[gestalt1]

i'm a non-biker but with the cost of gas and my long commute i've been thinking about taking lessons and getting a bike. my big problem is the safty factor. many of my biker friends either don't want to think about it or tell stories of all there close calls - making me feel this is not worth it. i know many here are also bikers, any one with input? i think there is a huge difference between the typical kid on sportbike w/ no helmet and a responsible biker without the big ego. but how much do you feel is an accident caused by stupidity or by circumstances beyond your control?