3 common motorcycle beliefs that are WRONG!

[@MCrider]

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[@beepbop6697]

"Not wearing a helmet, while riding, reduces neck injuries." That is the same as saying "not wearing a parachute, while skydiving, reduces shoulder strain."

[@janetgreenslade6478]

Ha ha, well said

[@adrianfumi]

I never understood that either...

[@MICuban77]

I like that

[@jamesniece5203]

As a Paratrooper, I can attest that without the parachute, I couldn't be writing this comment right now lol

[@norsefalconer]

@@jamesniece5203 with ya, and attest to the shoulder strain. Some of those prejump inspections...Geez.

[@Ayerstairs]

Bet this guy knows what he's talking about. “Anytime you see anybody riding a motorcycle without a helmet on, you’re looking at a goddamned fool.” -- Evel Knievel

[@happysawfish]

Ayerstairs, yes I agree. If anyone was ever qualified throughout the history of motoring to render an opinion on the subject of wearing a helmet, it was the venerable Mr. Knievel

[@WhackBytch256]

Yeah, but, wearing a helmet was responsible for most of the injuries he endured, by keeping him alive to experience them. If he didn’t wear a helmet, he wouldn’t of had all those injuries 🙄 Duh

[@broderp]

@@WhackBytch256 lol

[@barneygoogle2720]

This reminds me of back when car seat belts were first introduced. Some people actually believed they were safer without seat belts because it was better to be "thrown clear" of a crashing vehicle.

[@worldofzap]

If princess Diana had her seatbelt on she would still be alive. The only survivor from that crash had his seatbelt on all others didn’t.

[@jessiequinton9974]

They'd probably be doing society a favour Darwinism at its best XD

[@oklahomahank2378]

I always use my seatbelt. The odds favor it. But that very scenario did happen to my brother in law. He was in a school bus crash. Everyone who stayed in the bus died. He was thrown out and lived, though he was badly hurt. Again, I WEAR MY SEATBELT. I just want you to realize that such beliefs are indeed statistically wrong, but the people who say that may have had some such experience.

[@barneygoogle2720]

@@oklahomahank2378 Good point. But I think most believe it because they have heard about rare cases like the one you described rather than from personal experience.

[@SirLoinofBeef235]

Yet we willingly get on overpowered "missile" launchers that will spit us out in a heartbeat. At best, we have to get our body speed below apx 25mph before impact and not get runover to boot. Speeds higher yield massive fatal internal injuries. Cheerio matey

[@maddys5829]

Thanks for another great informative video. A few people all said I should get a "piss pot" helmet if I'm going to ride a cruiser. I did my homework and actually don't care what people think of how I look on a cruiser. I use a full face helmet and enjoy my ride. I'm not riding in a fashion show, I'm riding for pleasure and the freedom it gives me.

[@jacobmckee5862]

Cruiser rider here. Full face for me ALWAYS.

[@BigBadLoneWolf]

Free spirtit i ride royal star venture and vfr800, a german study , where they asked riders to mark on a drawing where the impacts where on they helmets , found that 25% of impacts were on the chin and visor . thats a good reason not to wear an open face

[@Dave-sw2dm]

I wear what I feel comfortable with and don't judge other people for what they wear. I choose Full Face or Modular but I do use a 1/2 helmet if I am slow riding out in the country but that is very rare. Same with gear. I mostly wear full motorcycle gear, but sometimes I choose to wear less than full gear.

[@butteredbiskit3497]

@@BigBadLoneWolf what you mean? dont wear an open face cause you'll only hit your chin 25% of the time? ridiculous reasoning. I wear a full helmet always.

[@123499893]

Full face should be the standard,, a while back a car cut me off and the front and side of my helmet was covered with glass pieces that got stuck on it, the impact knocked me out cold and I regain full conscience hours later.

[@markthomas4799]

My experience as a neurological ICU nurse taught me that if you break your arm we can probably fix it, but if you break your head we probably can't. I have always said that they should take every person about to get their driver's license and smack them in the forehead with a piece of windshield. Then explain that hitting a windshield or the pavement is much much worse. There is absolutely NO RATIONAL EXCUSE for not wearing a good motorcycle helmet.

[@MarkSmith-js2pu]

bearsemen , helmets do look cool, a good one is practical and good looking

[@guins99]

Make everyone wear a helmet, regardless of their legal rights! In fact, riding a bike is more dangerous than driving a car so ban bikes to really keep us safe! In fact driving a car is more dangerous than hiding in your basement, no more cars! Everyone stay home.

[@pablod6872]

I vacationed in Hawaii last month, and apparently they don’t have a helmet law because almost nobody was wearing one. Most riders were also sporting flip-flops, tank tops, and shorts. I get that it’s warm and humid, but it made me cringe every time I saw someone dressed like that. It can get blistering hot in my area during the summer, but I don’t forego the full kit. I sweat for a few minutes, but then once I’m up to speed I’m fine. Water is a lot easier to replenish than blood.

[@afterburner2869]

moser 357 Water is easier to replenish than blood. Nicely said and very true.👍🏻

[@Juror63]

They're just "culling the herd". 🤔

[@norsefalconer]

Not to get all polical, but based on various laws and restrictions I've heard about it HI, seems they don't care much about their citizens' personal safety, or well being.

[@desmofan1864]

We *have* a Law in regards to helmets and it states that it's not requisite gear for licensed riders over the age of 18. Do I think riding w/o a lid is a bad idea? Yes, absolutely. If someone else chooses not to, it's their right in this state nor does it affect me.

[@izzimichaels2892]

but you probably didnt realize, those flip flop are made of a special rubber that will deflect all impact.

[@FranBunnyFFXII]

Well ofc he found people with helmets had more neck injuries... Because they survived a crash that probably would have killed them without the helmet. Generally when you survive... You have injuries instead of death. That reminds me of WW1, when they started issuing helmets to soldiers, they saw a huuge increase of patients into medical and they couldn't figure out why on earth so many soldiers were having injuries now. Then they realized oh its because the helmets were saving people who would have died from debris and sharpnel. Instead of dying they survived with injuries instead. Neither study adjusted for survival rate.

[@MCrider]

Awesome comment, I may have to do some research on this.

[@rodneybarcus2233]

Better to survive and deal with an injury.

[@LTVoyager]

Absolutely. Properly interpreting the data in a study like this is not easy. It is very easy to draw incorrect conclusions when the entire situation is not analyzed thoroughly.

[@OldGuyonaBike]

The British army almost pulled helmets off the front line after the first six months of use due to the head injury statistics. It is one of those all time great misreadings of stats. It took a junior officer looking at the bigger picture to see what the stats really meant.

[@roadrunner40]

@@rodneybarcus2233 That's a maybe.

[@DwayneLoudon]

What a great service you are providing! I was telling my parents about some of the rides I'm planning for this season and they asked where I was going first. The parking lot to shake off the dust and practice, was my response... without even thinking about it. That is a direct effect of what you do! Have a great season, sir. 👍

[@herbb8412]

This video got me thinking the same thing. At my age a bit of early sason practice is wise.

[@TheDicksteins]

Kevin, thanks again for the VERY important topic. Four years ago I had a high-side @ about 70 mph. Back then I just started riding (~8 months) and as you've mentioned before became "comfortable". I also was arrogant and stupid rider who pushed my limits on a California canyon roads doing a MotoGP style. So, one morning I entered a very well known turn on the road I commuted for ~10 years @ 80 mph. Unfortunately, right on the epic of my turn it was a fleshly spread coyote guts across my path... I stood up the bike and while braking went on the opposite side of the road and shoulder having a rock in front of me. On the shoulder I released the brakes and did a dirt bike riding for ~50 yards and saw that the shoulder is ending with a rock. So, it was a time to get back on a road at about 70 mph. My front wheel grabbed the asphalt while the rear kept skidding for a split second, which was enough to high-side me as soon as it hit the road. I remember flying moment and lending/rolling as well. ONLY due to my BELL Star helmet I didn't even have a concussion. But if I wouldn't have a full face helmet, by inspecting the marks I definitely would not have a jaw and my brain would most likely be near coyote on the asphalt. And of course, ONLY because I was completely geared up (full leather zipped suit with racing shoes and gauntlet gloves) I just walked away from this with a BIG lesson: --- FULL GEAR ALL THE TIME! --- NO MotoGP riding on public roads!!!!!!! Have fun/thrill on a track day! And enjoy your day-to-day riding. My suggestion to all riders: if you cannot afford a full good gear -- DO NOT RIDE, PERIOD!!! And it doesn't matter how hot it is. In California we get over 110 F easily.

[@j.h.holliday5748]

Good story & excellent advice.

[@MarkSmith-js2pu]

Well said and enough said, gear up, be safe, and get respect from those in the know. Thank you

[@kdkd693]

I can relate to your story. I highsided and rolled but at about 40mph faster. No concussion but broken C1, tibia and wrist. Full face and leathers despite sunny 100degrees day. The full gear saved my life for sure. Too fast for the bike on a straight road - beware of high speed weave on a bagger.

[@garethmartin5057]

First of all, I really find you video helpful Kevin. Iv just started riding about a month ago and had a crash two days ago, exactly what you talked about this video. I should of realised the traffic lights i was approaching were going to change (first mistake), they change and I locked up the back brake (second). The conditions or the road were bad,, and quite slimy after it had been raining. Any I skied, lost control and crashed at 25/30mph. Onlookers came to help me up, and told me that my head cracked off the pavement. Im fine and have no injuries (fill gear all the time), but if i didnt have my helmet on i probably would not be talking to you now. Iv learnt a lesson,and just want to say I owe everything to my helmet and gear! Cheers Gareth Belfast ,Northern Ireland

[@judgedredd49]

It seems to be a popular activity to ride or drive up to traffic lights that have obviously been on green for some time or indeed to accelerate so that one can go through the lights before they change to Red. People fail to recognise that actually they should stop when the Amber light shows first and before it becomes Red. That's in the UK Highway Code and the Law. With so much Tailgating going on it's become popular nowadays to actually drive through the lights after they have turned red. It seems accepted in the UK for at least a 2 second or 2 vehicle rule that after the lights have changed then two vehicles can drive through. [ perhaps a new 2 second rule????] Why that is I just don't know but it's creating a new danger on our roads. One rarely sees a vehicle actually slowing down if the lights are on green but could possibly change at any second for any vehicle approaching.

[@atlpharmd5509]

Thanks again for your great work Kevin. A quick note to put in a word for Hi-Vis helmets...having been a rider since the 70's, I have evolved into an advocate of Hi-Vis "anything" when it comes to riding my bike.... The importance of being seen cannot be overstated. I love it when my neighbors tell me "I SAW YOU" riding with that tacky, glow in the dark tacky helmet and jacket.....mission accomplished !

[@gbenother8755]

"Look at that goofball riding the motorcycle in a dayglo orange safety vest! You can see him a mile away! " Oh, wait, maybe that's the idea . . .

[@Centexrider]

One additional consideration on helmets: not wearing protective gear, a helmet in particular, is a greedy act. It may be one's right not to, but what about those who have to take care of you due to a brain or other injury which could have been avoided simply by wearing the gear? Like many others, I can attest to the efficacy of protective gear first hand. I had over 50 years riding experience when the inevitable crash occurred. I had two broken ribs due to the hard landing on my back, but otherwise not a scratch after going down a steep embankment on a mountainous road. Further, the deep scratches to the back of the helmet strongly suggest I wouldn't be here to write this had I not been wearing a helmet. To my way of thinking, we riders have a responsibility to mitigate the risk as much as possible not only for ourselves, but for family and friends as well.

[@Miata822]

Yep. In 1984 (-85?) I ground away the left side of my face shield and my helmet from the chin to the ear. My hip still hurts when the weather changes but I'm still here and can still think right. Brain injury often leaves people mentally insufficient to support themselves, that is, even if they live through the crash.

[@JSAFIXIT]

@@Miata822 A helmet and leather is much cheaper than hospital bills or a funeral!

[@Anderle52134]

Don't know about nowadays but in the mid-90s a head injury cost an average of 600000 $

[@JSAFIXIT]

@@Anderle52134 Probably over a million now. A couple hundred dollars doesn't seem too bad after that number.

[@rcrites]

This argument could he applied to literally anything. Stop projecting your own fears. Dont leave the house and dont even move. You may trip over your own foot and hit your head off something. I have to wear a helmet and even if I didn't I still would but sometimes it would be nice to leave it at home for a quick trip to the store a mile away.

[@2bikemikesguitartopics145]

Helmets are mandatory here in Canada as well and luckily for me that's good. One day I pulled into a bike dealership on my Honda VFR and decided to park it under a tree where it was shadier. I put the kickstand down and while still sitting on my bike I decided to unstrap my helmet and take it off before I dismounted. While I had my hands on the helmet and about to pull it off my head I found myself falling over to the left and the bike was falling from under me. Apparently I had not gotten the kickstand down all the way and it gave up. Unluckily, right beside the asphalt was grass under the tree bordered by large rocks the size of bowling balls. By the time I realized the bike was falling and I looked down to see this was the case there was no way I could save it from going completely over. So the bike basically fell on my left leg trapping me under and as I went down my head in my helmet hit straight on one of those large rocks. I saw Stars and Blackness for a moment as the shock went through my head. And subsequently had quite a serious headache from the impact. However, not having had my full face helmet on that day I would not be here to tell you the story as my brains would have been spewed all over that rock. I'm a helmet believer

[@janetgreenslade6478]

Yeah they are manditory here in uk too. i came off my bike and went face first into the sidewalk, wearing a full face helmet saved my life that day!

[@2bikemikesguitartopics145]

@@janetgreenslade6478 Janet I'm happy to hear you are still around to tell your story as well.

[@alexveldhuis6004]

This is why I am against circumcision. Helmets save lives.

[@janetgreenslade6478]

@@2bikemikesguitartopics145 thank you

[@davidbronicki5024]

Dude, you should take a memory class. And wear your helmet 24 hours a day.

[@michaelhoersch6626]

I was in an accident on my bike where I was rear ended. I feel that the extra weight of the helmet did increase the speed that my head snapped back and I did end up with a severe case of whiplash. I also ended up hitting my head (helmet) on the concrete when I went down and suffered a mild concussion. In spite of the whiplash, I will never ride my bike without my helmet even though it is not required in my state. Even though it took almost a year, I can recover from whiplash but I might never recover from a head injury.

[@bruceherman405]

I have no ABS on my '95 Road King - at 67 years old, it's the last bike I'll ever own - I've honed my braking and swerving skills, through countless training courses, dozens and dozens of books and hundred of hours of parking lot and real street practice to the point where I am confident enough to handle my bike no matter what happens, pretty much ... your video's are great - keep up the good work!

[@aharrison9972]

Also 67, would not buy any new bike without ABS, but will continue to ride what I have that doesn’t have ABS, and if an older mc, that doesn’t have ABS, convinces me I need to take it home, I will. Currently ride a Victory Vision with ABS, a Suzuki Burgman 650 w/ ABS, and a Burgman w/o, also a Honda CT 110 from when ABS wasn’t even a thing, all great rides. The 400 Burgman is the only one that has put me down. Locked up and thrown down like a wet towel, all my fault. The broken clavicle experience taught me a lot. No doubt a better rider now because of it. A painful lesson I might add. better to learn from my experience. “Leave plenty of space”. You never know when that vehicle up ahead might lock up brakes. Without a space cushion, you might end up doing the same. that Road King should have lots of miles yet ahead.. Enjoy them all!

[@williambutler2654]

@@aharrison9972 xx to on Saturday

[@natelofties8533]

Great video. Whenever I hear someone say "I had to lay it down" I immediately put them on my list of riders to watch or avoid riding with.

[@AlanSprung]

Thanks for all your videos Kevin, they''re great.

[@bradgillies7772]

I am an instructor in Toronto Canada and I love your videos. Great job.

[@keyvannematollahi2844]

Hey Kevin...Keep doing the nice job...Today was my 2nd weekend practicing your advices on Cornering techniques...I was surprised about how disqualified I was before in ten years of my riding background and that "Turn your noise" advice must be written by gold...Thank you for being here

[@williamwintemberg]

You hit another one out of the park Kevin! Outstanding!

[@stevew9399]

Kevin, I heartily congratulate you on your video series. As a rider with more than 45 years experience, and current Goldwing owner,, I regularly learn new skills from your videos that help me to avoid accidents and injury. Keep up the good work my friend!

[@thenightridergwr5285]

MCrider, my brother you have some of the best videos out there about Motorcycle skills and thrills and how you should handle your bike weather it is stopping & turning skills. Man, I'm certainly impressed and always eager to watch more. Thank you so much and keep it up!

[@neptune3doz]

Thank you very much for all you do! You help A LOT of people!

[@indianbell5211]

Great vlog, Kevin. Totally agree I've been down couple of those roads as you've mentioned braking, handling & the helmet saved me from loosing my head/right side of my face. People just need to use Good judgment when riding a motorcycle. Have an awesome weekend! 😄

[@jonstone2466]

This is a great bit of advice dealing with three of the big myths. Thanks for this and your whole series.

[@bookitty1193]

Great tips, I'm back on 2 wheels after 20 years...been studying and learning from you...thank you!

[@thomasquinn4700]

I wore a 17 dollar helmet that saved my life. I was 17 years old. I am 68 years old today.

[@leslieaustin151]

Thomas Quinn I’m also learning a lot, and I started riding in the early 1960s, and have come back to two wheels 12 months ago. I’ve done advanced driving (car) courses, much of it applicable to two wheels as well, but the day you stop learning or think you know it all is the day you put yourself in greater danger. Thanks for the tips Kevin, they are much appreciated and make me ride safer. Les in UK

[@thomasquinn4700]

@@leslieaustin151 Get a good full face helmet and a good Joe Rocket jacket and some good gloves and foot wear. Gear will really protect you and allow you to enjoy the sport in more comfort and safety.

[@PurposeBuiltSasha]

You are absolutely awesome and I appreciate all your content, you have probably some of the best motorcycle skill information available so far that I found on KZbin!

[@derrickwilson2316]

Awesome video man. I'm still some what new to your channel but i love it so far

[@MCrider]

Thanks Derrick, I have over 100 videos similar to this.

[@tombeckett4340]

Good information Kevin . Thanks

[@davidhayden6724]

Great video Kevin! I've been very fortunate in that I have had only one accident in almost 45 years of riding, but the deep gouge on my helmet was all I needed to see to convince me to always wear one. I had a guy pull in front of me and although I did fracture my collar bone, I had no other injuries and no road rash. In addition to my helmet, I had on my leather jacket, heavy denim pants, full height boots, and heavy gloves. The only way to ride! Thanks for all the great information and training.

[@pilotdane1]

Kevin - Another great video. - "Dual Sport" rider here. Another great reason for a FULL FACE helmet: While riding down the road - car beside me kicked up a good size rock - Nailed the VISOR just below my right eye. If I had been wearing goggles it would not have helped. Rock hit me too low. "Gang" a full face helmet protects not only your head, but your WHOLE face as well.... Cheers

[@miguelriverocolado5202]

Kevin, thanks for sharing and providing information to us to make our desition! you are correct, you had provided us with information and it to our desition to make the last call. Thanks.

[@paulwilliam55]

Regarding helmets, I just can't see why you wouldn't do everything possible to mitigate the risk of personal injury: you've only got one body and you've got to live with it for your whole life. Personally, I wear full riding gear, including hi-vis and back and chest protectors every single ride. To be honest, I'd feel totally naked and unprotected without them.

[@johnsumser9743]

I have never had to rely on my helmet to save me in a crash but I clean it all the time and see all the bugs that would have hit me in the face at 70 miles an hour.

[@kenwittlief255]

@@johnsumser9743 esp the big juicy ones that hit your sheild right between the eyes... or birds

[@daveevans8256]

Great advice Kevin, as usual, I have learned a lot from watching your videos. 👍🇬🇧

[@lukeskywalker6985]

So precious content! Thanks for your videos, I'm learning so much from them! God bless!

[@mainstreammoto4856]

Helmets protect the brain... if your not smart enough to wear one, you probably don't need one... Excellent video as always Kevin!

[@johnkendall6962]

LOLO it reminds me about advertisement for a quality helmet manufacture in the 70s.Part of the add said that Sure you can buy cheaper helmets. So if you have a 10 dollar head buy a 10 dollar helmet.

[@northerndrifter1]

Helmets do NOT protect the brain. There are 3 impacts that happen with any collision. Doubt me? look it up. Helmets only protect the outside of the head, marginally, and have nothing to do with protecting the brain.

[@johnkendall6962]

@@northerndrifter1 You're on a motor cycle Nothing is going to protect you if the collusion is bad enough.

[@gsp49]

@@northerndrifter1 , not true, idiot.

[@leondoull1305]

Great statement...lmao 🤣🍺

[@KARMAkazeMoto]

Good, easy to follow info. All makes perfect sense. 👍

[@broderp]

One of the BEST KZbin channels on the subject of motorcycle riding. How can anyone give this a thumbs down? I suppose logic and statistics take a back seat to ego and peer pressure.

[@djohnson3678]

most excellent points to be cautious to everything around you [ the rider ] . that is the best way to have a great day ! awsome video !!

[@MarkWilliams-ke3mp]

Kevin, I've been riding from the age of 13 (63 now). Ride both on-road & off. Just started watching your videos, and all I will say at this time is; Thanks and keep putting out the good information.

[@albertteixeira4262]

Don't dress for the ride, dress for the crash.

[@beepbop6697]

Words to live by. Literally.

[@123499893]

I think it's "slide" intead of crash in order to rhyme, reminded me of Biff Tannen's "Why don't you make like a tree and get out of here"😅

[@The63chicky]

@@123499893...yeah, "dress for the slide and not the ride". Unless you're a tool, then wear shorts.

[@600rrcbr7]

Dress for the slide, not the ride

[@AZGeek520]

Nice job Kevin. Spot on for all three (mis)beliefs.

[@brno221973]

Helmets have come on a long way since the 80’s & don’t weight half as much as they used to. I took a few years off from riding & when I came back to it I bought all new gear including a helmet & I couldn’t believe the weight difference in just a few years. Another great video kevin👍👍👍

[@JayJay-dr7qd]

Great videos, subscribed and i will be watching weekly.

[@Raptor-kc9vh]

not a new rider, but always enjoy your videos. I have watched a lot of new riders who do not train to be better riders. the importance of practicing emergency actions is over looked by so many and i have suggested your videos for many people. lot of the videos i have seen were so avoidable, and lot of times over reaction by the rider who did not commit to a situation caused the accident.

[@youtoobuser71]

I'm glad you addressed "I had to lay her down" right at the start. That saying has always bothered me. You refuted it very effectively.

[@STho205]

I don't need a study or stats to know I will wear a helmet. I wear full clothing, sturdy gloves and ankle boots if my bike leaves my yard. Again, I don't need a study by box tickers at a desk wasting my time. I just know. I also know the Zen of bikes. Have good skills and stay alert so you don't have to block a punch that you can simply avoid.

[@fortj3]

Absolutely. I rode my bike one time (in my neighborhood) with my helmet, work uniform, and work boots. No gloves. I felt very naked.

[@mikebarker5783]

Thank you MC Rider for making these videos and wanting to create safer more competent riders.

[@Rawmantic92]

Another great video i m happy to see this Friday!! Would you like to mention Counter Steering as well please?

[@K9RickRet]

More great info! Thank you, Kevin! 👍

[@TheCamposfamily1]

Thank you your videos had helped lots in my daily riding

[@snbi3910]

Another great video. Thanks!

[@_Michiel_]

Great video, Kevin! May I add that wearing a helmet is of no great use if it isn't fastened correctly? Some riders wear a helmet but don't fasten it. If they are in a crash the helmet will come off and will stop protecting their heads...

[@nongkringthaihomestead]

That's a very good point. Thank you Michiel. Here in Thailand I see many riders not fastening their helmets correctly everyday. In videos of motorcycle accidents you can see how the helmet is flying away and the rider's head hits the road. It takes only a few seconds to fasten your helmet. I have no idea why not doing it.

[@fortj3]

A guy rode by my house last year on a scooter. He had a big afro and his helmet was sitting on top of his head. Pretty sure he was doing it wrong.

[@bullsfan3705]

Excellent, thank you for all the good advice.

[@Otis884]

Always great stuff.

[@boseisgood]

Points well said and well taken. I agree it’s important to make informed decisions about safety gear. As Fast Eddie says, “imagine tomorrow you are going to jump out of a car at 30 mph. Would you rather be wearing full, quality gear or your current gear/street clothes? I can’t imagine anyone thinking no helmet is better than wearing a helmet. Oh well, to each their own. Thank you Kevin. I love your channel!

[@georgehite2271]

Good common sense advice given in a low-key manner. Thank you.

[@j.h.holliday5748]

You're 'spot on' MCrider! Many years ago I had a crash while riding my racing bicycle. The hard foam helmet shattered....my head didn't. My doctor (another racer) said I would most likely would have died. Now at 77 years of age and riding motorcycles, I don't even get on the bike without a full face helmet.

[@dannytoups]

In reference to the saying “I had to lay it down” My dad also told me “Don’t crash to avoid a crash.....that’s stupid”

[@HalfdeadRider]

So what if you're riding down the road sensibly at the speed limit, suddenly a car pulls out of a junction or driveway and you have little time to react? You have two options, 1 hit straight into the car and possibly be badly injured or even dead, or 2 Lay it down (something you can do, this bloke is wrong on that, rear brake and over-steer will get you down quick) and slide for a bit into your bike and the car and walk away with minor injuries? Many do lay it down unnecessarily in many situations but I really think in some rare situations, if you act quickly enough, your outcome will be better if you do.

[@aussie1546]

@@HalfdeadRider I would like you to see you perform that in split of second situation

[@shadowspaz1992]

I like that saying it makes sense to a point..but every situation is different I suppose

[@ShaunHensley]

Halfdead Rider you get hard on the brakes and ride around the obstacle

[@HalfdeadRider]

@@aussie1546 I doubt that would be possible by anybody (I never said it would be), if you have a second or two longer you might just manage, but it does also depend on other factors too.

[@SMKreitzer1968]

Great video Kevin, would love to have a bike with ABS! I have heard all these excuses before, nice to see you call them on it with support for your views.

[@h82bporgmail]

You do a great job, I am a restarted rider from my youth. I now use a full face helmet and full gloves and shopping for some pants on revzeilla, all because of you. I have noticed that when I ride now I see everything! I might be to cautious. I start my M/C class at the end of may, 3 day class

[@nack3218]

This guy makes so much sense . I have been riding ( in the U.K. ) since i was old enough to obtain a licence . Am now 76 years old , and survived several accidents . We're NEVER too old to stop learning .

[@lovelyjubbly1010]

One of the best instructors I have watched, Kevin is a master craftsman, no one is perfect but this guy gets pretty close. I am an older rider returning to Motorcycling after a 15 year break. Jumped on a 1600 Roadstar for a test ride, as my last bike was a VN1500 and a GL1500 Gold Wing before that, yep I thought I could handle it easy. What a mistake that was. Found out the hard way that after 15 years with no riding at all, my perception of what I was capable of was about 10% of my reality. I quickly downsized to a Suzuki Boulevard C50 (800cc) which if I was honest hurt my pride a little, but amazingly found that even this smaller bike was much heavier than I anticipated, I have ridden it twice so far and am still nervous over the physical weight, which I find at my age (68) challenging. Live forever Kevin.

[@cerebralkaos2385]

When we were teenagers we all had motorbikes and usually wore helmets when riding, however one time one of my friends was showing off to a two girls who were walking past our yard by popping wheel stands. He hurriedly got onto his bike without his helmet and during the stunt flipped the bike, knocked himself out and after the ambulance arrived he was taken straight to hospital. Had an acquired brain injury from the accident and undertook months of rehab.... The one time he didn't put on his helmet. Great video as always Kev!

[@scanadaze]

Your right on. What I see in most single accidents is the lack of skills in a turn. They are forcing the bike to turn in the direction of the trunk and not the opposite. Witch in turn I will never regret of taking the motorcycle class to get my license. Where they teach on what you said. All accidents can not be avoided but in many I see that people are putting out on KZbin is lack of training. They get a license and just go riding. Most with a to powerful bike that they have the skills to handle. Then those who have been riding a long time getting way to comfortable. That's why I really like your channel. It makes me think and work on skills that mint have forgotten about. Thank you.

[@damglad1675]

I'm glad you said about the helmet(s). I had an accident a couple years back and I had a gauge in my helmet on the left side about 3 inches long and deep enough to stick your fingernail in. If I hadn't been wearing my helmet I may not have been here today and been able to have my wife and 2 boys. Thank you MC Rider for all your tips and tricks on MC riding. Keep it up .

[@hotrodford2]

2 years ago I purchased a BMW k1200lt. I never had ABS before but found out how nice it works. I was cruising on a country road going about 60mph. A deer darted out in front of me and I nailed the brakes. ABS clicked and buzzed... went from 60mph to 10mph in about 30 feet. (maybe less!) Bumped the deer, he spun around and I heard a strange clicking sound next to me. It was the deer hooves on the pavement. He was running along next to me. No damage to the bike or the deer. My old 1200 Goldwing NEVER stopped that well. I always had to listen and feather brakes to maintain control. ABS eliminated the guesswork. I will always prefer to ride with ABS over non abs if I given the choice.

[@dennisfish7172]

Thanks Kevin, right on again. I just bought a newer bike with abs. They are a great safety feature. I practice emergency braking. But knowing that abs is their is a confidence builder.

[@denisewildfortune4058]

I hardly notice my ABS and always felt like a failure whenever it kicked in on my Ninja 1000 or Indian Springfield. I strive to never have them kick in but love them looking over my shoulder ready to saving my bacon. The riders I knew who had to "Lay it down" were inexperienced riders trying to save face. And 25 + yrs ago I survived a high-speed high-side (don't ask what I was doing) and was saved by my helmet. After coming to I got up and brushed myself off. The helmet was destroyed, the leather jacket was scuffed, and I had a pounding headache that took weeks to go away. I never hope to have to test one again. Thanks, Kevin for being the light in the dark of ignorance.

[@sisteramator]

Great videos!!

[@qdllc]

GREAT POINTS! I had a guy watch my riding and the first thing he pointed out was that I didn't know how to use my front brake. He had me practice stopping the bike from 45 mph over and over using just the front brake until I knew how hard I could hit the brakes without locking the front wheel. Cooked a tire and set of pads that day, but by the end, I was bringing the rear wheel off the ground without locking the front. That "confidence" in my brakes and tires would later help in avoiding potential accidents, and it's a lesson I teach others to do if they are a new rider...practice emergency braking using just the front brake (instinctively, we use the front but don't always remember to use the rear AND in an emergency stop, most of the braking power will be centered on the front wheel). Learn how effectively (or not) your front brakes perform under controlled conditions so you instinctively know how much you can trust them in an emergency. Likewise, along with the last point, ABS is a great tool, but whether you have ABS or not, learning how to brake with maximum efficiency is very important. For cars and bikes, people are not taught about incipient spin and incipient skid...thresholds where your tires break traction with the road. Knowing how to sense these things when they happen will tell you via feedback what's going on. You correct a spinout/skid by simply easing off the gas/brake until the tires regain traction and maintaining control.

[@Sportybob]

Facts dont lie thank you SIR for taking the time and teach us motocycle riders who dont have the time to reserch and carfully observe thank you for practicing what you preach and showing us how we can be saved or even more to reduce failer RESPECT

[@samtaylor5306]

Great info !

[@jeep2liberty]

Right on Kevin. Correct, factual based information again. The section on ABS is especially correct. "Dynamic" VS " Static" friction is actually what is happening with the ABS systems, so if anyone is interested to that degree, just look it up. Keep the good safety videos coming.

[@stronghand45]

I like your way of using facks and personal experience to give solid advice.

[@SuperBoomer95]

"Study shows wearing a helmet causes more neck injuries than not wearing a helmet". Maybe because those that didn't wear a helmet either died or had a massive head injury and didn't and had no feeling neck down. That a similar study to the "seat belts cause broken ribs" ya but they lived!

[@scottgorman7166]

As usually a very informative topic (s). Its a mind boggle why riders dont wear helmets. I ride sometimes with my neighbor on long day trips, when its warm he doesnt wear a helmet and I always have a comment. Dude, ground hard head soft, what part of that dont you get? Amazing

[@jessedavis7819]

Great review. I've had a few accidents in my 35 years of riding with most occurring in the first 5 years. Now I ride defensively and always assume that motorists around me will do the wrong thing, I leave a 3 second gap with the motorist in front, I don't ride along side vehicles in multiple lane roads, and I approach corners more carefully. Unfortunately, it took a long time to learn these things.

[@glenns6923]

ABS, well I riding in the twistys here in Tennessee 35mph in 30mph curve when BIG dog jumped out of a ditch in front of me, grabbed the brakes the proper way and swerved. Next pull out I pulled over to check my drawers, looked at my BMW gps mapping and it had ABS ABS ABS all over that corner!! Thank you ABS! And thank you MC Rider for great content.

[@reygonzalez8318]

I believe that wearing a helmet is a good practice for every individual who decides to ride a motorcycle. Thank you , Mcrider for providing great information.

[@luiseduardodossantos1882]

Dear Kevin, I've been watching your videos frequently and in my opinion, you have the best Motorcycling channel on KZbin. Your videos have very good graphics and format, besides your style, having a balanced sense of humor and taking our passion as it is, a risky way to have fun. I'm an airline pilot and I do understand perfectly risks assessment for everything. I don't mean to pay you an appraisal, only my direct critic to your work. I belong to a high-risk group, those guys who are more than 50 years old, I had three different small CC motorcycles on my youth (No license nor knowledge) , have a stable marriage and two girls (5/12y.o.). Long before buying my a motorcycle, I was already fully concerned with safety. Today, having a motorcycle, it has doubled. Unfortunately, my availability to have a motorcycle course is near zero, I'm living in a foreign country and for the moment, I still unlicensed due to my residence status. My questions are simple but intrigue me a lot. ---First- While riding my bike around the block, to keep it usable and to me get used to it, I'm not sure if an I have to keep my foot rested on the rear brake lever, or can I relax it on the footrest? Of course, being able to jump on it if necessary. Second- To efficiently brake and to avoid panic braking, may I use only two fingers at the front brake lever while braking? It's completely possible to use maximum frontal brake effort using only two fingers at the lever. thanks if you can answer these questions and sometimes, people talk over the macro subjects and forget the micro details. Best regards

[@davidwhite7837]

I am a BRC - MTC (MSF/TCT) certified instructor. I have had students ask why we don't teach how to safely lay the bike down. My first response is that there is no "safe" way to do that. My next response is if putting the bike on the ground is your only option, you did every up that point completely wrong.

[@rmd1960]

Thank you Kevin! I love watching and learning! As for helmets, Texas does not require one but I would not ride without one. In my life, I have crashed a motorcycle and an ultralight aircraft. In both of those crashes, I feel like a helmet possibly saved my life. Of the injuries received, nothing to my head or neck! Broken limbs can be repaired, head not so much.................

[@johnallred3124]

If a person doesn’t want to wear a helmet, that is certainly their right, in some states. But at least be honest, that you are not interested in the facts that say you should. On a personal note, in a low side accident, that slow-motion thing occurred, where I experienced the accident very slowly. As my side hit the road, and my arm trailed behind, but over my head, my head twisted downward toward the road rushing by. My helmet hit on the side and my face twisted down toward the road. All things being the same, without my helmet AND face shield, if I were alive at all, I would not have my right ear or the right half of my face. Go without a helmet, if you choose. Not me.

[@fortj3]

I had a similar experience. I'd rather have my helmet destroyed, than my face, head, brain, etc.

[@djohnson3678]

nobody wants to go through that trauma to see that mess, wear a helmet.

[@islamabdalla3838]

I had my accident coz of over breaking and not brackets more emergency breaking ... the helmet saved my life and without it i will not be able to write this comment.... thanks for ur advices and looking forward for ur next video

[@jons6368]

All three good points. I live in a state where, you can get a ticket for not wearing your seat belt in a car, but your not required to wear a helmet on your bike. Not wearing a helmet costs everyone, when someone gets crippled or brain damaged from a head injury. Who pays for that persons dependency on everyone to stay alive? Not to mention they are no longer an asset to society. We all do. Great video, thanks.

[@ramblinwithwreck]

The statement “not wearing a helmet costs everyone” is not an issue of too much freedom (to ride without one), it’s a problem of too much socialism. Having said that, I never ride without one. Taking care and paying for people’s bad decisions should not be a function of government with the costs borne by your neighbors. Actions have consequences.

[@kevinodriscoll19]

Here in the UK it has been compulsory to wear a helmet, whilst riding a motorcycle, since 1973. This legislation has saved countless lives since it was introduced. Wearing a helmet is a no brainer ( please forgive the pun)!

[@michaelsedler6524]

@@ramblinwithwreck how is it too much socialism? The costs are born by the family that idiot left behind most. Second is society as a whole. It is simply a selfish idiotic decision to not wear a helmet. I am all for those idiots killing themselves. Maybe they should just do it in a manner that doesn't impact society and quit being selfish.

[@ramblinwithwreck]

Michael Paul because hospitals can’t deny emergency treatment even if the patient can’t pay. Government says so. This is why hospitals in some places are going under due to providing care to non citizens as well. This drives up the cost for everyone else.

[@michaelsedler6524]

@@ramblinwithwreck which is why everyone should be required to have insurance. Then there is no issue.

[@mweskamppp]

Good i had to learn that for the motorcycle driving license. Just needs some practise sometimes to fresh up.

[@willelliott5052]

Great points made, and I agree with all of them.

[@doughoward1699]

I totally agree with you. Thank you for letting me know where this bad information about not wearing a helmet was coming from

[@NakedExpat]

A lot of common sense as per usual, thank you. Regarding ABS... Your view/advice is spot on as always, but that got me thinking about NEW/NOVICE riders... I have heard on many occasion that they should learn without ABS in order to grasp smooth breaking & control skills and once more experienced then indeed have ABS as their 'silent partner' etc. Any opinion on this Kevin? Keep up the good work. Love your videos. All the best from sunny Philippines.

[@wesheiser9429]

Great vid Kevin. I still have a jaw because the chin area of my full-face helmet took the brunt of the impact when I flipped my bike.

[@StijnBettens]

Quite right. Thank you for sharing.

[@jpetrik144]

Kevin- when talking about braking, the terminology used in the police academy for what you’re describing is “Threshold Braking”.

[@alj9969]

Thank you for these videos and the straight forward information and techniques. In Texas it's Hot and Humid, BUT full gear every day EVERY TIME. Whether you're going around the corner down the road cross town or cross country. Riding gloves protects your hands, boots, riding jacket ( MESH breathes ) full face helmet. ALWAYS. I've had front end wash out in a turn and slide across 6 lane intersection. Thank god for safety gear or my arm would have been dogmeat. I always use safety gear every day EVERY TIME.

[@professorholmes758]

Mine got laid down and it wasnt from braking or lack of. I hit diesel fuel on the road in a curve and the rear end spun around on me. It was a bad day. Totaled motorcycle, hit guardrail and it split me open. Enjoy the information and videos. Good job and thank you.

[@lovepeace3015]

Your show is the best on KZbin

[@dewaynejones1860]

I had a crash once, at the time I was on and off with helmets, at this particular time I was wearing one and it had some rash and a crack afterwards. It happened so fast I don't even remember my head contacting the pavement, maybe because I was really feeling the rash on my shoulder and back. Anyway I always wear a helmet now

[@lonloren2317]

Education isn't cheap.

[@sunsetoriginals7320]

Absolutely true about ABS. I have it on my 2013 CB500F and I have never noticed it until I went riding on a dirt road and purposely tried out the ABS in a straight flat piece of road where there were no other vehicles around. ;)

[@peterstokes54]

Can’t understand people not wearing helmets. Here in the UK it’s mandatory, but even before it was I wore one - value my head too much not to. My one coming-off when it mattered my helmet hit the tarmac, and if it had been my head I’d left half of it there! As it is I just got a bit of a black eye where my cheek hit the inside of my lid.

[@bobm4623]

It's only mandatory if you are not a Sikh. A Sikh wearing a turban doesn't have to wear a helmet.

[@SuperBoomer95]

@@bobm4623 Ontario and Alberta Canada are that way.. mandatory helmet unless you are a sihk. The rest of Canada (unless others have followed) are all mandatory. Which it should be IMO

[@tomekkruk6147]

@@SuperBoomer95 No it should not. Same as wearing seatbelts. Altho not wearing a helmet or a seat belt is just plain dumb, you are only hurting yourself by doing so, and since you are an adult, sane human beeing, you should have a choice. It's your head.

[@maelorable]

Mandatory in my state in the US (Maryland). I think what MCR is getting at is that there will be those who chose not to wear one even though it is illegal not to. Either way, great video, as usual :) Wearing a helmet just makes sense, I don't understand why anyone would want to not wear one. Also, as Stoke said, wearing one made is face's encounter with the road a lot less of a problem than it would have been.

[@geepers100]

Woud have to tie that turban on pretty good :)@@bobm4623