As a ex Police motorcyclist riding 365 days a year, I am aware my skills peaked in my 40’s, now 64 I aim to think and look twice. My mantra has always been “you show off, you fall off!” As UA-cam will attest to. Also never do anything spontaneously as it means you’ve not looked! Miss that junction, turn around further up the road and live to see another day. Thank you for all you efforts to put this out there. Peter
Emphasis on missing the junction is life saving advice. Nothing brings a bike down faster than over application of the front brake when turning the steering even a fraction. Thank you for that important addition to my own thoughts as well as the others who will read this.
Great advice Pete, Even in a car I've seen some idiots who foolishly dive into into a left turn lane rather than go the extra distance and then Safely get into a left turn lane! I'll always go out of my way on my motorcycle to make a left OR a right turn if I need to.
I'm going to buy a sport bike once I feel myself reaching a sophomore skill set on my sportster. I don't do anything spontaneously. Times I thought about it I looked over later and realized I'd have been in a collision. People often brake to let me in when I'd really prefer they didn't. I'm not in a rush
I agree, also a police motor trained officer who is now 54 years old. I know my skills peaked back in my 30s and 40s as well. I went completed motor school back when I was 28 years old.
I'm 68 and have been riding for 52 years in the UK. Since I retired 3 years ago, I've spent more time riding than ever before (work used to get in the way). In my experience, the key to survival is the ability to continually assess potential hazards, and adjust your riding to allow yourself enough time to take the appropriate action. This applies whatever your age, and as you get older, you learn to adapt. Riders who don't feel the need to do this don't generally last long enough to be old .
l used to ride with a group ..(senior)..here in Spain. l thought it a good idea until l saw a couple of the riders 'ride into the foliage'... l now only ride with one or two riders..Day trips only at a speed where one has time to look at the scenery rather than becoming part of it..
At 65, after riding bikes since I was 10 years old...............I have really noticed the decrease of reaction to whats going on, it seems like concentration level has decreased more than anything..............as an ex racer, Ive always liked to push it a good bit. Not the best idea as one gets older. I know guys my age that ride once or twice a year, they arent coherent enough to realize how dangerous this is....its more a diversion or a casual hobby for them. Many seem to think they are expert level with no basis for this idea.
@@brianperry Group rides, CAN be about the most dangerous thing to do. And many only ride if its a group event. Its a social thing rather than a riding thing. Those other riders can take you out in a split second. Stuff happens SO quick on the road sometimes. I ride solo or with one or 2 friends where I know, they know, what they're doing. Those who ride Harleys, know about this group ride deal. They all dress the same, they all have loud bikes, and they only ride in a pack, usually right next to each other 2 x 2.............so if one goes down they can all go down. Almost always their group ride is a bar to bar ride. Most dont know enough, to know, they don't know anything about riding a bike. Their ego gets in the way.
"I AM" going to ride as long as I am healthy enough!!! Now 60 years old still ride my bicycle backwards sitting on the handlebars, although difficult to see where I am or what's coming but I have every intention of continuing to ride my bicycle. As long as I'm able I just built a Harley with a 10in over chop't with 120" motor at 130 HP I prefer to die healthy as I can and preferably doing something I enjoy like riding!!! so ride till you die.... Or ride or die.....❤️❤️❤️❤️❤️...I have been a successful crash dummy for over 50+ years I still tuck and roll like a 12 year old.....to each his own...MUCH RESPECT TO All and GOD BLESS!!!
Another thing worth mentioning is that younger riders tend to believe the other drivers are going to drive predictably and obey traffic rules whereas older riders like me have learned to not trust anyone to do anything predictable and in fact older riders will be more ready for drivers to do something completely unpredictable because the older riders have seen it all before.
Yep, spot on. Having been a young and wild rider who survived has given me an edge? Maybe. I always look at riding a bike as a lottery. No matter how well you ride or how much you know, there always comes the point of no return. For example, a car is turning across your lane, he waits, you see him, what to do? Ride on confidently, speed up to show you mean business, slow down for safety and display hesitancy? In a car, all the hard stuff is around you. On a bike, all the hard stuff is protected by our body. I love riding, it is astonishing. I feel it to be magical. I also have many friends and relatives who are no longer here. I will keep on riding and will enjoy. Cheers.
I used to tell new riders to ride as if 50% of drivers don’t see you, and the other half are aiming for you. I’m 75yo, and am downsizing my dirt bike to a crf250x.
Reading, and listening to this program helps me stay relevant to riding. So far, three minor accidents, zero tickets in over 60 years. Now at 83, I still ride, but on lower hp, easier to manage bikes. I lowered the power to increase safety, and time to react. Now I see more, ride relaxed, and realize that accidents are mostly avoidable, if you just slow down and keep that license to ride longer. Never stop keeping those skills up !
I agree with both of you gentlemen. At 71, I stay off the interstates and avoid high traffic areas (big cities) if there is anyway I can. I live on a small rural town, so this is not hard. The only problem is training. The nearest paved parking lot is 40 miles away😰
@@williamarinder8809 I live in a small town in rural New Mexico. The nearest paved parking lot that is large enough for practice is in a town 40 miles away. Our high school has a paved parking lot, but it is fenced and is only available during school hours, and is usually full of cars.
Age 77, and still on two wheels. However, I made a few changes in how and what I ride. I went from a Honda Shadow 1100 to the smaller Shadow, to reduce the weight. I stay off the interstates, and just ride backroads, and keep the speed under 55 mph. Also, I look twice at every intersection when cars are there. They just don't see you on a bike.
I'm 71 and started riding at 17. I don't ride my Road King much as the weight is too heavy in town plus I'm dealing with some health issues. However I still ride my Springer as it is so much easier to ride. I take non-interstate roads and rely on my years of experience. Never take anything for granted, always use your mirrors, do what is good for you, and leave fear at home. Shiny side up!
Good video. I'm 73 and started riding again 4 years ago after a 35 year layoff from 1983 to 2018. I got all the urge to go fast out of my system in the early 70's so today I ride very conservatively on a BMW K1600B. The one rule I've always followed, and how I taught my kids to drive, is to always assume others on the road with you are going to do the stupidest thing they could possibly do so I'm always on guard. I assume the lady pulling out of her driveway is actually going to pull in front of me and then I'm just pleasantly surprised when she doesn't. I don't ride with friends much because most folks my age have quit riding already and those younger than I am are still working and can't ride when I want to go. That means I've done some nice solo rides during the week to the Cherohala Parkway and Tail of the Dragon. Love your channel. Keep up the good work.
Having lost a brother when a woman failed to stop at a stop sign, I assume that people are not going to stop and they don't see me when they change lanes.
I did the same with my kids! Being video game generation, I used the analogy that while driving someone will come out of nowhere and try to ruing your day, so just like in a video game, you need to be waiting for that quota. As part of that training, when some does something stupid, you never get mad at them because you were expecting it.
At 70 years of age, I feel really fortunate to be in as good a shape as I am… while I have little problems here and there, cataract surgery extended my riding years tremendously. Many friends my age can’t even tie their shoes, which brings up my point. There is a huge range of “capability” in 70-80 year old people. Some are in wheel chairs. Some have glaucoma. Some have been alcoholics and smokers for the last 50 years and can’t catch their glasses when they fall off their face. Some have been sober for decades and have been doing yoga and lifting free weights for the same amount of time. If all we see in a person is how old they are, then we don’t see the complete human that each individual actually is.
I'm 68 yrs old, have 3 Motorbikes, 40 years no claims, and I can see the bottom line on the Eye Chart without Glasses !!! I also spend a lot of time on my X Box Isle of Man TT simulator !!!! That makes your Brain Speed Up. So when I ride my real bikes at the speed limit, it feels like slow motion, and I always expect every motorist to do something Stupid !!! So I never get caught out !!!! I do all my own repairs and I really love my Bikes because I keep them in good mechanical condition !!!! All my Biker Friends don't know how to adjust the Clutch lever, or how to pump the tyres up !!!!
Im 65, I still do 150+ miles a week on bicycles, and I feel strong doing it. I ride an 890R KTM............some guys I grew up with have all but had it at this age. They quit moving a long time ago. A person can be ancient by age 65, or still out going for it.
At 63 I have changed some of my riding habits. 1) I do not ride when I do not feel like it. If I am tired or if I don't feel sharp I do not ride. 2) I sold the sport bikes. I do not stuff it into corners, I do not race and my pace is leisurely. 3) I am looking at lighter bikes for my future rides. They are easier to maneuver and easier to control. 4) Finally I take great care of my knees. I consider how I pivot when I drop into the saddle making sure my foot slips around on the ground and that my knee doesn't twist. I recognize that I am not the rider or the driver I one was.
"There are old pilots, and there are bold pilots, but there are no old bold pilots." Definitely keep the skills as sharp as you can and ride within that skill set or limits. Great topic & video! Thanks Kevin. (BTW, soon to be 72.) 😁
I am 82 years old. I started riding on Whizzer motor bikes when I was 8 years old. Bought my first Harley, a 1942 "45" flat head, when I was 14. I have ridden almost all my life. My current ride is a 99 Softail Custom. Speed and reaction time are the most important things, and never assume that other drivers are going to do what you think they are. Turn signals left on do not mean they are going to turn. Patience pays off. Wait for traffic to clear before jumping into the fray. I still ride weather permitting as much as I can. I live in a very rural area a couple of miles from a town of about 7500 people. Even at that, I rarely go to town during rush hour. It is the little things you do that keep you safe.
I fell in love with motorcycles when two friends of mine, brothers, had 21" Whizzer Sportsmans. Soon after, my brother and I pooled our money and bought a used 1950 125 CZ.
@@johnhampton5320 Cool. You have been around the block a few times also. Whizzers were fun little machines. I also rode Cushman motor scooters and any thing with a motor. LOL
I think you didn't listen to the video...😁. I understand that admitting being too old to ride a bike takes some courage but might help you, your family, and your friends. Slogans like yours don't help.
I'm 86 and have been riding for 72 years. I still have a BMW R90S, a Guzzi Lemans hot rod and a beautful 1973 Norton Commando...and I ride all of them regularly. My long-held standard is that I'll hang up my helmet when I can no longer start my Norton. Thus far, I'm not there. Mind you, I don't ride much in heavy traffic; I live in rural New Zealand and usually take a car when I go into the city. I've taught safe-riding courses for decades; I am careful, don't ride as hard as I once did, and I make sure I'm in FRONT of the cars, not among them. If they want to run me over, they're going to have tp WORK at it!
well you beat me by a few mouths. Me, 07/02/39. still riding. Bike I liked the most Manx Norton 500cc race tuned. I have never had a crash. but I am packing up. if the Bike falls over I cannot pick it up. Yamaha 1300cc.
77 & been riding 70 years. Over 50 bikes from every continent that makes one. Been 200 mph - one time enough. Had some lovely & lively ones. Raced a little. Trials too. General and special purpose. Agree with everything above. On a 600cc Silverwing scooter now, but want one more motorcycle. 750cc or much less. 450-500#. 2 similar stories about hardcore bikers. There both times. First responder. MC left road flew 700’. Old man. No ID, dentures, tags or serial numbers. Fingerprints negative. 2 weeks later no idea who he is. Left mc there. I asked for description. A BMW. Called factory. Found the dealer in Washington. Knew the man. Daughter came for body. Unperturbed. His parents and wife dead from cancer. He had a bad one. Daughter said he rode for days to weeks at a time. Left note on counter. “ Love you, be seeing you, Dad. “ Picked a nice day. Hard core MC rider. Worse ways to go, maybe. Motor cycles have been good for me, I believe. Not much living left to do with my health. My girls want me as long as possible. Wish they rode.
TRUE STORY: Friends and I riding at 2 or 3 over the speed limit on US287 in the north part of the Texas panhandle. A little dirty truck passes us, pulls over into our lane, and brakes hard. Both George and I practice maximum threshold braking. We have and maintain our skills and 1-G braking in practice is not uncommon. There was a point where I was sure that I was going to hit the rear of the truck. But braking skills being what we have, no collision. What sticks in my mind was seeing George's motor suddenly move rearward in relation to mine. He had applied the brakes more quickly!! He is 10 or more years younger than me. (I'm 74). It has bothered me ever since that my reaction time wasn't as quick as his. Typically, as I've aged, I DO allow more room in front of me to give me a little more room to react. 3 seconds is not uncommon. My tandem riding partners humor me. It seems and feels like too far back. But in this instance, we weren't given the chance to maintain a safe distance from the little truck's back bumper when that driver slammed on his brakes. The consequences of following too closely can be catastrophic. So, knowing that my reaction time isn't what it used to be, I compensate by giving a little more room. The incident (that didn't result in a crash) on 287 reaffirmed that I need to keep doing what I'm doing and also need to keep practicing. NOTE: I am a retired MSF instructor and motorcycle skills competitor at the highest level/classification. I have seen "experienced" motorcyclists crash during braking practice, even though they know exactly when and where maximum braking is to occur. As a group, our braking skills are dismally lacking. I strongly recommend braking practice under the coaching of a skilled instructor. As we get older, it's imperative that we gain and practice the skills needed to be safe and come home after a ride or a trip. Skilled motorcyclists have 90% fewer accidents than those that are simply "Experienced". Thank you for reading.
Skill comes with experience. I've seen a lot of MSF instructors who obviously had low levels of experience, which is fine in a parking lot training newbs.
Motorcyclists who speed excessively give us all a bad name,. . idiots, that's what they are in my opinion. I have nothing against speed but take it to a track please.
@@steveclark.. ? 2 to 3 MPH over is unacceptable but the illegal lane changing brake checker gets a pass? Is that a Texas thing? I have been through Texas recently in a loaded pick up so my lights were a little high, Texans seem to be more sensitive than all the other states I drove through to that and I had a similar run in with an Izusu of all cars . . . . Glad everyone had the skills and cool heads to brush that off as a minor incident.
@@smoke05s Sorry, I read it has 2 or 3 times over the speed limit. 😃 No speedometer is spot on anyhow, I'm okay with folk being 5mph over a limit. I'm in the UK, a typical country road with bends may have a 40mph sign, bikers who ride along close to 80mph or more, those are the idiots I'm on about. Not just bikers, some drivers of other vehicles too.
Great video. I'm 76 and have been riding for 60 of those years. I have long recognised that my reaction times are not what that were some years ago and keep this in mind every time I ride. In acknowledging this I made the decision to go for smaller, lighter bikes (currently 400cc) upon which I maintain my confidence and am able to continue to enjoy the the thrill that only two wheels can give.
First time that crossed my mind to start riding was when I met an 82 yo guy at the motel in Colorado. He was riding his Harley from NYC to Los Angeles to visit his friend. He looked to me like he was maybe mid 60. He told me he rode since he was 19, never been in an accident and never rode over 65. Probably his Harley couldn't go faster anyway. I was impressed. 82, ride and still alive. That opened my horizons 😂 (Maybe I posted this here before. We also tend to forget things and do them again.)
I’m 45 years old and have been riding since I was 10, one thing I definitely noticed as I progress with age is how my definition of enjoying a ride changed. Today I own a motorcycle that is faster than most of the motorcycles I get to see on the streets, yet my preferred riding style is rather casual and comfortable, not crazy fast nor at the edge of my skills. I’ve noticed in the last 5-7 years that I enjoy riding a bit slower and a bit more in control, definitely more comfortably - especially knowing that most of what’s happening around me is within my control. Live to ride another day is a smart plan. 👍🏻
Thank you Kevin for your good advice. I am 71 years old and been riding for over 50 years. You are absolutely right with the statistics for reaction time. I have slowed my role considerably over the years and still enjoy lightly cracking the gears when it’s safe and nobody’s around. My days of doing wheelies are long gone! Thank you for your great content and keep it going my brother!
I rode for fifty years before back surgery ended my run. The two rules I rode by were "You are invisable" and stay away from everyone. Distance equals safety. Assuming no one can see you makes you hyper vigilant. I never trusted the car in the lane beside me if I was in traffic. I use to watch the guys head for a lane change but that wasn't a sure thing. So I started watching for the vehicles front wheels to move, which is always the give away...Doing these things kept me from having to react at the last second.
I’m 47 years “ in the saddle “ . JUST had my 4th back surgery . This time they put 12 screws approximately 2” long and multiple “ semi - flexible “ rods from L-1 all the way down to S -1 . So that’s (6) discs and the one in the neck at C-6-7 makes (7) total . JUST bought my dream “ Low Rider “ that I’ve waited for since it’s inception in 1977 , when I was 17 years old . I was at Daytona when the Motor Company unveiled it . It’s a 2018 FXLR and has a little over 3,000 miles on it … So sad , 4 surgeries since I brought it home . The “ thought “ of selling it makes me sad and sick to my stomach . I get it serviced every year anyway , ( ALWAYS did my own mechanic work on the previous 12 HD’s that I’ve had since 79’ ) Lots to think about … What would anyone pay for it , anyway ?
I'm 69 now and I have been riding for 50 years. Even at my age, I have to keep telling myself that I'm not a motorcycle racer. I still enjoy spirited riding. I have 5 motorcycles right now. One being an MT07 that brings out the kid in me.
Same here.....now 71. I have ridden mostly Harleys all my life, still riding an Evo FXDL...I ride much as always.....complete awareness that every driver on the road is out there with the intent to kill me....something I learned at 16 when I was sideswiped by a drunk with no lights on, coming out of an alley one evening....
At 71, I'm thinking that experience issue is huge. While I don't ever think I was a "risk taker" (I started riding at 58) knowing that now I'm a lot slower to heal... Well, that stuff matters too. Hang up the helmet? Nahh, not yet. Maintaining extra distance, avoiding off road, Slowing down. Yeah, absolutely.
75, I ride most days, living in the South of France it's a biker's paradise. For me riding my bike takes 100% concentration it releases the mind of all the daily stress a bit like yoga. I'm convinced it's far safer than buying a couch & a TV.
I'm 71 and have logged about 340K miles. Look twice. Slow down. Never assume what traffic will do. Extra lighting at night, or don't ride at night. Take it easy. Know how your medications may affect your riding. Know when to quit for the day. Good videol
I rode my first motorcycle at 15. I rode heavy old British scramblers off road until I was 45. At the same time I racked up serious road mileage on several BMW motorcycles. I finally parked up for good at 80 after a near miss with a texting driver on an Interstate. My reactions developed over years almost failed me. I am still in good health but will never ride again. Driving a car has become bad enough. I miss my favorite BMW which I had kept for 40 years and many thousands of enjoyable miles. Age does dismiss one’s faculties but never takes away the urge to throw a leg over and go. Great program, Peter.
I turn 70 this August 2024. I've owned a 2013 HD Street Glide since new. I was also turning into a casual driver with months passing by before I rode again. I learned to ride when I was 15 yo. I've been taking out the bike more often recently. and I definitely see the importance of staying sharp and practice. I still feel I can manage the bike well and I'm adding some exercise to my routine to stay physically fit. I think I would be ok at this stage of my life when I decide to stop riding. But that moment has not arrived yet. Live in California in a Rural area and there are some really nice backroads I love to get on. So, in the meantime...Lets Ride
Riding since 16, now 65, still enjoy spirited riding but take less risks than I might have done. Never underestimate the stupidity or ignorance of car drivers, where I live and ride in Mallorca, Spain the roads during the summer are busy with tourists who seem to leave their brains at home!
Quite true. I have been riding for 52 years. Now at 68 I feel like one of the things we older riders have on our side is the years under our belt and we have a "sense" of when something has the potential to go very wrong. This lets us avoid many mishaps, you know what I am talking about when I say older group of riders can read traffic situations. Good video.
Great info on this channel. I'm 59 years old, been riding all my life except for a gap from age 21 to 32. The three rules I live by on the road: 1. Never ride when drinking. 2. Do not speed, especially in residential areas or country roads with intersections and driveways. 3. Always keep a maximum distance between the cars in front and behind. This means letting tailgaters by. Sometimes I even pull over to get them past me. The distance in front is usually easy to control. This applies everywhere, from back roads to highways.
These are good rules. I add to that all my riding must be defensive. I’m usually exhausted when I get home after a long ride because of the strenuous, never ending mental computations that I have to do. I’m constantly doing mental ‘what if?’ calculations - an incompetent/reckless/drunk/distracted/thoughtless SOB could cause a very painful death or permanent disability. So far, so good. Still alive at 65!
I'm at the same age as you and I agree to your 3 rules. And will ad a 4th: Never trust the other drivers at a junction (even if you have the right of way) till you see in the eyes of the other person that you have an agreement. I have stopped several times in my life for my life. Stay safe and have fun.
71 here still riding long rides in the morning going to work are much more relaxed but the ride home in backed up Pennsylvania traffic can knock the hell out of you . Even for a young rider using your rear brake and dragging your clutch keeping your balance gets old fast and tiring.
Much GREAT advise here Kevin! One more worth mentioning: Ride OFTEN! Riders who take long breaks (say a month or more) between riding are forced to reacquire familiarity with the bike and their skills. We all get a bit rusty in the foul weather months. No point in adding to it when the weather is being cooperative. Your thoughts?
I use to belong to a flying club and before u could hire an aircraft if u had not flown in the past 2 weeks u had to take a short flight with a flying instructor who was going to check u out before allowing u to hire an aircraft solo. Quite sensible really . As I age ( Im old already) I can see myself going down on capacity to a smaller lighter bike, in fact Ive an old 250cc dirt bike Ive had since 1975 and I aim to use it to do some green lane riding this year , should keep my skills up.
Agreed. Just turned 70 last week and here in Philly not much riding time this time of year but every chance I get I get out on my Street Bob to keep the rust off. Still working so that complicates it also.
I'm 73 now, started riding at 14. I'm now a very cautious defensive rider. I ride a pro street custom. I love the looks, the sound and the feel of the ride. It makes me feel alive. I realize the older you get it takes a lot longer to heal from an injury. I just want to keep on riding.
I am 66 and commute on a Honda CBR954RR. It is LIGHT WEIGHT. It stops FAST,it stears FAST.The tires STICK to the road. A HUGE advantage compared to heavy,lumbering cruisers.
Hope your own reaction time keeps up with the bike...It is quite strange that you compare a CBR954RR to a heavy cruiser while the video clearly talks about the rider's ability (like reaction time, vision etc.) rather than the kind of bike you ride.
Excellent video. 74 and still riding so I avoid big fast roads, love 45 to 55 mph back roads, I’m defensive, constantly looking behind and in front, stay well clear of cars in front, always on the lookout for stray dogs and unaware children and keep evaluating potential hazards. You never know what’s just around a blind corner! The aim is stress free, safe and enjoyable riding. I avoid riding in poor weather and I value my bike as much as my health so it doesn’t get a hard life ( I’ve had it for 48 years now).
Wow, you are still riding a 1975 bike. That's good that you have kept it well maintained all those years. I agree with your MPH, stay on the less traveled two lane roads, and watch out for cagers talking on their phone while driving. PS: I am 77.
I'm not a motorcyclist, I'm a serious road cyclist. I'm also in my 60s, which is why I clicked on this really good video. Reaction time and visual processing changes can be an issue even at my speeds. I also think there are some distinct and deleterious changes in balance with aging. But I know what I'm doing and I know not to take risks and I am a lot more choosy about where I will ride.
As a 76 year old rider who has been riding for 55 years and attended many advanced courses, I would add 2 comments to your video which I agree with. Firstly, if I am typical I would suggest that older riders do not travel as fast as younger riders - speed increases risk. Secondly, as I am no longer working, I feel that retired riders (as well as drivers} are not usually in such a hurry to get to a destination. All my rides are for pleasure.
Really inspiring video MC.... I've noticed that since my late 50s that my reflexes have have slowed down. I'm 63 and have never been an overly skilled rider but do enjoy the level of skill I have and I'm always seeking to improve ( I don't get out there enough). However I've always ridden within my limits, worn good gear and have a very forgiving BMW F700 GS with crash bars galore, great brakes and handling etc and feel that in the event of a crash, slide I'll have a better chance of surviving. Watching yours and some other sensible UA-cam channels (Shut-up and practice) have helped me greatly. Thanks for your great videos.
When I was in my 20s I ride sport bikes and we would have huge groups going at insane speeds. Always had my head on a swivel and didn’t think much of it. Now closing in on 50 - speed isn’t my thing. Cruising and assuming every car is out to kill me is my attitude.
Great video as usual! I started riding motorcycles two years ago at 65. That first year as a motorcyclist I rode all over the country, over 18,000 miles, on a 250cc Yamaha V Star. I could not believe the number of times I was told, by well meaning fellow motorcyclists, that I needed a bigger faster motorcycle in order to be safe on the roads and highways. After a lifetime (100’s of thousands of miles) of racing bicycles, ultramarathon bicycling, and even doing a little coaching of bicycle racers. It’s been my observation that there aren’t too many hazardous situations, either on bicycles or motorcycles, that cannot be mitigated by slowing down. Riding faster is almost always a more dangerous solution to any situation that I’ve found myself in. Riding predictably is the best defensive option for vehicles approaching from the rear, not speeding up. Hold a nice straight line, signal your turns, they are watching you out of their windshield, they do see you. The temptation to use speed to get yourself out of an uncomfortable situation, or worse compete for your spot on the road, is much greater if you have speed and power at your disposal. I’m pretty sure a bigger faster motorcycle is more of a danger to every motorcyclist, but particularly an older motorcyclist. To see what type of motorcycle is statistically more dangerous, I suppose that a person could look at insurance rates for more powerful, and less powerful, motorcycles. 🤔
You make an excellent point about increased speed very rarely being a safety factor on a motor cycle, or a car come to that. You could make the argument that in a boat, having some extra power/speed can get you out of certain dangerous situations where tides and winds are a factor, but this does not apply to the roads. Consequently, having a less powerful bike is a great recommendation to the older rider. They are lighter, which makes it much easier to handle, particularly at lower speeds, use less fuel, are cheaper to run and service. I think they can be just as much fun and go plenty fast enough. Modern 250s have quite brisk performance and certainly can go far in excess of the legal limit. Most 500s have plenty of power to carry a pillion if needed. I am now 69 and gave up motorcycling at the age of approx 62 when I sold my Honda CBF 1000. I recognised that though I was still capable of riding it and enjoying it, my reaction time and strength were inevitably diminishing and I considered it best that I decided when it was time to give up, rather than the fates decide it for me! Another factor was the expense, The larger bike was both more expensive to maintain and did worse miles to the gallon than my car. As a retiree, my income was less and I decided that it was a toy that I did not need, as there are many other things in life I enjoy. It was also handy to have the garage space back to clutter up with other things. My only additional comments are that when I have ridden small bikes (I had a Honda CG 125 for a few years) I did find that sometimes motorist pulled out in front of me in a way they did less frequently when I was on the big bike. I think that might have been because they see a small bike and under-estimate the speed you are doing, or think you will hold them up. I have noticed that as a cyclist this can also happen, as many cyclist are travelling as fast as the motorised traffic in towns. I think a 250 has sufficient presence on the road for other motorists not to think it slow. The other thing I would recommend is the importance of ABS systems on all vehicles, particularly 2 wheeled ones. I know the purists don't like ABS, but I am convinced that only a skilled motorcyclist without ABS can out-brake a decent ABS system. In my experience, most drivers and riders think they are more expert than they actually are (reference the Dunning Krugger effect). Even the most skilled can make a misjudgement in the heat of the moment. You've only got to get it wrong once.
@@ralphbrooks2132 I purchased the little 2017 Yamaha V Star 250 in 2021 for $2,200.00. It had just over 2000 miles on it. On the first trip I was getting between 70 and 80mpg. I thought motorcycles were pretty economical. I stopped at a little bikers bar in the middle of nowhere West Texas. The place looked like it had dropped out of the movie Wild Hogs. Talked to a few bikers for about an hour. When they found out I was from Omaha Nebraska they thought I was nuts. I in turn, was shocked when I discovered what some people invest in the sport. The wheels on the Harley I was parked next to were worth more than my entire motorcycle! I was really careful when I pulled out of the parking lot.
I've turned 72 still ride my B M W K75c , and drive a car , my reactions are still good , why because I'm aware of my surroundings, defensive riding is the key to safety, & before anyone throws their 2 peneth in , I was a Motorcycle Instructor for a number of years , experience and mindset counts , keep safe everyone whatever your age .
I'm 63, I still have the mind of a teenager. My reaction times are just as fast as they were when I was 18. Most of us rode at a much faster when we were young than we do now. So the slower rate of speed that we ride at, makes up for your loss of reaction time. I have been riding my Moto Guzzi Lemans 1000 everyday since 1980. Same motorcycle, same rider. In fact I have never owned a car in my life. I've not ridden on the track since the 80's, but I'm building a track bike now, and I plan on returning to the track by next year. Don't let this guy with his list of "scientific" studies squash your dreams. No risk, no life. He's just a dream killer.
After a 40 year absence, in 2022 I bought a Royal Enfield 650 Interceptor and my mindset has changed. Gone is the need to speed, or scrape metal on corners and the bulletproof bravado, replaced by the sheer enjoyment of being on a bike and the feelings one can only get from riding a motor cycle. My speed and daring are down, my road and traffic reading and awareness are up, and the sensations come more from the sound of the engine, the wind in my face, and the fact that I am still doing it. Love your sound, practical and commonsense video and the stream of comments indicating there are lots of others out there that your message resonates with.
I'm 64 and still ride my Road King, but I also go to the gym 4 times a week and have been for most of my life so I think I'm in better shape then most motorcycle riders at least my age. My point is my reflexes and reaction time are still pretty good and I ride 3 to 4 times a week so my skills aren't deteriorating as far as I can tell. But I still give myself more space between myself and other vehicles on the road to account for reaction time just because I don't know who those people are and what their abilities are. Hell, they maybe old as well.....getting ready to retire so I'm hoping I have a few more years of riding left in me......
The comment section warms my heart. I just turned 56 and seeing all of these guys still on two wheels well into their seventies gives me a lot of hope. I surely wish for another twenty+ years on a bike.
Watching this video made me realise that motorcyclists are a separate rare breed ,doing what many dream about into old age and loving it every minute which is quite something in crowded ,cold & damp Britain ,moreso if in your in your 8th decade like me and ride all year round . Some old sage wisdom's from the older Biker community ,but I look at it this way - I have reached old age riding fast bikes and raced bikes in various forms and I am still here ,so must be doing something right ?. Broke a few bones ,but have outlived most of my old companions and even my Mrs. who was my sidecar passenger for 48 years , I will have to downsize and eventually stop riding . But while my youngest [62] brother keeps encouraging me and we ride together I will ride my collection of bikes for a while yet . Best words ever at 16 y.o. was from a bike cop - "treat everybody on the road like they are complete idiots " and you will be O.K. ! . 😉.
M 62 and I think I've fallen into that old rider category. I have stopped speeding for good. So many comments beautifully written and the very well made video, thank you every one. On the highways I just smile at the younger kids n let them pass by. Cheers and ride safe brothers.
It’s nice to see that there are still people riding and enjoying their bikes at an older age. I just turned 61 and was thinking of shutting her down at 65. But I may push that back a few years after reading some of these clients. As stated by the host, maintaining a good distance from the traffic in front of you is so important.
Yep. Be self aware and adapt. Fellow oldies, remember also that there are three times as many people living on the planet than when we started riding, and that alone triples the threat when we are out on the road.
Even though I can verify the 2 rocker patches on my vest for 1,000,000 each I can testify that at 75 years old my number one issue is my diminishing sense of balance. No one ever really warned me about this and so it's been a challenge to adjust for that along with the slower reaction times.
Try goblet squats and planking…balance is determined by our inner-ear balance fluid and as importantly, our quadricep muscles. Our quadriceps and body core stabilise our balance…we can maintain these by exercising.
I hear a lot of “ older “ bikers go to trikes. 3 wheels. If I start losing my balance that will tell me my strength is obsolete to when and where ever I may drop it and need help standing it up. Hell I didn’t think I’d make it to 58 or I would’ve taken better care of myself. Hopefully I’ll see 75. My hats off to you for the two million miles. Ride on brother,,, 🏝️ 0’\~o
At 67 I ride a ZX14R and a C-14. Both are fast, heavy bikes. I still get on it hard sometimes, but I'm a lot smarter about when and where. I really appreciate the feel of speed and the fact that I'm still capable of it. Though with some adjustments to my riding style. I use both feet for balance, for safety. Distance increased in traffic. All good ideas. I hope to be riding into my '80s. Ride safe, enjoy the rode.
I am a pilot and have always been able to measure distance based on my speed. Pilots also do a lot of pre-planning each flight. I actually pre-plan my rides even reviewing the parking lot where I am going. I also leave a lot of room when in traffic and keep my head on a swivel! Thx for the video, R
Im 73 yrs old. My motorcycles took safely care of me for 50 yrs. Now its time for me to take care of myself and thats hard to give up. But with weekness and balance and medications .......I \ould say its time to cash in. Sorry brothers. Its been a wild ride. Sincerly.
68, do yoga, 5-Rites , ping-pong (creates new Neural-links) , sold stupidly-fast-bikes . Upgraded suspension and brakes (better-odds) High-vis-gear, don't ride with more than two others . Watch the-likes of Motojitsu and practise it . Set up bike ergonomics to suit me , avoid All crazy-traffic , even if it means stopping for a while or taking back-roads etc , All this means I can still 'Push-it' within the limitations of a slower-bike and enjoy it . I NEVER look at the scenery unless I ride TO the scenery. Riding a motorcycle is a Real-Time video-game , where you Can actually Die if you mess-up and I Love it . Dave NZ
Very well said and explained Sir, experience has huge benefits, but old age has its downsides. As a 68 year old I have downsized to a Honda CB500 X which I find is ideal for the twisty country roads here in the West of Scotland.Would not relish trying to pick up an eight hundred pound lump at my age. Will probably go with a smaller and lighter machine as I get older as I plan to ride for as long as is possible.
I envy you your roads in the West of Scotland. I've driven some of them by car and they were great fun, with spectacular scenery. I had a friend, sadly now gone, who came from Arrochar, and we based several holidays there. I would have loved to do it by bike, but never got the chance. At 68, the 500 mile journey to get there on a 45 year old Triumph is too much for me now, but I wish you well as you carry on riding those roads.
I'm 68 yrs and have a KTM RC 390, a Royal Enfield 535 Continental GT, and a Honda 125 !!!! All my friends have Enormous Bikes !!!! Well, if they are that stupid then they can do whatever they want !!!!! I'm the only one who does all his own maintenance, and they hardly know how to pump the tyres up !!!!
Older riders like myself, may have slower reaction time, but our years have granted us an awful lot of hard earned wisdom. I’ll take wisdom over youthful reaction times any day of the week.
This is a great issue. Along with other aged issues. It’s why my happy speed is 45-55. I avoid busy roads, and increased speeds. I choose my riding times wisely. You hit all the main aged issues. Don’t forget the bike weight issue. I’m 73. I ride a Sportster. Heavy enough. I can get it up. More content on aged rider issues would be welcome. I’m sure your data base mean age is 50+. Just a guess. Thanks for your input.
Oh yes please. I’d definitely like more content for older riders. Despite getting my license in 1977 and riding since I have seen my skills atrophy. I’m 65 and have noticed that motorcycle skills are perishable as you get older. Thank you for the advice Kevin.
@@danield831 Perhaps yours is a thoughtless remark. I’m 65 and am a widower. Perhaps since he is 73 he might be a widower too and would not care for this remark about his wife.
At 70 I'm still an adrenalin junky and still ride my 500CC dirt bike. I'll admit that I don't ride as crazy as I used to but it's still a blast. I do wear every piece of protective gear available except for a neck brace and probably should wear that.
Good advice. I didn’t start riding until I was 62; I’m now 84. Can’t say I haven’t had close calls or made bad moves, but I do think experience and caution offset some of the physical insults of aging. My greatest challenge is fatigue, for which I compensate with more modest time and distance goals, more frequent breaks, and close attention to my body’s signals regarding food and hydration. Seriously thinking about changing to a lighter, lower, and slower machine.
Good for you that you can still ride at 84. Yep, lighter and slower are the two key words. And stay out of heavy traffic. I am 77, and still on two wheels, but you got me beat by seven years. I just put a half gallon at a time in the tank. That way, I can stop every 25 miles for gas, and use the rest room at a gas station. LOL
I am an older ride who learnt to ride not long ago. My instructor taught me to keep a 3 second gap where possible (people keep moving into the safety buffer 🤷♂️). I also believe that it is true that as you get older a certain level of caution kicks in that was not as strong when we were younger.
Yup I agree the 3 second gap is just not feasible in an urban multi-lane environment. I look for pockets in the stream and ride slightly faster than traffic is moving to keep from being the meat in the sandwich.
Yeah, I'm much more careful than when I learned to ride in my 20s, better judgement. Still manage to get myself in a jam sometimes, but much less frequent. Brakes have gotten better too, thankfully!
@@alanfield735 If someone moves into your 3 second gap, it doesn't matter. You'll stand a much greater chance of getting to your destination if you just let 'em cut in and back off a little more. TRUTH!
A lot to be said for just NOT riding aggressively... If they move into the safety buffer, stay off the throttle... as in JUST don't accelerate. It's not difficult... Obviously, there's a point where you're actively causing the hazard by slowing beyond what's a reasonably comparable speed within traffic and conditions... Usually, (at least popularly) this is around 10 mph under the posted limit... AND similarly, it's obviously dangerously fast if you're 10 or more mph OVER the limit... BUT this is only a "general rule"... What's most important, regardless of your personal "style", is that you give yourself the time to READ traffic around you. Glancing to other vehicles' WHEELS will tell you a LOT about what they're doing or about to do before they've created a nuisance... You can't cheat physics, either... so the bigger and heavier the vehicle, the more reliant on physics it is, and thereby the more predictable it absolutely MUST be... Wheels will misalign before a vehicle crosses into or out of the lane(s)... The further out of alignment with the markings on the road, the more likely they are traveling more than one lane over... and at a glance you can see that easier than you can notice some subtlety like more of the nearest side showing to you. Wheels slow to a stop at signs and lights around intersections and side streets or the openings of parking lots to the road, too. Don't bet your life on someone seeing you before they're in your way, check the wheels and SEE if they're coming to a stop in time or not... AND further ahead (or even behind) you're actually very gifted at seeing patterns. Along with that, you can notice DISRUPTIONS in those patterns just as easily and quickly. The further away that you can notice a disruption, the better your chances of making an appropriate decisive maneuver and avoiding the trouble, whatever it may be. By simply riding less aggressively, you buy yourself time... BUT that simply isn't enough. It's the experience to know what to DO with that time that makes the biggest difference. READ, EVALUATE, EXECUTE, RE-EVALUATE (results)... DO that consistently, and almost no matter how old and decrepit you get, you can maintain a fair mastery of just about any vehicle, including but not limited to motorcycles. ;o)
@@gnarthdarkanen7464 above or below posted limit doesn't matter. It is your speed relative to all the other traffic that matters. If the average traffic is going 10mph faster than posted, and you are doing the "posted limit" so are 10mph slower than everyone else: you are the hazard. I typically ride 5mph faster relative to the other traffic, regardless of posted speed limits. BTW: motorcycle speedometers are notoriously inaccurate, seem to always claim going faster than actual are. Very good points about looking at the wheels/rims of cars. That is what I'm looking at on every intersection too.
A year ago, doing something with fellow Moto Guzzi owners, we met a ‘slightly older’ youngster. He showed up on a ‘close to brand new’ BMW. He asked if he could join us. As the average Guzzi rider doesn’t care what bike you are riding just keep the fun in it all, of course he could join us. I asked him when he purchased his new BMW. Well son, he said (personally I am 66), I started to ride a bike 30 years ago when my wife died, bought me a BMW and when I became 90 !!!!!!! I thought, let’s buy a new one, but I did like my first BMW better. The man was 91, handled the bike like a 45 year youngster, put up his own tent just as fast as I did. We shared ‘a million stories’ and a lovely littlest BBQ. Till today, I feel sorry we didn’t have a ride together. The older bikers are, the better the stories.
So many good comments. I was a trainer, (and licenser) in Australia, and I told my students (before the Government interfered) assume that everyone else on the road is a homicidal maniac, because their mistakes will kill you. I recently met a former student, 25 years later, and she told that it was the best advice that she had ever received. They may be nice people, but their mistakes will kill you. I still ride to that concept. And I'm still alive.
Thanks for addressing the aging issue. Does this explain why so many older Cruiser riders are slow mobile road blocks? You stated how sharpening skills is an essential tactic, however, choosing to ride a heavy bike that doesn't maneuver or brake as well as many of the lighter bikes is working against older riders. I'm 72 y.o. and ride a BMW R1150RS. Not the lightest bike, but it's 200-lbs or more lighter than many of the Cruiser bikes, and it's certainly a comfortable and well-handling bike with ABS. I've kept up with sport-bikes in the twisties, and feel very confident with its stable high speed handling. Yes, it is a good idea to slow it down with age, rely on the wisdom age should bring, and focus on keeping your skills sharp.
Excellent advice and a great set of recommendations to maintain your riding skills for any and all riders, regardless of age. Thank you for sharing this information.
I am 60+.. from Hyderabad India. In our city, if one can drive a bike without hitting or scratching, fellow bikers, that guy can drive anywhere on the planet safely. I have been driving since about 45 Years. I never had a fall.
I’m 77 and yes, my reaction time has slowed down considerably, but I can compensate by riding slower and increasing following distance. My big problem is my sense of balance is shot and my legs have become week. My bike is now reluctantly for sale.
Why not a Can-Am Spyder/Ryker, that's what I did at 66 after a crash on 2 wheels. 3 wheels won't tip over plus ABS, Traction Control, Vehicle Stability System, Electronic Power Steering, Semi Automatic Transmission and more, and, if I'm honest, more confidence than on 2 wheels. And definitely loads of fun.
I started writing when I was 17 in 1954 and I’m still riding at 86 in 2024. I’ve learned a lot in the meantime I increased my stopping distance because I know a car can stop twice as fast as a motorcycle and a tractor trailer can stop four times faster than a car so I increase my stopping distance and I also try to ride where I can have a clear view of the road up in front of me.. most of my riding is cross country from the east to the west coast and back. I’ve been to Canada and back. I try to stay on roads that have less traffic but I also keep an eye out for animals like deer and bear. I’m not looking for any heavy thrills I’m just looking for the pleasure of my country USA.
Very good content. Practical information to consider and use as needed. Probably an additional factor to consider for all riders is how accurate is their perception of their own riding skills.
WoW !! Almost a year ago, and my post popped up again, I love it. As a comment, I had not taken time to update so here's another option for some riders. For the past few years, after my beloved Triumph 955 i , I changed to a Yamaha Majesty 400, it tops out about 100, but the best cruise is 70 ish at spec. power curve. Moving the handlebars forward a bit made the maxi-scooter handle much easier, better high speed posture and balance, the easy fix to typical slow handling. All my bikes have had a few bar adjustments for riding comfort, in town, the country or racing. The result is safety, no hunting for the rear brake foot pedal, no lost shifting motion to distract from the road contours. More common sense riding, less noise, way lower insurance rate, better gas mileage, and both hands rest on brake handles. The short story is that the last part has saved my life at least once and reduced the chance of harm several times. When a car, or road hazard happens, you have more time to react with both brakes and stop faster. Some newer bikes have the two brake system, but they still need a foot moved when milliseconds count. That lost concentration could be the difference, it might be worth checking to see if that might be retrofitted. The automatic transmission scooters seem to work best, but BMW has a good 2 brake system in place. I'm probably alive the past 3 years because of those brakes working fully together. Thanks for the opportunity to update a bit, and a current thought on road safety.
Interesting words...2 brake system....I have an 84 Shadow and my foot rests pretty much on the rear brake and hand is trigger finger to fronts...I've always rode what could be now Old School bikes and many dirt biking back a few on my Suzuki RM250...I avidly ski downhill now also so I'm hoping my trigger to reflex is going to hang on to me at 58 now and beyond...I'm getting back into biking which I've been doing wholly since 15 years old....Nice meeting you btw man!
I'm 73yo. Was in the Motorcycle business for 20 years, retail and factory. I've ridden hundreds of bikes and still do about 300 miles a week. Have a new KTM RC390 race bike. Off of it, I can barely walk. Feet on the rear sets...I'm 20 again!😊
Yeah, I ride like an old man now...I'm good with it. maintain mostly speed limit, less risk taking, better a space cushions. still Blip the throttle, still slam the twisties, still go to at least one class each season, still have a sh!t load of fun. thank you Kevin!
52 years of riding, and there are still surprises. While turning into a marina oarking lit to pick up a part for my friend, i failed to observe the fine stamp sand from old mine and ice control along the entrance curbing. The Road king tire slid maybe a foot before catching the concrete and twist the wheel to thw right. The bike started falling over and stupidly trued to plant my foit down to save the 100th anniversary paint. The running board caught steel toed boot and planted to the pavement and the still less than 1 mph movement plucked me out of the saddle and smacked me to the pavement like a fly swatter. I was able to get up and hop into the shop and ask for help to get the back end off the road. Two fractures were the immediate results however, as i started having heart issues and later a TIA, the cardiologist asked me did i have any impacts to my body. The neurologist asked the same thing 18 months later. Just took the mri this week. Even with taking the advance MSF courses for 25 plus years in the Air Force, i find my reaction time is slower. I might begrudgingly trade my old ride of 21 years for a convertible. Or, as my wife tells me, you have a zero turn. You can free spirit on that. Its hard to give up on a passion. Thanks for the video.
Reaction time is only a part of being a safe rider, and a pretty small part at that. It is the old saying about it not mattering much how fast you do the wrong thing. It is much more important to do the right thing more slowly than the wrong thing quickly. And most reaction time tests are not realistic as they are typically a very simple stimulus such as sound or light leading to only one response, pressing a button or similar. That is nothing like the real world where the stimuli are many and varied as are the possible responses such as stopping vs. swerving vs. accelerating. It has been shown in a few studies of pilots (I am a pilot) over the years that older pilots tend to perform worse on these simply reaction time tests, but perform better than younger pilots on simulator scenarios where experience and wisdom come into play. Now, if you are a new rider at age 70, then you probably need to be very careful as you have slower reactions and also lack the experience that accelerates the process of evaluating the many inputs and choosing a correct reaction. However, if you are a lifelong rider, then as you age you may not be all that bad off as your experience is continually increasing which offsets a good part, and possible all, of your loss in reaction time and motor skills.
At 89, that's the reason I now maintain a 3 second or greater following distance between the vehicle in front of me and my vehicle. A few years ago, I decided it was no longer safe for me to play in traffic on the bike, so after 50 years of riding, I sold it to a neighbor - ( lot younger than me, a retired airline pilot who still flies his 1946 Stinson 108 )
I am 74. I am extra cautious, usually drive at or below the speed limit, plan ahead and look for problems up ahead. My legs are not as strong so always a bit wobbly at slow speed or stopping. Have not gone down or had a crash.
@@williamarinder8809 I miss my Honda CB750K. It was easy to ride and comfortable. My current one is a Suzuki Boulevard 800 and it weighs about the same but is larger. I feel less steady on it in spite the seat is lower.
Thanks for the info. Just turned 70 here , what a bummer, but still love riding. Thanks for the heads up on some very interesting ways to keep on rolling down that road.
Another factor is the natural loss of muscle as you get older. That heavy motorcycle just keeps getting heavier. That's why trikes and sidecar rigs can add extra years to your riding. Not only that, a third wheel adds a fun dimension to the experience. Don't knock it until you have tried it! Ironically, I had 2 side hack rigs when I was around 30. Now I am 61 and am considering the time when I will stick a sidecar on my Harley.
I am 61 with over 30 years of riding experience. I changed my 1100 Shadow for a 411 Scram last year and am really enjoying the lighter weight. I have also owned trikes in the past and definitely wouldn't rule another one out in the future, especially if it will extend my riding time.
Older riders, all of us really, can significantly reduce their reaction time risk by going slower, increasing stopping and following distances. You don't have to be hauling A to enjoy your motorcycle. Obey speed limits
Wow! It's not often I'm the young guy in a motorcycle conversation. I'm "just" 60 and have "only" been riding for 45 years. I am, however, a far better rider now than I was in my youth. Most riders, in my experience, don't have enough respect for the sport. They learn to ride and then don't do any more learning or training; a recipe for disaster and a shortcut to old age. I've done at least one school or clinic every year for 45 years. I also set up and run the cones at the start of every season. California Superbike School, American Supercamp, Rawhyde Adventures, Total Control... Those were my last five - and as you can see, I purposely mix it up every time. Add traing to the wisdom and calm most old riders bring to their game and you will find you can become a far better rider as you age - especially as compared to the riders who don't really have 50 years of riding experience; they have 3 months of experience 200 times.
Here in Delaware, I always maintain a 3-car length distance. I am 58 yrs old and starting my second season riding. Always operate with caution, maintaining situational awareness. I try to always enjoy my ride and I am never in a rush to get where I am going. Thanks for the math!!!
Three car lengths at a stop sign is a hugely wasteful amount of space. Conversely, 3 car length following distance on an interstate at 65 mph is an incredibly small reckless amount of space. Your following distance should be based on time, such as 2-3 seconds following distance. The amount of feet (car lengths) separation increases as speed increases. You want a Time Buffer. Watch the car in front and when it crosses a mark/seam, start counting seconds starting with 0: 0 (wait a second), 1 (wait a second), 2 (wait a second), 3! --- that is a conservative 3-second time separation when you should be crossing the same mark. At 65mph that is 286 feet of separation (about 19 car lengths).
I'm 64 years old and ride every day , recently didn't own a car for over 2 years and relied on my motorcycle for everything. The only reason I'm still riding is I anticipate everyone is out to hurt me including the wildlife, always ready for a car to not give way or pass on a blind corner. I have definitely slowed down and I avoid riding at night as I can't see as well in the dark. I'm not planning on giving up and really enjoy my motorcycle, stay safe
A stiff neck is a problem. You need your head on a swivel riding motorcycle. Chiropractor helped me. Also, blue wave traction pillow at Amazon really works well. Like $22-25 bucks.
My 3 RIDER RULES: -Every driver is out there to kill me. - Every curve I can't see around is coated with oil or wet leaves. -My brakes will fail when I need them most. -The car at that stop sign doesn't see me and will accelerate and run into me. * OK, that's four 😂 My PRP (Personal Riding Philosphy) "Ain't Dead Yet." and "Ride'til Ya Rot." I've been riding since the day after I turned 16, (Honda CB160) and still riding (KTM 890R) at 75.
So true Now that I'm old I do a couple other things. 1. When touring I shorten my days. Being tired just makes everything worse. 2. In the winter I try and get in the best physical shape I can get in. Hit the weights and the yoga. Everyday I don't want to work out, which let's face it is most days, I remind myself it will make me a safer rider.
ALWAYS ride with 2 fingers on the brake lever. that one change will reduce the 250 ms reaction time. It helps this 64 year old rider keep riding with confidence.
In my early 60s, I was riding daily, commuting during the week and pleasure rides at the weekends. I noticed a significant increase in my reaction times, and decided to hang up my boots. I sold all my bikes and got a sporty little car (which lasted two years and died of rust!). After a few years I realised I was getting depressed and grumpy and thought it was just getting older. Then I looked in the window of my local bike dealer and realised what I was missing. I got another bike and now I have what I call therapy rides. I go out for an hour and all my cares have gone. (I’m lucky to live in a beautiful part of the UK.) The new bike is a hooligan (Triumph Street Triple) but I only indulge that side of things when the conditions are right. Most of the time I bimble about at 60 enjoying the scenery. I’m much more restrained than I used to be, and don’t need to prove any points to anyone. And I follow the advice here - greater following distances, look twice, think twice, if in doubt hang back, don’t get angry, stay calm, etc etc. I’m loving it, and it has restored my sanity. 71 next birthday. Good video, thanks.
As a MSF instructor for over 20 years and a consistant rider for 50+ years Ive seen a lot of problems with new riders who start over the age of 40. Sometimes the learning curve is very slow. I taught many classes with a older instructor who at 70 , wasn't able to ride demos because of health problems. He use to have a saying, there are old riders and bold rider's but not many old bold riders. There was a lot of truth to that.. When people tell me they only ride 1 -2k miles a year it's obvious if you ride with them . Most are not as good of a rider as they think they are .
G'day Kevin. I'm 64, riding "licensed" since 17, and always had a motorcycle or two in my garage. I currently ride a 2017 fjr1300 and its perfect for me at this time. Great advice as always brother, and as they say, you never stop learning new things no matter how old one gets. Motorcycles are in my blood and I would prefer my blood to remain inside this older body! Hopefully riders of all ages will absorb the very practical advice that you put out there for them. Great channel, stay safe.
Your analysis is spot on. l have been riding since 1962. My experience tells me that l no longer react as fast as l once did. Being honest enough to recognise that fact is paramount. l have for many years regarded all Cagers..(Car Drivers).. as possible assassins. It has stood me in good stead in avoiding becoming an accident statistic...Riding within your capabilities, staying aware and focused will always be the key. Even more so once age is an ever increasing factor...Ride save all fellow Bikers...
Thank you for your comentary. I'm 62, been riding since I was 18. Younger I drove speedbikes, got into a terrible accident that prevent me doing what I loved. After 2 years in therapy bought my first Harley, been driving ever since. I prefer cruisers now, country roads, take my time. Every season I go to empty parking lot practice all the skills I learned all those years.
I'm Australian and started riding at 16 years of age. At 79 years living in Thailand, I no longer carry a pillion passenger, ride below 80 kph or 50 mph and prefer 50 kph or 30 mph in dedicated motorcycle lanes. It is a requirement to use these lanes when possible in Thailand. Defensive riding is especially essential in Thailand, but it is essential every where. In Australia every driver must stop to avoid a collision, Right of way is the law, not the reality. I now ride a Honda ADV-150cc with CVT auto transmission. Auto transmission is so easy with less to do one can focus better on the road and traffic. I bought a Honda Click 125cc but the vibration gave me repetitive strain injury. I switched to the Honda PCX but fell in love with the softer suspension of the ADV. I do have a back compression problem due to a very large deep pot hole, years ago. The ADV-150 has improved adjustable suspension but lacks the dual wheel braking with ABS of our Honda PCX-160 and is limited to ABS front right hand brake and no ABS on the separately operated left hand rear brake. One ABS brake lever for both wheels is so much easier on made roads irrespective of age. The ADV-150 lacks the parking brake lever that the PCX-160 has. Older riders seek easier parking as wheeling the bike may be hard work. For me, reaction times are not the problem. Maybe I have just given myself more time and space to react. The limited ease and ability to turn my head fully makes using mirrors, and advanced frequent checking essential. I do not have the strength to stand on the pegs (pedals) to control the bike on rough roads or off road any more but can stand occasionally for short distances such as road repairs. Sitting on the seat of an off road scooter is still quite manageable. Scooters don't have pegs and lack the width of the pegs for easy control. One has to steer with one's bum and shift the handle bars sideways to mimic standing on the pegs. All scooters have poor lighting so I have added additional driving lights to compensate for poorer night vision. Cannot do that on a PCX as there is no where to mount driving lights. I avoid night riding and then it would only be local commuting of a few kilometres. I am suggesting that riding the right bike as one ages is a good idea. I use my car to carry shopping and in inclement weather so I really just ride for fun, How sweet it is. You are absolutely right, we must adjust or riding and driving to match or physical and mental abilities.
Good day much respect for your teachings having owned about 50 motorcycle, s and scooters alike and several mountain bikes a road bike, s also I have found mountain biking trails a skill enhancer for all 2 wheeled endeavors reaction times are greatly enhanced perfect practice for a perfect ride lessens the risk significantly carry it over to the motorcycle 🏍 side of life's pleasures, keep iup the good work!!
As a ex Police motorcyclist riding 365 days a year, I am aware my skills peaked in my 40’s, now 64 I aim to think and look twice. My mantra has always been “you show off, you fall off!” As UA-cam will attest to. Also never do anything spontaneously as it means you’ve not looked! Miss that junction, turn around further up the road and live to see another day. Thank you for all you efforts to put this out there. Peter
Great advise.
Emphasis on missing the junction is life saving advice. Nothing brings a bike down faster than over application of the front brake when turning the steering even a fraction. Thank you for that important addition to my own thoughts as well as the others who will read this.
Great advice Pete, Even in a car I've seen some idiots who foolishly dive into into a left turn lane rather than go the extra distance and then Safely get into a left turn lane! I'll always go out of my way on my motorcycle to make a left OR a right turn if I need to.
I'm going to buy a sport bike once I feel myself reaching a sophomore skill set on my sportster.
I don't do anything spontaneously. Times I thought about it I looked over later and realized I'd have been in a collision.
People often brake to let me in when I'd really prefer they didn't. I'm not in a rush
I agree, also a police motor trained officer who is now 54 years old. I know my skills peaked back in my 30s and 40s as well. I went completed motor school back when I was 28 years old.
I'm 68 and have been riding for 52 years in the UK. Since I retired 3 years ago, I've spent more time riding than ever before (work used to get in the way). In my experience, the key to survival is the ability to continually assess potential hazards, and adjust your riding to allow yourself enough time to take the appropriate action. This applies whatever your age, and as you get older, you learn to adapt. Riders who don't feel the need to do this don't generally last long enough to be old .
l used to ride with a group ..(senior)..here in Spain. l thought it a good idea until l saw a couple of the riders 'ride into the foliage'... l now only ride with one or two riders..Day trips only at a speed where one has time to look at the scenery rather than becoming part of it..
At 65, after riding bikes since I was 10 years old...............I have really noticed the decrease of reaction to whats going on, it seems like concentration level has decreased more than anything..............as an ex racer, Ive always liked to push it a good bit.
Not the best idea as one gets older.
I know guys my age that ride once or twice a year, they arent coherent enough to realize how dangerous this is....its more a diversion or a casual hobby for them.
Many seem to think they are expert level with no basis for this idea.
@@brianperry Group rides, CAN be about the most dangerous thing to do.
And many only ride if its a group event. Its a social thing rather than a riding thing.
Those other riders can take you out in a split second.
Stuff happens SO quick on the road sometimes. I ride solo or with one or 2 friends where I know, they know, what they're doing.
Those who ride Harleys, know about this group ride deal. They all dress the same, they all have loud bikes, and they only ride in a pack, usually right next to each other 2 x 2.............so if one goes down they can all go down.
Almost always their group ride is a bar to bar ride.
Most dont know enough, to know, they don't know anything about riding a bike.
Their ego gets in the way.
Yes Sir, you are absolutely right! Made my own experience. Greetings from Hamburg, Germany.
"I AM" going to ride as long as I am healthy enough!!! Now 60 years old still ride my bicycle backwards sitting on the handlebars, although difficult to see where I am or what's coming but I have every intention of continuing to ride my bicycle. As long as I'm able I just built a Harley with a 10in over chop't with 120" motor at 130 HP I prefer to die healthy as I can and preferably doing something I enjoy like riding!!! so ride till you die.... Or ride or die.....❤️❤️❤️❤️❤️...I have been a successful crash dummy for over 50+ years I still tuck and roll like a 12 year old.....to each his own...MUCH RESPECT TO All and GOD BLESS!!!
Another thing worth mentioning is that younger riders tend to believe the other drivers are going to drive predictably and obey traffic rules whereas older riders like me have learned to not trust anyone to do anything predictable and in fact older riders will be more ready for drivers to do something completely unpredictable because the older riders have seen it all before.
Yep, spot on. Having been a young and wild rider who survived has given me an edge? Maybe. I always look at riding a bike as a lottery. No matter how well you ride or how much you know, there always comes the point of no return. For example, a car is turning across your lane, he waits, you see him, what to do? Ride on confidently, speed up to show you mean business, slow down for safety and display hesitancy?
In a car, all the hard stuff is around you. On a bike, all the hard stuff is protected by our body.
I love riding, it is astonishing. I feel it to be magical. I also have many friends and relatives who are no longer here. I will keep on riding and will enjoy. Cheers.
I used to tell new riders to ride as if 50% of drivers don’t see you, and the other half are aiming for you. I’m 75yo, and am downsizing my dirt bike to a crf250x.
I'm in 100% agreement with you.
@@tedecker3792 truth
@@trukngal I learned that from an 80yo BMW rider I met at Sturgis in 1969. I heard he was killed in an accident in Florida two years later.
Reading, and listening to this program helps me stay relevant to riding. So far, three minor accidents, zero tickets in over 60 years. Now at 83, I still ride, but on lower hp, easier to manage bikes. I lowered the power to increase safety, and time to react. Now I see more, ride relaxed, and realize that accidents are mostly avoidable, if you just slow down and keep that license to ride longer. Never stop keeping those skills up !
Age 77, and I agree. Less horsepower, slower speeds, and stay off the interstates. Just ride the back roads, and see more at slower speeds.
I agree with both of you gentlemen. At 71, I stay off the interstates and avoid high traffic areas (big cities) if there is anyway I can. I live on a small rural town, so this is not hard. The only problem is training. The nearest paved parking lot is 40 miles away😰
@@hankscally9658 Wow, 40 miles to a paved parking lot. That is really rural. Where or what state do you live in?? PS. I live in a small town also.
@@williamarinder8809 I live in a small town in rural New Mexico. The nearest paved parking lot that is large enough for practice is in a town 40 miles away. Our high school has a paved parking lot, but it is fenced and is only available during school hours, and is usually full of cars.
@@hankscally9658 I guess we should be glad that we can still ride after age 70. Seems like my body hurts somewhere different every day. LOL
Age 77, and still on two wheels. However, I made a few changes in how and what I ride. I went from a Honda Shadow 1100 to the smaller Shadow, to reduce the weight. I stay off the interstates, and just ride backroads, and keep the speed under 55 mph. Also, I look twice at every intersection when cars are there. They just don't see you on a bike.
I tink back roads are dangerous! Intersections, side roads, non focused drivers. I never pass if they are going over 45 mph.
I'm 71 and started riding at 17. I don't ride my Road King much as the weight is too heavy in town plus I'm dealing with some health issues. However I still ride my Springer as it is so much easier to ride. I take non-interstate roads and rely on my years of experience. Never take anything for granted, always use your mirrors, do what is good for you, and leave fear at home. Shiny side up!
@@tellytruth8554 Yep, dropping down to a lighter weight bike is what kept me riding. It needs to be one that you can hold up when not moving.
I never go on green anymore, I wait and look. Too many clowns.
Hope you wear some hi viz gear too. I used to ride mostly in black when I was younger but now I never go out without my bright hi viz vest.
Good video. I'm 73 and started riding again 4 years ago after a 35 year layoff from 1983 to 2018. I got all the urge to go fast out of my system in the early 70's so today I ride very conservatively on a BMW K1600B. The one rule I've always followed, and how I taught my kids to drive, is to always assume others on the road with you are going to do the stupidest thing they could possibly do so I'm always on guard. I assume the lady pulling out of her driveway is actually going to pull in front of me and then I'm just pleasantly surprised when she doesn't. I don't ride with friends much because most folks my age have quit riding already and those younger than I am are still working and can't ride when I want to go. That means I've done some nice solo rides during the week to the Cherohala Parkway and Tail of the Dragon. Love your channel. Keep up the good work.
Having lost a brother when a woman failed to stop at a stop sign, I assume that people are not going to stop and they don't see me when they change lanes.
I did the same with my kids! Being video game generation, I used the analogy that while driving someone will come out of nowhere and try to ruing your day, so just like in a video game, you need to be waiting for that quota. As part of that training, when some does something stupid, you never get mad at them because you were expecting it.
100%! Welcome back! Ride safe and ride often.
72 and live in rural Australia been riding since about 12 on farm bikes stayed healthy by taking it easy on the black stuff.
If you got out all the go-fast, why are you riding a 170 hp motorcycle?
At 70 years of age, I feel really fortunate to be in as good a shape as I am… while I have little problems here and there, cataract surgery extended my riding years tremendously. Many friends my age can’t even tie their shoes, which brings up my point. There is a huge range of “capability” in 70-80 year old people. Some are in wheel chairs. Some have glaucoma. Some have been alcoholics and smokers for the last 50 years and can’t catch their glasses when they fall off their face. Some have been sober for decades and have been doing yoga and lifting free weights for the same amount of time.
If all we see in a person is how old they are, then we don’t see the complete human that each individual actually is.
Very well said. 70 here & hanging the best I can through issues, but still trying to have fun
I never thought about being this age. At 68, I still ride a motorcycle, a quad, go camping, and take the boat to the lake. It's my idea of living.
I'm 68 yrs old, have 3 Motorbikes, 40 years no claims, and I can see the bottom line on the Eye Chart without Glasses !!! I also spend a lot of time on my X Box Isle of Man TT simulator !!!! That makes your Brain Speed Up. So when I ride my real bikes at the speed limit, it feels like slow motion, and I always expect every motorist to do something Stupid !!! So I never get caught out !!!! I do all my own repairs and I really love my Bikes because I keep them in good mechanical condition !!!! All my Biker Friends don't know how to adjust the Clutch lever, or how to pump the tyres up !!!!
true,i'm 72 and ride with younger riders. They love it when i lead. Slower speeds and always trying to anticipate the errors by car riders.
Im 65, I still do 150+ miles a week on bicycles, and I feel strong doing it. I ride an 890R KTM............some guys I grew up with have all but had it at this age. They quit moving a long time ago. A person can be ancient by age 65, or still out going for it.
At 63 I have changed some of my riding habits. 1) I do not ride when I do not feel like it. If I am tired or if I don't feel sharp I do not ride. 2) I sold the sport bikes. I do not stuff it into corners, I do not race and my pace is leisurely. 3) I am looking at lighter bikes for my future rides. They are easier to maneuver and easier to control. 4) Finally I take great care of my knees. I consider how I pivot when I drop into the saddle making sure my foot slips around on the ground and that my knee doesn't twist. I recognize that I am not the rider or the driver I one was.
Great points...especially number 1!
"There are old pilots, and there are bold pilots, but there are no old bold pilots." Definitely keep the skills as sharp as you can and ride within that skill set or limits. Great topic & video! Thanks Kevin. (BTW, soon to be 72.) 😁
What about Tom Cruise?
@@brianballerini5886 some folks are just bulletproof! 🤣 And have a film crew, and multiple takes and . . .
@@brianballerini5886 Tom is definitely younger than me!
Hang in there bro. I hear ya, just turned 70 here. Where that time go!!
Old bikers never die they just smell that way. Lol 😆
I am 82 years old. I started riding on Whizzer motor bikes when I was 8 years old. Bought my first Harley, a 1942 "45" flat head, when I was 14. I have ridden almost all my life. My current ride is a 99 Softail Custom.
Speed and reaction time are the most important things, and never assume that other drivers are going to do what you think they are. Turn signals left on do not mean they are going to turn. Patience pays off. Wait for traffic to clear before jumping into the fray. I still ride weather permitting as much as I can. I live in a very rural area a couple of miles from a town of about 7500 people. Even at that, I rarely go to town during rush hour. It is the little things you do that keep you safe.
Very cool! I wanna be you!
I fell in love with motorcycles when two friends of mine, brothers, had 21" Whizzer Sportsmans. Soon after, my brother and I pooled our money and bought a used 1950 125 CZ.
@@johnhampton5320 Cool. You have been around the block a few times also. Whizzers were fun little machines. I also rode Cushman motor scooters and any thing with a motor. LOL
You don’t stop riding when you get old, you get old when you stop riding. 😁
Amen
Both happened to me after I turned 69 2 years ago. @@BillHerring-nh5th
I think there's evidence to support this.... and I've never yet seen a motorcyclist 'nod off' whilst riding.
True,...whenI swing a leg over and hit the starter,..Im 18 again at 73.
I think you didn't listen to the video...😁. I understand that admitting being too old to ride a bike takes some courage but might help you, your family, and your friends. Slogans like yours don't help.
I'm 86 and have been riding for 72 years. I still have a BMW R90S, a Guzzi Lemans hot rod and a beautful 1973 Norton Commando...and I ride all of them regularly. My long-held standard is that I'll hang up my helmet when I can no longer start my Norton. Thus far, I'm not there. Mind you, I don't ride much in heavy traffic; I live in rural New Zealand and usually take a car when I go into the city. I've taught safe-riding courses for decades; I am careful, don't ride as hard as I once did, and I make sure I'm in FRONT of the cars, not among them. If they want to run me over, they're going to have tp WORK at it!
well you beat me by a few mouths. Me, 07/02/39. still riding. Bike I liked the most Manx Norton 500cc race tuned. I have never had a crash. but I am packing up. if the Bike falls over I cannot pick it up. Yamaha 1300cc.
77 & been riding 70 years. Over 50 bikes from every continent that makes one. Been 200 mph - one time enough. Had some lovely & lively ones. Raced a little. Trials too. General and special purpose. Agree with everything above. On a 600cc Silverwing scooter now, but want one more motorcycle. 750cc or much less. 450-500#.
2 similar stories about hardcore bikers. There both times. First responder. MC left road flew 700’.
Old man. No ID, dentures, tags or serial numbers. Fingerprints negative. 2 weeks later no idea who he is. Left mc there. I asked for description. A BMW. Called factory.
Found the dealer in Washington. Knew the man. Daughter came for body. Unperturbed. His parents and wife dead from cancer. He had a bad one. Daughter said he rode for days to weeks at a time. Left note on counter. “ Love you, be seeing you, Dad. “ Picked a nice day.
Hard core MC rider. Worse ways to go, maybe. Motor cycles have been good for me, I believe. Not much living left to do with my health. My girls want me as long as possible. Wish they rode.
TRUE STORY: Friends and I riding at 2 or 3 over the speed limit on US287 in the north part of the Texas panhandle. A little dirty truck passes us, pulls over into our lane, and brakes hard. Both George and I practice maximum threshold braking. We have and maintain our skills and 1-G braking in practice is not uncommon.
There was a point where I was sure that I was going to hit the rear of the truck. But braking skills being what we have, no collision.
What sticks in my mind was seeing George's motor suddenly move rearward in relation to mine. He had applied the brakes more quickly!! He is 10 or more years younger than me. (I'm 74). It has bothered me ever since that my reaction time wasn't as quick as his.
Typically, as I've aged, I DO allow more room in front of me to give me a little more room to react. 3 seconds is not uncommon. My tandem riding partners humor me. It seems and feels like too far back. But in this instance, we weren't given the chance to maintain a safe distance from the little truck's back bumper when that driver slammed on his brakes.
The consequences of following too closely can be catastrophic. So, knowing that my reaction time isn't what it used to be, I compensate by giving a little more room. The incident (that didn't result in a crash) on 287 reaffirmed that I need to keep doing what I'm doing and also need to keep practicing.
NOTE: I am a retired MSF instructor and motorcycle skills competitor at the highest level/classification. I have seen "experienced" motorcyclists crash during braking practice, even though they know exactly when and where maximum braking is to occur. As a group, our braking skills are dismally lacking. I strongly recommend braking practice under the coaching of a skilled instructor. As we get older, it's imperative that we gain and practice the skills needed to be safe and come home after a ride or a trip. Skilled motorcyclists have 90% fewer accidents than those that are simply "Experienced".
Thank you for reading.
Skill comes with experience. I've seen a lot of MSF instructors who obviously had low levels of experience, which is fine in a parking lot training newbs.
are guns legal where you live?
Motorcyclists who speed excessively give us all a bad name,. . idiots, that's what they are in my opinion. I have nothing against speed but take it to a track please.
@@steveclark.. ? 2 to 3 MPH over is unacceptable but the illegal lane changing brake checker gets a pass? Is that a Texas thing? I have been through Texas recently in a loaded pick up so my lights were a little high, Texans seem to be more sensitive than all the other states I drove through to that and I had a similar run in with an Izusu of all cars . . . . Glad everyone had the skills and cool heads to brush that off as a minor incident.
@@smoke05s Sorry, I read it has 2 or 3 times over the speed limit. 😃 No speedometer is spot on anyhow, I'm okay with folk being 5mph over a limit. I'm in the UK, a typical country road with bends may have a 40mph sign, bikers who ride along close to 80mph or more, those are the idiots I'm on about. Not just bikers, some drivers of other vehicles too.
Great video. I'm 76 and have been riding for 60 of those years. I have long recognised that my reaction times are not what that were some years ago and keep this in mind every time I ride. In acknowledging this I made the decision to go for smaller, lighter bikes (currently 400cc) upon which I maintain my confidence and am able to continue to enjoy the the thrill that only two wheels can give.
First time that crossed my mind to start riding was when I met an 82 yo guy at the motel in Colorado. He was riding his Harley from NYC to Los Angeles to visit his friend. He looked to me like he was maybe mid 60.
He told me he rode since he was 19, never been in an accident and never rode over 65. Probably his Harley couldn't go faster anyway.
I was impressed. 82, ride and still alive. That opened my horizons 😂 (Maybe I posted this here before. We also tend to forget things and do them again.)
I hate the walking into a room and forgetting what I went in there for!
@@xmradio11 😂 Tell me about it.
I’m 45 years old and have been riding since I was 10, one thing I definitely noticed as I progress with age is how my definition of enjoying a ride changed. Today I own a motorcycle that is faster than most of the motorcycles I get to see on the streets, yet my preferred riding style is rather casual and comfortable, not crazy fast nor at the edge of my skills. I’ve noticed in the last 5-7 years that I enjoy riding a bit slower and a bit more in control, definitely more comfortably - especially knowing that most of what’s happening around me is within my control.
Live to ride another day is a smart plan. 👍🏻
Thank you Kevin for your good advice. I am 71 years old and been riding for over 50 years. You are absolutely right with the statistics for reaction time. I have slowed my role considerably over the years and still enjoy lightly cracking the gears when it’s safe and nobody’s around. My days of doing wheelies are long gone! Thank you for your great content and keep it going my brother!
Well Said
why are them days gone.. what actually happens. ?
@@onenessseeker5683 you get old. Figure it out
@@anthonyangeli256 Well I know an old man 82 that still pops wheelies. real good ones still
@@onenessseeker5683 pops wheelies on what? A jazzy?
I rode for fifty years before back surgery ended my run. The two rules I rode by were "You are invisable" and stay away from everyone. Distance equals safety. Assuming no one can see you makes you hyper vigilant. I never trusted the car in the lane beside me if I was in traffic. I use to watch the guys head for a lane change but that wasn't a sure thing. So I started watching for the vehicles front wheels to move, which is always the give away...Doing these things kept me from having to react at the last second.
I’m 47 years “ in the saddle “ .
JUST had my 4th back surgery .
This time they put 12 screws approximately 2” long and multiple “ semi - flexible “ rods from L-1 all the way down
to S -1 .
So that’s (6) discs and the one in the neck at C-6-7 makes (7) total .
JUST bought my dream “ Low Rider “ that I’ve waited for since it’s inception in 1977 , when I was 17 years old . I was at Daytona when the Motor Company unveiled it .
It’s a 2018 FXLR and has a little over 3,000 miles on it …
So sad , 4 surgeries since I brought it home .
The “ thought “ of selling it makes me sad and sick to my stomach .
I get it serviced every year anyway , ( ALWAYS did my own mechanic work on the previous 12 HD’s that I’ve had since 79’ )
Lots to think about …
What would anyone pay for it , anyway ?
I'm 69 now and I have been riding for 50 years. Even at my age, I have to keep telling myself that I'm not a motorcycle racer. I still enjoy spirited riding. I have 5 motorcycles right now. One being an MT07 that brings out the kid in me.
That’s a great story! Keep riding!
Same here.....now 71. I have ridden mostly Harleys all my life, still riding an Evo FXDL...I ride much as always.....complete awareness that every driver on the road is out there with the intent to kill me....something I learned at 16 when I was sideswiped by a drunk with no lights on, coming out of an alley one evening....
You be doing wheelies on that MT?
@@vaportrail226 Not yet. I use to do it on my 09 Triumph street triple but the MT07 needs a little more throttle.
Luv my MT07 as well..
At 71, I'm thinking that experience issue is huge. While I don't ever think I was a "risk taker" (I started riding at 58) knowing that now I'm a lot slower to heal... Well, that stuff matters too. Hang up the helmet? Nahh, not yet. Maintaining extra distance, avoiding off road, Slowing down. Yeah, absolutely.
75, I ride most days, living in the South of France it's a biker's paradise. For me riding my bike takes 100% concentration it releases the mind of all the daily stress a bit like yoga. I'm convinced it's far safer than buying a couch & a TV.
I'm 71 and have logged about 340K miles. Look twice. Slow down. Never assume what traffic will do. Extra lighting at night, or don't ride at night. Take it easy. Know how your medications may affect your riding. Know when to quit for the day. Good videol
I rode my first motorcycle at 15. I rode heavy old British scramblers off road until I was 45. At the same time I racked up serious road mileage on several BMW motorcycles. I finally parked up for good at 80 after a near miss with a texting driver on an Interstate. My reactions developed over years almost failed me. I am still in good health but will never ride again. Driving a car has become bad enough. I miss my favorite BMW which I had kept for 40 years and many thousands of enjoyable miles. Age does dismiss one’s faculties but never takes away the urge to throw a leg over and go. Great program, Peter.
I turn 70 this August 2024. I've owned a 2013 HD Street Glide since new. I was also turning into a casual driver with months passing by before I rode again. I learned to ride when I was 15 yo. I've been taking out the bike more often recently. and I definitely see the importance of staying sharp and practice. I still feel I can manage the bike well and I'm adding some exercise to my routine to stay physically fit. I think I would be ok at this stage of my life when I decide to stop riding. But that moment has not arrived yet. Live in California in a Rural area and there are some really nice backroads I love to get on. So, in the meantime...Lets Ride
Riding since 16, now 65, still enjoy spirited riding but take less risks than I might have done. Never underestimate the stupidity or ignorance of car drivers, where I live and ride in Mallorca, Spain the roads during the summer are busy with tourists who seem to leave their brains at home!
Quite true. I have been riding for 52 years. Now at 68 I feel like one of the things we older riders have on our side is the years under our belt and we have a "sense" of when something has the potential to go very wrong. This lets us avoid many mishaps, you know what I am talking about when I say older group of riders can read traffic situations. Good video.
Great info on this channel. I'm 59 years old, been riding all my life except for a gap from age 21 to 32. The three rules I live by on the road:
1. Never ride when drinking.
2. Do not speed, especially in residential areas or country roads with intersections and driveways.
3. Always keep a maximum distance between the cars in front and behind. This means letting tailgaters by. Sometimes I even pull over to get them past me. The distance in front is usually easy to control. This applies everywhere, from back roads to highways.
These are good rules. I add to that all my riding must be defensive. I’m usually exhausted when I get home after a long ride because of the strenuous, never ending mental computations that I have to do. I’m constantly doing mental ‘what if?’ calculations - an incompetent/reckless/drunk/distracted/thoughtless SOB could cause a very painful death or permanent disability.
So far, so good. Still alive at 65!
@@mtkoslowski Keep that up and you'll be riding into your 80's.
Well Said. & Don't ride if you're pissed off . That's a definite biggie
I'm at the same age as you and I agree to your 3 rules.
And will ad a 4th: Never trust the other drivers at a junction (even if you have the right of way) till you see in the eyes of the other person that you have an agreement. I have stopped several times in my life for my life.
Stay safe and have fun.
71 here still riding long rides in the morning going to work are much more relaxed but the ride home in backed up Pennsylvania traffic can knock the hell out of you . Even for a young rider using your rear brake and dragging your clutch keeping your balance gets old fast and tiring.
Much GREAT advise here Kevin! One more worth mentioning: Ride OFTEN! Riders who take long breaks (say a month or more) between riding are forced to reacquire familiarity with the bike and their skills. We all get a bit rusty in the foul weather months. No point in adding to it when the weather is being cooperative. Your thoughts?
I use to belong to a flying club and before u could hire an aircraft if u had
not flown in the past 2 weeks u had to take a short flight with a flying instructor
who was going to check u out before allowing u to hire an aircraft solo.
Quite sensible really .
As I age ( Im old already) I can see myself going down on capacity to a smaller
lighter bike, in fact Ive an old 250cc dirt bike Ive had since 1975 and I aim to
use it to do some green lane riding this year , should keep my skills up.
Agreed. Just turned 70 last week and here in Philly not much riding time this time of year but every chance I get I get out on my Street Bob to keep the rust off. Still working so that complicates it also.
@@dgross2009 Time to get out there. That's my problem also.
Change gas often
I'm 73 now, started riding at 14. I'm now a very cautious defensive rider. I ride a pro street custom. I love the looks, the sound and the feel of the ride. It makes me feel alive. I realize the older you get it takes a lot longer to heal from an injury. I just want to keep on riding.
I am 66 and commute on a Honda CBR954RR. It is LIGHT WEIGHT. It stops FAST,it stears FAST.The tires STICK to the road. A HUGE advantage compared to heavy,lumbering cruisers.
Hope your own reaction time keeps up with the bike...It is quite strange that you compare a CBR954RR to a heavy cruiser while the video clearly talks about the rider's ability (like reaction time, vision etc.) rather than the kind of bike you ride.
Excellent video. 74 and still riding so I avoid big fast roads, love 45 to 55 mph back roads, I’m defensive, constantly looking behind and in front, stay well clear of cars in front, always on the lookout for stray dogs and unaware children and keep evaluating potential hazards. You never know what’s just around a blind corner! The aim is stress free, safe and enjoyable riding. I avoid riding in poor weather and I value my bike as much as my health so it doesn’t get a hard life ( I’ve had it for 48 years now).
You got an old shovel also? Mine is a Wednesday built shovel/ AMF bowling ball- turned 43 years old. Shovels forever!
Wow, you are still riding a 1975 bike. That's good that you have kept it well maintained all those years. I agree with your MPH, stay on the less traveled two lane roads, and watch out for cagers talking on their phone while driving.
PS: I am 77.
I'm not a motorcyclist, I'm a serious road cyclist. I'm also in my 60s, which is why I clicked on this really good video. Reaction time and visual processing changes can be an issue even at my speeds. I also think there are some distinct and deleterious changes in balance with aging. But I know what I'm doing and I know not to take risks and I am a lot more choosy about where I will ride.
As a 76 year old rider who has been riding for 55 years and attended many advanced courses, I would add 2 comments to your video which I agree with. Firstly, if I am typical I would suggest that older riders do not travel as fast as younger riders - speed increases risk. Secondly, as I am no longer working, I feel that retired riders (as well as drivers} are not usually in such a hurry to get to a destination. All my rides are for pleasure.
Plus you can ride during the hours that most car drivers are at work. Less traffic on the road during those hours.
I stay on two lane roads and cruise at 45 or 50 and ride in the middle of the day so the sun isn't in my face. A couple of hours and I'm happy.
@@Earthneedsado-over177 Same here, except I do ride in the afternoon, but before most folks get off work..
I'm 80 and still riding. I thought this presentation was excellent. I"ve been riding 64 years but take his advice seriously!
Really inspiring video MC.... I've noticed that since my late 50s that my reflexes have have slowed down. I'm 63 and have never been an overly skilled rider but do enjoy the level of skill I have and I'm always seeking to improve ( I don't get out there enough). However I've always ridden within my limits, worn good gear and have a very forgiving BMW F700 GS with crash bars galore, great brakes and handling etc and feel that in the event of a crash, slide I'll have a better chance of surviving. Watching yours and some other sensible UA-cam channels (Shut-up and practice) have helped me greatly. Thanks for your great videos.
When I was in my 20s I ride sport bikes and we would have huge groups going at insane speeds. Always had my head on a swivel and didn’t think much of it. Now closing in on 50 - speed isn’t my thing. Cruising and assuming every car is out to kill me is my attitude.
I'm 61 I had my license since I was 16 my thoughts exactly mirror yours !
Great video as usual!
I started riding motorcycles two years ago at 65. That first year as a motorcyclist I rode all over the country, over 18,000 miles, on a 250cc Yamaha V Star. I could not believe the number of times I was told, by well meaning fellow motorcyclists, that I needed a bigger faster motorcycle in order to be safe on the roads and highways. After a lifetime (100’s of thousands of miles) of racing bicycles, ultramarathon bicycling, and even doing a little coaching of bicycle racers. It’s been my observation that there aren’t too many hazardous situations, either on bicycles or motorcycles, that cannot be mitigated by slowing down. Riding faster is almost always a more dangerous solution to any situation that I’ve found myself in. Riding predictably is the best defensive option for vehicles approaching from the rear, not speeding up. Hold a nice straight line, signal your turns, they are watching you out of their windshield, they do see you. The temptation to use speed to get yourself out of an uncomfortable situation, or worse compete for your spot on the road, is much greater if you have speed and power at your disposal. I’m pretty sure a bigger faster motorcycle is more of a danger to every motorcyclist, but particularly an older motorcyclist. To see what type of motorcycle is statistically more dangerous, I suppose that a person could look at insurance rates for more powerful, and less powerful, motorcycles. 🤔
You make an excellent point about increased speed very rarely being a safety factor on a motor cycle, or a car come to that. You could make the argument that in a boat, having some extra power/speed can get you out of certain dangerous situations where tides and winds are a factor, but this does not apply to the roads. Consequently, having a less powerful bike is a great recommendation to the older rider. They are lighter, which makes it much easier to handle, particularly at lower speeds, use less fuel, are cheaper to run and service. I think they can be just as much fun and go plenty fast enough. Modern 250s have quite brisk performance and certainly can go far in excess of the legal limit. Most 500s have plenty of power to carry a pillion if needed. I am now 69 and gave up motorcycling at the age of approx 62 when I sold my Honda CBF 1000. I recognised that though I was still capable of riding it and enjoying it, my reaction time and strength were inevitably diminishing and I considered it best that I decided when it was time to give up, rather than the fates decide it for me! Another factor was the expense, The larger bike was both more expensive to maintain and did worse miles to the gallon than my car. As a retiree, my income was less and I decided that it was a toy that I did not need, as there are many other things in life I enjoy. It was also handy to have the garage space back to clutter up with other things. My only additional comments are that when I have ridden small bikes (I had a Honda CG 125 for a few years) I did find that sometimes motorist pulled out in front of me in a way they did less frequently when I was on the big bike. I think that might have been because they see a small bike and under-estimate the speed you are doing, or think you will hold them up. I have noticed that as a cyclist this can also happen, as many cyclist are travelling as fast as the motorised traffic in towns. I think a 250 has sufficient presence on the road for other motorists not to think it slow. The other thing I would recommend is the importance of ABS systems on all vehicles, particularly 2 wheeled ones. I know the purists don't like ABS, but I am convinced that only a skilled motorcyclist without ABS can out-brake a decent ABS system. In my experience, most drivers and riders think they are more expert than they actually are (reference the Dunning Krugger effect). Even the most skilled can make a misjudgement in the heat of the moment. You've only got to get it wrong once.
@@ralphbrooks2132 I purchased the little 2017 Yamaha V Star 250 in 2021 for $2,200.00. It had just over 2000 miles on it. On the first trip I was getting between 70 and 80mpg. I thought motorcycles were pretty economical. I stopped at a little bikers bar in the middle of nowhere West Texas. The place looked like it had dropped out of the movie Wild Hogs. Talked to a few bikers for about an hour. When they found out I was from Omaha Nebraska they thought I was nuts. I in turn, was shocked when I discovered what some people invest in the sport. The wheels on the Harley I was parked next to were worth more than my entire motorcycle! I was really careful when I pulled out of the parking lot.
@@clarson2916 You were probably right to be careful ;)
@@clarson2916 Your Yamaha 250 sounds great value. I bet it gives you more fun per buck than the fancy wheels.
I've turned 72 still ride my B M W K75c , and drive a car , my reactions are still good , why because I'm aware of my surroundings, defensive riding is the key to safety, & before anyone throws their 2 peneth in , I was a Motorcycle Instructor for a number of years , experience and mindset counts , keep safe everyone whatever your age .
I'm 63, I still have the mind of a teenager. My reaction times are just as fast as they were when I was 18.
Most of us rode at a much faster when we were young than we do now. So the slower rate of speed that we ride at, makes up for your loss of reaction time.
I have been riding my Moto Guzzi Lemans 1000 everyday since 1980. Same motorcycle, same rider. In fact I have never owned a car in my life.
I've not ridden on the track since the 80's, but I'm building a track bike now, and I plan on returning to the track by next year.
Don't let this guy with his list of "scientific" studies squash your dreams. No risk, no life. He's just a dream killer.
Amen he looks like he is out of shape and slurs his speech
You’re probably delusional if you think you’re the same as you were at 18.
Hey man, if it has two wheels & a motor, count me in! Brakes optional.
@@savage22bolt32 yeah. If it hasn’t got a motor, then I don’t trust it….😊
And it looks like one of his eyes belongs to someone else.... 😂.... 🤪@@matthewkrivec
After a 40 year absence, in 2022 I bought a Royal Enfield 650 Interceptor and my mindset has changed. Gone is the need to speed, or scrape metal on corners and the bulletproof bravado, replaced by the sheer enjoyment of being on a bike and the feelings one can only get from riding a motor cycle. My speed and daring are down, my road and traffic reading and awareness are up, and the sensations come more from the sound of the engine, the wind in my face, and the fact that I am still doing it. Love your sound, practical and commonsense video and the stream of comments indicating there are lots of others out there that your message resonates with.
I'm 64 and still ride my Road King, but I also go to the gym 4 times a week and have been for most of my life so I think I'm in better shape then most motorcycle riders at least my age. My point is my reflexes and reaction time are still pretty good and I ride 3 to 4 times a week so my skills aren't deteriorating as far as I can tell. But I still give myself more space between myself and other vehicles on the road to account for reaction time just because I don't know who those people are and what their abilities are. Hell, they maybe old as well.....getting ready to retire so I'm hoping I have a few more years of riding left in me......
The comment section warms my heart. I just turned 56 and seeing all of these guys still on two wheels well into their seventies gives me a lot of hope. I surely wish for another twenty+ years on a bike.
Watching this video made me realise that motorcyclists are a separate rare breed ,doing what many dream about into old age and loving it every minute which is quite something in crowded ,cold & damp Britain ,moreso if in your in your 8th decade like me and ride all year round . Some old sage wisdom's from the older Biker community ,but I look at it this way - I have reached old age riding fast bikes and raced bikes in various forms and I am still here ,so must be doing something right ?. Broke a few bones ,but have outlived most of my old companions and even my Mrs. who was my sidecar passenger for 48 years , I will have to downsize and eventually stop riding . But while my youngest [62] brother keeps encouraging me and we ride together I will ride my collection of bikes for a while yet . Best words ever at 16 y.o. was from a bike cop - "treat everybody on the road like they are complete idiots " and you will be O.K. ! . 😉.
M 62 and I think I've fallen into that old rider category. I have stopped speeding for good. So many comments beautifully written and the very well made video, thank you every one. On the highways I just smile at the younger kids n let them pass by. Cheers and ride safe brothers.
I’m 72 and this is a bull generalisation. If you’ve been practising defensive riding all your life ride hard the adrenaline gets us through.
It’s nice to see that there are still people riding and enjoying their bikes at an older age. I just turned 61 and was thinking of shutting her down at 65. But I may push that back a few years after reading some of these clients. As stated by the host, maintaining a good distance from the traffic in front of you is so important.
Yep. Be self aware and adapt. Fellow oldies, remember also that there are three times as many people living on the planet than when we started riding, and that alone triples the threat when we are out on the road.
Even though I can verify the 2 rocker patches on my vest for 1,000,000 each I can testify that at 75 years old my number one issue is my diminishing sense of balance. No one ever really warned me about this and so it's been a challenge to adjust for that along with the slower reaction times.
Try goblet squats and planking…balance is determined by our inner-ear balance fluid and as importantly, our quadricep muscles. Our quadriceps and body core stabilise our balance…we can maintain these by exercising.
I hear a lot of “ older “ bikers go to trikes. 3 wheels.
If I start losing my balance that will tell me my strength is obsolete to when and where ever I may drop it and need help standing it up.
Hell I didn’t think I’d make it to 58 or I would’ve taken better care of myself.
Hopefully I’ll see 75. My hats off to you for the two million miles.
Ride on brother,,, 🏝️ 0’\~o
Search UA-cam for balance exercises for seniors. I have the same problem. Also downsizing helped me a lot too!
@@brunothepug8807 well said; thanks!
At 67 I ride a ZX14R and a C-14. Both are fast, heavy bikes.
I still get on it hard sometimes, but I'm a lot smarter about when and where. I really appreciate the feel of speed and the fact that I'm still capable of it.
Though with some adjustments to my riding style. I use both feet for balance, for safety. Distance increased in traffic.
All good ideas.
I hope to be riding into my '80s.
Ride safe, enjoy the rode.
I am a pilot and have always been able to measure distance based on my speed. Pilots also do a lot of pre-planning each flight. I actually pre-plan my rides even reviewing the parking lot where I am going. I also leave a lot of room when in traffic and keep my head on a swivel! Thx for the video, R
Im 73 yrs old. My motorcycles took safely care of me for 50 yrs. Now its time for me to take care of myself and thats hard to give up. But with weekness and balance and medications .......I \ould say its time to cash in. Sorry brothers. Its been a wild ride. Sincerly.
I ride slower because as you age you don't heal as fast or completely. Our bones get more brittle as well.
68, do yoga, 5-Rites , ping-pong (creates new Neural-links) , sold stupidly-fast-bikes . Upgraded suspension and brakes (better-odds) High-vis-gear, don't ride with more than two others . Watch the-likes of Motojitsu and practise it . Set up bike ergonomics to suit me , avoid All crazy-traffic , even if it means stopping for a while or taking back-roads etc , All this means I can still 'Push-it' within the limitations of a slower-bike and enjoy it . I NEVER look at the scenery unless I ride TO the scenery. Riding a motorcycle is a Real-Time video-game , where you Can actually Die if you mess-up and I Love it . Dave NZ
Very well said and explained Sir, experience has huge benefits, but old age has its downsides. As a 68 year old I have downsized to a Honda CB500 X which I find is ideal for the twisty country roads here in the West of Scotland.Would not relish trying to pick up an eight hundred pound lump at my age. Will probably go with a smaller and lighter machine as I get older as I plan to ride for as long as is possible.
That's what I think too. Much easier to handle
I envy you your roads in the West of Scotland. I've driven some of them by car and they were great fun, with spectacular scenery. I had a friend, sadly now gone, who came from Arrochar, and we based several holidays there. I would have loved to do it by bike, but never got the chance. At 68, the 500 mile journey to get there on a 45 year old Triumph is too much for me now, but I wish you well as you carry on riding those roads.
I'm 68 yrs and have a KTM RC 390, a Royal Enfield 535 Continental GT, and a Honda 125 !!!! All my friends have Enormous Bikes !!!! Well, if they are that stupid then they can do whatever they want !!!!! I'm the only one who does all his own maintenance, and they hardly know how to pump the tyres up !!!!
@@spaceted3977 Could not agree more, and by doing all my own servicing and maintenance i know the job has been done right.
Older riders like myself, may have slower reaction time, but our years have granted us an awful lot of hard earned wisdom. I’ll take wisdom over youthful reaction times any day of the week.
This is a great issue. Along with other aged issues. It’s why my happy speed is 45-55. I avoid busy roads, and increased speeds. I choose my riding times wisely. You hit all the main aged issues. Don’t forget the bike weight issue. I’m 73. I ride a Sportster. Heavy enough. I can get it up. More content on aged rider issues would be welcome. I’m sure your data base mean age is 50+. Just a guess. Thanks for your input.
Agree with that speed range. Keep it below 55 mph. That means stay off the interstate highways. Age 77 here.
Oh yes please. I’d definitely like more content for older riders. Despite getting my license in 1977 and riding since I have seen my skills atrophy. I’m 65 and have noticed that motorcycle skills are perishable as you get older.
Thank you for the advice Kevin.
Yes, I used to commute, now I just ride for fun. No busy cities, minimal interstate. Minimizes potential for bike/auto interaction.
Great to know you can still "get it up". I'm sure your wife is very happy about that!
@@danield831
Perhaps yours is a thoughtless remark. I’m 65 and am a widower. Perhaps since he is 73 he might be a widower too and would not care for this remark about his wife.
At 70 I'm still an adrenalin junky and still ride my 500CC dirt bike. I'll admit that I don't ride as crazy as I used to but it's still a blast. I do wear every piece of protective gear available except for a neck brace and probably should wear that.
Good advice. I didn’t start riding until I was 62; I’m now 84. Can’t say I haven’t had close calls or made bad moves, but I do think experience and caution offset some of the physical insults of aging. My greatest challenge is fatigue, for which I compensate with more modest time and distance goals, more frequent breaks, and close attention to my body’s signals regarding food and hydration. Seriously thinking about changing to a lighter, lower, and slower machine.
Good for you that you can still ride at 84. Yep, lighter and slower are the two key words. And stay out of heavy traffic. I am 77, and still on two wheels, but you got me beat by seven years. I just put a half gallon at a time in the tank. That way, I can stop every 25 miles for gas, and use the rest room at a gas station. LOL
Excellent reminders. Turned 70 this year and still enjoying the road on a motorcycle. Thank you.
I am an older ride who learnt to ride not long ago. My instructor taught me to keep a 3 second gap where possible (people keep moving into the safety buffer 🤷♂️).
I also believe that it is true that as you
get older a certain level of caution kicks in that was not as strong when we were younger.
Yup I agree the 3 second gap is just not feasible in an urban multi-lane environment. I look for pockets in the stream and ride slightly faster than traffic is moving to keep from being the meat in the sandwich.
Yeah, I'm much more careful than when I learned to ride in my 20s, better judgement. Still manage to get myself in a jam sometimes, but much less frequent. Brakes have gotten better too, thankfully!
@@alanfield735 If someone moves into your 3 second gap, it doesn't matter. You'll stand a much greater chance of getting to your destination if you just let 'em cut in and back off a little more. TRUTH!
A lot to be said for just NOT riding aggressively... If they move into the safety buffer, stay off the throttle... as in JUST don't accelerate. It's not difficult...
Obviously, there's a point where you're actively causing the hazard by slowing beyond what's a reasonably comparable speed within traffic and conditions... Usually, (at least popularly) this is around 10 mph under the posted limit... AND similarly, it's obviously dangerously fast if you're 10 or more mph OVER the limit... BUT this is only a "general rule"...
What's most important, regardless of your personal "style", is that you give yourself the time to READ traffic around you. Glancing to other vehicles' WHEELS will tell you a LOT about what they're doing or about to do before they've created a nuisance... You can't cheat physics, either... so the bigger and heavier the vehicle, the more reliant on physics it is, and thereby the more predictable it absolutely MUST be...
Wheels will misalign before a vehicle crosses into or out of the lane(s)... The further out of alignment with the markings on the road, the more likely they are traveling more than one lane over... and at a glance you can see that easier than you can notice some subtlety like more of the nearest side showing to you.
Wheels slow to a stop at signs and lights around intersections and side streets or the openings of parking lots to the road, too. Don't bet your life on someone seeing you before they're in your way, check the wheels and SEE if they're coming to a stop in time or not...
AND further ahead (or even behind) you're actually very gifted at seeing patterns. Along with that, you can notice DISRUPTIONS in those patterns just as easily and quickly. The further away that you can notice a disruption, the better your chances of making an appropriate decisive maneuver and avoiding the trouble, whatever it may be.
By simply riding less aggressively, you buy yourself time... BUT that simply isn't enough. It's the experience to know what to DO with that time that makes the biggest difference. READ, EVALUATE, EXECUTE, RE-EVALUATE (results)... DO that consistently, and almost no matter how old and decrepit you get, you can maintain a fair mastery of just about any vehicle, including but not limited to motorcycles. ;o)
@@gnarthdarkanen7464 above or below posted limit doesn't matter. It is your speed relative to all the other traffic that matters. If the average traffic is going 10mph faster than posted, and you are doing the "posted limit" so are 10mph slower than everyone else: you are the hazard.
I typically ride 5mph faster relative to the other traffic, regardless of posted speed limits.
BTW: motorcycle speedometers are notoriously inaccurate, seem to always claim going faster than actual are.
Very good points about looking at the wheels/rims of cars. That is what I'm looking at on every intersection too.
A year ago, doing something with fellow Moto Guzzi owners, we met a ‘slightly older’ youngster. He showed up on a ‘close to brand new’ BMW. He asked if he could join us. As the average Guzzi rider doesn’t care what bike you are riding just keep the fun in it all, of course he could join us. I asked him when he purchased his new BMW. Well son, he said (personally I am 66), I started to ride a bike 30 years ago when my wife died, bought me a BMW and when I became 90 !!!!!!! I thought, let’s buy a new one, but I did like my first BMW better. The man was 91, handled the bike like a 45 year youngster, put up his own tent just as fast as I did.
We shared ‘a million stories’ and a lovely littlest BBQ. Till today, I feel sorry we didn’t have a ride together. The older bikers are, the better the stories.
One other factor: night vision degradation. I enjoyed driving and riding at night when I was younger. Hate it now.
I notice it more in the car than I do riding the motorcycle for whatever science reasons...
So many good comments. I was a trainer, (and licenser) in Australia, and I told my students (before the Government interfered) assume that everyone else on the road is a homicidal maniac, because their mistakes will kill you. I recently met a former student, 25 years later, and she told that it was the best advice that she had ever received. They may be nice people, but their mistakes will kill you. I still ride to that concept. And I'm still alive.
Always use the 2 second rule and add to it if needed. Always look 15 seconds ahead of you. Interesting video. Ridding since 1981.
2 seconds is the bare minimum they teach new drivers. In a car with seatbelts and airbags you will probably live. On a bike you die.
Thanks for addressing the aging issue. Does this explain why so many older Cruiser riders are slow mobile road blocks?
You stated how sharpening skills is an essential tactic, however, choosing to ride a heavy bike that doesn't maneuver or brake as well as many of the lighter bikes is working against older riders. I'm 72 y.o. and ride a BMW R1150RS. Not the lightest bike, but it's 200-lbs or more lighter than many of the Cruiser bikes, and it's certainly a comfortable and well-handling bike with ABS. I've kept up with sport-bikes in the twisties, and feel very confident with its stable high speed handling. Yes, it is a good idea to slow it down with age, rely on the wisdom age should bring, and focus on keeping your skills sharp.
Excellent advice and a great set of recommendations to maintain your riding skills for any and all riders, regardless of age. Thank you for sharing this information.
I am 60+.. from Hyderabad India. In our city, if one can drive a bike without hitting or scratching, fellow bikers, that guy can drive anywhere on the planet safely. I have been driving since about 45 Years. I never had a fall.
I’m 77 and yes, my reaction time has slowed down considerably, but I can compensate by riding slower and increasing following distance. My big problem is my sense of balance is shot and my legs have become week. My bike is now reluctantly for sale.
Sorry to hear that John...that day will come for all of us though.
Three wheels is an option.
grab a Vespa GTS, no gears, twist and go, and lighter than a huge MC.
@@NoFrictionZone I had a Vespa 150 in high school and college in the 60’s great machine. The new ones are amazing.
Why not a Can-Am Spyder/Ryker, that's what I did at 66 after a crash on 2 wheels. 3 wheels won't tip over plus ABS, Traction Control, Vehicle Stability System, Electronic Power Steering, Semi Automatic Transmission and more, and, if I'm honest, more confidence than on 2 wheels. And definitely loads of fun.
I started writing when I was 17 in 1954 and I’m still riding at 86 in 2024. I’ve learned a lot in the meantime I increased my stopping distance because I know a car can stop twice as fast as a motorcycle and a tractor trailer can stop four times faster than a car so I increase my stopping distance and I also try to ride where I can have a clear view of the road up in front of me.. most of my riding is cross country from the east to the west coast and back. I’ve been to Canada and back. I try to stay on roads that have less traffic but I also keep an eye out for animals like deer and bear. I’m not looking for any heavy thrills I’m just looking for the pleasure of my country USA.
Very good content. Practical information to consider and use as needed. Probably an additional factor to consider for all riders is how accurate is their perception of their own riding skills.
WoW !! Almost a year ago, and my post popped up again, I love it. As a comment, I had not taken time to update so here's another option for some riders. For the past few years, after my beloved Triumph 955 i , I changed to a Yamaha Majesty 400, it tops out about 100, but the best cruise is 70 ish at spec. power curve. Moving the handlebars forward a bit made the maxi-scooter handle much easier, better high speed posture and balance, the easy fix to typical slow handling. All my bikes have had a few bar adjustments for riding comfort, in town, the country or racing.
The result is safety, no hunting for the rear brake foot pedal, no lost shifting motion to distract from the road contours. More common sense riding, less noise, way lower insurance rate, better gas mileage, and both hands rest on brake handles. The short story is that the last part has saved my life at least once and reduced the chance of harm several times. When a car, or road hazard happens, you have more time to react with both brakes and stop faster.
Some newer bikes have the two brake system, but they still need a foot moved when milliseconds count. That lost concentration could be the difference, it might be worth checking to see if that might be retrofitted. The automatic transmission scooters seem to work best, but BMW has a good 2 brake system in place. I'm probably alive the past 3 years because of those brakes working fully together. Thanks for the opportunity to update a bit, and a current thought on road safety.
Interesting words...2 brake system....I have an 84 Shadow and my foot rests pretty much on the rear brake and hand is trigger finger to fronts...I've always rode what could be now Old School bikes and many dirt biking back a few on my Suzuki RM250...I avidly ski downhill now also so I'm hoping my trigger to reflex is going to hang on to me at 58 now and beyond...I'm getting back into biking which I've been doing wholly since 15 years old....Nice meeting you btw man!
Nice one Kevin. Eyesight is also a factor. As well as physical stamina depending on the type of riding you do 👍
I'm 73yo. Was in the Motorcycle business for 20 years, retail and factory. I've ridden hundreds of bikes and still do about 300 miles a week. Have a new KTM RC390 race bike. Off of it, I can barely walk. Feet on the rear sets...I'm 20 again!😊
Yeah, I ride like an old man now...I'm good with it.
maintain mostly speed limit, less risk taking, better a space cushions.
still Blip the throttle, still slam the twisties, still go to at least one class each season, still have a sh!t load of fun.
thank you Kevin!
Always slam the twisties!
My boy says I'm pulling a train. Who cares, I'm still on the road!
52 years of riding, and there are still surprises. While turning into a marina oarking lit to pick up a part for my friend, i failed to observe the fine stamp sand from old mine and ice control along the entrance curbing. The Road king tire slid maybe a foot before catching the concrete and twist the wheel to thw right. The bike started falling over and stupidly trued to plant my foit down to save the 100th anniversary paint. The running board caught steel toed boot and planted to the pavement and the still less than 1 mph movement plucked me out of the saddle and smacked me to the pavement like a fly swatter. I was able to get up and hop into the shop and ask for help to get the back end off the road. Two fractures were the immediate results however, as i started having heart issues and later a TIA, the cardiologist asked me did i have any impacts to my body. The neurologist asked the same thing 18 months later. Just took the mri this week. Even with taking the advance MSF courses for 25 plus years in the Air Force, i find my reaction time is slower. I might begrudgingly trade my old ride of 21 years for a convertible. Or, as my wife tells me, you have a zero turn. You can free spirit on that. Its hard to give up on a passion. Thanks for the video.
Reaction time is only a part of being a safe rider, and a pretty small part at that. It is the old saying about it not mattering much how fast you do the wrong thing. It is much more important to do the right thing more slowly than the wrong thing quickly. And most reaction time tests are not realistic as they are typically a very simple stimulus such as sound or light leading to only one response, pressing a button or similar. That is nothing like the real world where the stimuli are many and varied as are the possible responses such as stopping vs. swerving vs. accelerating. It has been shown in a few studies of pilots (I am a pilot) over the years that older pilots tend to perform worse on these simply reaction time tests, but perform better than younger pilots on simulator scenarios where experience and wisdom come into play.
Now, if you are a new rider at age 70, then you probably need to be very careful as you have slower reactions and also lack the experience that accelerates the process of evaluating the many inputs and choosing a correct reaction. However, if you are a lifelong rider, then as you age you may not be all that bad off as your experience is continually increasing which offsets a good part, and possible all, of your loss in reaction time and motor skills.
At 89, that's the reason I now maintain a 3 second or greater following distance between the vehicle in front of me and my vehicle. A few years ago, I decided it was no longer safe for me to play in traffic on the bike, so after 50 years of riding, I sold it to a neighbor - ( lot younger than me, a retired airline pilot who still flies his 1946 Stinson 108 )
I am 74. I am extra cautious, usually drive at or below the speed limit, plan ahead and look for problems up ahead. My legs are not as strong so always a bit wobbly at slow speed or stopping. Have not gone down or had a crash.
Age 77, and I went to a smaller, lighter bike because of that reason.
@@williamarinder8809 I miss my Honda CB750K. It was easy to ride and comfortable. My current one is a Suzuki Boulevard 800 and it weighs about the same but is larger. I feel less steady on it in spite the seat is lower.
Thanks for the info. Just turned 70 here , what a bummer, but still love riding. Thanks for the heads up on some very interesting ways to keep on rolling down that road.
Commenting to support/promote the channel, nevertheless, "older" riders do have some advantages. Superior skills cannot replace good judgement.
57 YO, haven't ridden for 14 years, bought an MT09SP last month - Whoa Nellie !!
Another factor is the natural loss of muscle as you get older. That heavy motorcycle just keeps getting heavier. That's why trikes and sidecar rigs can add extra years to your riding. Not only that, a third wheel adds a fun dimension to the experience. Don't knock it until you have tried it! Ironically, I had 2 side hack rigs when I was around 30. Now I am 61 and am considering the time when I will stick a sidecar on my Harley.
I am 61 with over 30 years of riding experience. I changed my 1100 Shadow for a 411 Scram last year and am really enjoying the lighter weight. I have also owned trikes in the past and definitely wouldn't rule another one out in the future, especially if it will extend my riding time.
My thoughts exactly. But those trikes are mighty pricey friend
The more you ride the safer you are-ride in all weathers, day and night. Experience is the most important element in motorcycle safety
Older riders, all of us really, can significantly reduce their reaction time risk by going slower, increasing stopping and following distances. You don't have to be hauling A to enjoy your motorcycle. Obey speed limits
Agreed:
Wow! It's not often I'm the young guy in a motorcycle conversation. I'm "just" 60 and have "only" been riding for 45 years. I am, however, a far better rider now than I was in my youth.
Most riders, in my experience, don't have enough respect for the sport. They learn to ride and then don't do any more learning or training; a recipe for disaster and a shortcut to old age.
I've done at least one school or clinic every year for 45 years. I also set up and run the cones at the start of every season.
California Superbike School, American Supercamp, Rawhyde Adventures, Total Control... Those were my last five - and as you can see, I purposely mix it up every time.
Add traing to the wisdom and calm most old riders bring to their game and you will find you can become a far better rider as you age - especially as compared to the riders who don't really have 50 years of riding experience; they have 3 months of experience 200 times.
Here in Delaware, I always maintain a 3-car length distance. I am 58 yrs old and starting my second season riding. Always operate with caution, maintaining situational awareness. I try to always enjoy my ride and I am never in a rush to get where I am going. Thanks for the math!!!
Try maintaining a 3-4 second following distance to the vehicle in front of you, works well for me, ride safe.
Three car lengths at a stop sign is a hugely wasteful amount of space. Conversely, 3 car length following distance on an interstate at 65 mph is an incredibly small reckless amount of space.
Your following distance should be based on time, such as 2-3 seconds following distance. The amount of feet (car lengths) separation increases as speed increases. You want a Time Buffer.
Watch the car in front and when it crosses a mark/seam, start counting seconds starting with 0:
0 (wait a second), 1 (wait a second), 2 (wait a second), 3! --- that is a conservative 3-second time separation when you should be crossing the same mark. At 65mph that is 286 feet of separation (about 19 car lengths).
I'm 64 years old and ride every day , recently didn't own a car for over 2 years and relied on my motorcycle for everything. The only reason I'm still riding is I anticipate everyone is out to hurt me including the wildlife, always ready for a car to not give way or pass on a blind corner. I have definitely slowed down and I avoid riding at night as I can't see as well in the dark. I'm not planning on giving up and really enjoy my motorcycle, stay safe
Complacency, neck pain and procrastinating on additional training are my main concerns as I age. Thank you!
A stiff neck is a problem. You need your head on a swivel riding motorcycle. Chiropractor helped me. Also, blue wave traction pillow at Amazon really works well. Like $22-25 bucks.
My 3 RIDER RULES:
-Every driver is out there to kill me.
- Every curve I can't see around is coated with oil or wet leaves.
-My brakes will fail when I need them most.
-The car at that stop sign doesn't see me and will accelerate and run into me.
* OK, that's four 😂
My PRP (Personal Riding Philosphy)
"Ain't Dead Yet."
and
"Ride'til Ya Rot."
I've been riding since the day after I turned 16, (Honda CB160) and still riding (KTM 890R) at 75.
So true
Now that I'm old I do a couple other things.
1. When touring I shorten my days. Being tired just makes everything worse.
2. In the winter I try and get in the best physical shape I can get in. Hit the weights and the yoga. Everyday I don't want to work out, which let's face it is most days, I remind myself it will make me a safer rider.
Yeah, riding when fatigued is the worst. My travel buddies and I start searching for a good nap spot around 1:00.
ALWAYS ride with 2 fingers on the brake lever. that one change will reduce the 250 ms reaction time. It helps this 64 year old rider keep riding with confidence.
In my early 60s, I was riding daily, commuting during the week and pleasure rides at the weekends. I noticed a significant increase in my reaction times, and decided to hang up my boots. I sold all my bikes and got a sporty little car (which lasted two years and died of rust!). After a few years I realised I was getting depressed and grumpy and thought it was just getting older. Then I looked in the window of my local bike dealer and realised what I was missing. I got another bike and now I have what I call therapy rides. I go out for an hour and all my cares have gone. (I’m lucky to live in a beautiful part of the UK.) The new bike is a hooligan (Triumph Street Triple) but I only indulge that side of things when the conditions are right. Most of the time I bimble about at 60 enjoying the scenery. I’m much more restrained than I used to be, and don’t need to prove any points to anyone. And I follow the advice here - greater following distances, look twice, think twice, if in doubt hang back, don’t get angry, stay calm, etc etc. I’m loving it, and it has restored my sanity. 71 next birthday. Good video, thanks.
Good for you, and way to go! Ride on, brother!
As a MSF instructor for over 20 years and a consistant rider for 50+ years Ive seen a lot of problems with new riders who start over the age of 40. Sometimes the learning curve is very slow.
I taught many classes with a older instructor who at 70 , wasn't able to ride demos because of health problems.
He use to have a saying, there are old riders and bold rider's but not many old bold riders. There was a lot of truth to that..
When people tell me they only ride 1 -2k miles a year it's obvious if you ride with them . Most are not as good of a rider as they think they are .
G'day Kevin. I'm 64, riding "licensed" since 17, and always had a motorcycle or two in my garage. I currently ride a 2017 fjr1300 and its perfect for me at this time. Great advice as always brother, and as they say, you never stop learning new things no matter how old one gets. Motorcycles are in my blood and I would prefer my blood to remain inside this older body! Hopefully riders of all ages will absorb the very practical advice that you put out there for them. Great channel, stay safe.
Your analysis is spot on. l have been riding since 1962. My experience tells me that l no longer react as fast as l once did. Being honest enough to recognise that fact is paramount. l have for many years regarded all Cagers..(Car Drivers).. as possible assassins. It has stood me in good stead in avoiding becoming an accident statistic...Riding within your capabilities, staying aware and focused will always be the key. Even more so once age is an ever increasing factor...Ride save all fellow Bikers...
Thank you for your comentary. I'm 62, been riding since I was 18. Younger I drove speedbikes, got into a terrible accident that prevent me doing what I loved. After 2 years in therapy bought my first Harley, been driving ever since. I prefer cruisers now, country roads, take my time. Every season I go to empty parking lot practice all the skills I learned all those years.
Still riding Frank? Nice seeing ya and you have a sense for riding no doubt by your past!
Words to live by: There are old motorcyclists and bold motorcyclist but not many old bold motorcyclists!! Good video.
I'm 69 and I've been riding since I was 20. I always always try to keep learning. You will crash when you think you know it all.
I'm Australian and started riding at 16 years of age. At 79 years living in Thailand, I no longer carry a pillion passenger, ride below 80 kph or 50 mph and prefer 50 kph or 30 mph in dedicated motorcycle lanes. It is a requirement to use these lanes when possible in Thailand.
Defensive riding is especially essential in Thailand, but it is essential every where. In Australia every driver must stop to avoid a collision, Right of way is the law, not the reality.
I now ride a Honda ADV-150cc with CVT auto transmission. Auto transmission is so easy with less to do one can focus better on the road and traffic. I bought a Honda Click 125cc but the vibration gave me repetitive strain injury. I switched to the Honda PCX but fell in love with the softer suspension of the ADV. I do have a back compression problem due to a very large deep pot hole, years ago. The ADV-150 has improved adjustable suspension but lacks the dual wheel braking with ABS of our Honda PCX-160 and is limited to ABS front right hand brake and no ABS on the separately operated left hand rear brake. One ABS brake lever for both wheels is so much easier on made roads irrespective of age. The ADV-150 lacks the parking brake lever that the PCX-160 has. Older riders seek easier parking as wheeling the bike may be hard work.
For me, reaction times are not the problem. Maybe I have just given myself more time and space to react.
The limited ease and ability to turn my head fully makes using mirrors, and advanced frequent checking essential. I do not have the strength to stand on the pegs (pedals) to control the bike on rough roads or off road any more but can stand occasionally for short distances such as road repairs. Sitting on the seat of an off road scooter is still quite manageable. Scooters don't have pegs and lack the width of the pegs for easy control. One has to steer with one's bum and shift the handle bars sideways to mimic standing on the pegs.
All scooters have poor lighting so I have added additional driving lights to compensate for poorer night vision. Cannot do that on a PCX as there is no where to mount driving lights. I avoid night riding and then it would only be local commuting of a few kilometres.
I am suggesting that riding the right bike as one ages is a good idea.
I use my car to carry shopping and in inclement weather so I really just ride for fun, How sweet it is.
You are absolutely right, we must adjust or riding and driving to match or physical and mental abilities.
Good day much respect for your teachings having owned about 50 motorcycle, s and scooters alike and several mountain bikes a road bike, s also I have found mountain biking trails a skill enhancer for all 2 wheeled endeavors reaction times are greatly enhanced perfect practice for a perfect ride lessens the risk significantly carry it over to the motorcycle 🏍 side of life's pleasures, keep iup the good work!!