Weekend before last I went riding with two friends. Two days on sportbikes in the Berkshires, Catskills and Adirondacks. Rode as hard and fast as conditions would allow. Full leathers, full-face helmets, armored gloves, motorcycle-specific boots.
Yesterday afternoon I went for a putt through the countryside on my old BMW with my bride (and riding partner) of 32 years on the back. Never got over 45 mph on lightly traveled country roads. Blue jeans, polo shirt, Wellington boots, light black gloves, cool-looking shades, no helmet.
I could have significantly increased my safety this weekend by wearing the same gear I did the weekend before. I could have significantly improved my safety the weekend before by taking a car instead of a bike. In both cases, I traded safety for the joy I get from motorcycling, and chose the gear I felt appropriate for the occasion.
Motorcycles are dangerous. It is not possible to “ride safe.” I choose to ride. I choose my level of protective gear when I ride. Can’t think of anything wrong with that.
Bill
Yesterday afternoon I went for a putt through the countryside on my old BMW with my bride (and riding partner) of 32 years on the back. Never got over 45 mph on lightly traveled country roads. Blue jeans, polo shirt, Wellington boots, light black gloves, cool-looking shades, no helmet.
I could have significantly increased my safety this weekend by wearing the same gear I did the weekend before. I could have significantly improved my safety the weekend before by taking a car instead of a bike. In both cases, I traded safety for the joy I get from motorcycling, and chose the gear I felt appropriate for the occasion.
Motorcycles are dangerous. It is not possible to “ride safe.” I choose to ride. I choose my level of protective gear when I ride. Can’t think of anything wrong with that.
Bill
