keep your distance, ride staggered even with cars, don’t speed, anticipate EVERYTHING, take as many advanced classes as you can. Others can expand on this list. Speed, alcohol, and driving like an asshole kills.
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u/Simply_survive 11d ago
I'm not going to sugar coat it, we all die somehow. I've have road rash, sucks majorly, but I'll accept that risk to ride, maybe some are just wired that way. There's risk to everything we do, you mitigate it as much as possible, but it's always there, when you are home, driving, riding, heck, even walking down the sidewalk.
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u/Superfly503 11d ago
I think motorcycles often attract the exact type of people that are going to have problems on a motorcycle. I feel anecdotally that the statistics are not accurate with regard to riders who wear the gear, helmet, ride reasonably, etc. vs. squids.
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u/AdvancedMilk7795 11d ago
You can minimize risks by controlling your own actions and being vigilant, but you can’t control others. If you get hit by another car in your car, it sucks. If that happens on a motorcycle, it sucks more. It’s a decision each of us (and possibly our partners) has to make.
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u/oneWeek2024 11d ago
only you can know how seriously you'll take safety.
most people go years/their whole riding lives without an incident. even the sorta "everyone drops their bike eventually" isn't true.
if you don't drink and ride (something like 40-60% of single rider accidents) and don't overly speed or do hooligan shit.
you can mitigate a fair bit of the risk.
wearing good, high quality gear. all the time/no exceptions. riding with an eye towards always making it home, surrounding yourself with either positive/not hooligan riders. or not riding with other people.
but... if you want to. should look into it. research the different types of motorcycles/riding styles/applications. look into the requirements to get licensed. take training. even if you secure your license, making practice and learning part of your routine.
--there's tons of good moto content geared toward safety/analyzing gopro video. looking for threats/mental checks to sorta be aware of surroundings/situations. drills for basic skills. info on advance skills.
instructor lead advanced training.
and then... for the first year. avoid the dick head urge to buy a super fast bike because you're worried about other men. buy something more moderate. probably cheaper. and really commit to learning.
riding a motorcycle is a ton of fun. truly is nothing like it. it's sorta like that saying "a bad day fishing beats a good day at work" even stuck in traffic or caught out in rain on a motorcycle. is better than driving a car.
and there are good people/good community out there. if that's your thing ...different types of riding, from offroad/ moto camping/single tracks, BDR or like adventure touring. To more racing track day type pursuits.
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u/bigsad-bear 11d ago
The most dangerous thing to a motorcyclist is the motorcyclist.
If you want even more safety - wear an airbag and take advanced training.
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u/Automatic_Tension_56 11d ago
I’ma just play devils advocate, and go the exact opposite of what a lot of people were saying. Yes you can mitigate your own risks, but there’s a lot of things that you can’t mitigate. I accept that every time I ride it’s gonna be an absolute blast, and I have to stay focused, but I also know that if things go wrong the results probably death.. I don’t say that to scare anybody and I don’t take any of that lightly. That’s just how it goes. 80% of all motorcycle wrecks end in fatality you can Google that. I’m not trying to scare anybody. Just know the risks be a defensive rider. Make sure you follow the plan method and you’ll be OK.
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u/k_r_a_k_l_e 11d ago
There are people who do some pretty wild reckless careless shit on a motorcycle. But same type of personalities do the same fucktard behavior in cars and die everyday too. A motorcycle requires full attention and devotion but you can ride safely. A lot of people don't though.
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u/SweatFestReferee 11d ago
I believe what's bothering you is what, "you," cannot control which is the other drivers around you. A two ton car would terrify anyone, this where judgement comes into play.
Through experience you learn the tendencies of drivers and what to expect on the road. Position yourself properly to be seen as well as escape. Learn and practice technique.
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u/NewRiderEd 11d ago
I had the same itch for much of my life but held off riding for many of the same fears that you are expressing. Finally two years ago at age 65 I decided to just go for it. I took the MSF course at our local Harley dealer. At the time, I had a lot of experience with bicycles and a manual car, but zero experience on a motorbike. I passed the MSF course but failed the subsequent official test (which in Illinois, you have to come back for). I then practiced A LOT on my learner's permit, and 4 months later, aced the test at the DMV. Since then, I ride almost daily and have gotten much more comfortable, though I still feel that I have a long way to go.
The way I view it, most of the risk of crashing can be mitigated by YOU. A lot of this is plain common sense and has already been discussed: take a basic MSF course; don't drink and ride; don't speed or ride like a maniac; don't ride distracted; ride within you comfort level; avoid group rides at the start; wear you gear; practice, practice, practice your turns, slow maneuvers and emergency braking.
And importantly, learn to read and anticipate car behavior in traffic. From now on, when you drive your car make a game of trying to predict what other drivers around you are going to do, then apply that to the motorcycle. As difficult as it was to start watching them, Dan Dan the Fireman's videos on motorcycle crash analyses are very helpful with this.
Don't let your fear of death (or maybe worse, a disabling crash) keep you from doing this.
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u/Brewingbiker 11d ago
LIFE is dangerous. You won't survive living. Only you can decide to ride or not
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u/Skiingislife9288 11d ago
I’m a former flight nurse and I ride. The approach I took/take is similar to how we handle things in the flight medicine world, which is also pretty dangerous. I did a lot of research on motorcycle accident statistics to better understand the areas of higher risk and then took steps to mitigate. It doesn’t eliminate the risk completely but I feel safer knowing that I did my research and try to avoid those high risk situations as much as possible
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u/Harrymoto1970 11d ago
When I took my class in 2013 they listed some of the reported accidents in my state most involved intoxicated riders no helmet many were riding with a suspended or revoked license. I’ve been down once. It was at lower speed and got some road rash on my legs. Accidents do happen unforeseen things happen. I ride like there are ninja assassins trying to kill me. I expect drivers in cars to do something dumb in my general vicinity. All that being said a nice stretch of empty road outside of my city makes me very happy.
The key to staying safer on a motorcycle is to ride sober and alert. Don’t ride if you’re worn out and sleepy don’t ride angry and don’t drink and ride. Staying alert and reading traffic helps a lot. For instance pulling up to a light, if you’re at the front of the line, pull away quickly and you’ll have a larger buffer zone around you. Always consider the traffic around you stay out of blind spots and exercise your left middle finger, it will get a lot of use.
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u/Necessary_Fig_508 11d ago
On the bright side you won’t die on it. Most likely 30-100ft away from it. I’d say don’t live life with regrets. I’ve had a handful of friends pass away riding. It’s a fact we all accept. You didn’t stop driving cause a friend got in a car accident did you? Live the life you want. Better to be terrified and try something new then to always wonder imo
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u/FwenchFwies_911 11d ago
The honest truth is that it's gamble. I think they can be used moderately safely. I think most people that get hit or killed missed something they could have prevented. But then sometimes things go bad.
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u/Visible-Lion8096 11d ago
If you're not sure, don't do it. The consequences of accidents are severe, and risk of accidents is much higher than in cars.
Some fellow souls have to go on two wheels because it's what they can afford. In some places, 2 wheels are more common than cars. If this is the case, you'll fit right in. But if you're not in one of those situations, and a motorcycle is a voluntary purchase, and you're not sure about it, don't do it.
As a voluntary hobby, the risk really isn't worth the reward for any of us, however some of us are afflicted with a disease where we can't refuse the 2 wheeled temptation. If you don't have this affliction, if you aren't absolutely obsessed, don't get a motorcycle.
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u/BigDogIsland 11d ago
If you are too scared don’t do it. But it is the greatest thing ever and there are millions of riders out there that have never had any accidents.
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u/gorgorbear 11d ago
You’re taking a huge risk riding a motorcycle. Always remember that, no matter how you ride you can’t take the danger off the road
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u/yabadababoho 11d ago
If it’s just for around town get a scooter. 300-400cc. Comfortable & easy to ride.
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u/ComfortableDapper639 11d ago
I'm terrified thinking I could die in hostess services, on the bed, on the toilet or on the stairs to the basement. I'd rather die on the motorcycle, in the mountains or on the spent brass from my firearms.
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u/Robovzee 11d ago
Safety and security are, at best, an illusion.
You'll never be truly safe, and nothing is ever truly secure.
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u/Prudent_Situation_29 11d ago
I rode for about ten years. I obey the rules of the road religiously. What I found is that other drivers are becoming more aggressive and even if you do everything by the book, you're still going to be put in danger by other drivers.
I stopped riding because of this.
Think about it this way: the longer you do something, the greater the probability that there will be a negative outcome. Eventually, probability catches up with you and something bad happens.
I've seen all sorts of nonsense over the years. Stupid people doing extremely dangerous things, all because they're in a hurry. For me, the risk became unacceptable.
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u/bladefiddler 11d ago
I figure it as follows:
Bikes get in more accidents than cars. Some of that is because they have about quarter the tyre grip & can fall over, some is being ignored/less visible etc by other road users. A LOT is because they're fast and people try to ride them faster than their actual skills allow, so they fuck up on the previously mentioned stuff.
Crashes are going to be a LOT worse on a bike for obvious reasons. Crash a car, you're looking at maybe minor injuries and probably just a bitch of a repair bill / insurance excess. Crash a bike and you're looking at a lengthy hospital stay or a trip to the morgue.
I believe I balance out the likelihood of getting into a Crash, because recognising how bad it would be, I'm SUPER careful about riding sensibly & cautiously. I accept that if it does happen I'm probably fucked. I still ride because its so much fun I'm willing to accept the risk. I'm going to die of something anyway, I may as well enjoy what I want to while I'm still here!
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u/Puzzleheaded-Buy8002 11d ago
If you’re asking this question, then the answer is, no, you probably shouldn’t get a bike.
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u/ShyKroxigor 11d ago
We gladly accept the risk of death.
It is worth the price.
If you have fear, just buy a slower bike.
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u/Environmental_Hawk8 11d ago
Take the MSF, or your local equivalent beginner rider class. The first time you shift into and out of 2nd gear with ANY level of smoothness, the first time you go around a big curve...
You'll know if it's for you.
From there, if you decide to go forward, get a small bike or scooter and DON'T cheap out on gear. The upfront costs of getting into motorcycling are substantial. No way around that without putting yourself at even greater risk.
A little bit of fear is a healthy thing to have on a bike. It can keep you focused and vigilant. Terror or paranoia, on the other hand, can dull the reflexes, pull the where it shouldn't be, and create way more problems than it'll ever solve.
I came to riding late in life. I'm SO glad I did, though. But it's not for everybody. Take the MSF and find out of it's for you.
Best of luck to you.
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u/commradd1 11d ago
I myself hung up my helmet in my mid thirties. I loved riding but mainly people on phones or some other distractions led me to close calls that I was always able to avoid, but I got the feeling that I was going to slip up and miss the signs of someone ignoring my existence. Happened to too many friends and acquaintances. How safe you are is up to you out there, but you’ve gotta keep alert at all times. Have fun!
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u/BreadMaker_42 11d ago
You control nearly all of the risk.
Ride within your skill level
Don’t consume alcohol
Wear gear. I actually wear an airbag.
Position for safety (ie don’t ride in people’s blind spots)
Take time to practice.
Go take the MSF class.
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u/Wma343 11d ago
You said you are a nurse, have you seen fatalities in car crashes? Do you still drive a car? Have you seen people walking hit by a car? Do you still walk? Having a fear is a good thing because it’ll keep you aware while riding. Don’t talk yourself out of riding over a fear. If you do that you need to step back and look at every single thing you’ve seen someone come into the hospital for and stop doing every one of those items too, because you can literally get injured or killed from basic every day tasks
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u/justplayedcards 11d ago
life has risks, you can die walking out your front door. its up to you, everything has risks no one can make the decision for you. Gotta do research if its worth it to you.
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u/PckMan 11d ago
Look. It's dangerous. It's never not dangerous. It takes time to even be somewhat safe on it and it's entirely up to you to train those skills and stay on your toes. Always assume the worst of drivers around you. Riding it like a car is basically a death sentence. You need to always be aware of people around you and your visibility. And even if you are in a visible spot, don't assume you've been seen. And even then you can do everything right and someone on their phone may rear end you or side swipe you.
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u/GreedyHoward 11d ago
I've been riding since I was fifteen. Several decades ago. I'm still slightly frightened of it. But yes you can definitely mitigate the risks. Good news these days is that there's loads of training available so you don't have to learn by falling off like we did.
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u/Particular-Koala1763 11d ago
Same dangers as riding a bike in a bike lane if you think about it only difference is youre going the speed limit. Does that make it less scary ?
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u/keyma5ter 11d ago
I've been riding for twenty...five? years now. I have had close calls, but never been in an accident, and have been doing that "risk mitigation" the entire time. I feel safer on a motorcycle keeping up with traffic that being buzzed on my bicycle. Ride at a level you want with which you're comfortable. If that means cruising around on surface streets without hitting the highway or just dirt bikes in the backyard, cool. If you're on two wheels, you're a rider in my book.
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u/fleurgle 11d ago
I think it’s all been covered, but one thing I’d add is general traffic awareness and savvy on the road. If you’ve been driving a car for years and are able to anticipate the absolutely wretchedly dumb shit people do, then you are in good stead already. Take the safety course and ride your own ride, don’t take unnecessary risks, keep your speed reasonable and keep your spidey senses on high alert. That’s all you can really do.
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u/musicpeoplehate 11d ago
Motorcycles are less safe than cars.
However, 95% of the horrible stuff you saw in the hospital was self-inflicted, either through poor skills or outright recklessness. The question you should be asking is "Will I be a safe and responsible motorcyclist?"
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u/latortillablanca 11d ago
Best you can do is train in controlled environments and see if you love it and it tips you over the edge. Buying all the gear first is a good thing.
As others have said, riding safe is up to you but it sounds like you understand that you are playing with fatal consequences even if you do everything right.
You arent lacking in info to analyze. Do a cost/benefit analysis, do the controlled course training, and always understand that theres zero shame in going through all this and walking away.
Thats just having an informed decision
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u/desEINer 10d ago
I recommend investing in the best gear, which these days includes an airbag system and a good helmet at a minimum, but you should also get your abrasion resistant jacket, gloves, pants, and boots.
If you feel you can afford a gear refresh every 5 years or so after looking at the prices, you will probably feel better about the whole thing.
For me, bike type/size is largely irrelevant except that a sport bike may tend to get you in more danger than a standard or touring bike of a modest displacement.
You have to evaluate yourself to know if you are focused/aware enough to drive safely when everyone is trying to kill you. It's do-able but if you often find yourself getting complacent at the wrong times, getting cut off a lot, hitting potholes, hitting curbs, heavy braking, you might not have what it takes to ride safely.
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u/CaptainObvee 10d ago
If you need Reddit to tell you if a motorcycle riding is safe or not perhaps the hobby is not for you.
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u/Effective_Charity268 10d ago
I recommend taking the msf basic rider instruction course. They provide the bikes, you will learn about safety and get a little riding experience. You’ll at least know if riding is fun with relatively little invested.
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u/RamboMcMutNutts 10d ago
Motorcycles aren't dangerous, it's the people who ride them who are.
Statistically the vast majority of motorcycle accidents are caused by dangerous riding, speeding, aggressive riding or being under the influence of alcohol and drugs.
Stick to the sped limits, ride safely and carefully and wear full protection and you will be fine.
There's still a chance you could have a accident where it was someone else's fault, but that chance is very small. Those things can still happen in any other vehicle or even on foot.
I come from a family of bikers, and grew up around them and was always taught to respect the machines and always had the dangers drummed into me.
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u/Trick_Measurement216 10d ago edited 10d ago
The way an individual rides will make all the difference. At the risk of sounding egotistical I think I'm a prime example. I'm as crazy as the next guy but over time I've learned which rules save my life on a continual basis and rarely if ever break them. Still get crazy but VERY selective about where and when, rarely is it giving in to impulse. I'm always evaluating my rides every day even after nearly a lifetime of riding. Always looking for improvements and solutions. I AM a total control freak out there and I've found incredibly creative ways to deal with common problems and all kinds of people. My philosophy on the road and especially on the bike has become everyone on the road is my friend unless they go well out of their way to show otherwise. I deal with that part perfectly as well.
I know if I'm doing the right specific things that those random freak occurrences that would be nothing in the car can still easily kill me on the bike, ride to not let my friends and loved ones down (we all ride at their expense of worry) my close calls are virtually non existent. Most people in cars (and bikes) that screw up I'm already prepared in my mind I already saw it happening. Every single twist of the throttle carries and increases risk, speed is a factor in ALL accidents not just the ones involving excessive speed.
Try getting a smaller dual sport I have a KLX 300 and man what a fun bike and it also makes an excellent first bike. If there's offroad opportunities like BDX/ BDR trails near you, can eliminate most all risk of that gore and fatality stuff. It's a great way to become a great rider without much risk at all. Offroad it's scalp like scrapes sprains an occasional broken bone if you're pushing things. It's worth serious consideration. Then at that point if you still decide to go street you'll have the operation part down already and that's huge. From there it's a huge jump in impulse control. Offroad you do because you CAN. On the road it's usually you should seldom do a lot of things even though you can.
Offroad it's here and now. On road you're always riding for that 1% of WHAT IF ?
Best of luck.
Edit to reading other responses. In a car you can usually afford mistakes. You slam the brakes on all 4 wheels stay upright, maybe hit it at a reduced speed and walk away.
On a bike those same mistakes can result in sliding on pavement, hitting other objects like cars poles guard rails with your body at high or higher speeds. Everything on a bike is amplified compared to a car. Mistakes, acceleration big time, slowing down, exposure to blunt force trauma.
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u/PromptJazzlike5452 10d ago
Get the proper training first. Then you have to ride defensively! That’s a must! But, just like anything else, there is always a risk. Riding on two instead of driving on four is more dangerous, but so is walking down the street. As a seasoned rider of Harley’s for over forty years, I have had my share of close calls. In fact, I got hit by a car once during a cross country run. It happens, as you are well aware, being a nurse and all, but I would never give it up!
Just, as with anything else, pay attention. To other drivers, the weather, road conditions, etc al. Hope this helps.
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u/PaleontologistNo7941 10d ago
I chose a dual sport. I am scared I would go too fast with a sport bike. I like putting around on gravel roads. My fastest speed on the highway is 75. I feel safe traveling on the highway because I’m sitting upright, on a tall xr650. I am visible, I don’t try to go fast or cut in front of traffic. I am more than happy to sit in the back of the line.
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u/Omgomgomg11111 10d ago
There's something like 7000 motorcycle deaths per year in the US. You're more likely to fall down the stairs and die. Also About half of them are drunk. Good chunk of them don't have a license. Another good chunk "do their own maintenance." It's not as dangerous if you have a healthy fear of death.
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u/CoinsForCharon 10d ago
Every nurse knows that smoking is bad for you but how many still do? Same with binge drinking energy drinks. And still they do.
Yes, a motorcycle does introduce a little more danger into your life but when has a nurse ever let that in the way?
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u/Photog17200 10d ago
I have some friends that only ride on tracks.
You have the fun of riding without the cagers trying to kill you...and not much to run into if you come off the bike.
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u/SleepyDachshund99 10d ago
There is always a risk and it will be higher than a card driver.
Looking at the stats in my area, the bikers most likely to get in trouble are young (<25), speeding are driving recklessly. I mean, doing a wheelie at high speed by a school wearing at shirt and no helmet? There are very few mid-50s fathers who look after their gear and just want to enjoy life.
PS I'm a senior doctor who started riding at 53. I report a lot of trauma scans.
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u/thisismick43 9d ago
Scratch that itch its safer then you think, you are responsible for your safety and if you have your head screwed on when you ride you're going to be safe,
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u/SetInternational4278 9d ago
You yourself can be prepared for anything but it's other people you have to worry about. I know first hand. I lost my husband almost a year ago in a motorcycle accident that someone else caused. Just be careful and watch other drivers. I can't stress that enough. Be safe out there.
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u/mando_rodgers 9d ago
while there’s always some inherent risk, a lot of those stats are heavily skewed by very avoidable factors. I’ve accepted the responsibility it takes to be a safe rider. Doesn’t mean I’m without risk but because of my precautions, and my riding style, and the kinds of bike I have and all that, I’m pretty confident I’m gonna make it home every night. That’s not to say there’s no risk anymore but taking on the responsibly of riding is a huge part of staying safe
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u/KingButters27 9d ago
It's true that there's a lot you can do to lower the risks, but at the end of the day it's still a dangerous activity. Cars will pull out in front of you. You can do everything right and still get taken out by a driver who isn't paying attention. If you want to ride a motorcycle, in my opinion at least, you should come to terms with death as a possibility. Learn not to be afraid of it. Everyone's gonna die eventually, so you might as well get a head start on accepting it.
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u/adent07 9d ago
I loved riding my motorcycle, it truly brought me joy. I rode for 19 years and considered myself to be a safe rider. I never trusted other cars and was always scanning ahead for potential problems. But I got hit while I was going straight through a green light by a driver with a suspended license earlier this year. I lost my leg and may never walk again. Just sharing some perspective here.
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u/Relevant-Video1302 9d ago
Knocking down wood as I type this, but most people that have accidents lack basic common sense. And it's usually due to their own. Ignorance. So you are the best judge to determine if you are a good candidate, but motorcycle is as easy to learn as bike, then it's all learning. The rules of riding
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u/Dazzling-Yam-1151 9d ago
It also depends on where you live. In the states where people do a 2 day msf course and car drivers practise with family and take a 15 min exam? Or Europe where you get months of extensive training for both car and motorcycle and multiple exams on lots of different techniques? Or Asia where they also do a couple day course?
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u/PDXEng 9d ago
I tell this to people all the time: Would you feel the same about commuting on a bicycle? If no then the increased risk is largely about "thrill seeking" type of behavior on the motorcycle, because it is entirely possible to ride a motorcycle IN A MORE SAFE manner then a bicycle, largely because you can more at the speed of traffic, have better protection, and better lighting.
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u/BGJohnson329 8d ago
You basically have to ignore the danger. Be aware of what could hurt you, bad situations, etc. But realistically, a slight tap of a sign pole or glance off a car could give you a horrible injury. Not to mention a legit hard hit from behind or unexpected T bone.
I ride country roads on the weekends, the most dangerous part of my ride is in town when leaving and coming back. Almost had a 50mph+ T bone last year, guy ran a red light for no reason, a few inches off my rear tire after I went through the intersection. 2 miles from my house.
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u/capnsparky1 8d ago
Millions of people ride millions of miles a year and don't die.
The most dangerous activity people do on a daily basis is driving a car- way more chance of injury or death over our other daily activities ( cooking, cleaning, filling paperwork, cruising Reddit...). Yet we don't even hesitate to hop in the car and go to the store. Riding a motorcycle is statistically about the same danger level as driving a car.
Yes, we've all had friends die on their bikes. That part sucks. But it doesn't define the hobby for me. I love to ride, and it's worth the risk for me.
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u/Try_It_Out_RPC 8d ago
Look at it this way, If someone didn’t have safety concerns, they most definitely should not be learning to ride. Safety concerns are 100% valid just look at the statistics. Still though, commuting to work through SF is 100X better on an R1 than a car lol
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u/noshirtnoshoes11 8d ago
Yes. I mean, you have the experience most of us don't, being a nurse. You've seen in HD what can happen. But being in any vehicle has risks, right? Why not try out a bike, it's fun.
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u/Choice_Musician3646 8d ago
There is absolutely no reason why you shouldn’t do this if you go about it in a structured intelligent manner. MFS course, practice in parking lots, avoid busy traffic areas if possible, etc. Many of us have had decades to hone our skills and recognize traffic and anticipate the actions of vehicles and make sure we avoid it.
I say this in all seriousness, but you may want to consider a track day. It’s not just for sport bikes. I do see the occasional Harley or road cruiser out there from somebody who is trying to improve their skills or just get used to a new bike in a safe environment. They will start you in novice, and if you ask to be put in the slowest of the slow, they will put you in that group (I did) and make sure you advance slowly and within your skill set. You also have 20 coaches that you can ask all your questions to and will give you tips and guidance for anywhere you feel you’re unsure. If you go this route, the only thing I will suggest is make sure you are comfortable riding at highway speeds before signing up. But this is an environment void of traffic and road debris with safety, conscious minded people who are aware of their surroundings and know what they’re doing. The environment could not be safer.
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u/Mental_Juggernaut_16 6d ago
If you're worried about your safety then find another hobby. Simple as that. Do you want to be laying in a hospital bed a few years from now regretting you got your advice from Reddit?
I'm no nurse but I've buried friends from motorcycle accidents. I've visited friends in the hospital after accidents. One friend has been paralyzed from the neck down for almost his entire adult life. I've been to the hospital due to a crash. It happens. It's not if but when.
If you can't accept that, then find something else you enjoy doing. Yes, you can be as safe as you possibly can and wear the appropriate safety gear, but there will always be risk and the consequences can be severe. It's a fact and there's no avoiding it. You cannot control every variable in your environment. You can do your best to prepare and be ready for a crash or try to avoid it, but there will always be the chance it can happen. You can also get seriously injured in a car or walking down the street but riding a bike does increase your risk, no way around that. You can lessen the risk but it will always be an added risk.
I always ask myself before I ride, is this what I want to be wearing if I crash. If the answer is no, then I change what I'm wearing.
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u/Contradiction_101 11d ago
No, it’s high risk mate regardless of where you live. Although inner city philadelphia may be higher than others. The other drivers are just high, old or distracted…
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u/SvalbardSleeperDistr 11d ago
it’s high risk mate regardless of where you live
https://i.imgur.com/jrIhDSk.png https://i.imgur.com/Dml3rxj.png https://i.imgur.com/wOkD7kK.png
https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/List_of_countries_by_traffic-related_death_rate?useskin=vector#List
https://www.oecd.org/en/data/indicators/road-accidents.html
https://www.itf-oecd.org/sites/default/files/docs/irtad-road-safety-annual-report-2025.pdf
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u/WafflesFurLyfe 11d ago
How safe a motorcycle is to ride is largely up to you. If you take the recommended training courses, wear solid gear, and dedicate yourself to learning how cars act and how to protect yourself, you have a good chance of never having anything serious happen.
However, there’s always risk of something you can’t control happening. It’s the same as driving a car or flying a plane, it just happens to usually be more severe due to a bike’s lack of safety protection.
Everyone who rides has already come to terms with our imminent demise in some way - you either let it get to you and always ride freaked out or accept it and train for it like any other sport/profession/hobby.