After the NHTSA study came out, I discussed it with
several of my friends in the motorcycling community.
Pretty much across the board, we couldn't understand
what the NHTSA found perplexing about the study
results.
My own summary goes something like this - I am at an
increased risk of dying on my motorcycle if:
1. My first bike's capabilities far exceed my own
2. I ride beyond my capabilities
3. I ride without a helmet
4. I drink alcohol and then ride
5. I ride without a license or the proper training
Anybody surprised?
These circumstances are exacerbated by the Cruiser
revival that has lots of older, first-time riders
riding 88 C.I. bikes sans helmets, as well as the
increased prevalence and reduced cost of spectacularly
capable sport bikes that 10 years ago would have been
highly competitive racing bikes. If I could have
afforded a 'Busa when I was 20, I would definitely be
dead now - it's a shame, but no surprise that today's
20 year-olds are meeting that fate.
IMHO.
-ts
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