Quote:
Originally Posted by Chocaholic
Yep...me too. Been riding since I was 18 (57 now) but in varying amounts over the years. Never a scratch, thankfully, but also, never more than probably 15k in any one year. Probably 10k/year average. But one key is not riding for transportation. Purely for enjoyment which means no traffic jams, major intersections, etc. Much prefer country and mountain roads. And most of my riding is solo. I don't care much for riding with a passenger (that's why the RT is for sale) and even less for riding in groups. Would rather rely on my own instincts and ability rather than on those around me.
In the old days I did a couple of rides with a HOG chapter and it scared the bejeebers out of me. Won't go into detail, but suffice it to say, the skill level in groups vary widely and it can significantly affect your safety.
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I gave up commuting on a motorcycle probably 30 years ago. Just not worth the risk. All of my riding is purely for pleasure on those country and mountain roads. I think that in itself has significantly lowered my risk.
I won't do group rides anymore either. I think a lot of us tried out the HOG deal when we got memberships with our bikes. I'm sure our experiences were similar, with the broad range of skill and experience seen in the average HOG chapter. I've never been so frightened on a motorcycle than I have been when riding with this crowd. I decided to lessen my risk on this front as well, and only ride with folks I know. Even then I do kind of prefer my own company.
I don't mind having a passenger, so long as I'm on the right bike. Just because it has a pillion and passenger pegs does not mean it's suited to carrying a passenger. My wife dearly loves to ride pillion, but refuses to ride her own bike, so I'm kind of "stuck". In the best possible way, mind you - some of our most cherished memories involve long bike trips. I see these miles as far lower risk than when I ride solo, or with friends - I'm on my best behavior and at my most alert. I am, after all, carrying my most precious cargo...