Calculating the Risk of Riding a Motorcycle

How much risk is there riding a motorcycle? How much of that risk is in your control and how much is left to fate? Let's talk about it.
#motorcycle #motorcycles #mcrider
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[@lisar3006]

I am a 67 year old man who has been riding since 1969. I always wear a helmet because a helmet may have saved me when I was 16 and a truck backed out in front of me at a top of a hill I couldn't see over. I wear a leather jacket and half gloves and half helmet I had since 1988 no matter the weather. I started watching you and now I have a full face helmet an armored jacket and full finger gloves made for bikes. At my age I don't have the reflexes I once had so maybe new gear is a good idea even if I get some grief from my buddies who all go with no helmets in Florida and T-shirts.

[@Peter-eu7wp]

I am the same age and ride a Suzuki Hayabusa here in the UK. The weather here generally encourages pretty sturdy riding gear but I have bought a lighter but armoured riding jacket for the Summer. I have been seen, however, wearing jeans and a Tee shirt pottering around my village, so very low speeds. Similarly, at 16 while wearing an open faced helmet I had an encounter with a bus stop, not pretty. For me a full face helmet is a no brainer, small world, eh.

[@bradb9146]

I live here in Florida too , and it amazes me to see what people think is adequate riding gear . The no helmet law is ridiculous to me , and I would never consider throwing a leg over the seat without one on my head . There are a lot of soft skulled squids out here on the roads ... Don't be one of them . 😐

[@lisar3006]

@@bradb9146 My former police chief was killed a day after the no helmet law was pasted. He was rear ended at a light in Manatee country it knocked over his Harley and he hit is head on the curb and was killed. All it did to the bike was brake the tail light and a mirror. I was a police officer for over 10 years and worked more than a few bike accidents where had the rider had on even good shoes it would have ended differently. Gear up no matter what.

[@bradb9146]

@@lisar3006 I always wear all my gear all the time . I don't want to be a statistic . 😐

[@bradb9146]

@@lisar3006 I remember hearing about that on the news . Very sad .

[@Peter-eu7wp]

Kevin you talk so much sense. The same principles apply here in the UK. I would advise both new and existing riders to listen to you.

[@MCrider]

Thank you Peter.

[@jwrizza8037]

Every time before I ride I tell myself that this could be my last ride.... I then proceed with extreme caution...

[@simonnarbett361]

Same here

[@randersson3672]

I do the same, but after that I just go out and have fun 😁

[@thomasche]

Exactly

[@jimkoney4200]

When I was 19 fear of riding never crossed my mind. At 67 years old it's changed a bit.

[@Holly1960-]

I always say a short prayer before riding, asking God to keep me safe !

[@billhenley2322]

Gloves. If you don't wear gloves, the question you need to ask is: Who will wipe your butt if your hands are badly damaged?

[@ronbatt756]

And feed you?

[@jwrizza8037]

LOL 😂 Facts

[@wjb111]

💩

[@rileylabski]

Yup.

[@ricardoallen786]

Gloves are a catch 22, in a sense you're looking for armor to make yourself more safe, in another sense it's easier to control and operate the bike without gloves. My opinion is operating the bike more effectively is safety, I'm not alone in that opinion either.

[@DJ-wu2qc]

“There are more things under my control than are not in my control when riding a motorcycle.” Truer words have never been uttered in the history of the universe!!

[@MotoKeto]

Everything one does in life has risk management in involved. From taking a shower to skydiving and riding a motorcycle. Do your best to reduce the risk and enjoy life a bit. I personally wear all the gear I can afford every time I ride. But I am not going to judge anyone who chooses no to, just wish the statistics did not cause my insurance to be more expensive.

[@cristi8183]

Precious words for riders. One of the great advices I got is to always think you are invisible to the other traffic and think ahead, predict what other traffic could do.

[@eddcurry1245]

I am a ATGATT rider, but that’s because it’s my choice and under my control, because I can’t control what other car and bike drivers might do going down the road.

[@peacockchristopher99]

Another very good video, Kevin. I do t know about the USA, but in England another thing out of our control is the pedestrian. They often step into the road without looking. Warning signs are (generally young-ish) people paying too much attention to their phones - I’m always especially careful of people with in-ear headphones.

[@MCrider]

That is a bigger concern, especially in the city.

[@sunconsecutivewin8687]

Drives are not too careful and too careful because they are directly linked to life!! thanks bunch!!🙂👍👍

[@davide2938]

Kevin, truly appreciate your channel and the solid guidance you provide. The constant reminders on how we mitigate risk through training, practicing good road skills and maintaining situational awareness while on the road, proper motorcycle maintenance, and wearing protective clothing serve as a solid foundation for a pre-ride checklist and assessment to ensure each and every ride is as safe a ride as I can make it. I returned to riding a couple of years ago after having taken an extended break and recall clearly two instances where I made basic mistakes that could have cost me: failure to check mirrors and look before making a lane change, and failure to successfully negotiate a turn due to excessive speed. Both could have resulted in an accident and injury but thankfully did not. They serve as reminders each and every time I prepare to ride - "Don't be stupid." Whether riding alone or with a passenger, I run through a mental/verbal checklist as I make the physical checks to bike and gear, to ride smart, within my limits, and to stay safe. Dave E

[@cardiojim]

Almost rear ended by skidding car at a stop sign 🛑. Idk if the driver was not paying attention or thought I was going to run the sign. I stopped and car behind me was skidding up on me.... needless to say I made a quick stop and go..... glad I could go as oncoming side traffic was turning and slowed down. I probably would have waited for the car to turn but the skidding behind me was motivating me to go

[@rileylabski]

And this is why you always come to a stop with the bike in first gear and immediately check behind you. I at least give the mirrors a quick glance and in heavy traffic, I literally turn around to look for that person who's 1) not stopping 2) not stopping fast enough. Glad you made it out of that situation safely man!

[@cardiojim]

Yep knew she was behind me and braked and slowed down early but she really must have thought I was going to run it...

[@georgetumino9652]

Thanks Kevin and thanks to all the other comments here. Crucial information.

[@tshepomohapi8919]

I love this channel... solid insights and advice, always

[@harryhowell5644]

Watching your videos have been a help to me. I survived one crash and up and riding again. Safety is paramount thanks for all the tips

[@SMKreitzer1968]

Thanks Kevin, I like the way you break down the risk and outline what we have control of. Stay safe and God bless.

[@barryblack5562]

Love your stuff sir. And motorcycling is a blessing.

[@praveensaxena6478]

Kevin you couldn't have put it better than this. Always stressing to focus on our strengths and continuing to train. I guess those are the the two most important things for safety.👍

[@fprintf]

This seems to be a recurring them and I really appreciate it! I still haven't pulled the trigger on a street bike since the last time this subject came up however I have taken my MSF course and started dirtbiking.

[@barraviejo]

The key words are make the choice with information. Excellent as always.

[@cbsakias]

Nice,usefull and practical video!

[@Temetnosce77]

I agree with Peters comment below. Both you and motojitsu are superb sensible riders and teachers. Thank you bud.

[@joviaathieno475]

Thank you Kevin. Your videos are so helpful to me. I am a newbie rider. I started last year in March. The one thing that was emphasized to me from the word go is the protective gear. So I always ensure that I have my helmet, gloves, riding boots, a jacket and pants before I throw my leg on the motorcycle. So many people around me look at riding as a risky business. They think like you said that riding is a death sentence. Especially given the fact that I am a short lady. But I firmly believe that it's not a death sentence. So long as one keeps on practicing the necessary skills (practice makes perfect!), learning, putting on the riding gear (even when in the scorching sunshine) and most importantly praying.

[@Laurynas_LTU]

Loved your video. Loved it! That's the kind of video that was missing in the multitude of videos about statistics of motorcyclist deaths. I'd love to translate subtitles into the languages I speak so that your teaching could reach more people (riders or otherwise)...

[@robertrisk93]

First time I see a video with nearly 500 likes and no downvotes! Keep up the great work Kevin.

[@jasondunn8894]

Thanks Kevin. Great points to be reminded of

[@anisslekkal2981]

As usual dear friend ! Thanks a lot for your advice your work and energy to make us a better rider ! All my respect from Algeria ✌️✌️✌️😎

[@davepressly9586]

Thanks Kevin, very good as always! See ya on the road! 🏍

[@MCrider]

Thanks Dave.

[@jimbartlome504]

Kevin thanks for the great, useful advice.

[@burtonparsons7717]

Excellent! Your wheelhouse Kevin.

[@MCrider]

Thanks!

[@ianlavery3562]

Great as Usual mate.😎😎😎

[@CaledoniaKeys]

Hi Kevin. Great video as always. I would like to add that a good motorcycle airbag vest is a top consideration. Like you mentioned a good motorcycle jacket protects you well from abrasion injuries, but the addition of an airbag vest or jacket will allow you to walk away from situations where you may otherwise be going to the hospital. This spring I plan to review 2 systems that I have used. Thanks for the inspiration. Ride on!

[@illhaqu777]

Great and helpful content

[@mrvoyagerm]

A person goes through this Risk calculation many times during flight training as well. Some are not able to take that much responsibility for their own safety and walk away. I have noticed that there are quite a few motorcycles parked inside of hangars. Mine was.

[@justanotherviewer52]

Thanks Kevin. All the gear all the time works for me.

[@MCrider]

Right on!

[@Near2Future]

Great video man! :D

[@reallyoldfart6540]

This week I put my 2017 TU250X on the center stand (T-rex), polished everything real nice; 70 something degrees in Daytona. Went out for a ride and to buy some groceries and Taco Bell, came home and whipping it around in the sand like my Grom, oops, put foot down, felt the groceries shift, that's the first time it took a nap laying down. Best to have some gear.

[@keeponrunning_Andrew]

i love my tux. i have a ducatti which is fun and flashy, and still love riding the 250.

[@eddcurry1245]

Good thoughts. I always enjoy your teaching videos.

[@MCrider]

I appreciate that!

[@eddcurry1245]

MCrider - Motorcycle Training I recently transitioned (for health reasons) from a Harley to a Can Am, after 40 years on two wheels to now three. I still find your videos highly applicable and enlightening. You serve the riding community well; and your faith in the Creator is evident and appreciated.

[@gws5491]

I wear different clothes for different rides. Around town I always wear a full face helmet, leather jacket, boots, and heavy Jeans. When I'm cruising to different towns at highway speeds I always wear an armoured motorcycle jacket and armoured motorcycle pants.

[@danilocapellan1316]

Thanks, I learned so much from you, God Bless you. 🙏🏼😊👍🏼

[@MCrider]

You are so welcome

[@ezpoppy55]

As always, EXCELLENT video and advice, Kevin. Well done. Yes, we have too many victims, and a great many of them are self-inflicted victims. I have no problem with people who go out and ride in t-shirt and shorts. The problem is that then they expect others to take care of them and their families when they are injured or killed. They want their medical expenses covered, they want their rehabilitation expenses covered, they want SSI for their dependents because they can't work... and a whole host of other provisions given them - all because they made the "adult" and "free" choice to do something stupid. If you want your "freedom," fine - it does not come free. Ride drunk, ride speeding, ride without protective gear, "ride it like you stole it," and all the other inane ways of riding. Fine. But then own up to the fact that you made that choice and deal with the consequences.

[@MotorcyclingwithCarl]

Great video Kevin all great points!!! Deer and people hitting me from behind are my top worries here in ct

[@dominictwist657]

Yep, me too here in the UK. Everything else you have some degree of control over, but wildlife suddenly appearing right in front of you without warning makes me a bit nervous when riding at dusk or early morning. ***holes on their phone behind me give me the creeps too. Greetings from Scotland! 🏴󠁧󠁢󠁳󠁣󠁴󠁿

[@MotorcyclingwithCarl]

@@dominictwist657 exactly!

[@danieldayton3064]

Excellent advice again this week, Kevin! Now, where did I put my deer costume?!? (LMAO) :-)

[@MCrider]

DON'T DO IT!!!! ;)

[@TomT125]

Great advice Kevin. Your the Yoda who lives on the blacktop. Thanks for videos

[@onementality9781]

Thank you i realized I’m making a poor decision while not lining up with being safe so I wear a full leather jacket, gloves & boots but my helmet is cheap because I liked how light it is but I’m buying a good helmet ASAP. This is something that is in my control and I intend on riding as safe as I can possibly ride:) I do expect all cars to not see me in which I am almost 40 and my patients& desire to live has grown a lot:)

[@williamwintemberg]

Yes, Yes and Yes!

[@simonnarbett361]

Thanks for that Kevin,trouble I have is I'm a summer,fair weather rider,as soon as the bad UK weather comes,I put the bike away,then in the spring out it comes again,so I feel I'm not as good as I might be riding 12months of the year.Have thought of getting a,winter bike

[@Peter-eu7wp]

I'm the same Simon so I bought an older RT1100 as a Winter bike. Not used it yet. Brrrrrrrrrrr.

[@johnwoodworth329]

Another thing in your control. Say a prayer for Safety and a great ride.

[@mikevanessen8687]

Good video. Pants and a half helmet,boots a gloves when it’s hot, in cooler temperatures leather jacket. After seeing the comments and the video, I think a full face helmet is in my future. Thanks for the video!!

[@firstchoicelastchoice28]

Good content video : )

[@rocketrollsvlogs7625]

While I don't disagree with the right for folks to choose their. I hope everyone understands your high risk taking effects my insurance rates. I ride ATGATT. Full face ECE helmet. Jacket with CE armor, kevlar pants, adv/mx style boots, and gloves with knuckle guards. It's easy to do and very comfortable. I have summer gear and winter gear. It's not expensive ($400 at Cyclegear) if you buy budget items that meet standards, and it can prevent a lot of pain. Not preaching to those who know this and choose otherwise, but rather for the newbies looking for perspectives.

[@Thirsty_Fox]

That's a really good point. It's even becoming somewhat difficult for new riders to get insurance at all here in Ontario -- the insurance companies simply don't want to bother with it.

[@Will-jd2br]

I used to commute on my bike regularly, but i often found myself loosing focus and daydreaming. Sometimes we don’t get good rest and the commute is boring. Now I only ride when I’m excited to do so and well rested.

[@ronbatt756]

Very good advice and reminders. Ty Kevin. Minus 12 C in Toronto now. Brrrr. No MC today. 🇨🇦

[@MCrider]

Oh come on...where is your sense of adventure? Says the guy who lives in Texas....

[@Peter-eu7wp]

Snowing in the UK at the moment Ron, adventures can wait. 😉

[@ronbatt756]

@@Peter-eu7wp minus 14 C here in Toronto this morning. Not terribly unusual for late January, but, snow in UK now? Wow.

[@Peter-eu7wp]

@@ronbatt756 Cool, if you'll pardon the pun.

[@ronbatt756]

@@Peter-eu7wp you are pardoned. 🤣

[@888mf4]

What do you think about air bag vests or jackets? Have you tried one? Do you use one?

[@topherdalrymple6535]

AGAT, practice the emergency braking and swerving, ride sober, be ready. Lean that machine.

[@kyle9566]

How about back protectors as well as the next best thing under a jacket. I'll be honest, I dont always wear a jacket like I should but I DO always wear a back protector. Whether it's a strap on piece from RevIt's Tryonic line or my jacket with a d3o back protector, I'll never forego the safety of my neck and spinal cord.

[@adamakins9748]

Another thing under my control is my riding crew... the ones you choose to ride with on a regular basis.... you tend to adopt like minded riding styles

[@jonathansumerfield8899]

I cover head to toe, pray, and ride. Kevin hits it on the nose. Thanks Kevin.

[@cliffordb47]

Hi I put 78,000 miles on a 2007 Goldwing had two minor accidents both of them at less than 2 miles an hour no big deal but the one thing you must always remember you are probably riding the most dangerous device man has ever made, know your capability never let somebody else influence the way you take a corner at what speed, anybody can ride a motorcycle with 50 6070 miles an hour riding at two and 3 miles an hour that's the real trick

[@jps8941]

I pacifically Bought a Easy cruising bike So I'm not tempted To ride over the speed limit . I have to commit to practicing more If it's a beautiful day I want to ride Not practice .

[@MCrider]

Just mix in 5 - 10 minutes of practice time. It is fun when you get used to it.

[@jps8941]

@@MCrider Thanks Kevin another great idea You have been so influential In the Safe way I ride my motorcycle . I know you saved my skin And life I wonder how many other people you did the same for

[@rkba4923]

You're in control to a large extent but, trust me, there are times you can do everything right and it doesn't matter.

[@MCrider]

True...but those times are less often than most people think.

[@LTVoyager]

One problem is that most people have no idea how to assess risk factually. The insane overreaction to covid has highlighted that in spades. The risk of dying from covid is far less than several other causes that people don’t even think about, yet people have gone nuts over covid simply because the government told them they should. People don’t think for themselves anymore. Another issue is that as a society we seem preoccupied now with safety above all else. People seem to think that any risk is too much risk and the reality is that we will never live risk-free and, even if we could, it would be a sterile and unhappy existence. I nearly gag when I see signs that say “Safety First” and hear people say it as it is simply a lie. I can’t think of a single example where safety is really put first as it simply is not feasible to do so.

[@wflentge]

Kevin. I would like to send you a 8 Min video of a recent ride me and a friend took in the mountains of AZ for a critique, if you have time to review. We are both on 2018+ DCT Honda Goldwings. You are welcome to use in future Videos as a teaching point that you produce. Just don't overly embarrass us/me. You can use my name but I will not let you know my riding partner's name. No accidents on the ride. -W-

[@MrNopehaha]

I honk at cross-traffic (as a precaution), they never seem to see me and creep into the street and try pulling in on me.

[@ellobo1326]

Me too. I’m so glad that my 2021 GW has a very loud factory horn.

[@mikeskidmore6754]

There is another yoootooober @HerTWoWheels she never checks her Harley and with no mufflers she didn't know the rear wheel bearings had totally failed .. I guess she was lucky when the really bad failure happed a couple miles from her house when she started out on a new ride.. Had she had mufflers she would have known her wheel bearings were going bad..

👏👏👏

[@mikeskidmore6754]

So far I have had only one street bike accident.. I am still alive but the Deer that ran in front of me is dead..

[@hellbilly6532]

Not if but when always respect the bike because it will not respect you

[@Bushcraft242]

Got hit hard on my Harley davidson by a car going away from gas station $12.000 dollars damage

[@MCrider]

Wow, hopefully you were OK.

[@timmclean-inglis9371]

easy sum multiply mph x miles covered

[@milekrizman]

I think I would be a good rider. But I am 39. Maybe it's too late to begin.

[@briannorwell202]

Get rid of that mindset. If you do restart, believe me that in the future, you’ll wear that decision as a badge of honour.

[@stinkopants]

95% of the danger in riding is within the control of the rider. I have seen almost zero fatalities where the cause of death couldn't be traced back to poor road strategy.

[@dylanvisitacion8618]

Dress for the crash, not for the ride.

[@terrydebord7878]

Harley riders are the most unsafe riders, look cool today may come at a price