Motorcycle Safety - it's a mind game

This week on MCrider we look at our mental focus and motorcycle safety. Can you multitask and ride? How does the brain focus on multiple tasks at once? This week on MCrider we talk about it.
From today's video here is James' description of his red light incident.
"This is what happens when you are not focused enough on what you're doing. I share it to bring focus to that. Not sure where my head was. I do know it was not where it needed to be. I have a feeling I fixated on the police car that pulls up from the right and when the left arrow comes on all I saw was a light turn green. So I proceed to run the stop light. I did not realize I was even doing it till after I made it all the way through. After waving at the cop and then wondering why the white car making it's left turn almost hit me. You will hear when I realize what I had done. I was angry at my self that I let it happen. Language not safe for work were said.🤬
I am thankful it was not worse. It so could have been. If it had my wife and son would have watched it all happen. They were right behind me since we had just left the school parking lot were they practice riding.
Trust me. I'm kicking myself. Yall are more than welcome to let me have it.
So yeah. Keep your heads on straight and stay focused when riding.
Respectfully,
Wildscarr"
You can see James' video from the practice range here:
• Wildscarr's Helmet Cam...
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Thanks for watching,
Kevin

[@MCrider]

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[@SlingingLead]

If I lived in Texas I would take your course in a heartbeat. We are fortunate that you are making these videos for our benefit.

[@STho205]

I was really impressed by the oncoming turn lane car drivers in the clip. They understood the rider simply made a mistake and helped him safely through the intersection. No horn blowing, cussing, shouts of you moron, etc... We all make occasional mistakes. Even the best of us misread visual cues or misjudge a situation. Unless I see a steady stream of obviously conscious transgressions, I tell myself what I saw, heard or felt is probably a momentary lapse. Most people want to act correctly and play fair, OR we wouldn't evenhavethat concept. It is safer for all of us as well as the right thing to do.

[@Ark1j]

Defensive Driving. Like you said, Everybody makes mistakes-Everybody, sooner or later. Nobody is perfect. This is probably the main reason that Defensive Driving is so highly stressed in all modes of transportation. In today's multitasking world, too many folks are either close to, or at their limit. This particular scenario is a headache for all, and traffic engineers included. Some places use a certain type of lens on the green light that helps- where it can be seen by the drivers in that particular lane only. Guess it's rather expensive or it might be more common.

[@STho205]

@@Ark1j . he probably just went off his periferal vision cues. Drivers to his left and right simultaneously moved, and he then moved and realized mid intersection. The red lights outnumbered the little green arrow.

[@Ark1j]

Yes, Everybody gets 'fooshed'.....I've been in the middle of it more then once. Its almost like a reflex action. Like the Master says-Focus, young jedi!

[@marshallbrown9200]

That's a class act for sure. As youth I was lucky that every other driver was so much smarter than I was.

[@jamesrindley6215]

Well said. There's a lot of talk about drivers all being out to get us but it's easy to forget the times that other drivers have been the angels that saved us from ourselves. Realizing that we're all fallible and taking the territorial aggression out of driving is a huge safety improvement.

[@innocentbystander2673]

I like to talk to myself. I say what i'm going to do, i notice stuff, i tell myself that he or she is bobbing around in the driver seat....get out of there....get past that truck fast as it might come over. It works for me.

[@richardmourdock2719]

Kevin, we can all lose focus for many reasons including all the ones you mentioned. I would add one more..... cold. I've had too many times when my fingers were numb or I felt the cold on the back of my neck and when really cold, I start yawning. I've learned to accept this as my body's warning sign. When my body starts yawning from the cold pulling me down, it's time to get off the bike and get some coffee. Cold is a distraction in that it knocks down your focus and when you are numb fingered and solid toed and need to make an emergency stop... good luck.

[@opticalecho119]

I think I’m gonna have to budget like an extra 30 minutes for my commute just in case I find myself needing to pull over and take a moment

[@brno221973]

I can honestly say that your videos make me a better rider. Thanks Kevin.👍

[@johnnylightning1491]

One the games I play is what I call "What's this idiot going to do next". Sorta like the violators game but I try and figure out what the cars around me are going to do. I've done this for decades in both my car and motorcycle. It helps me predict what other drivers are going to do next by clues in their driving style. For instance if someone gets very close to you before the pull into the other lane to pass you can bet they're going to pull back into your lane when they're about 3 feet in front of you. They don't have any idea of what a proper following distance is. Not that all other drivers are idiots, most aren't, but it only takes one to ruin your day. Thanks for keeping this channel up Kevin.

[@billbanche4605]

Thanks again Kevin, I always appreciate your videos. I want to share a story about another way to lose focus: about 30 years ago I was driving my car back from a meeting and dinner with a group of friends. We had Pizza, and even though I don't drink, I had one beer with the pizza. On a side street I was approaching a highway with traffic lights, and I put my foot on the brake in what I thought was PLENTY of time, however I didn't stop until half way through the intersection, light still red. I backed up feeling very fortunate that there was NO traffic anywhere around or behind me! One beer! I learned a lesson. Don't drink even ONE drink and drive. Having said that, I'm 75 a few days ago, and ride almost every day, and I don't drink and drive! On your test I video taped it and for some reason at the yellow numbers I sped up, instead of a pause. What is that about?

[@JPTill]

I was thinking about the breathing technique I use just as you mentioned it. Learned from a yoga book, it teaches "complete breathing." Beginning with empty lungs, extend the ab-muscles, drawing air to the bottom of the lungs; extend chest muscles to fill the middle; then slightly raise shoulders to top it off. Exhale by reversing the process. Attempt to move air in and out through the nostrils, slowly and as quietly as you can without making a hissing sound. It doesn't take long to feel natural, and the technique allows you to gently push aside the ordinary distracting thoughts the brain attempts to foist on our mind. Once learned, it can be used to bring about a sense of calm in a matter of moments, in virtually any situation, stressful or othewise. It would've been a big help to have learned this in kindergarten.

[@cyclotechtwister1997]

In regards to multitasking, I agree. This is why I do not like areas that allow use of a cell phone even to talk, while driving. To nib a debate on cell phones and CBs. Truckers or other drivers that use a CB do not typically hold the mic and have a continuous conversation in the manner so many do on a cell phone (yes, there is the person that is the exception every once in a while but, nothing like cellphone use). Everyday I watch cellphone users run red lights,speed and fail at even trying to park. Put the phone down and watch the road people. We need to reverse the cell phone laws across the board and not permit this behavior. I wonder how many have to die for these laws are changed?

[@scottthornton9237]

California has made texting and talking on anything other than a "hands free device" illegal. So now everyone just drops the phone when they see a cop. It helps maby 2%. The problem is with people not willing to pay attention.

[@My17A]

@@scottthornton9237 Same right across all Canadian Provinces. It's illegal to text or talk on a cell phone. BlueTooth only..

[@elrumcajs777]

I’ve had a few. The most memorable one was when I forgot my wife at a petrol station.

[@snbi3910]

NICK LORDS Whoa man... bet that was an interesting conversation!

[@mrc4910]

That could be more dangerous than running the light.

[@bobdecker2446]

I bet you'll never do that again.

[@mrpalaces]

Lmao how did you survive that one

[@openscholar9908]

@@mrpalaces HA!

[@scottthornton9237]

My worst experience on a motorcycle and my luckiest day! Splitting lanes on CA91 from Long Beach to Corona. On a very dry and hot day. The temps were above 100. The traffic was at a near stand still and every vehicle seemed to have great difficulty just staying in there lanes. That ride of 50 miles required a super alert, pin point focus, throughout its entirety. When I split lanes, I do so with my visor open. I ensure to make eye contact through each drivers mirror, prior to passing. Once I made it to I-15, I headed south. That freeway was wide open. Hardly another vehicle on it. As I took the connecting ramp, I closed the visor as I increased speed up to 65 mph. Then the temperature hit me. I could barely breath with the visor down, I abruptly opened the visor. Instantly evaporating all the moisture in my eyes, They instantly started burning like crazy. If I was smarter, I would have and should have pulled to the side of the road and stopped to remedy the situation. BUT! Being foolish, I decided to CLOSE BOTH EYES, in a straight away area of the road. Not one car anywhere around. I figured, with the highway dots and no traffic, that it would be safe enough for ten seconds or so...1, 2, 3,.zzz. Like counting sheep, I was O U T. Unbelievable to me but, my bike seemed to know the way home. I rode some 13 miles sound asleep! The bike took my off ramp. However it must not have liked that STOP sign at the bottom of the ramp. So it went between the ramp and the freeway, Just off the edge of the road. That jolt as the bike entered the dirt and the vibration at 65 mph, with the cruise control set. I AWOKE!! To a stop sign coming at me while riding a touring bike in the dirt. WOA! Thank GOD for Integrated brakes! I got it stopped just a foot or so from that sign. It took me a good twenty minutes to stop shaking enough to finish the six minute ride home. It just was not my day to die!

[@twoblacklabs7786]

Scott, I believe you! I am originally from India and it gets plenty hot there. I slept-rode my bike a couple of times and luckily lived to tell the tale. Both the times, it happened during summer months. My ride from college to home is about 20 miles. Halfway through the ride, I felt sleepy and I shrugged it off, shook my head and carried on. After about a while, I woke up with a shock and realized I ran over a pot hole and that I was dozing off. I have no recollection of last 5-6 miles. I almost did not believe it. When I looked it up online, turned out its pretty common hazard. Long haul truck drivers are very well aware of this. When we dont get enough rest, brain kinda goes in sleep mode while keeping some of the motor skill functioning. Really scary... Oh well, I am glad we survived. But now I pay close attention to my fatigue level. If I am yawning too often, I pull over to a parking lot and reconsider my remainder of commute. Ride safe!

[@barbholub2398]

Sometimes I'm just so jazzed to be getting ready for a ride, or especially if I'm supposed to be meeting someone, I just consciously slow down, it's become a mental ritual. I've usually already checked tires, lights, etc, then geared up. Now its to the bike, bags closed? Helmet on, sit, starter, left glove, right glove, a moment of true appreciation and thankfulness, and go. Riding? Yeah, I've had those moments, thanks to all for the reality/focus check.

[@lastdaysdreamer]

Haha! Busy morning while watching. I couldn't even get straight the instructions 🤣🤣 Good thing I wasn't riding in that mindset! About music: I always have it in the background. If I don't, I over focus on every new noise the bike makes. Most of the time I am not even listening to the music. It is just there to keep me focused. Good show today. Points well taken!

[@jzaz85]

this just happened to me this weekend. It was the last 20 miles or so of a 200 mile trip home when I found myself dosing and my mind drifting. I turned on some music and started taking deep breaths and It got me through those last 20 miles. I also had to stop for a couple red lights so I popped open my visor for some fresh air, stood up of the saddle, and spun my head in a circular motion to stretch my neck. This was my first long trip and first experience with fatigue. Can't wait for my next trip though! Everyone ride safe!

[@junkiejonesandthepicogang6598]

Another great video kevin. Always makes my fridays. Also, thanks to James for the video. Most people would be too embarrassed at their mistake to admit it, so kudos to you to help others learn from your mistake.

[@robomann72]

Just riding my motorcycle makes me more alert and focused. It’s like I drank a strong cup of coffee. I sometimes do find myself distracted. I don’t corner as well or my slow speed control is not as good. I quickly realize hey, that was not a smooth corner ! I find myself going through it in my mind. Slow, look, Press, and roll. The other day I was having a good day on the bike. I was very focused and it probably saved my life. I had just left the stoplight and began to go over the overpass and saw an accident ahead of me. The cars in front of me began to merge to one lane. I started to break and checked my rear view mirror and noticed the car behind me was moving way to fast. I hit the throttle and swerved to go between the cars in front of me. I was able to complete the swerve but was still hit from behind. It bent my rear fender. FYI I practice this skill a lot. We have heavy traffic here in Orlando.

[@Wildscarr]

Thanks for reaching out and sharing not only my video buy your experience as well. I know several people have expressed they have the same thing happen. So it's a common occurance. One thing I normally do every time before getting on a bit is to put my right glove on first. It's kind of like saying I'll do the right thing first in my head. Most of the time it works. 😎 Be safe all and keep the rubber side down!

[@MCrider]

Thanks for sharing your video with us. 👍🏻👍🏻🏍

[@rickdff62]

When I do my "walkaround" the bike checking the tires, blinkers, brake light, etc. is when I'm getting mentally ready to ride. While riding I always keep my eyes/head moving and try not to fixate on any one thing to prevent tunnel vision.

[@bobdecker2446]

When I re-entered the biking world l immediately started accessorizing and looking at all of the bluetooth devices available. That's when I realized, (at least in my case), that they would be nothing but a distraction for me. I treat riding like golfing, no phones allowed. Stay safe, gear up, and always have your ditch picked out!

[@tomyoung3087]

Yep had a real wake up call a few years ago,returning home from a week long trip on bike,was only two hours away from home,looking back I realize I was fatigued and not focused on ride,came up to a hairpin turn which I know well and entered it much faster than I had ever done before,only realized what I had done halfway through turn ,only reason I am here is no one was coming the other way in opposite lane ,I barely made it through turn and only made it through because I had drifted into other lane ,lots of sparks flying,bike leaned over to max limit etc.That experience scared the crap out of me and taught me a valuable lesson about fatigue,focus,and awareness.

[@amirfmaster2515]

Thank you Kevin, i'm thankful for you and your videos, they have saved my life many times over

[@chriscunha3246]

one way i like to get into a "mental zone" before i get on my bike, is watching one of these MCrider vids!! Theres ALWAYS something you can take away from what Kevin is saying... tips that might one day save your life...

[@TWA88T]

One of your best videos yet! Thank you for providing such in depth content.

[@mikegoff5531]

Wow, Kev! The best vid I've seen yet!! A couple of great lessons in one!

[@1stcarver]

Boy this one hits home! Scientifically it has been proven that 20 minutes is about the max amount of time the human mind can stay focused. For some of us it may be as little as 5 minutes. This requires us to re-focus on any task that takes longer than our individual attention span. We all loose focus from time to time. I know that I have missed turn offs, and only realized it further on down the road. I've experienced those situations where you look around, even in familiar territory, and not recognize where you are! Music helps to keep me focused, and I try to re-evaluate every few minutes in order to re-focus.

[@alkoos8485]

Great video Kevin I find when I'm not focused and I get on my bike starting the engine and just sit there listening to it gets me focused and it keeps me focused the whole time when I'm riding love the sound have a great holiday season you and you're family.

[@shaneelson]

Hi Kevin. Another great video. About two weeks ago I was out with a rider I really respect. We had been riding for about 6 or so hours, it wasnt hot but quite humid. We'de had an early lunch stop and about mid afternoon I started to 'crash' as my sugar levels went down. I was probably a little dehydrated as well. I suddenly realised I had gone some distance but not seen a thing. I was a bit embarrassed but I had to pull over. My riding buddy turned around when he realised I had pulled over. I think when he saw me devouring my last apple without breaths between bites, he knew what had happened. My concentration/focus exercise while riding is to start with my toes and work my way up to my forehead, asking each body part how its feeling. Unfortunately I didnt listen early enough this time. But on the upside, I forgot my pride and decided that stopping and loosing a bit of 'face' was a much better option than the alternative.

[@VideoInformation]

Thankfully not many instances of losing focus, but thanks for the advice, I will keep this in mind. Nearly had a crash on my other motorbike today, some guy opened the door while I was passing. So yeah, gotta remain focused.

[@philiphennings5167]

Awesome topic as usual. Thanks, Kevin for all you do. I personally thought of deer when I saw the yellow numbers because of your last video lol For me I always just catch myself and when I do I look straight ahead for a brief second and think about my route very thoroughly. It takes away all of the distracting thoughts and calms me down. You only have one job when riding. Get from A to B safely and wisely. Enjoying the ride, in my opinion, is something else entirely.

[@durgaprasad_adp3760]

Yep and these type of motivation is all we need. That mind exercise/test was very good.

[@vitalius_xiii]

as always, marvelous video about a topic nothing short of crucial importance :) answering your question at about 14:20 - yes, i did lose focus once and it did cost me my motorcycle driving license exam, which i failed miserably because of not being focused and letting my anxiousness/excitement get the better of me. i guess, it's a lesson I needed to learn, because if not at the exam, i might have lost my focus on the road and the consequences might have been way worse than taking my driving license exam again. thanks for what you're doing out there for all of us, Kevin. it really helps.

[@mylord9340]

Great video and tips. Glad both of you were not harmed. Motorcycle riding and neuroscience. Love it.

[@albertosbrolla8424]

Thanks for sharing, safety pays in many ways!👍

[@stevelookatherfn1085]

Wow, another great video! Your views and tips are not to be paid with money. I even say that you have saved lives already. Thank you!

[@dennisfish7172]

Hi Kevin. Thanks for the topic and advice. I agree we all have this problem occasionally. I did a similar error as James did. Only I started to turned left in front of traffic. I was thinking about a meeting I was heading to. Thanks again for helping to keep us alert and safe. Perch

[@michaelrmanley]

A little game I play when driving or riding is to look for "violators". Expired license plates, burned out 3rd brake lights, no turn signal lane changes or merges, etc. Keeps me a bit focused and helps me maintain focus.

[@danrahn9863]

I do the same thing, Michael. :)

[@garya3056]

Michael Manley Very interesting, Officer!

[@markbaum9615]

Do you stop at all doughnut shops as well.......

[@garya3056]

Mark Baum LMAO- Good one!

[@davealley2761]

I did the exact same thing: Green arrow: car on left goes left, car on right goes right , I go too...Fortunately, as he did, I was quicker than the oncoming left-turner. I ALMOST did it again another day...it won't happen again! Thanks for the great lesson!

[@bradleyalexander5821]

Great subject. All very good techniques for refocusing our mind. I especially like the deep breathing tip. Never thought of that. Kinda know what works for me and that surely will be most helpful. Thank again Kevin.

[@davidhayden6724]

Happy Thanksgiving Kevin! Great video. You always keep us thinking and improving. Thank you.

[@ruckus48]

Hey Kevin, my insightful wife tells me that the reason I probably enjoy riding so much is because it's a mindfulness exercise. It helps to reduce or even eliminate my anxiety for the duration of the ride.

[@Boxer1250RT]

Such an important subject - I waited 15 min hoping that you'd talk about the BREATHING Part, and you did! You are one hell of a Coach! If you ever have time watch this guy about breathing Wim Hof the Ice Man - Cheers!

[@2bikemikesguitartopics145]

Except for the emotional distraction, I have realized the daydream ocasionally. Mostly on long straight roads with no intersections. Once I see a sign of upcoming intersection this gets me back and I start looking as far left/right at that crossroad for traffic. I have seen traffic fail to stop at their signs when I had thru way priority. Also I throttle down slightly if there is cross traffic in sight. This has saved me once when they blew thru a stop. Being a little slower is easier to additionaly slow to avoid or emergency stop.

[@usablellc6735]

I did EXACTLY he same thing as the rider in the clip. I came off the bike but at a slow speed. Lessons? Yes mental lapse. But mostly I was amazed at how painful landing on your knee, even at 10 mph can be. For a while I wouldn't go out without riding pants but that becomes impractical in the New York City summer heat. But I never go out without a jacket and gloves and of course a helmet. But my "favorite" mental lapse was when I arrived home one day and got off the motorcycle without putting the kickstand down. The 800 pound Yamaha fell over to the left wedging me between it and the Triumph Bonneville. It was only with the help of a passerby that I was able to extricate myself. I don't remember what I hurt but I was limping around for a couple of days afterwards and needed to replace the left mirror which snapped off. I ride in New York City traffic, something that requires constant vigilance, but mental lapses are real. For me, the best way to avoid them is to ride just a little bit aggressively, maybe actively is a better term. It helps keep the focus.

[@tylerbryant2230]

I too like to listen to music while riding I think it helps me stay focused. Recently I took a long ride to visit my son he lives about 360 miles away. I thought what a great opportunity to listen to an audio book on the ride. Bad idea. I found myself focused on the book and not the road. I found myself actually loosing long stretches of the trip, not remembering traveling for miles while I listened to the book. I wont do that again.

[@BigSerg80]

I drive a big rig all day,and what I love about riding motorcycle is that I do not have things like cellphones , radio ,etc. To distract me and just focus. But anyone can make a mistake.

[@peterwood8317]

Thanks Kevin, good topic. We think we can't make these kind of mistakes until it actually happens. I accidentally ran a red light a few months ago. Fortunately, the intersection was quiet, but I spent a couple of weeks worrying about a fine and licence endorsement. The ticket never appeared, but of course, the outcome could have been much worse. The incident was a good wake-up call!

[@96BxelA]

Another valuable video Kev. Thanks

[@Rollie396]

Best lesson yet!This is something That affects all of us.

[@Paul-wy2wk]

Kevin - I really got a lot out of this video. As usual, there are always nuggets in every one you publish. Also, wanted to thank you for your encouragement to take the MSF basic course. I took it over the past 2 days and it was awesome. I learned a lot about applying "head and eyes up", cornering etc. The great thing is that I had a solid understanding of the principles based on your videos and the coach was super helpful in helping me take some of that understanding and apply it to my riding. I did particularly well on the slow maneuvers and swerving which I know was largely because I came into the course with many of your good lessons in mind. I used the Guide to practice quite a bit over the last month or so and it didn't take too long to at least get the very basics down. I want to thank you again for your hard work on these videos and the Guide - I know that they are helping a lot of people besides me!

[@MCrider]

Awesome Paul, great to hear. 👍🏻👍🏻🏍

[@kingfisherphil]

did the same as James today, road I was familiar also. Good advice Kevin. Thank you.

[@allenhuling598]

Great subject, great video....thanks! I am definitely a one task at a time kind of guy, knew it before, test confirmed it! Hope your Thanksgiving Day was awesome as well! atb

[@Dana2o11]

This was a good one. I’m a returning new rider so my focus seems to be always on. I suspect after a while though, complacency will set in and I’ll try to use some of these strategies. Thank You, Dana

[@alparush1891]

The safest loss of concentration I had was when I forgot where I parked my motorcycle

[@bradshaw2288]

lmbo!!!

[@michaelreyes2161]

What I try to do in red to green light intersections is to look on the opposite side of the intersection where the turning lane is occupied and I will proceed slow and activate low/high beam to get driver turning to my left his/her attention as I am going straight. It is not always a guarantee we as riders have to stay vigilant. Stay safe and thank you Kevin.

[@peterstokes54]

A trick taught in advanced driving/riding classes in the UK is to start a commentary to yourself of the road ahead. “Bus stop on the left, no bus so OK. Filling station coming up, is someone likely to pull out. Line of traffic coming towards me, watch for overtakes. “ and so on. Really helps focus and spots the idiots!

[@oklahomahank2378]

My brain read the yellow numbers as orange. One focus technique I use is that when I come into a town or congested area I reach down and touch the mirrors to remind to use them and be aware.

[@charlesmillersr.231]

What you said Kevin is so true. It's easy to get angry when cars do stupid things to make motorcycle riders upset. Let me share something. I was bringing my motorcycle home from the repair shop on my trailer. I stopped at a busy intersection and to my horror my cycle was laying on it's side about to fall off. My wife, son and I got out and were unable to get the cycle up on the trailer. The traffic was really backing up and many men passed by us but none offered to help. I looked behind me and a police officer was getting out of his cruiser. The first thing I said was that I was really sorry. In a real kind voice he said "I'm here to help you." He helped the push the motorcycle up the ramp and I thanked him. He made a u turn flipped on his blue lights and blew his siren once. I thought he was saying goodbye. When I looked back a couple of seconds later he had totally disappeared. As a Christian I am almost certain he was one of my angels. I had just told my wife that we were in big trouble. I was going to ride to the nearest parking lot but the battery was dead. The mechanic at the Honda dealership loaded my bike and obviously didn't have the front tire locked in my chalk or chuck. I hope it was an angel 😇 because that makes for a good story. Thanks for all of your awesome videos to keep me safe. Charlie

[@captnemomodelingzone7850]

Happy Thanksgiving. Yep I have done it. I did not even see the light. Thank you Kevin I appreciate you buddy.

[@nonaubiz8939]

I sometimes play a game I call, "what do I see" when I'm exhausted after a strenuous day, etc. I will pick a point as far in the distance as I can see and try to see how many moving "things" I can spot. If I see deer in the field, buzzards picking on a carcass on the side of the road, rabbit running across the road, cars in parking lots moving towards the road I am traveling, etc etc etc. This helps keep me aware of things that could potentially make a quick change and place themselves in my lane. When I reach the far goal, I just play it again.

[@bruceherman405]

when in area's where there is increased traffic, cross streets, intersections, alleyways and the like, I'll slow to a speed below the legal limit for increased reaction time - my Road King has no 'infotainment' center, GPS or anything which could distract me... I honestly cannot recall the last time I had a 'close call' - and it's only through regular training and training exercises that I've achieved the ability to always be situationally aware of my surroundings … I had one accident where I allowed my self to be distracted by a pretty girl standing at a bus stop - I walked away from that relatively unhurt (couple scrapes and bruises) that was over 10 years ago - I learned my lesson and have been super vigilant ever since -

[@Myndi78]

I am so bad at daydreaming and getting lost in my thoughts, it is the main reason why I will never buy me a literbike. But at the same time I feel that riding is good training for staying in the moment mentally - like meditation.

[@jimgravante6497]

Hey Kevin. I've found what helps me stay focused is to repeat this saying in my head, "where am I and what am I doing?" I found it even more necessary on familiar roads I travel frequently. As a CDL holder, I was trained to frequently check my rear view mirrors, to know who is around me. What this also does is break the visual scene in front of me, keeps me from daydreaming and helps to stay focused.

[@fransdav5573]

Kevin, thanks I did not realised that I sometimes got unfocused on my bike, but I think I will think about this video before I start my bike going to and from work.

[@michaelvelasquez905]

Good video. I've made that same intersection mistake in a car. I'm gonna be more aware of that mistake now.

[@SuperBoomer95]

I had an accident last year from lack of focus. Just finished a group ride after work, and went on my way home. Was tired and hungry, lost my focus around a corner I didn't really know, and rode threw the ditch and into a chain link fence gate. Also I love listening to music while riding. Keeps me focused on boring roads. But gets turned off when I get to a really twisty road were I need more focus.

[@robertmunro4846]

It just shows you i had to look at that a couple times Kevin. I think the worst is wen your getting tired you can't focus the same, like the videos Kevin cheers mate ROBERT from Scotland 😄😄

[@snbi3910]

Happy Thanksgiving Kevin. Great topic!

[@antondahl8945]

I've ridden about 750,000 miles on streetbikes. I made my living in the motorcycle industry. I don't claim to be the fastest or most skilled rider out there. But my focus is good. I've always realized that one mistake can very easily be my last. Riding in the zone of concentration and with a real survival instinct is part of riding. We must constantly be using strategy,predicting what may happen and leaving ourselves an out. Trusting other vehicles on the road to do what they should,is deadly. We must always be prepared for them to make the worst possible move. But hey,this is part of the joy and challenge of riding. I ride courteously ,wear the best full coverage helmet and gear. And I like the quietest exhaust. Never engage in road rage or road games with other motorists...they will always win. Focus on your own safety and getting home without incident. I like the saying,"ride like a man".

[@reallyoldfart6540]

Great video! Failed the test. Daydreaming is something I have caught myself doing, it is like you can set a rule, if you are in that state where you need to pee at night but you think I can just lay here for a little while longer, I set a rule, get up and go, call it my "coma rule," so my rule is no daydreaming. And when it comes to the herd mentality of going when everyone else is going, check your mirrors; not long ago some guy behind thought it was time to go, honking the horn because I wasn't moving like the ones on either side, the light was still red, just like in that video. Being in too much of a hurry, is losing focus. Once when young and stupid I drove my bike like an idiot after a girl dumped me, seriously excessive speeds, ran red lights too; rule, they aren't worth dying over.

[@nathanielbruce3778]

Just a little over a month ago I had to go make a trip the only means of transportation to had was my bike and I was making a four hour trip to see my sister and my father's funeral unfortunately my bike decided it wasn't going to make it it broke down but during that trip I was able to keep my focus and I do not realize that not everyone can do that especially in a very emotional state that can be when losing a parent but I found listening to a little bit of music like you do and the breathing bring it out helped a lot and just not thinking about the situation on hand just on my bike and riding

[@faisalaljalahmah7884]

I always check google map to know the best route to my destination before riding. Happy Thanksgiving Kevin and all MCriders

[@marksteffens305]

Great video. In my car I came to a red light, stopped, looked both ways and then drove as if it was a stop sign. Years later I came to an intersection and light was green and did the same thing. Obviously mind is on automatic versus actively paying attention.

[@andyostertag]

The most important tool for me I believe is focusing on every immediate vehicle that could cause a bad ride and using my decades of past car driving experience to anticipate their movements driving there vehicle vicariously, and reading their focus when I can. And my wife of 32 years did just what you did before we were married in her car driving to work one afternoon through the busiest 4 Lane hwy in the county and not realizing until she didn't recognize the surroundings on the otherside. To this day I believe God spared her that day and kept the cars away to make me the better person that I am because of her, and to help so many others through the last years of their life, as she has worked her entire nursing career in geriatrics

[@cmdr_talikarni]

Living with what is currently called ADHD, I have since learned to squash it for the most part and live with the rest. Now in my 40s and been driving since i was 14, I have some suggestions on how to help keep from getting overly distracted... Familiarity breeds complacency, you drive the same road every day to and from work or on a regular basis in your local area, the drive is always the same so it becomes easy to get distracted with music, day dreaming, phones, etc. When something out of the ordinary happens, especially a serious event like a very bad driver, even the most calm people tend to overreact because the deviation is so far off from their usual drive. A few suggestion I have: Change your route on occasion, even if traffic is heavier and/or takes longer to get home (or take a little time to explore some side neighborhood you've driven past 500 times but never into/through). Every year or two, (for some vehicles and bikes), change the exhaust to get a different tone, the minor changes help keep your focus on the road. Change to a radio station or music style you don't mind but normally don't listen to (I usually listen to classic rock but occasionally switch to country). Even something different like accelerating a bit faster and/or shifting later on an otherwise typical trip can help mix things up. Stop at a gas station along your route that you never stop at just to get something to snack on or a drink. If your bike (or car/truck) is automatic, learn to drive a manual (my daily driver 06 Silverado 5.3L has a manual trans). You do not need to make every trip a "track day on the road", but at the same time doing the same thing over and over, days and weeks on end will always lead to distracted driving, regardless if it is a bike or car.

[@egjr0765]

Great video and some really strong points to consider. I would ride with a group of guys and we have CB radios on our bikes. one of the guys would get on the radio and talk nonstop to the point of distraction for us. Someone would yell 'bingo' and we would switch to another channel and leave him behind talking to himself. The Woodlands.

[@chrismoody1342]

I’ve almost made the same mistake as James. I was just kinda staring ahead and both the left turn lane and the right lane started moving, drawing me into a reflex of going. Thankfully the oncoming left turn lanes movement cued me into my mistake. Fortunately I’d didn’t make it much past the crosswalk and stopped. Most of the time before I even take off on a green light I check left and right to make sure no one is a red light runner. I also have clear reminder to focus on the business of riding; a rider was killed at entrance to my neighborhood and I can’t pull out from that stop without recalling the fatal accident.

[@triplem9805]

I discovered something in July when on my first long-ish ride in Europe, mainly on expressways/autobahns. I'm from the UK where we drive on the left, and I'm sure the concentration required to stay safe on the 'wrong' side of the road, especially when overtaking, helped me stay mentally alert even if my knees and backside were aching. Also, I think the mere fact of being on the bike rather than driving contributed to this effect, plus my bike - a naked middleweight - isn't over-comfortable. At the end of a 500 mile/800km day, 200 miles of which was back in the UK, I couldn't believe I still felt wide-awake and almost as if I could do it again (apart from the aforementioned backside and knees; I'm no spring chicken!). I'm certain I would have felt very different after doing the same journey in my relatively large, comfortable, quiet car.

[@neiloakey5183]

Great vid.. and the game is a perfect illustration..

[@donaldmoe3286]

When I ride, I often listen to music from Sirius XM channel 66, called "Watercolors", since it plays mostly instrumentals, or to recordings stored in the Garmin GPS. I find them much less distracting than vocals, which my brain processes trying to understand the lyrics, especially when the artist doesn't enunciate clearly or in a foreign language. I started listening this way several years ago while still working as a computer programmer in an office with other people talking nearby and was able to stay focused on my task much better.

[@garya3056]

Great video, Kevin. 🏍👍🏍

[@blujack100]

A great topic. It’s too easy to become complacent and a daydream sneaks in. Thanks

[@denisewildfortune4058]

Great topic Kevin!

[@Steve-kt3qo]

Well Kevin this was back in March. I was riding home from work at night on my new 2016 sportster1200 custom. I was stoked!!! I took a corner too fast and ran wide and hit the curb,went over the bike and broke my tibia and totaled the Harley. Lesson learned slow it down. P.S. it was also my first time riding at night something I wish they had covered on the basic rider's course

[@kuhndj67]

Riding is a really enjoyable and engaging mechanical task... and I find if I'm not careful I can get sucked into the joy of the task of riding or some other distraction and stop paying due attention to the details that keep me safe. The most jarring mistake I recall making was taking a ride in the Finger Lakes of NY, enjoying the view and the bike and I blasted through a stop sign (that I knew was there since I'd ridden this road hundreds of times) at an intersection where crossing traffic was not required to stop (and had a 55mph speed limit). I was lucky that there was no traffic... but if there had been - I'd have had a REALLY bad day.

[@JOHN51977]

Riding to work in the morning is my cup of coffee. If that doesn't, get your mind awake, nothing will.

[@hazmechanic7996]

i didn't even notice the yellow numbers but daydreaming feels goooooood!!

[@fajardolfgames]

I do get on my knees but not for my motorcycle but to pray to God and ask for focus and protection.

[@hbarwickjr]

Amen, that's the first thing to do!

[@ugetridofit]

Amen to that!

[@cisium1184]

Yeah I have to cross myself before I take off in the morning. I'm not the greatest Catholic in the world or anything; it's more like if you ask for divine protection you also get focused on protecting yourself. Sort of a team effort. Coincidentally, Saint Columbanus' feast day was November 24. He is the patron saint of motorcyclists.

[@ianhausser8771]

Amen!

[@bryanmahon7866]

AWESOME... All it takes is a minute, or two.. I just had a thought of laying your pride, and confidence at the front door, imagine yourself leaning over at the front door, setting pride, and confidence down at the threshold, and getting on your knees, and praying.

[@ismailpblr]

Nice topic, thanks Kevin

[@calderon551]

Happens to all of us from time to time; I start thinking stuff other than the ride and my surroundings.

[@gerdine9258]

This focus problem is seriously one of the reasons I am still hesitant to trust myself on a motorcycle. I am a daydreamer and a(n) (over)thinker. I loose track much more than I like whilde driving my car (currently taking motorcycle lessons) and it makes me afraid I will be the cause of my own death sometime. So this video was a very nice one to show that yes, losing focus is a serious danger, but it also is not the same as death.

[@djohnson3678]

most excellent thought consciousness i have seen in a while. i was more focused on the larger number [ not necessarily the more of the lesser inline number as like 1,2,3. was more on the bigger sized number. the yellow was like , huh ?? , and i was like, oh, got to choose. lol the second time was a little faster, the third time was on spot. not bragging, it just was on spot, because i was ready for it.. . . if i was not ready for it, i would have been crossed eyed. lol yeah, i saw the red light there. he moved because he saw the car move to take a right, and the light turned green for the left [ on the left hand side] , then he was like '' oh time to move '' . i know i have done that before, in a automobile, and have seen it happen to other people as well. it is a scary game with those lights and moving cars. as for that intersection, change is hard to get use to. glad that you caught that before making an unwanted decision. . . . . . as most bike riders do......[ oh , my bike is faster than a cage, i can do that .] and maybe something happen, or maybe nothing happens,, but good to see that you decided to be the '' kool guy '' and go the long way around to get to the handle. awesome bike !! awesome video !! 3000 thumbs up !! for , demonstration, safety, and control .

[@Rettequetette]

Wow... I made the exact same mistake as James - during my riding lesson, lol. The instructor was not amused. I had just been on the bike for an hour, so maybe that's why I wasn't fully focused anymore. Luckily it was in broad daylight and there wasn't too much traffic. Also: the car drivers were really nice to me :-) The "breathing exercise" works really well. I use it a lot. I'm quite sure it also helped me pass my exams.

[@ThePalmatron]

Really interesting....Thanks!

[@worldofzap]

As I figured, completely failed your test. I can’t / will not multitask, I learned years ago it people who say they do, often do their work very poorly. “No job is so important, no service is so urgent that we cannot take the time to perform our work safely.” We have this motto in the telephone industry. I believe it spells out concentrating on the task at hand.

[@SweetartistacademyAuPerth]

One of your best video, thank you. But after counting those numbers ,I wonder if I should ride at all, I got them all wrong, couldn't concentrate. I should be dead long time ago. scares me! to keep me focus on long drive I put 20 minutes timer on my phone, when it rings at don't cancel it, I renew it until I stop. My phone is on a bracket on the handlebar. safe to reach. and I think we all have dreaming moments, but not enough space in hell/ heaven for all of us bikers, Thanks for that.

[@Final_Turn]

I ride for fun - on weekends. The day I am not being to focus well, I postpone my ride ✔

[@SirLoinofBeef235]

Don't try to do too much. That estimation of drive time on Mapquest? Double it and plan accordingly. Don't try to shake your head in attempts to fight off fatigue. Take that extra stop even if you don't need gas. Don't telegraph yourself into trouble looking at that good "stuff"

[@supersafarisurfer4489]

chutta woolco I’ve done this exact thing. Your absolutely correct, pushing on when you should really just take a break. Good one.

[@cisium1184]

"Don't try to shake your head in attempts to fight off fatigue. Take that extra stop even if you don't need gas." A Thermos of tea would be good for this, esp. now with the cold weather.

[@NinjaGranny001]

I had a "moment" like that years ago. I was a newbie rider, aged 18, out riding near sunset. I simply didn't see a crossroads. I was heading directly into the setting sun and although I had sunglasses on, the junction and it's signs were in silhouette against the low sun in the summer sky. I literally flew through the crossroads with no reduction in speed and only realised what I had done when I was on the other side of it. I was EXTREMELY lucky that there was nobody else around at the time. I pulled over, collected my thoughts, then turned around and went back through it the other way, then turned around again and took a far slower approach to it, looking to see if there was ANY way I could have seen it earlier. Guess what? There WAS! Sure, the junction lines were very hard to see, and the triangular "Give Way" sign couldn't be read, BUT; there was a short row of houses at right angles to the road I was riding in and that sign WAS still visible as a black shape up a pole! Here in the UK, an upside-down triangle has only ONE meaning; GIVE WAY!!!!! Lesson learned, mercifully at no cost to anyone. I had to admit it, I had well and truly lost my focus that time. Now, MY "Focus Ritual" is my handlebar clamp. A cliche it may be, but it bears the legend "Live to Ride, Ride to Live". Each time I glance down at it, (it IS pretty!) I am reminded of the wisdom of those words!

[@ugetridofit]

Embarrassing enough, I too suffered from lack of focus. I pulled my bike in the garage shut it off, while still sitting there i pulled out my phone to check messages and reply. When done I went to get off the bike and leaned her to the left to quickly to get off when all of a sudden the full wight of my bike was on my right leg. I had forgotten to put the kickstand down. It took all that I had in my left leg to make a slow controlled fall to the ground. Whew!! thankfully nothing broke.