A must read for new and perspective riders. Why I started riding and continue to ride.
I have many decades of riding behind me and if I had it to do over again I wouldn't change anything. I know what it feels like to be a new rider and what it's like to be an experienced one, but no matter how experienced you are you'll never be perfect. I've probably heard every negative comment you'll hear about motorcycling, most from non riders, but what they don't say is how did it happen. Unfortunately most motorcycle accidents are the fault of the rider whether it be poor skills, lack of training or sheer negligence and reckless driving. You are not responsible for other riders decisions but you are responsible for yours. This isn't to down play the dangers of motorcycling but do we stop walking because someone tripped and fell and died? Do we stop driving our cars because there was a fatal accident on the highway? I think you see the point here. I've been in situations you can only imagine and have probably forgotten more than you know now as a new rider.
Now I can't tell you what will or will not happen while riding, but then again no one can. Some people are so afraid of dying until they never live. If I have to go, which we all will someday, then I want to go with no regrets. When I see new riders in their later years speak of the freedom they experience as a rider and then say they don't know why they didn't do it sooner I say, better late than never. You can learn a lot from others, their triumphs and their failures.
When I hear of or see a motorcyclist down it saddens me but it also makes me more aware and observant of my riding. Now could I survive without riding? Of course. Do I want to, NO! As the years go by and you remanence the adventures and good times you had riding you'll realize that you wouldn't trade those memories for anything.
Riding is different for everyone. Some like to ride in groups, some solo. Maybe you like sport bikes, cruisers or adventure bikes. Maybe you're a weekend rider or a cross country traveler but whatever you do find the style of bike that suits you and enjoy the type of riding that makes you feel good and always remember you have the New Motorcycle Riders community to fall back on for help. Be safe and happy travels.