Older motorcycle riders, don't be scared by statistics

Uh, oh -- that was my reaction when I went to get The Oregonian newspaper last Tuesday. Prominently displayed on the front page (if I recall correctly) was a headline about older motorcycle riders getting into more accidents.

Since my wife isn't wild about my Suzuki Burgman 650 scooter obsession, arguing that it's too dangerous to ride around on fewer than four motorized wheels, I figured that Laurel wouldn't make a distinction between "motorcycle" and "scooter" when she read the story.

I was right. But to my wife's credit, the only reference she ended up making to it was, "I hope you read about older guys getting into accidents."

My response: "Yes, I did. It was interesting. But I didn't learn anything new."

I already was aware that the average age of motorcyclists is increasing, as baby boomers rekindle their love affairs with this marvelously enjoyable means of transportation, and that older riders are more likely to be injured or die in an accident.

But...

I stand by my blog post of last year, written shortly before I picked up my Burgman: "Motorcycling is as dangerous as you make it."

Before deciding to get back into riding, I studied motorcycling accident statistics (didn't come across scooter-specific data, which probably are mixed in with motorcycles).

They can be pretty sobering and scary.

Motorcyclists were 35 times more likely than passenger car occupants to die in a crash per vehicle mile traveled in 2006 and eight times more likely to be injured, according to NHTSA.

Here's the thing, though. Those figures are on average.

They include motorcyclists driving drunk or stoned, not wearing a helmet, speeding like crazy, lacking protective gear, unlicensed to drive a motorcycle, those who haven't taken a motorcycle safety course, and such.

Nobody wants to be average. Especially when it comes to staying alive and healthy.

So the most informative (and inspiring) web site I came across in my motorcycle accident statistic research was this one: an article by James R. Davis called "Beating the Odds Requires that You Act ABNORMALLY."

Davis talks about how the risks of motorcycling can be reduced markedly by going against the grain of what gets riders injured or dead.

That's why I have a white scooter, wear a white full face helmet, always wear complete protective gear, have green day-glo striping on my jacket, drive a scooter with antilock brakes, rarely drive at night or in the rain, don't speed or take turns too fast, don't ride after drinking alcohol, and -- vitally important -- retook the Team Oregon training class before I started my scootering.

Reading the Oregonian story, I didn't find any facts that made me scared to be riding regularly at my increasingly ripe age (I'll soon be 62). For example:

As ridership took off, so did the number of fatal crashes, shooting from 29 in 2002 to 51 last year. Crashes spiked from 337 in 2002 to 842. Up to a third were not licensed to drive a motorcycle. But in nearly half, no other vehicle was involved, says Michele O'Leary, ODOT's motorcycle safety program manager. The rider just made a mistake.

The Oregonian examined the crash reports and interviewed the investigating officers of the 33 deaths so far this year, and found a startling number could have been avoided. Running red lights, rear-ending and colliding with cars claimed several lives.

But more than half of the riders died after they left the roadway or missed a curve on a clear, dry road. Several suffered horrifying injuries usually after striking a tree, roadside sign, utility pole or boulder.

Thus the risk of riding a motorcycle or scooter can be reduced by about 50% just by not being stupid, inattentive, or figuring that your handling skills are better than they really are.

Doing the sorts of common-sense risk-reduction things I mentioned above cuts down on the chance of gettting in an accident even further. However, no matter how careful a rider is, there's no getting around the fact that driving on two wheels is going to be more dangerous than getting around in a four-wheeled "cage" (as motorcyclists like to refer to cars).

Also, a lot more fun.

Which is why I ride, along with most motorcyclists and scooterers -- aside from those who can't afford a car and simply need a low cost means of transportation.

Back when I worked in health planning and policy research I became acquainted with the notion of balancing the quality and quantity of life. This often comes into play with living wills, where a person has to indicate how he or she feels about this sort of tradeoff.

Most people consider that extending the sheer quantity of life via time spent hooked up to a respirator, feeding tube, and such isn't worth the suffering and distress if one's quality of life is dirt-poor.

Similarly, virtually everybody is willing to take some risks in order to get more enjoyment out of life. Whether it is horseback riding, bicycling, getting on an airplane, or even driving to the weekly meeting of a knitting circle, doing something rewarding entails some risk-taking.

Today a guy came up to me as I was preparing to get on my scooter after having coffee with friends at the West Salem Starbucks. He said that he was thinking of getting a Burgman 650 and wanted to know how I liked it.

"I love it," I told him.

And proceeded to tell him more than he perhaps wanted to know about my replacement windscreen, a recently purchased seat cushion that makes my butt happier, how I'm able to store all of my riding gear under the seat, the joy of anti-lock brakes and automatic shifting, etc. etc.

My core message, though, was how riding this maxi-scooter has put the fun back into driving around, just like when I first got my driver's license at 16.

Getting someplace is secondary to simply experiencing the joy of open-air riding -- being in touch with the scooter, the air temperature, sounds, sights, the texture of the road, other vehicles, everything that is less lively when encased in a car (even a convertible).

I told the guy that I can't believe I'd get more enjoyment from any other sort of $10,000 purchase. Even a $150,000 Maserati, I said, wouldn't be as much fun to drive as a $3,000 motorcyle, because there's no comparison between four and two wheels.

It sounded like he was on his way to becoming another Suzuki Burgman 650 happy rider. I hope so. Life is short. The risks of motorcycling and scootering are well worth the rewards, because most of the risk factors are within the rider's control.

So if you're older, like me, and thinking of getting a bike my advice is in tune with Nike's: "just do it."

Comments

[Garfield Jackson]

I am 66 years old. I took and past the msf course. I now have my lisense to operate a motorcycle. After reading the above article, I am taking motorcycle safety much more serious. Thanks for the good information. Jack in Texas

[Max Keitt]

Excellent article. I'm considering getting a motorcycle for the first time and I'm in my late 30s.

I've been reading voraciously everything I can find about the subject. All of my research is leading me toward the same conclusion you have reached. It's amazing how much *you* can improve your odds by just not being stupid.

I think it was the Hurt report that concluded 92% of people in accidents had no formal training. So just take an MSF course and you cut your risk by over 90%! Wear gear, don't drink and ride, don't speed, avoid intersections, ride within your limits, etc and the risk comes WAYYYY down.

I'm still debating one way or the other (have my eye on a Suzuki sv650), but I'm not as apprehensive as I was before. Basically, the chances of getting in an accident overwhelmingly depend on the rider than any other factor.

Ride safe, my friend.

[David Pennington]

Well, as things are, I'm turning 65 this year. I had a Jawa 250 during the late 70's, and rode from Sao Paulo to Salvador (in Brazil), and back, coasting along two dozen small towns in between. It was a most rewading 6000+ mile trip. My son has bought a second bike for himself, and wants to travel with me, leaving his former 250 twin for my use. I have done a few spins, but really still dont't feel at ease with the bike - I have been off riding for about 40 years. I am reading David Houghton's "Proficiency Riding", and gathering tons of info on the net. If I really get into the trip, I'm having a refresher course before any popping on the road. Biking is great, but traffic is terrible, and defensive motocycling is a must. This article is quite encouraging. I always remember, when shooting footage on an emergency aid, that hospitals (and newspapers) concentrate traumas that happen all over any city.

[Thomas L Nesfeder]

Hi, I started riding in the late 60s and currently ride a Honda 919. This ride makes me feel more confident when braking, accelerating and nimble handling. Whenever I ride it I have the Grin of the cat that ate the Canary. Some of my have heavy weight bikes didn't have the braking capabilities' that I enjoy now. Riding experience does help,and knowing your limits is paramount in safe riding. I believe motorcycle riding is one of our few great freedoms we can enjoy. There is never a guarantee that nothing will happen. I do not stunt ride or do wheelies. I prefer to stay far ahead or far behind of crammed traffic conditions. When I was 14 years old I started riding in the yard and learned the hard way about showing off. If you are willing to take a calculated risk and ride a bike that is easy to maneuver,you should be fine. Tom

[Carol Wyeth]

I am a 69 year old female who loves touring.
I Learned how to ride when I was 58 and never looked back.
I have since ridden nearly 100,000 miles with no accidents. I choose not to ride at night and have never carried a passenger. (My rules)My bike of choice was a BMW12gs but I have downsized to the BMW 700 and love the lighter feel and responsiveness.
I've done Cabot Trail 6 times, the Dragon, Snake, Diamondback and all the usual suspects and am going back to give the Dragon a redo in May via Blue Ridge and Smokies. I still feel my skills are sharp and I always ride conservatively and safely. I know it's managed risk but riding is pure joy for me. Only another rider can appreciate that pure feeling of freedom & exhilaration. Hoping for a few more years because the day I walk away from my bike for good will be a sad one indeed. I trust I will be honest enough with myself to know when to hang it up.

[Esther Gibbs]

I will be 76 in a few weeks, am a widow and have never owned nor operated a motorcycle. I have had a desire to get a license and drive a Trike! Anyone give me some suggestions on how I begin this adventure - or not?

[Brian Hines]

Esther, sorry for the delay in replying. First thing would be to take a motorcycle riding course. I assume most states have them. Oregon has a good one, Team Oregon I think it is still called.

I've gone through the course twice. Once when I needed to, to get a motorcycle endorsement for my drivers license. The second after I got a big Burgman scooter and felt like I need a refresher in how to ride safely and enjoyably.

I'd say, go for it, if you feel the desire to do so. Life is short. Might as well live it to the fullest.

Just make sure you are physically capable of handling whatever motorcycle you want to ride. With a trike, you won't have to worry about it falling over and not being able to pick it up. So that's good. I've never ridden a trike, so don't know how much strength they take. Probably not much.

[Ray Dean]

I'm 78 years old and ride a Harley Davidson Ultra Limited. I'm not only old but have several inoperative hernia's, as well. Most of my family and friends don't understand. Not sure I do, either.

[Jerry Popelka]

I'm 77 and just bought my 28th motorcycle, over 60 riding years. Going back to vintage.

It's in our blood, I think. It's for sure in mine.

Get out and enjoy the ride guys/gals. Life and especially good life moments are short indeed.

Been fortunate. Never down .....until a few months ago. Could have been MUCH worse. I made stupid mistake but learned a BIG lesson. Life goes on. Good to be healthy and capable.

I try to get out almost daily and love it but stick to back roads with cows on both sides. Way back, I used to ride 30 miles into Boston, but you gotta do what makes sense at your age.

Slow down and enjoy your ride . Be alert. Trust no car/truck driver. Keep riding. It is good for the soul.....but don't start late in life. You can die trying. Just sayin......

[Paul Howard]

Thanks for your encouragement, I am 72 years young, I got my first bike when I came back from Vietnam. Absolutely loved ride it ( before helmet law ) I sold my bikes over the years and always returned back to riding, about 4 years ago I sold my Harley ( because I was told, I’m to old ) I now have the itch for two wheels under my old butt ( I’m looking at a Scooter) Suzuki Burgman 650. Never thought I would consider buying one, have been doing research online. Thanks

[MARK CASWELL]

ALCOHOL
DARKNESS
EXCESSIVE SPEED

ADDING 1 OF THESE INCREASES YOUR CHANCES OF A SERIOUS ACCIDENT
ADDING 2 OF THESE INCREASES YOUR CHANCES OF A SERIOUS ACCIDENT 10 FOLD
ADDING ALL 3 OF THESE INCREASES YOUR CHANCES OF A SERIOUS ACCIDENT 100 FOLD

[Jerry Popelka]

Guys/gals, if you're 70 or more, consider a scooter, 250 cc's or higher. They're comfy, simple (no shifting) and fast enough to keep vehicles off your butt.

I'm ready to turn 79 on March 6, 2020 and have been riding 60 plus years (30 bikes). Am on my third Honda Helix 250, which is water cooled, automatic, belt driven, 400 lbs, simple, easy to maintain, 60-70 mpg's and could go all day long at 60 mph.

Gotta admit, I shouldn't, but I still would like to own & ride a medium size motorcycle in addition to my Honda Helix scooter. My wife says I'm crazy. Riding gets and stays in our blood, doesn't it.

[Terence Meehan]

I keep this article in my favorites because I refer to it when I need some inspiration, it always does the trick. Coming out of another northeast winter I start to get restless thinking about riding season, but at 63 the little voice says " should you be riding at you age"? The voice has been around for several years now, however the first ride of the year silences that voice or the season! Lat fall I capped off the season with a ride at the Dragon and Blue ridge parkway. It was one of the best rides of my life! I don't speed, drink, or ride at night, have always been a. Conservative rider with safety coming first, so I figure I'm ahead of the game and taking minimal risk, when I forget that and become complacent I'll stop, but for now I'm riding!!
Thank, Great Article!

[Greg Breault]

The lure of my discovering the world via two wheels started back in grade school when I first learned to ride my bike and experienced the freedom that it afforded me. I remember taking out the book "Bike Ways" from the grade school library and promising myself that I would get to bike in Europe. That was over 60 years ago, and yes, I did.
While temporarily taking an hiatus from the bicycling world, I have managed to keep my 42 year old BMW R80 in good repair and on the road. I am hoping that prudent self-care and an excess of caution will permit me the luxury of riding it into my 80"s. Muscle tone and focus will determine when I have to let it go. I have always held to not riding when tired or angry and obviously being alcohol free. As I age I am increasingly wary of taking a passenger aboard and assuming the potential risk of incurring a miss-hap. [Knowing that one's momentary selfish impulse might result in harm to another would be an awful consequence to have to live with. As a twenty something I doubt my thinking went beyond making sure my passenger had a helmet]. However there is some risk in living a full life and I literally pray that I will avoid needless and foolish error on my machine and know when to put the keys away.

[James Goodman]

I’m 67, first started riding in 1967 a Honda 50cc Cub. In 1978 toured the entire western half of the USA on a 1977 Gold Wing. In 1981 toured the eastern half of the USA including Nova Scotia. Had Harleys, stopped riding in 1986 to build a business. Had not ridden since 1986, stopped in my local Harley dealership took out on a test ride a 2019 Road King, it did not go well. I realized I no longer had the sense of balance that I had when I was younger. Trying to balance an 800+ pound motorcycle in a slow u turn in traffic was very unsettling. I was devastated to see this part of aging had crept up on me unnoticed but to discover it in a busy intersection wrestling a heavy motorcycle was frightening. No, I did not drop it but I brought it back immediately to before something life altering happened. It’s very hard to face your own mortality and realize it might not be your best option to try to do some things from your youth

[Walter Quave]

I passed my safety test 50 years ago and never stoped it is my first love when I was 8 years old my father got me my first motorcycle so i have bin riding fo 62 years don’t ever stop riding

WQIII

[tahirali]

Click Here for letast MotoGP leather jackets Designs
Motorcycle Racing Cowhide Leather Biker Jacket
and
BMW Motorrad MotoGp