KymcoForum.com
General => General Discussion => Topic started by: Stig / Major Tom on May 29, 2020, 07:03:42 PM
-
Sitting on my patio - listening to all the motorcycles hitting the streets.
One of them will be making the newspaper soon, I thought.
One did.
"Single vehicle" fatality & "speed", again.
He had a helmet on.
Was airborne 40 ft into a ….
Slow down folks.
Most of these guys don't speed until they get on two wheels.
What's that all about?
Major Tom
-
I would say it is about the feeling of "I CAN FLYYYY".
It is sobering. I have been going over the statistics to gather information that will hopefully make me a safer rider. I started with the high viz. The one T-bone and then the rear-end when a light changed were both SMIDSY's in Neil's dictionary.
-
Too many tearaways over here too Stig. Just out of lockdown and nailing it before getting safely back into riding after the long layoff.
It’s not just bikers either. One motorist caught on the M6 motorway (freeway) near me during lockdown was doing 149 mph fergawdsake! Yet another good reason for avoiding the super slabs when on two wheels IMO.
I try to ride defensively and hope that my many hours of training will help to even the odds, but my biggest “off” in the 80’s was a typical case where the car driver just didn’t see me! It’s a constant reminder to be vigilant.
Sent from my iPad using Tapatalk
-
Sitting on my patio - listening to all the motorcycles hitting the streets.
One of them will be making the newspaper soon, I thought.
One did.
"Single vehicle" fatality & "speed", again.
He had a helmet on.
Was airborne 40 ft into a ….
Slow down folks.
Most of these guys don't speed until they get on two wheels.
What's that all about?
Major Tom
I recall a number of years ago hearing of an accident at the start of the motorcycling 'season'. A time when when bikers squint into the spring sunshine whilst pulling the cover off the dormant 1000cc minuteman missile. It's a time, more than any, when caution is required.
In a clear case of ambition outweighing his talent, the guy (with pillion passenger) broke off from his group and, some way down the road, he crested a blind right hand summit whilst banked over and on the wrong side of the road at around 90mph.
.....The rider was startled to find a car on 'his' side of the road and.....well..... the impact was devastating. The rest of his group caught up a few minutes later to a scene of utter carnage and a female car driver who was, quite literally, hysterical. Being a somewhat rural location, it was sometime before the emergency services got there, but there was nothing they could do anyway other than pick up the pieces and hose away the rest.
Stick to scootering chaps. Enjoy the scenery. It's less blurry at our speeds and you're more than likely to make it back home again to have dinner with the family.
-
It's is a dangerous hobby/transportation that you always have to be on the defensive from brain dead motorists. The advent of the cell phone has been a blessing/curse with people not paying attention to driving.
This subject hits home for me. As I told Stig earlier my cousin was killed when he came around the corner of a night in the rain and hit a moose. He was a very accomplished rider that also had taught motorcycle safety course at a college.
My neighbor and friend next door lost his son to a motorcycle accident several years ago, by a car driver not paying attention . He and I both still ride but stay vigilant.
I have rode motorcycles since I was 10 years old (dirt bikes) and then the street but I had to do some soul searching when my cousin was killed, he and I were 2 weeks apart age wise.
Stay vigilant and on the defensive because people just don't pay attention as they should.
-
I was in my local beer store, yesterday, stocking up for the weekend when I was speaking with one of the friendly employees there who rides. He told me he finally sold his bike. I asked him if he was taking a temporary or a permanent break from riding?
He said permanent. He was on a ride earlier this spring and saw another biker right in front of him have a head on collision on the highway. Died instantly...and he witnessed it all. He said it shook him so much he lost his desire to ride.
I told him I completely understand and we all have to make our own choices. I can't say I wouldn't have the same response if I were to witness such a thing.
-
It's is a dangerous hobby/transportation that you always have to be on the defensive from brain dead motorists
Agreed. But it's also the case that bikers, from time to time, don't do themselves any favours.
-
It's is a dangerous hobby/transportation that you always have to be on the defensive from brain dead motorists
Agreed. But it's also the case that bikers, from time to time, don't do themselves any favours.
Very true. We’ve all seen the dickhead behaviours by riders which give us all a bad name, but all you can do is ride your own ride as carefully and courteously as you can.
It’s still possible to come a cropper even then, but at least you’re not handing ammunition to the anti-biker lobby along the way.
Sent from my iPad using Tapatalk
-
I believe the reckless rider type that is responsible for most of the single vehicle wrecks is not common in the scooter community.
-
Around here we have had several single bike accidents from young rider's on 1000cc bikes with excessive speed being the cause. In Wichita a young rider was going to fast to hold a corner and left his lane to have a head on with a truck. So yes riders can take themselves out along with motorists not paying attention.
Kind of reminds me of a old aviation saying, ( There are old pilots and bold pilots but no old bold pilots).
-
Around here we have had several single bike accidents from young rider's on 1000cc bikes with excessive speed being the cause.
Funnily enough (or not), we have a lot of single bike accidents with older riders on 1000cc bikes. Generally old farts who last had an 80 horsepower Bonny in their youth, have earned a bit of cash and think nothing of spending ten to fifteen grand on something shiny with a lot of 'RRR's' in the name - and double the horses of the old Triumph.
The phrase 'All the gear and no idea' springs to mind.
The last time I rode a big Japanese sportsbike was about 5 years ago - a Kawasaki ZZR1000.....and I have to say it was astonishing. The speedometer digits were so small in order to cram them all in - all the way up to 200mph if memory serves me correctly. But it was the acceleration that was utterly unbelievable. I pulled out to overtake a car in 3rd, looked down and I was doing 95mph in the blink of an eye and flashing by minor junctions, entrances to fields without even noticing them.
I handed the keys back to the owner and have never felt the need to ride one of those things again.
-
Well. Nearly 4 years ago I was one of those statistics. As many of you all know, it cost me my lower left leg. I can give many excuses. But it boiled down to being on an unfamiliar road at night and not paying close enough attention . It could have been much worse but for a few reasons : 1. I had my helmet and riding jacket on.
2. I was going “only” 55 when I initially “got in trouble “ and likely significantly less on initial impact, and even less when I went down and rolled. In all honesty, was just about to increase my speed to around 70 in an effort to shorten the time for my 100 miles back home. But for some reason I hadn’t done so...yet.
3. I hit a sign post that was relatively thin and made of hollow aluminum rather than something more solid such as concrete or a tree.
4. GOD HAD MERCY on me! (Probably the #1 reason)
I’d learned to watch for other traffic, to watch for dirt and gravel when turning, and to brake safely. But it was when I was ALONE at NIGHT and mentally distracted that I became careless. Thankfully, it “only” cost me part of my left leg physically. But it also cost me a hobby that I’d truly began to love. And a lifetime of extra expenses because My fake leg requires as much or more in routine maintenance cost as a scooter but is an unavoidable necessity rather than a joyful pastime.
My point—- BE CAREFUL!
Sent from my iPad using Tapatalk
-
Sorry to read that Forbes. A salutary tale.
I’ve had a couple of serious “offs” in my 50 + years on two wheels, but on both occasions I’m thankful I didn’t hit anything. Just slid to a halt.
Even that though brought home to me the need for good riding kit as, with helmet and full leathers I was able to get up and walk away.
One of my good riding buddies lost the use of an arm following a bike smash, but has now done more miles on a series of modified trikes than he ever did on a solo. Just a thought?
Sent from my iPad using Tapatalk
-
Sorry to read that Forbes. A salutary tale.
I’ve had a couple of serious “offs” in my 50 + years on two wheels, but on both occasions I’m thankful I didn’t hit anything. Just slid to a halt.
Even that though brought home to me the need for good riding kit as, with helmet and full leathers I was able to get up and walk away.
One of my good riding buddies lost the use of an arm following a bike smash, but has now done more miles on a series of modified trikes than he ever did on a solo. Just a thought?
Sent from my iPad using Tapatalk
I believe my physical AND mental ability to ride remains. However, economics is still an issue. Also, I’ve seen the looks of terror on several sibling’s faces when I even toss the idea out there. Although I don’t live for them, I do respect them. All 6 plus my mother were affected. But the two that live nearby seemed to suffer as much or more emotionally as I did. Had I not exceeded expectations and returned to normal life, I don’t think my oldest brother in particular could have fully accepted what happened. So until they can get to a place of acceptance, I’m refraining from riding again.
Sent from my iPad using Tapatalk
-
Fully understand your reasoning there. It’s important to keep our nearest and dearest on board. I don’t get out or as far these days as I used to for the self same reason.
Sent from my iPad using Tapatalk
-
I believe my physical AND mental ability to ride remains. However, economics is still an issue. Also, I’ve seen the looks of terror on several sibling’s faces when I even toss the idea out there. Although I don’t live for them, I do respect them. All 6 plus my mother were affected. But the two that live nearby seemed to suffer as much or more emotionally as I did. Had I not exceeded expectations and returned to normal life, I don’t think my oldest brother in particular could have fully accepted what happened. So until they can get to a place of acceptance, I’m refraining from riding again.
Sent from my iPad using Tapatalk
Very good to hear from you, Mr Forbes!
I choose to ride smaller scooters, 28>38mph, on mostly deserted city streets and rural roads at an hour most of the world is still in bed....for a reason.
Nevertheless, I don't let my guard down. 10 sec. mirror checks, full gear, roll off throttle when riding into tree shadows from a low sun (" a deer in there?") and for any car waiting at a side street, etc., etc.
It's not for many, but I love the whole experience, no matter the temperatures.
Besides, rising from bed at 5:30AM keeps me in shape - should the Army ever restart the draft!
(if "time in grade" is factored in, I could be running the Pentagon now as a buck sergeant after 52 years!)
"Pop, your story is going down a side street again." (Daughter)
At my age, I know I'm not going to bounce very well....so I ride accordingly.
Stig
-
I have owned one 1000cc bike and by my own admission was nowhere near safe.
It took only about 2 months for me to realise this and sell it, which broke my heart (I'd always wanted one) but was necessary in terms of self-preservation.
I think I've only rode 125s and 50s since. I'd like to blame it on the fact that I was 25 years old, but I don't think I'd be any different now if I suddenly had 130 horsepower again...
1988 blue and white Honda CBR1000F, if you're asking. It was gorgeous.
-
I have owned one 1000cc bike and by my own admission was nowhere near safe.
It took only about 2 months for me to realise this and sell it, which broke my heart (I'd always wanted one) but was necessary in terms of self-preservation.
I think I've only rode 125s and 50s since. I'd like to blame it on the fact that I was 25 years old, but I don't think I'd be any different now if I suddenly had 130 horsepower again...
1988 blue and white Honda CBR1000F, if you're asking. It was gorgeous.
So refreshing to see someone admit to and be comfortable with their own limitations Viper!
I'm happy with sub-one litre biking these days as even discounting the safety question, put me on a 1,000cc cruise missile and I'd lose my licence in no time flat! The temptation to obliterate the speed limit would be just too great. Hell, I even have to exercise restraint on the 300 sometimes.
-
(At my age I don't bounce very well) so true for most of us on the forum. As I age my riding goals are different as well Now I like back roads with almost no traffic riding through a senic area so speed isn't my goal. Since I ride county roads usually 60mph is all I ride.
Up North in Ely it's 7 miles to town so trips for lunch I take the scooter. Of a spring lots of dear so extra caution is used. I have a health respect for the machine whether it's a 150 or a 500, both can get you hurt. I myself have slid down the street from a dog running in front of me. The city had resealed the street and put sand on top. When the dog ran in front of me I swerved in avoidance. The dog cut back but because of the lean angle the front end washed out on the sand. I ground the palms of my hands down to where you could see the muscles move when I move my fingers. Had asphalt ground into my knees as well. This was when I was 14 years old. It taught me to be extremely aware of my surroundings.
-
Ouch! Yep, that would serve to remind you.
Sent from my iPhone using Tapatalk
-
I’m thankful that although my riding days were short (8 months), I was 51 and immune to peer pressure and ridicule. I chose to ride my Xciting 250 and then my Yamaha Majesty 400 for the 45 mile one way commute to work 3 or 4 day/week weather permitting. My 30 something year old boss and other younger co workers would tease me about the helmet, jacket and pants on a SCOOTER. In fact I believe my last day at work pre accident, my manager somewhat tried to embarrass me by saying in front of the salesmen in a somewhat condescending manner, “Look at you with your little helmet, and jacket . All of that for a SCOOTER “ .
I remember saying something to this effect. Well, I’m riding on the highway at 60 or so MPH. At that speed, If I fall on the pavement, My body won’t know OR care if I fell off a HARLEY or a SCOOTER. So I’m wearing this stuff” . Little did I know I would find out personally just a couple of days later.
My boss said that his first thought upon hearing what happened was “I hope Darryl didn’t listen to me”. When he actually saw me, he stated how relieved he was that I was stubborn and couldn’t care less about being teased.
Anyway, I preach the virtues of protective equipment to ANYONE who will listen even if they’re on a 50cc . I even give my padded meshed riding jacket to a young man.
Sent from my iPad using Tapatalk
-
People : I bet you wish you’d never bought that scooter
Me: I can’t say that. I enjoyed it THOROUGHLY. I just wish I hadn’t fallen and lost part of my leg. My regret is the accident. That’s all.
My siblings response to the people: we’re not going there. We don’t have time for what if’s. We can’t do anything about that. So it’s no use in even thinking about that one way or the other. We’re just moving forward and celebrating the fact that he survived and is doing well. We don’t need any negativity.
My mother’s response to the people. : That’s enough. I don’t want to hear it. That’s the end of that.
That’s just one reason why I love my family! They don’t live in the past. [emoji23][emoji23]
Sent from my iPad using Tapatalk
-
Family. It's what gets us through the bad times.