Question). Are MOTORCYCLES dangerous? Answer). No more Dangerous than A LOADED GUN!

I'm not trying to say that the risk of riding a motorcycle is low but I don't believe statistics paint a clear picture, here's why!
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PATREON. / stuartfillingham
#aremotorcycledangerous
#motorcyclesare dangerous

[@bbumble4117]

Spot on sir. Early in my motorcycling life I learned about “risk compensation”: the safer people feel, the more risks they take. The more driver and rider aids - air bags, abs, traction control, wheelie control, crumple zones, seat belts …. - the less careful road users can become. The situation is not helped by car entertainment systems, SatNavs, mobile phones and other distractions. The consequences fall heaviest, of course, on the most vulnerable, notably pedestrians, cyclists, horse riders and motorcyclists, and on their family and friends, and the emergency services faced with clearing up afterwards. The only sensible course is defensive riding. Expect and plan for stupidity, selfishness and inattention in other road users and be pleasantly surprised when it doesn’t happen. When in doubt, don’t. And do your bit by avoiding unnecessary risks, including making sure that your bike and biking gear are fit for purpose. If not, biking will continue to face ever greater controls and barriers.

[@bbumble4117]

I received this advice as part of a motorcycle training course in the 1980s. It has more than stood the test of time.

[@TacticalHamsterDance]

I agree. I even considered buying a worse motorcycle for short trips specifically due to risk compensation (but have decided against as I don't think it's worth the money). And maybe I'm just projecting but I think most driver might be more careful and considerate when met with consideration after they do a mistake (which happens) rather than being violently confronted about it. Riding while pissed off is, IMO, more dangerous, and I would not like people like that near me, so I try to anticipate and let them. Do I always DO that? Probably not, I'm not perfect, I'm just doing my best to ride defensively.

[@iamomariqbal]

"Always expect other people on the road to be crazy ", my fathers no. 1 advice when I was learning to drive.

[@truthseeker8483]

Today in 2022 that is actually true....

[@rasingh3878]

your father is right 100 percent.

[@borderlands6606]

Ride as if you are invisible, has always been good advice. Given the amount of delivery vans checking their sat navs and numpties looking at their phones, a motorcycle is about 20th in the hierarchy of attention.

[@paulhaggisman3238]

A. A lot of them are B. Good reason not to ride bikes

[@alexclarke5026]

Hi Stu, it is the age old question. Back in the early noughties I got into a conversation with a police accident investigator up at seaways cafe, you may know him, he rides a zzr 1400 when not on duty. He told me that 21 out of the 22 motorcycle deaths recorded in the East Riding and North Yorkshire that year were down to loss of control in corners. He explained that they were mainly sports bike riders and that speed itself wasn't the issue but inappropriate speed for the corners they died on. I think some of us life long motorcyclists are here by good fortune, we learned from crashes as teenagers that we were lucky to walk away from until we learnt to respect bikes and road conditions. For new riders training is the key to avoid the kind of tumbles we took in our teens.

[@kevintracey4644]

I use the same gun analogy when I respond to the ‘motorbikes are dangerous’ comment. You’re spot on with your advice to ride within your capability, and I certainly agree with treating other road users with caution. Stay safe!

[@Johnny-sj9sj]

Agreed! Plus paranoia is a state of heightened awareness and everyone! Yes, everyone is going to pull out on you! Or in my case someone doing a U-turn and a head on. Never mind, five fractures and a written off Norton Commando on my part but it paid for the house, which I signed over to the wife, as you do. The older I get, the more likely I am to ride like a pussy, but being in my 74th year and 57 years in the saddle I must be doing something right 😈 PS: spot-on with the gun analogy! Just beware of anyone else who may be carrying 🤡🇬🇧

[@leeonardodienfield402]

my guns or bike never hurt anyone!

[@johnnybgood7812]

Excellent video as always Uncle Stu. I’m not providing excuses for careless motorists here but I do remember some research that showed that the “Sorry mate, I didn’t see you” defence may have some truth in it as it showed that the brain can sometimes filter out things that it doesn’t consider a threat. So it’s not just the sheer size of a lorry, van or car that stops us pulling out in front of it, it’s the subconscious perceived threat to self. As a pedal cyclist I’ve known drivers pull into my path just feet ahead of me and I’ve been able to see the shock on their faces when the brain has finally registered my presence even though they’d been looking straight at me all along. Scary stuff but my golden rule is to never, ever assume you’ve been seen.

[@brianperry]

Beware all Cagers.... I have a book published in conjunction with the BBC by Tim Monaghan in 1982 called ..''Sorry Mate I Didn't See You''.

[@tony_w839]

The brain can also 'see' a memory of a view, if a look is less than 0.5 second. The brain is saving energy as it takes more energy to process a look than to see a memory.

[@johnnybgood7812]

@@tony_w839 Not heard that before. Interesting. Apparently the reason we see satellites in the sky as a hesitant movement is because our inherited memory as humans tells us they shouldn’t be there too.

[@Volksplane1]

Watch a Hawks gaze time, or scan pattern. Look pause, look elsewhere pause. He takes time to absorb the image. At a Junction if we flash our heads left to right really fast our minds can make up part of the image. The CAA ask us to use a modified scan with flying as collision is a newer enemy now. Worth us practicing a good scan in the car and on the bike. A scan pattern must have enough time to absorb the true image. Enjoy the videos Stuart.

[@brianperry]

Last Saturday I had a ''Sorry Mate I Didn't See You'' ...fortunately for me I saw it coming... A guy drove straight into the roundabout without even slowing down, let alone stopping!... The truth is motorist don't see us. Even with both headlights lights ablaze. they are completely oblivious of us. In the 70/80s there was a motorcycle awareness advertisement on TV...''Think Bike''...it was a waste of time then and it still is.... I know it sounds cynical but experience has taught me never to trust Cagers....

[@mikecartlidge5355]

Way back in 1971 at the age of 16 I was about to begin a life of motorcycling, my Father having never had anything to do with bikes asked my Uncle who had ridden for years to have a word with me, one of the things he told me had stayed with me 51 years......he said, remember any silly bugger can open a throttle up but it's a clever fella that knows when to shut it down. That among other survival skills I have learned over the years have seen me enjoy motorcycles as an everyday form of transport for those 51 years, never owned a car in my life.

[@TedSwerve]

Very good observations here. After 40 years of unbroken riding I can completely empathise with you Stuart. I now ride a new Triumph rocket 3, why? Because I want to. Despite all the power (and this is my second rocket) it’s easy to ride it steadily and responsibly, never speed through villages, always watch out for cars emerging from side roads, hands on clutch and brake, even if you think they’ve seen you, roll off speed at junctions, just to give yourself more chance of an unexpected manoeuvre. Always adapt your riding to your own advantage. And most importantly ride for yourself, not to prove something to another rider…. Oh and have fun.

[@Joeblogs111]

That's me I cover both clutch and brake in anticipation of car coming out of a junction and I try to look at the drivers eyes to see where they are looking and if they have noted that I am there but that's if they are actually bothered by presence

[@garycarr2530]

Your video Stuart is so relevant to me at the moment I’m going to be 60 in a few weeks time and have always had an interest in motorcycling and last weekend I did my CBT and now planning on doing my motorcycle test. I can’t deny I had my own concerns about starting motorcycling at this time of my life. But I’m sure I’m going to enjoy learning a new skill and looking forward to riding many miles on whatever ever machine I get as my first bike . Great video thanks

[@ThiefOfNavarre]

You'll be fine. I sometimes think it's better to get into activities like this later in life because your not as hot-headed as you are in your youth. I didn't take my test till I was 35 and think I'm a more even handed rider because of it

[@SteeeveO]

As long as your first bike isn't a Yamaha R1M or Aprilia RSV4 you'll be fine. Even a Royal Enfield Interceptor is going to be quicker than most tin boxes...good luck with the test.

[@cannismagnus1403]

I can relate to your story Gary. I passed my Mod 2 in November 2017 and had my 60th birthday two months later. You're never too old. I can recommend continuing your journey with Bikesafe and the IAM courses.

[@littlet-rex8839]

I grew up on bikes but only bought my own 8 years ago, I still think of myself as a newbie and have much to learn. My biggest fear was dealing with deer because we have herds running all over. I practiced my reaction to a deer and so far I've dodged 3. I did hit a dog doing 70mph, I stayed up , it was my fault, I saw it in plenty of time, next time I will stop and pet the dog ( they are Sooooo unpredictable)

[@Mark-el8sb]

Great advice Stu, especially driving at no more than 70% of your and your bike's capabilities, and not trusting other road users to always do the correct thing. Only one thing I would add, and that is to keep your cool if another road user fails to drive correctly (as we expected, right?). Road rage has no place in motorcycling, and reflects poorly on all involved.

[@markymarknj]

I treat riding as a Chess game played in motion, and I always try to outsmart the idiots out there... :)

[@brianperry]

How to avoid becoming a motorcycle accident/death statistic...Treat ''all'' cagers as possible assassins especially on roundabouts , junctions etc!. .The refrain .''Sorry Mate I didn't See You....comes to mind. All that expensive fancy 'safety' riding gear won't save you if your ego takes over.... I remember a police motorcycle patrol officer once comment ''It doesn't matter whose fault it was if you're dead''. I've been using motorcycles since 1962, in that time I've been T-boned twice by Cagers whose spacial awareness wasn't what it should have been. Plus, I've fell off a couple of times...it hurts like hell!. With increasing age the ability to bounce has also diminished.!! Do I still have 'Hooligan'' moments, the exuberance of youth, Yes! but only on roads with minimal traffic, good surfaces etc!.... Here in Spain we Bikers are lucky in that respect....The fact is Car drivers are the largest danger too bikers, they always have. With in-car distractions, the huge increase in traffic congestion, the consequent inpatients by many, bikers must stay ever vigilant and focused at all times.... Safe riding to all Bikers

[@scottt8258]

Another excellent and well considered video uncle Stu. To my mind, and having been the not at fault party in an accident in the last year, the biggest danger in riding a motorcycle is the rest of the general public. As we are coming out of lockdowns etc here in Sydney, the amount of people on the road who have not driven in 12 months etc is rising. And they HAVE FORGOTTEN HOW TO DRIVE! Within the last month, the amount of times I’ve had to grab a handful of brakes due to some numpty over shooting intersections, not using indicators and failing to see a 6’5” 130kg man on a bright red RE meteor, is uncountable. This means that, for me, motorcycles have become somewhat more dangerous as I now have to think for myself AND everyone else. Stay safe and thank you for the sane sensible and well considered videos.

[@andrewmeads6136]

I am a new rider and went through the same thought process before deciding to learn, at the ripe old age of 47. I’ve been riding pedal cycles on the road all my life. The risks are similar and in some respects perhaps worse. I follow the approach Stu sets out. So far, I have found one of the biggest issues has been people reversing onto the road from driveways. Riding in an anticipatory manner, just as I do on my road bike, helps to mitigate that particular risk too. I had the same thoughts when choosing my first big bike. I went for a T120. Leaving aside personal opinions on that particular bike (I found choosing difficult, if fun!), many people would suggest I should have gone for something “smaller”. The thing is that, when you look at it, the weight difference was not that great between, say, a Street Twin or Interceptor, and the T120. It’s up to my common sense as to how far I twist the throttle. I ride well within its limits and mine. I therefore reasoned it was no more dangerous to get the bike I wanted than it was to get something “smaller”. To my mind, it’s all about a sense of self awareness and the appreciation of your environment. Lastly, I am a keen car enthusiast. I have a classic car, which is also risky to some people’s minds. But riding has certainly made me a better driver already.

[@brianperry]

Many years ago, I believe it was a license tester commented motorcycle riders usually make better, more aware car drivers. regarding engine capacity... Two guys I knew in the sixties were killed on 250cc bikes...awearness is all!

[@goldenageofdinosaurs7192]

I’ve ridden bicycles since I was a kid & have continued all my life. I know that the need to constantly be aware of hazards has made me a better driver & motorcyclist.

[@andrewmeads6136]

@@goldenageofdinosaurs7192 Agreed. Going downhill on a road bike can see speeds of 40mph +. In Lycra and a light helmet!

[@rasingh3878]

Just got my MC license at 53 and i am in Japan. I went through a school and they taught me a lot. The best thing I think is to anticipate the traffic both vehicles and pedestrians. The average road speed here is 50 Kms/h but most of the people are doing around 65. I went for a Honda CBR 400 R for my first bike and it is fun.

[@28YorkshireRose12]

I make a similar argument when people people say things like "Fog on the A1 caused a multi vehicle pile-up" - That was a favourite back in the 1970s. I always pointed out that fog doesn't cause accidents! People cause accidents! Because they fail to behave according to the conditions - The same is also true of snow, rain, or ice. A friend of mine died in a motorcycle accident when he was a mere 18 years old, he had a very mild 125cc Honda, nice enough little bike, for commuting to work, but on a weekend, he went a bit "bullet-nut" and pushed the envelope, until one foggy, frosty night when he went out with his best mate - A regular, even if not frequent event. On this occasion, he apparently "pushed it a bit" in his usual way, but failed to take account of the conditions. It was at a particularly tight right hand bend just outside York. The road surface was heavily glazed from the HGVs which used that road, but Eric hadn't factored that into his actions. According to his mate, Eric came off the road in a dead straight line, almost as if he hadn't even tried to turn the corner. People than, blamed the bike as being "dangerous", and added that the road was "dangerous" and that the weather was "dangerous". No one else died there that night. None of the above actually caused the accident, and if Eric had been at home watching telly, that accident would not have happened. In reality, it was simply that Eric had failed to take account of, and to mitigate against the inherent dangers. That was where the real danger laid. Inherent dangers only become real when human beings are involved, and fail to take account of the risk factors, or allow hubris to fog their common sense.

[@marcolibanore3367]

Sir, this is the video I needed the most, much more than any Interceptor 650 maintenance/mod videos (as I'm considering it as the long-keep bike I might have since I'm 22). Many folks ask me "why don't you buy a Ninja 350, wait 2 years and upgrade to a Z900?" Because I want to enjoy the ride, and enjoy my life continuing after it! I know you can go crazy even on a kid's tricycle, but I think that the ability to discern which bike is more suitable for your driving style influences as much as the "need to fire that loaded gun", using your example. Many bikers don't really realize that a certain type of bike gets you in the mentality of doing certain bullshits or not doing them at all. Once again, thanks for a top-notch video. Ride safe man and greetings from Italy Bonus You should start a book reading podcast or what, that voice is truly soothing!

[@stevew9810]

Great video with some good advice. I'm a relative newbie as I've mentioned before, I used to ride in my teens but only got round to taking my full bike test last year aged 49. I bought an Interceptor, which is more than enough for me - it's still faster than most cars, especially up to legal speed limits. I learned a lot on my way to gaining my licence last year, the training was really good and I didn't realise for example how bad my lane discipline at roundabouts had become over the years of driving (been driving since I was 17). So from that respect it was a really good refresher for me. I've also learned quite a lot from youtube videos from a selection of vloggers. Anticipation, Anticipation, Anticipation. It doesn't matter if you're the one in the right in an accident if you end up dead or seriously injured. Just try your best to not put yourself into the position that a car driver can hit you (ie. don't sit in their blind spots, sit just behind them on a dual carriageway if you can't overtake, rather than next to them - so then you have room in front for them to switch lanes without it causing you an issue etc). At my age, I'm past the "must go fast all the time" stage of my life, so I tend to ride far more sensibly than I would have in my twenties for sure. I also choose to NOT listen to music etc while riding. For two reasons really. One, I don't want any distractions and like to be able to hear as much as I can from the environment around me - and two, I ride for pleasure - I'm never in a hurry when I ride, so the natural noises are all part of the experience and I think music would kinda ruin it for me.

[@simoncarson6327]

Wise words Stuart! I've always subscribed to the 'treat everyone else as if they're trying to kill you' idea. The biggest asset in our armoury is experience, which as we all know, is hard-won!

[@lewsoltis5142]

Thank you for another fine video Stuart! I live in Pittsburgh Pennsylvania and, as in most other US cities, we have our share of aggressive (stupid) drivers. In 50 years of safe motorcycling, I’ve stayed accident-free by always treating my fellow motorists like they are total idiots and likely to do the dumbest possible maneuver. I’m rarely disappointed.

[@neilbenton1152]

Exactly what I do my friend always expect the worst ! Speed triple owner England 😉

[@brake53]

I passed my HGV back in 1976. Advice given me at the time was, "Always remember motorists are selfish, impatient and aggressive". Still true!

[@Planet-Bertie]

I’ve always thought that before one embarks on learning to drive a car, one should first learn to ride a motorcycle.

[@kronop8884]

The way I look at this after 35 years of riding motorcycles is that for many, especially new riders, they reach a point where the fun factor of riding starts to exceed their skill level and they end up hurt. The other concern is your fellow motorists that seem to be selectively blind to motorcycles which means you as a motorcyclist have to proactively think about what everyone else might be doing around you to avoid getting hurt. These two factors combined with a lack of a protective metal shell and other passive safety features fond in a car is what results in the statistics, it’s more likely that you will be involved in an accident per driven mile and when it happens it’s more likely that you will get hurt.

[@brianperry]

I couple of years ago a 'cager' after looking straight at me, eye to eye contact, pulled into my path....after I used a few Anglo-Saxon expressions about him being an auto erotic..(rhymes with Banker).. he went on his merry way. I was riding a white faired Honda VFR, headlights on. I was wearing a white crash helmet and a predominately white jacket, he still didn't see me...

[@kronop8884]

@@brianperry Typical, had a near death experience 20 some years go en route to Isle of Man on an obnoxiously loud and bright yellow MuZ Skorpion Sport (he must have heard me, that bike usually set car alarms off) when a car driver decided to change his mind and NOT turn right after all sverving back into the lane, forced me over a traffic island splitting both rims in the process, made it to the races on a borrowed GSX400E.

[@steve00alt70]

at least we have airbag vests if we do come off.

[@johnDukemaster]

I use the same! Funny! But then, I've been riding motorcycles since -83. A lifetime! Not ready yet though. And all this "speed kills" nonsense. It's not! It's the lack of skills and maturity. Important to keep the distance to other vehicles around one self. And as I say to my son, who is a relatively new motorcyclist, ride as if you are invisible. Thank you mr Fillingham!

[@commonsense718]

Totally agree on this. When you get the spider sense and build an awareness zone around you. Riding a motorcycle made me a better car driver too, more aware.

[@snufflehound]

"Speed kills" is not nonsense. Most motorcycle fatalities involve excessive speed.

[@derekcole5593]

I bought a motorcycle, and a stick... I've used the bike a lot but seemed to have wasted my money on the stick... Once again Stu, a grand video! Ps. 99% of Belgiums have more than the average number of legs!

[@rickydowns1289]

Great video as always Stu. I agree that a lot of it is how you choose to ride. A piece of advice my instructor gave me a few years back (and always comes to me when I ride) is “assume that you are invisible to everyone else on the road”.

[@garybrown4854]

Make me laugh when people describe certain roads as " dangerous " roads are not dangerous , it's the people on them that are regardless of the mode of transport , if you get out of bed in the morning you are in immediate danger , having said that most people die in a bed 😁 live your life ,have fun, look out for idiots , ride as safe as possible 👍

[@luckyeddy5098]

90% of the danger comes from car/lorry drivers. Why not make the CBT an integral part of the driving licence? It would give everyone a good awareness of what a rider faces on the road, and if you can't pass a CBT you shouldn't be driving a car in the first place. Got my licence late at 45 years old, now 68 and not been on my pride and joy for at least 10 years, the last near miss did it for me.

[@-waz-773]

I tell them that it is safer than an e-bike. Ryan has a great video on this topic. Bigger profile, better breaks, brighter lights, clothing including protectors and so on... 😀

[@grahamearl4502]

Great analogy Stuart, and spot on he mark. I teach Emergency Response Driving and so many students come to the course thinking they will be taught how to drive fast, they all seem a little disapointed when I tell them they are going to be taught how to drive safely. A good 80% of the course revolves around hazard awareneess and many are very surprised at how much they actually don't take in when they are driving normally. I can count myself lucky as Ive never had a 'contact' with another road user on any of my bikes, been caught out a couple of times on tricky road surfaces with a few minor "off's" but have had a few knocks in cars and when Ive analysed the circumstances it's been in part due to the sense of being more "protected" in the car and not having paid sufficient attention to what was going on around me. I always feel 'alive' when Im riding.

[@niceviewoverthere4463]

Fighting women off with sticks? Never done that. I have however survived 42 years of motorcycling without injury. There certainly parallels between women and motorbikes. Both can cause serious grief but both can treat us to the best feelings ever! Depends on how we treat them I reckon - and choosing the right one :)

[@jjnewman65]

Brilliant analogy 👏

[@bobstevens9040]

Wise words and sage advice from Stuart as always. People... take heed of this man , he casts a sober eye over the febrile world we inhabit.

[@grahamclutterbuck583]

Spot on Stuart. I remember reading some years ago an article which delved into accident stats. Report found motorcycling came about no 15. Horse riding I believe came top . Proves perception is key.

[@KRAM-zb2vc]

Brilliant video as always Stuart and i totally agree, you have to think about what everyone else is doing to stay safe, particularly as the standard of driving these days is absolutely rubbish 👍🏻

[@gwynnromano5881]

This video brought to mind the old saying from aviation circles that there are bold pilots and old pilots but there are no old bold pilots. Another excellent video sir.

[@ktman36]

I have to say Thank You. It has been 30 years since I've been on a bike. Your videos have been informative and, most of all, helpful. You have helped me work on my bike, be it mechanical , or aesthetic. You have revived my love of motorcycling. A thousand times again.....THANK YOU. (Kevin from New York)

[@stuartfillingham]

Glad to help!

[@bongsound]

The point you made about overtaking - I agree, if it's not strictly necessary then don't overtake. My rule on overtaking is that I only do so if I am 100% certain I can do it safely. Anything less than absolute certainty is not good enough.

[@danielmcneil3004]

Good video Stuart and also the best analogy that I think many of us use. And I too see behaviour and riding practices from riders of all ages, that are testing the limits and are simply accidents waiting to happen. Cheers and stay safe, Dan. ✌️🏍🇨🇦

[@MikeB-iq9sx]

I couldn’t agree more, absolutely spot on. Looking back on my riding habits after riding for 42 years, I can see a change to a much safer way of enjoying two wheels. Recognizing potential dangerous situation came with experience, at least for me. Cheers, you all have wonderful and safe riding season.

[@robertYTB78g]

Great advice, one piece of advice I don’t see being given that much is to give a couple of toots your horn at the more likely SMIDSY suspects. It certainly does work for the horn on my bike, and I usually give them a wave to leave them thinking who is that? They must know me!

[@johnturner6677]

You often hear the phrase - "I couldn't have put it better myself". Well, I couldn't have put it better myself. Top wisdom once again Stuart!

[@stevesmith3216]

Great video with spot on advice. I enrolled on an advanced motorcycle course with my local police motorcyle constabulary a few years ago, and two bits of information they were keen to pass on were. If you ride in the gutter you will end up in the gutter and if you overtake don't make yourself the meat in the sandwich with nowhere to go. Plan well ahead. Sadly these courses have stopped, but it would be worth checking out in your own area, and it was free.

[@sam.H45]

Great video as always mate 👍 my other half is very nervous about me getting my first bike soon. I will be showing her this as it shows both sides of the coin very well, 'it is dangerous but it's not a death sentence'

[@ironcast]

Excellent response Stuart. I really like it. Neither motorcycle or gun will hurt anyone except in the hands of someone dangerous.

[@defaultuser3410]

Well said! As a new motorcyclist and longtime gun enthusiast, I couldn't agree more. Subscribed!

[@ianross225]

Great video. Motorcycle Roadcraft was my pre-test reading in 1978 and promotes defensive riding. I’d recommend it to all. Minimise your exposure to road perils and you give yourself the best chance.

[@ArchieKeen1]

I am a new rider, only been riding best part 8 months, a lot of the time on 60mph roads I tend to go 40mph or less if it’s bumpy, wet or muddy or full of potholes, I always feel bad about the cars behind behind me, but from watching this video, I feel like I’m doing the right thing to remain safe, thanks Stuart!

[@johnbrereton5229]

My father who was a driver in the Royal Engineers during WW2 from 1939- to 1946 told me to always look a head and when you see someone anticipate them doing some dangerous manoeuvre and then you will be ready for it, if, or when, they do it. This has always stopped me from being involved in accidents, and I have passed it on to my own son who also rides motorcycles.

[@markymarknj]

Stu, this was an excellent video once again. I agree 100%: the best crash protection is crash avoidance! If you don't crash, you won't get hurt. I recall a ride I went on years ago when I had my ZRX1100. My buddy chided me for not wearing enough protective gear; while he was right, I gave him the same retort: the best crash protection is crash avoidance; you won't get hurt if you don't crash-duh. Later in that ride, after we ate, he invited two other guys to join in. One of the guys has a nice Yamaha FJR1300 sport tourer that had all the bells and whistles; it even had XM Radio on it, for cryin' out loud! I never had a radio on a bike, because: 1) it's superfluous; and 2) it's distracting and dangerous. This guy crashed at a S turn, and he messed up his nice bike, all because he was listening to XM Radio. My buddy proceeded to give a talk about how his protective gear had done its job, and had protected the pilot of the FJR1300. I tactfully bit my tongue, and I refrained from pointing out the obvious: had the FJR pilot been focusing on the ride rather than bee-bopping to his XM Radio, he wouldn't have crashed in the first place! That was Exhibit A for not having a radio on a bike... BTW, in the years since then, I've gotten all protective gear. While I never rode with shorts and flip-flops or without a helmet, I wasn't always diligent about wearing all the body armour; now I am. However, I've always been a stickler for maintaining my bikes. I've also been a stickler for riding only when I was at 100%; if I wasn't at 100%, I either scrubbed the ride, or if in the middle of a ride, cut it short. I always made sure I was well rested and not impaired, as motorcycles aren't forgiving of mistakes. Those are my thoughts...

[@evanheisler7899]

Stuart - I take this opportunity to thank you for your channel. Your knowledge on motorcycles especially Royal Enfields is amazing. It was because of your channel that I decided to buy a Royal Enfield Bullet (trials). I was so in love with my Bullet that I also bought an Interceptor. I really love the way you present your videos in your beautiful accent. Keep up the good work and I look forward to seeing more of your videos in the new year. Cheers from Australia.

[@fingerhorn4]

Risky overtaking is inextricably linked to bikes with a high power to weight ratio. A 125 cc machine offers limited overtake opportunities so riders do not often take silly risks. But on a machine with much more power, many riders (not just "new riders") persist in believing the myth that a powerful bike can "get you out of trouble". Research shows the exact opposite. Actually, quick acceleration overtaking attempts are a common factor in many fatalities. But the bike industry keeps pumping out hugely powerful machines. There is too much temptation to make ever more risky overtakes or quick bursts of grossly excessive speeds and that is what constantly adds to motorcycle accident stats. ... Other clear research points to loss of control around bends. In these cases too, the overwhelming majority of loss of control involves riders on sports or quick bikes with grossly insufficent skills to handle the power beneath them. We need to get rid of sports or very powerful bikes from public roads and send their riders to tracks, not country lanes. Going excessively fast, particularly on rural roads, might give riders a thrill but it is a very selfish act, especially keeping in mind the likely sudden appearance of cyclists, pedestrians, babies in prams, children and other road users who often have no pavement to travel on but are still legitimate users of roads. Motorcycle makers and retailers are also part of the problem, along with PEER pressure. The temptation for a young (or even "born again") rider to get the most powerful machine available once they are able to is part of the problem, and the motorcycling web and media are constantly re-enforcing that peer pressure with their habit of judging new bikes SOLELY by their power. Our European friends are far more mature than Brits in this regard. There is much less snobbery about owning a scooter or small machine promoting the very silly "them and us" prejudice. Finally - yes, we are all aware of car drivers who do not notice bikes or do silly things, but then bikers do silly things too. As a biker of many years I would say I've seen as many idiot bikers as I have seen idiot car drivers. But what is most important is that, whether some incident was someone else's "fault" or not, it is still a rider's responsibility to rider DEFENSIVELY and never assume that others are going to give way, so they need to allow a lot of safety margins for the mistakes of others. But I often see bikers who literally ride into trouble without thinking ahead.

[@WerdnaLiten]

That old chestnut about a bigger bike "getting you out of trouble". I don't know how many times I've read that, but it still gets repeated.....especially when advising new riders about their first bike after passing their test. And I agree about the defensive part; no good being in the right if you're in hospital - or worse. Something that also applies to pedal powered cyclists as well.

[@normanwill1953]

Crackin vid Stu,you are spot-on,modern drivers do not look ahead ,they seem to look at the end of the bonnet and dont anticipate,also at the end of your video when the car crossed in front of you is exactly how bikers get killed or injured,he should have looked to see if the road was clear before crossing,

[@OatCakeProductions]

As I pointed out to an officer of the law 'motorcycles are not dangerous. It's the interface between the seat and handle bars that's dangerous'. I agree with you with regards to statistics. A dual carriage way near me had speed averaging cameras placed along it, as the statistics showed there had been 3 deaths in 12 months on that road. What the statistics didn't show was all 3 deaths were sadly people jumping from bridges.

[@nathansealey6270]

Good question, personally I’d say that motorcycles are no more dangerous then classic cars. Many people today have forgotten how dangerous the old cars were in an event of a crash.

[@stevec-b6214]

you nailed it again, Stuart. The sad thing is that `people who ride bikes for the wrong reasons` will not be watching this, or will switch to the wheelie videos as soon as it starts getting too uncomfortable for them.

[@MrTeriyakiman]

Perfect timing Uncle Stu! A good buddy of mine (and a fellow Yorkshireman) is thinking of getting into biking (at the grand old age of 62!) and his family aren’t too keen on the idea. This will certainly help the cause! Loving this channel for it’s diverse, quality content. Better than anything on TV right now!

[@charliewhittaker1454]

I did exactly the same at that age! After a 30 year break from motorcycling. I did a refresher day with a local ex police rider and then an AIM course once I got used to the bike, and I certainly recommend it. It will help de-risk it and make him a better rider.

[@davidbgraham461]

I am wondering about a final bike, an R.E Bullet, at 81, in rural Australia ! Don't hold your breath !!

[@paulstoker2854]

I can 100% relate to this. I too held a firearms license for the same reasons as you. I saw many people like the ones you described over the years. Take care Stuart

[@theoutsider4066]

I agree with all that you say, absolutely 100%; & like you ,I have heard all of the usual "motorcycles are dangerous" crap. I started riding in 1967 at 16 years of age .... & I am proud to say that I am still riding in 2022. As you so rightly say, riding a motorcycle safely is all about personal attitude & common sense. Thank you for another great video.

[@paulkelly5817]

My brother is currently taking lessons before his motorcycle test and his wife isn't happy! She relays the horror stories about the number motorcyclists losing their lives on our roads each year. To appease her, he's currently decorating the house, standing on a scaffolding plank placed across 2 stepladders on a landing with a 30 foot drop beneath him. Go figure 🙈

[@s.o.smentalxnestortamburin6251]

I totally agree with you Stuart! Big hug from Argentina. I have my first bike since March 2020, and it’s a classic chrome 500

[@anotherbloodytruckie455]

Been riding bikes for 40 + years and I've always done four things: own the lane you're in, ride with confidence, treat every other road user like they're out to get you and keep your eyes moving, watch EVERYTHING. In that 40+ plus years I've had close shaves but never an accident.

[@Jean-de-lune]

I have experienced several aspects of potentially "dangerous" things like firearms - I learned fairly you in the ATC how to handle .22 and .303 weapons, each letal in its own way but only how I handled them and expected others to conduct themselves. Motorcycles are no different in this respect. Earler training from the police in bycycling gave a great insight in how to handle the more powerful motorbike and as a result I never experienced any injury or serious accident although one or two were amusing but not fatal and usually down to rider error. One of the key things to learn from cycling was to pay attention to weather and road conditions. Same went for flying gliders or powered aircraft, potentially more lethal but again paying attention to the active safety instructions and procedures meant avoiding learner errors. Later I learned how to navigate and handle yachts - same applies - you could see how some people would not learn the basics and ended up in trouble or causing potentially fatal decisions. The key lesson learned is that it's not the gun or the vehicle that's dangerous - if anything is it's the uneducated or wilful owner.

[@seankearney6915]

The statistics as you say don't seem to collect sufficient data. Just from stuff in the local news over the years I can see that the bad accidents on sunny days seem to be for high performance sports bikes and for others it tends to be higher in bad weather, in the dark or both. So for all those that do it for pleasure avoiding setting off in bad weather, in the dark or at commuter times would appear to reduce the risk enormously. And I definitely agree with you on the training. Far too many videos concentrate on car park and track skills and whilst excellent motorcycle skills may well get you out of trouble good Roadcraft skills should help prevent you getting in trouble in the first place. And lastly regarding overtaking the opposite is also true being overtaken is a cause for concern and I definitely feel safer riding a motorcycle at the same speed as a car than riding a pedal cycle wearing less protection and being constantly overtaken.

[@paulbradberry3442]

Spot on Stu I had this conversation with someone a few weeks ago . My thinking is expect the unexpected and treat other road users as idiots has worked for me after 44 yrs riding Cheers.

[@johnmcknight4642]

Number 1 move towards more considerate driving . Remove the airbag from the steering wheel and fix a six inch steel spike .

[@motormikeb1047]

I share with others who are on the fence about... motorcycle.. that they'll need to take the safety course.... start small.... and ride defensively... Don't assume the other driver sees you. Couple years ago, our car was totaled when a young female was busy texting and didn't notice we had stopped for traffic. I don't laugh about whip lash anymore. People ask about getting hurt or killed. Yes, I've been hurt... broken bones.. and I've lost friends ... and I had some who had an " incident " and sold their motorcycle then bought a sports car. I've been tossing a leg over two wheels for nearly 60 years.... I hope to get another 60.... but I've not in charge of my check out time.

[@chrischarousis3074]

Always a well made,well thought out video coming out of you!Respect where it's due.

[@geoffadams8912]

Nahthen from Lincoln. I too am a new A licence holder, and subscribe to everything you say in this video. I have a Triumph Bobber that I'm still bonding with, so am being extra vigilant and careful anyway. However, I feel far more comfortable and enjoy the ride far more when doing sensible speeds and actually enjoy sitting behind a vehicle doing 65 far more than trying to overtake at say 75mph. If this weren't the case, I would be thinking twice about riding at all. But then again I am 60 now, and not in my 20's... So true your comparison between bikes and firearms- I fired an SLR and other weapons in a professional capacity as a young man and maybe that discipline has rubbed off on me well now that I am riding a potentially lethal vehicle. Safety first, always... and you'll be ok l. Great vid as always 👍

[@derekcook7667]

Well said Stuart. Modern bikes are far safer than the machines I started out on in the 70`s. No ABS or linked brakes or traction control back then. Very often we the rider pose the greatest danger to ourselves. KZbin is littered with examples of accidents due to poor riding. As pointed out by another poster the majority of accidents don`t involve another vehicle, its riders themselves going too fast for the conditions and losing control or failing to negotiate bends. Riding intelligently plays a big part in staying alive.

[@petershepherd6889]

Very wise words Stuart 👍. Most of my minor accidents as a teenager were as a result of alcohol whilst riding so gave up alcohol and carried on riding. Still riding at 67.😁

[@back2bikingpauljflynn820]

Another relevant no nonsense Video Stuart … and a good check-in just before riding season 👍✅

[@Garffey]

Have to agree Stuart, training is key here, and as you say treat all other road users as idiots trying to kill you and you won't go far wrong, always expect the unexpected...I wasn't allowed a Motorbike until I agreed to get training, and this back in the day when you could buy a 250cc bike stick L-plates on it and wobble off into the distance!!....It did okay for me I'm approaching 62 and regularly still riding bikes! But sadly I always remember a few friends of mine that weren't so lucky.....

[@outbackmotorcyclesandengin867]

Well said, I've been riding motorcycles from 10 years old and on the road from 16, I'm now 55 and I've only come off onec on black ice. I consider my self as a sensible rider and nothing more, hopefully that's why I'm still alive.

[@chriscooperCRF300]

All common sense really, but common sense now days not so common! Having property in Spain I am back and forth a lot and used to think the standard of driving there was something to be desired. However over the years I have noticed that arriving back in the UK it has become horrendous, far worse than Spain, tailgating, passive aggressive behaviour, everyone in a mad rush with no due care! Top video Stu, take care 👍🏼

[@johnimmins7302]

I have to agree wholeheartedly what you say Stuart. I ride expecting the other driver to do the unexpected and I am often not disappointed. Surviving not being seen is the main thing. The number of people using their mobile phones when driving is a worry too.

[@daveclark4793]

I completely agree with you Stuart, and have used the same analogies as yourself. One thing I would say though. Would I rather a son or daughter of mine ride a bike, or have a car? Well, you can see where I’m going with this. Diesel spillage isn’t such an issue for car drivers, a deer running out from behind a hedge, even a rabbit, etc etc

[@peterwrench4416]

Forty years ago a seasoned rider told me, ‘you’re going to come off one day, and when you do it’s going to hurt!’ I thought, Ok, I’ll take that and file it away. Eventually I did come off and yes it did hurt, luckily not enough to keep me away though. I sometimes compare riding a motorcycle to playing Russian roulette, the loaded chamber may spin up one day or it may never spin up.

[@RVRCloset]

So right! There are dangerous drivers in both cars and on motorcycles, but when things go wrong when they drive over their limit, they often add to that death trapp statistic.. Our neighbours son in law got killed on his motorcycle last summer, but he drove way to fast, and one sharp bend became his last.

[@InTheShedUK]

With the increase of electric vehicles (AKA silent assassins) being a pedestrian is becoming the most dangerous form of transportation. I have ridden motorcycles for 40+ years and have never had so many close calls as I have recently while walking, three by taxi's in semi-pedestrian areas, car parks are another danger area, these damn vehicles creep up behind you and pounce without warning. I have even seen EV drivers have to beep their horn to get people to move out of their way! The government should make manufacturers insert some kind of noise device in them!

[@PipeOPhile]

It is indisputable that riding a motorcycle is more dangerous than walking or driving a car because there is nothing between you and hard objects you hit/they hit you in case of an accident and human body didn't evolve to smash into hard objects at 50 mph. However, for some people, that risk is worth the enjoyment and they are willing to take that risk and try their best to ride responsibly.

[@anthonyprice5596]

Nice one Stuart, the gun analogy could also be used for step ladders, I'm sure step ladders, nail guns and bench saws are far more dangerous statistically than motorcycles. But hey you can't look a bad ass carrying a step ladder🤣

[@daintree2455]

Great analogy. By the way does anybody else wish modern bikes had screw down steering dampers. Nice firm steering in slow city traffic.

[@jjrider6758]

It's true Stuart, bikes can be dangerous but so can cars - My Dad gave me some extremely valuable advice when I was sixteen (sadly nearly 40 years ago..) and I've never forgotten it - 'There are old motorcyclists and there are bold motorcyclists, but there's no such thing as an old, bold motorcyclist' - Don't get me wrong, I've pushed my luck from time to time like everyone else (and sometimes still do !..) but only where it's relatively safe to do so and within the bounds of reason.. Motorcyclists of the more 'sensible' type know their vulnerability and largely ride accordingly but car drivers often perceive their car as in some way protective, like a safe cocoon around them. In very low speed impacts this may well be true but at the same speeds that are dangerous to motorcyclists cars can and do kill many drivers and passengers every day on the UK roads, whenever I say this to people who exclusively drive cars they very often look at me blankly, like I'm speaking Chinese or something but I do have some experience/expertise in this area, having been an operational Firefighter for over 20 years (the last 10 years as Officer in Charge) at a station covering one of what was at the time the most dangerous road in the UK. I can only say that given the right speed or bad decision your 'safe' car is 'out to kill you' just as much as a bike.. only in different, often quite unattractive ways..

[@themoog3889]

I speak to lots of riders while I'm out , it's a social thing and apart from the clicky brands I find most motorcyclists like nothing more than to stand and talk bikes and if they're any sort of a human they'll be just as interested in your bike as you are thiers ! The speed freak tend to leave me a bit cold as thier tales of ridiculous riding make me shudder ! One type of rider that I've increasingly bumped into is the guys with newer high specced bikes that seem to be think all his/her on board electronic gadgets make him/her almost invincible its a worrying trend and one I'm sure will continue ......until they all come a cropper that is ! Great video ! Some lovely summer riding clips 👌

[@johnhipkiss5840]

Totally agree with what you say Stu, I was told a very long time ago is always be able to stop in the distance you can see to be clear.

[@timcollins3484]

Thanks Stuart, intelligent and timely messages.

[@petee0158]

Very good. Having experienced the phenomenon of ‘bike blindness’ over the years, I just assume no-one can see me. 47 years after my first bike I’m still here.😎

[@FredWilbury]

Great informative video Stuart, being a late starter to motorcycling ie in my 60’s best thing I did was doing the IAM training. Oh by the way lovely smooth well planned overtake. Regards Fred oh ps couldn’t find a big enough stick and just haven’t had the women to beat off what am doing wrong 😑 lol

[@cliffsimpson1211]

Someone once said that “motorcycling is not, of itself, inherently dangerous. It is, however, extremely unforgiving of inattention, ignorance, incompetence, or stupidity.” Probably the best quote I've seen on the subject of the dangers of motorcycling.

[@rsecosse6634]

Excellent vidéo as always. I am just about to take up motorcycle now that I am retired and have the time to select the time and road to ride on and be safe! Living in south west France The roads have less traffic and the car drivers seem to be more aware of bikes. I also was a FAC holder and agree totally at it is the person who uses the gun that makes them dangerous. Would it possible for you to make a video of setting up a good motorbike riding position, controls, height of handle bars, foot pegs etc. And all your knowledgeable subscribers could add their views. Ride safely

[@bryanbailey1476]

Good informative video Stuart as perusual thanks, keep em coming

[@mikepopelka2349]

This video sounds like me having a conversation with myself! Excellent common sense in regards to personal safety, now if only those who need it would heed it.

[@mickd802]

I think all car drivers should first have to pass a motorcycle test

[@artiecisneros4691]

Excellent advice. Driving a motorcycle has made me a more responsible car driver.

[@mnnic4292]

Nice chat and intelligent advice. Cheers!

[@guyfuller1369]

Good advice, Stuart, but I expect you’re preaching to the choir. Hope even one egomaniac pays heed. Can’t tell you how lovely it is to see sunshine and green verges. Judging by the cow parsley, that footage was summer stock. We are mired here in fearsome cold and snow up to mid-thigh, so thanks for the reminder of warmer days.

[@Karl3642]

Nailed it again sir. You are the internet’s bard of bikedom !

[@samsonman2000]

Stu. Your one of few. I’m inclined to say the usual “your one a million “. As an Australian rider. I agree with your statements and am living proof. You are one in a million of men who chooses to speak their mind. Thank you.

[@jimbo4375]

I passed my car test at 17 and 2 years later passed the bike license at 19. I already had some experience of the roads and hazard anticipation etc before getting onto a bike and believe that made the bike learning significantly safer for me. Of course I took a good few hours of riding tuition and theory as well. Yes, might have picked up a few bad habits from car driving, but if I'd simply gotten on a bike on L plates at 19 it might have been a different story, I'll never know. The reckless riders give biking a bad reputation.

[@triumphrider9796]

Wonderfully stated, Stuart. Motorcycle, loaded gun, knife, whatever, it ultimately comes down to the user. In fifty years of riding, near every instance where I've been hurt at all has been my own doing in the end. I've been rear-ended twice, the second time by a street-sweeper when my engine stalled just as a light changed and the operator didn't bother to notice that I hadn't moved from in front of him, so of course his first words were, "You cut in front of me." Thankfully I got two witnesses to state the same circumstances I did when the police arrived on scene, but it took two years to settle the case even so. Had I been a foot to the right I likely wouldn't be here now. When I was a new rider, I did some things I would never do now; I am fortunate in that they didn't hurt me then! And I have been robbed at gunpoint as well. Had it been a knife I likely would have responded differently, but any stupid SOB can pull a trigger, and I was concerned for the safety of my wife and another female co-worker as well as myself.

[@robertlindstrom540]

A paranoid attitude against other vehicles helps a lot. Single accidents with bikes are almost always because the rider has misjudged something, either speed or condition of surface. Where I live (Sweden) wildlife is also a hazard, just a few years back a good friend and riding buddy of mine hit a moose with his Harley. Moose died but he did not. After a longish hospital period he rebuilt his bike and it is back in use now. And with a bike it need not be big, even. A rabbit or cat can be fatal, if unlucky. By being careful many situations can be avoided, also keeping the bike in good nick, with good rubber front and back. It will still always be more dangerous than using a car but that is part of why we ride. A little danger spices life up.

[@michaelglynn2638]

Excellent advice, education and mental approach are key.

[@impalaSS65]

Motorcycles are used as transportation and sports tools. The alternative is usually cars for transportation and maybe MTB for sports. The risks in transporting myself on the bike is "all else equal" greater due to the inherent instability as you say. The same risk more or less between the MTB and my enduro bike (I'm not very fast and full gear always). I tend to go faster on a bike than a pedal bike though. So those are not exactly equal risks. Bikes are for sure a more dangerous commuting tool. However, they are just like downhill-MTB or shark diving, closer to living, compared to sitting mindlesly on the subway leaving responsibility to some low wage non-indigenous person. My health is improved doing sharpening things. I weigh less and have less stress hormones due to relaxing dangerous riding. However it grinds my gears the pedal bike flies under the radar. A high number of serious rider's fault crashes is never spoken about. It's psychological preference of fear porn: like wolf-attacks compared to bear attacks. Or shark attacks compared to swimmers killed by leisure boats close to swimmers (obviously). Not to mention the cycle helmet, yellow west, bed wetter's behavior about other peoples guns.