Had a seventyish something dude pull up next to me in a parking space the other day on his new Ninja 500 and full gear. He said he'd never ridden before because he was too scared but wanted to overcome it and check it off his bucket list. That's gonna stick with me for a while. Just a really cool thing to see.
yeah same here... 33 now and i wanted to ride since i was 16 but always thought iam going to die if i ever sit on a 600cc supersport. but now is the time to just f*cking do it. :D
@Abensberg I hear that. Waited until I was 27 which was probably a good thing because I was way too immature to be on a bike before that. Probably would have become a statistic.
In a world of full of technology, distracted drivers are one of the biggest concerns for not only motorcycle safety, but for other vehicles and pedestrians alike. Please put the phone down and have respect for the road, because it will humble you in an instant.
The same goes for having a phone mount on your bike. The only thing you *SHOULD* need a phone mount on your bike is for GPS... but really, just buy a Cardo(or whatever is comparable) and have it give you street directions through audio. Way less distracting AND it makes it easier to remember the route.
I couldn;t agree more with you! Also, the same technology that seems to overwhelm some new motorcycle models seems to be a distracting factor for all involved.
what about the number of pedestrians that me included are head down on their phones in this age of social media... yesterday no joke I almost walked into oncoming traffic when I heard the light go off because I did not look properly no phone in hand either but thankfully I took one step and then quickly stepped back onto the pavement so no issue. otherwise no me or worse.
As a rider myself, I tend to have a sense of "protector" of ither riders when driving my car. If I get behind a rider, I leave plenty of distance and try to be the buffer between the rider and other cars. Kind of like a protective barrier.
...gotta love when a clapped-out Honda Accord, or Nissan sentra, rides your ass because they feel the need to prove they can keep up with your liter bike 😑
I'm 74, been riding since 16. I ride within my abilities and still watch safety courses. Avoiding traffic too, just out in country. Never down, Never accident. Great review, thank you
My father passed away on his motorcycle on 10/22/24 after a driver was attempting a left hand turn across incoming traffic. He and I are both avid fans and subscribers of Yammie. He knew the risks as well as anyone, and never let it stop him. I can’t help but think that he would continue to encourage those that ride, to do so safely, and not let fear get in the way of living. Be careful out there. Love you dad.
“You choose to ride that motorcycle, so you need to take responsibility for it." The words of our instructor when I took the MSF course years ago still resonate with me. Now I teach a defensive driving course to employees at my work and use that lesson in my presentation. If all drivers were responsible …
They are only as dangerous as the rider. I have been riding 32 years and have no crashes on a public road. Just have to ride within your limits, stay sharp and anticipate. Most importantly don’t do stupid shit .
That’s not true unfortunately. Friend of mine crashed head to head with another motorcycle from the opposite lane, because that motorcyclist lost control out of the blank turn and went on straight on our lane. We were doing 20km/h under the limit and we knew the road well. That was just sad coincidence, bad place and time. It could’ve been me, but I happened to be following my friend instead of being ahead. My friend got his arm broken badly and the other guy lost leg. Accidents happen and you might be the best rider, but still have a bad luck. Wish you all the best luck on the road!
@@MrQuezPL Were you group riding? Group riding tends to be riskier than riding alone. I personally only ride alone. I don't really trust other bikers to know what they are doing. But yeah, things do happen, but there are ways to mitigate the risk.
@@joemann7971 It was just me and one of my best friends. I get the point of group riding risks, but that's not our case, we purposefully never ride with other guys to prevent risky behaviors and had strict rules while riding together. Funnily enough, the other guy who felt out of curve and crashed with my friend, was 3rd guy in the group of like 8 bikes, so your point just proves itself.
On Sept 14th, 2024 an old lady pulled out of a parking lot, turning left, into me. It wrote off my 2019 Yamaha MT09. Right leg shattered, bones protruding, muscles and tendons ripped up. Titanium rod installed + 2 screws. 1 week hospital stay. Still can't walk as of today, Jan 27, 2025. I'm at 50% weight bearing, doing physio since week 2. She was fined at the scene. Was only doing 31mph. Insurance has been a headache. Haven't heard from my lawyer since October. Everyone, especially old folks should be retested each year for their license. My 89 year old grandmother recently had an accident and lost her license. She had the option to retest to renew it, she didn't. I was silently glad. Been riding for 7 years, no issues until this. I'm 42. Past bikes since 2017 have been '02 GSXR 750, 06 R6, 04 R1, 19 MT09. Been a fan since the early days! I know SO many young guys who crash 600's and want a 1000 still. I teach them counter steering but it falls on deaf ears. You can't fix stupid.
You’d be truly surprised at just how many people **really** don’t like being told what to do by the government. Even if that requirement would really be by any objective metric entirely reasonable for the sake of just ensuring people don’t accidentally kill or maim themselves or others. I’m all for requiring helmets by law, but a lot of people really want to go without for the sake of “freedom” and avoiding “government overreach.” To which I can only ever really concede and just tell them “Fine. It’s your funeral.”
What’s the motorcycle scene like in australia? I’m planning to move there at the end of the year for a working holiday and am considering a bike instead of a van for the Gold Coast?
Great video. I started riding for the first time last year in 2024. Still a noob and yes my family isn't the most happy about it. I like watching videos like these to remind myself that there is still plenty things I can do myself to keep safe.
I am 59 years old soon to be 60 years old and I am riding a 2018 CBR1000RR which I use to commute to work and have fun. So far I have put 22,000 miles no issues. I had a bike accident early in my riding career at 60 MPH and thanks to my protective gear I am still alive. I learned to respect the bike and just enjoy it. My bike has plastics that honor teammates killed in Afghanistan and that I believe gives me extra protection. I used D30 gloves and jacket plus a helmet that is high quality. Stay safe and keep riding.
100% w/Yammie, all great tips here. If you are new to riding, I’d argue, don’t buy new, buy used, sub 600cc class, learn backroads, practice manholes avoidance and virtual obstacles in absence of traffic, and slow down for Pete’s sake. I’ve been riding for 20+y, car drivers are more distracted than ever, watch a car drivers head movements, watch pavement after a rainfall, gravel or dust hangs on corners. Wear protective gear at all times, pavement is unforgiving! ( Helmet, Gloves, Jacket, Pants)
Been riding for 3 years with a 2006 Aprilia Scarabeo 250, it was my father's, a few months ago I got my A license finally but then an 87 year old driver (certified Greece moment) didn't stop at a stop sing to check for incoming vehicles and I crashed into him returning from work. My scooter didn't have abs so my wheels locked and I couldn't stop. I broke 8 ribs plus a bit of my elbow. My scooter was totaled and after 2 months I'm not yet okay. All of this could've been avoided if I was a bit more cautious of that junction because the other drivers rarely look out of bikes. But I always wear my helmet and it helped that day, saved my from getting something even worse!
Hint: drivers have the hardest time seeing a MC is when they are coming straight on to the auto driver. I’ve upgraded to the brightest headlight I could install for daytime use. Nights are usually standard beam. Main thing, do not take your eyes off the road in traffic.
I’m 27 and just got my first bike, a Honda rebel 500. I don’t honestly know how to ride but I have uncles who are teaching me and I will be taking the msf course once I feel a bit more comfortable, hopefully a month or two from now once I got a bit of the basics down. I was very careful about choosing a first bike since I wanted some to big that looked good but wasn’t too powerful and I think I made a great choice. Got it brand new and custom built so to me, it is an absolute beauty. I already went through my “gotta go fast” stage since my first car was a 392 shaker, and while nothing bad happened I do admit I pulled some stupid stunts with my car. Got lucky a lot of the time so I’m taking no chances with my first bike.
As someone who has ridden for years. Bikes are super dangerous. Not because of the bike but the other road users. Lost friends cause motor vehicles didn't see them. You not only have to think for yourself but others too. Be careful out there
I agree with you, other road users are a moving obstacles course!,here in South Africa we have bright yellow reflective safety jackets,with the boldly written words on it , THINK BIKE!
My family tells me all the time something like, its not how good of a rider you are its how bad of a driver other people are. It really doesnt matter how good you are ride safe you guys. Happy new years
I feel like this is a massive oversimplification. You have to be watching drivers and ensure you have the space and distance to maneuver if/when they doing something stupid. Yeah there are situations where you might have no recourse, but there are many more you can avoid.
a friend of mine told me when i stared driving "just expect everybody on the road to do the STUPIDES thing possible in EVERY moment you are on the road" and i certanly avoided some stupid crashes i would have gotten into if i didnt listen to him and i would multiply that advice like 5 time if i was on a bike meaning u have to be pepared to react in worst imaginable situations...
I'm from the rural zone of a small city in Brazil. I drive motocycle since 14. Now I'm 23 and have my motocycle license and car license. During this 9 years, I only had 3 accidents. And in none of them i got hurt. And none of them involved traffic. I just took a lot of care and policing.
I'm looking forward to buying the 2025 NX 500, it would be my first bike, had already passed the written test. I'm feeling confident, thanks to yammie I've learned a lot things to keep in mind while riding. Thank you
As a Vermont rider it is so scary when I ride to New Hampshire and see soooo many people without helmets and it’s crazy during events like Laconia when a lot of alc is often involved
Good video. It's really true that there is so much nuance to motorcycle crash stats. Appreciate your newbie advice videos, they were a lot of what helped me get into riding a couple years ago.
I feel like breaking down statistics by power to weight ratio might be even more illuminating. My first bike is a 650, but it weighs a lot and is underpowered for its size, so it's allowed under Australia's Learner Approved Motorcycle Scheme
I'm 55 now my last accident was aged 21 riding round a traffic island hitting a patch of black ice , young & stupid 🤣 From there I took up all the training courses and now ride an Ex Police BMW R1200RT , Wearing all the Gear and a top Quality Helmet What price do you put on your Brain / Skull - Get the Best Brain Bucket you can afford 😉👍 . Happy long time Riding All From 🇬🇧
I’ve had more potential incidents in my car than motorcycle, I generally find car drivers are more cautious around bikes than cars.. not always clearly.
It's the motorists. Besides cell phones it's important to be visible. My bike and helmet are white. But I get attention either with horn or throttle reving for those motorists who are half asleep on the road or on social media platforms.
As a new rider who was very apprehensive about the danger of riding (especially learning in NYC) I will say, despite all the hazards I have WAY more agility and room to maneuver than I ever thought possible. It gave me a new prospective about the danger of riding if you stay within your limits.
I am 31 right now just taking the MSF equivalent of the course in Australia. thank you Yammie Noob and other motorcycle you tubers who are safety first and education. cannot wait till you get the MSF instructor certified course. also thoughts on my motorcycle instructor saying I should be first practising on a pedal bike first and look straight ahead at 30km/h I am going to put that into practise.😊
I watched a lot of DDFM and Yammie before getting my first bike. Until the MSF I hadn't so much as sat on a bike, the week after I bought a 600 and haven't looked back. I stay safe by choosing my moments, and by seizing initiative. I don't wait for a car to make a move, nor do I sit in one spot for any particular amount of time which could allow me to become invisible. I invested in track schools and track days. There I get a better confidence with my machine and when I've crashed was able to walk away. Every second on and off, is a lesson and lesson learned.
I've wrecked dirt bikes at least 100 times in my life... Never wrecked on a public road thank God! I'm 43 years old and have been riding dirt bikes and supermoto since I was 10.
Thanks youngster for the truly sage advice! At 72 y.o., the proud owner of a '25 Kawasaki Z900 SE and a burning desire to tame the beast in the twisties (God willing 😇), your call for the prudential approach will be well heeded. First decision was to sign up for the Champ U online courses. Although I've been riding for decades now, a review of their curriculum convinced me that I still have tons to learn to be the most safe and effective rider I can be.
My top reasons i want a bike 1. i love driving in general 2. its such a waste for me to drive 2 tons of steel every day when 90% of the time its just me sitting in there 3. parking in german cities is awful. Especially going to university every day. I struggle. Motorcycles can literally park infront of my lecture halls legally and FOR FREE! 4. they sound, look and feel fkn amazing, obviously
6:16 might’ve just changed my mind about getting a 600 I’m 18 and I rode an r3 about 8000km in a couple months lots of highway and city, paired with the way I drive and I’ve ridden probably 13000 km on electric longboard I’m pretty aware of what goes on around me but I think I’ll get a drz400 because it can do it all and teach me even more before I turn into a gsxr semi squid lol
Am getting a bike this season, did my license a few months ago and I am exited. My dad gifted me a safety training course when I got the license, which I will attend in march or aprill this year. Very hyped for this year! :D
They don't allow for mistakes, especially at high speeds. However, even if you ride very careful, there is still the possibility of randomness that can cause an accident. They provide more freedom than cars but with freedom comes risk.
very true. i would add wear full body armor but ride like naked (a hard habit to acquire, i admit). These optimistic videos are good and inspiring, but they leave many things out.
Sixth sense is something incredible. I remember that when I was just starting as a motorcyclist and active road user in general all the vehicles around were just something like big boxes I have to be aware of, but their movement could be difficult to fathom. Now they are still sort of big boxes I better be wary of, but somehow I see how the drivers behave, what to expect from them and what they are going to do next. It's mind boggling how you can tell that someone will be OK, someone else is hardly a threat and then this guy over there, he's going to do something reckless and you better steer the hell way ouf of his way.
@@joemann7971 that is VERY true. It's just that I find it amazing how I moved from not having any idea what to expect to the place where I can predict some actions to quite a degree. I do not let my guard down though.
After seeing what’s happening here in my hometown of Los Angeles….motorcycles are the only vehicle that can escape chaos and roadblocks. At this point…a motorcycle is a way to save my life.
I was given that talking to when I got back to riding after almost 24 years, but I was struck by a car while I was crossing the street, he was texting even though he saw I was going to cross and I had the walk sign in green, a few years later I was doing road work and some lady plowed through the safety barrels and struck me and my coworker....what new danger do I have to fear? Dumb ass drivers are already coming for me. Ride defensively.
I'm turning 64 in March, and I am thinking of getting into riding a motorcycle, last time I was on a motorcycle was back in the late 80's, I don't have a motorcycle license and here in Quebec it's mandatory to pass a course at a driving school, I hope I can pass, the bike I want to get is a Kawasaki Ninja 500 SE which I heard was a good starter bike can't wait till spring comes.
Simple rule - nobody sees you. Never expect them to or assume that they do. You are already 95% safer. The other 95% is paying attention and not riding over your skill level. After that, your chance of dying or being in a wreck in pretty minimal. That said, I work with a guy who was rear ended and is now paralyzed in his lower body. A good back protector may have saved him. Wear good gear.
oh yeah, try to ride at 7/10 of your skillset - this allows a lot of braintime to avoid shit when it happens - no panic braking etc, having skill to spare means having enough time to make adjustment in line choice, exit options etc without needing brakes
I was riding home the other night on a mostly clear interstate, coming up on a flatbed 18-wheeler in the lane to my right. I glanced down at my dash for such a miniscule amount of time I don't even remember what I was checking, and when I looked up the wind had nudged me in the direction of the truck. I calmly corrected, swinging my left leg out just a little bit, and avoided an accident. It happened so fast, I don't even remember actively reacting - it just happened. Moral of the story: training your brain on emergency maneuvers so they become second nature or muscle memory is crucial, and wind, either from the weather or tailwind from a big truck, will affect your ride far more than if you're in a car.
69 here; been riding sport bikes for the past 44 years...and my worst "accident" was last July 4th. PICKING UP my bike. Blew rotator cuff, bicep, and 3 tendons; still rehabbing. Haven't had to pick one up in about 42 years! I NEVER Trust car drivers, so that's kept me alive. I also ride w/ helmet mount GoPro...and I think that helps keep drivers around me honest/safer, because they ARE being recorded.
I just turned 73 years old and I just bought my 12th motorcycle. A 2024 Yamaha MT 07 naked sport bike. I’ve never crashed riding a street bike on pavement. I don’t ride at night and I avoid city traffic as much as possible. I ride mostly on winding country roads and I wear full protective gear all the time and every time.
Those armored jackets and pants sadly do very little in blunt trauma protection. Those pads only stop a quarter of the minimum force needed to break bones. They may help in miracle situations for blunt trauma but really only protect from sliding.
@@triyo1089 Helite Airbag Vest. They also sell jackets that have the same technology integrated. They make armored jackets and pants look like a joke by comparison. It's not bulletproof but it can certain save your life by working with your helmet to lock it in place and potentially avoid neck injuries.
I had a friend of mine die a few months ago. Police say no other vehicle involved. (solo motorcycle) All injuries were mid torso. Several surgeries, but he did not survive. Most probable reason: he was taking a curve too fast (2:10), bike slid out from underneath him, and he slid off the road and hit something (tree/telephone pole) enough to break bone. With localized mid torso injuries, that's what makes me think he hit something. I've only been riding for a few years, but I've quietly told people I would NEVER ride with this guy. He's been arrogant all his life. He's a show-off. He'll ride too fast, trying to impress or embarrass me, and that would put both of us in danger.
I’m terrified of another rider being reckless and causing a head on collision in the twisties. I pretty much only do commuting on my motorcycle now lol. Maybe that will change in the future, but I wanna cage around me now. I eventually only want to ride in track. Maybe an adv later.
yes corners just slow down going into them and then power out especially on the public road, u dont know what is around that corner!!! u dont need to trail brake just slow it down, keep your speed for track days!!!
Been riding about ten years now. Started out with the MSF and exploring riding. Now in my mid forties and I’d like to take some more trainings. Some refresher stuff would be great for the low speed maneuvers the MSF teaches in a weekend but I’m not sure what else I would want or expect from a course; nor where to look for one. Closest track is a days ride away and just isn’t really feasible for me (work, kids, wife, etc). Would love to see a video or discussion on what to do next after you have your endorsement and a sometime under you.
Unpopular opinion. I think if we looked more closely at motorcycles we'd see another disparity of reckless riders who die far more often just based on the style of riding. You're telling me a 50 something dude on his harley going 45 an a 20 year old on his squid going 120 both have the same increased chance of death simply because they're both on a motorcycle? I doubt it.
Another unpopular opinion a lot of those 50 something harley riders, at least in my experience, are leaving the bar or clubhouse. So yes, they could have the same chance. Squids are riding stupid cruisers are riding drunk lol
@@chrisgallows7085 That, and like the video explains, a lot of the bad stats on the older crowd are from people who are start in later age and are overconfident. It's not so much the older Harley guys that don't drink and ride and have been riding for decades.
The fact is, if you drive SUPER safe in a car, your risk of dying is almost 0. However no matter how safely you ride a bike, the risk of death is always there, thats just the nature of it, you can never anticipate someone blowing a red light and wiping you out in their truck
If you look, you can find a study of CHP moto officers. As a result of their extensive comprehensive training and amount of road time, CHP officers had fewer incidents per mile than any other vehicle. I don’t think motorycycle are inherently more dangerous than cars. Bikes can avoid accidents cars can’t. How much does that offset the accidents that are because of being on a motorcycle? Certainly the consequences of an accident are higher on a bike. But if you avoid the accident…Training, practice and riding style most impact safety.
The motorcycle itself- zero danger. An untrained, intoxicated, naked, cocky rider is the most dangerous animal on the planet -to itself. Now in-between we have many safe to mid riders. The main crashes are 1 vehicle meaning just the bike. After that it's not riding safe and being in blind spots. You just can't trust any other driver. Even if you are looking them in the eye, never ever trust and have an exit at all times. Riding the right bike is important too. You can have as many as you want but make sure they are good for you is what I was told. Pretty sound. 😂For me, my 10 minutes of practice and brake checks before every ride is crucial and fun. My mid life crisis is riding and I would like to survive it. So I can go back to quilting. 😂 But if I don't survive it, I regret nothing.
Just don't ride reckless. I have a 7 month old and my son is what keeps me from doing otherwise dumb things. It's not all that dangerous, and I commute regularly with all the psychos. lol. Also, make sure to take a riding course, and if you you can get something like Term Life Insurance should anything happen to you, at least your family is set financially. That's obviously not going to replace you, but it's something.
I was riding to work and somebody pulled out on me breaking my upper arm and damaging the nerve that moves the hand.. I had an operation and a metal bar in my arm.. That was a year ago, I still can’t use my left arm for carrying even light loads I had to change job, and now I cant get insured, even though the driver admitted liability I loved riding, Though I think it’s worth really considering the risks.. I wouldn’t recommend it for commuting as it increases the risk considerably, particularly in the UK
This is an excellent video. I use this type of critical thinking every time I ride. Use the accident data to decrease your chances of getting in an accident. It just makes sense. It also doesn’t mean don’t have fun. Pick your spots. Be safe. Enjoy your bike. Don’t drink and ride.
Some regulations in certain states in US are just incomprehensible to me, like helmets being not mandatory AND lane-splitting being prohibited. What?!?
It sucks because sometimes even when you’re riding safe, and know the time and place to speed sometimes people still will do something unavoidable. It’s important for motorcycle riders to have things prepared in case of an accident. Having my very premium shoe I rf-1400 helmet saved my life. If I had been wearing anything with less protection I would have died or at the very least had life altering brain injuries after being t boned. I hope everyone stays safe out there!
me as a 17yr old going to ride a 125 probably gonna drive safe. I watched many crash vids with motorcycle to analyise what i shouldnt do on the road (like driving in the center of 2 roads) and always thinking with the unawerness of the other drivers. In my opinion the first step to be safer on the road is WHEN you drive safe.
I rented a car the other day (had to move some things around) and I was so stressed by how many times I almost got hit, BLOCKED into a parking space and just stuck in traffic. I returned the car after a few hours b/c I had no need for it any longer. The chick couldn't understand how I felt safer on my bike. Cars stress me out. With my 2-wheels I can avoid and get passed so many obstacles. HEY STOP ASSUMING BIKERS ARE DUDES! * testrone * *male ego* etc. Not cool.
2 simple rules that work for me; #1. Ride looking for trouble, not to get into it but rather avoid it. #2 Ride like a pensioner. Better to be late than dead on time!
Its actually a pretty crazy statistic, here in NZ, 45% of motorcycle serious injuries or fatalities in 2023 were in the 40+ age group. Looking at the graph is quite eye opening, they spiked up in the early 2000's and have been steadily increasing ever since.
Long ago I heard the phrase "motorcycles themselves are not inherently dangers. They are, however, extremely unforgiving of inattention or poor decision-making." That has stuck with me for my 18 years of riding.
I have been riding a Daytona Rockstar 400cc for 3 months now and have 4000km under my belt. Before I even got on that thing I watched a lot of youtube videos about how to drive. Those videos can never prepare you for the real world but they can help you translate your experience into wisdom a lot, lot faster. Avoid cornering at high speeds (if you are at a road with a speed limit of 80km and suddenly you see a sign dropping it at 30 you can pretty confidently assume a sharp corner is coming), Only split traffic when its completely packed with cars. If a car driver has open space next to them they will at random times and for random reasons steer into it! And if you are gonna speed speed into roads you know very well and that are empty. And learn your breaks godammit! Most times in the beginning I found myself in a dangerous situation were when I almost rear ended other cars as I was completely unaware of who hard I could break without triggering abs. Even when you are driving, if the road is clear and you're familiar with it practice swerving and braking. And last but not least your mirrors will most times save you not from cars but other drivers that are lane filtering. If you are gonna lane filter or switch lanes always check for other riders!
30s new rider here 😊 (70 odd miles only so far). Thankfully in the UK it's illegal to ride without a helmet and I don't drink. That mortgage mention hit me right in the gut haha. Here's to hoping to many happy accident free miles on my Mutt Mushman 125 :) Stay safe out there people.
I slightly disagree w the more dangerous at night . I commute home at between 1-2am for about 20-25 minutes on back country roads/ small town … the only thing I’m worried about at night is a fucking deer jumping out . I rarely see any cars that late . So it depends where you live . Riding in a major city on a Saturday night fs more sketchy . But chill speed limit commute out in the woods . So calm and peaceful
Very good video, I feel a lot of riders who say there was nothing they could have done to prevent something, if you watched a video of their accident you could see how much control they actually could have had to change the end result but a lot just dont have that mindset, almost child like way of going about riding a bike, even at 15mph..you cant have time to not pay attention all the time,have to have that 6th sense All the,time..once you do it becomes second nature and in a sense it doesnt become extra work to be cautious, because all obstacles and surroundings will give you the signs
You covered this topic very well. Take a MSF course. Ride sober, ride at sane & safe speeds, avoid riding at night or in low visibility conditions. That’s how you stay alive to keep riding and enjoying life.
I have been riding motorcycles for 40 years +, have only had one minor accident! The secret is make yourself visible, reflective jackets etc,ride slow and defensively,if you want to feel some speed,do it for short, take note SHORT spurts! on a wide open road where you can see for miles!
I'm 44 and been riding since 29. 15 years and NEVER laid it down. Six bikes, 3 states. I plan to hang it up soon in the next 4-5 years so I hope I can be one of those who can say they never crashed.
the fact you're allowed to ride without a helmet in most states is wild. helmets have been mandatory in europe for as long as I can remember. Other gear isn't, but you should wear all the gear. I have never seen a fellow rider without full gear in 10 years of riding.
Another factor contributing to the higher death rate for older riders is that retirement gives you a lot of spare time. I put on more miles per year than I would in five or ten years during my working life. This past summer I put on 23,000 km. That exposes me to more risk than years where I would ride 2500 km. The percentage of fatal accidents per displacement range provides no meaningful information. It needs to be further correlated with the mileage accrued per category at the very least.
The fact there are so many reckless and risky people who take to riding really skews these statistics. That means, as the video concludes, if we don't ride like a squid, we are already "ahead of the curve"
• The USA has approximately 53% higher fatality rates compared to the EU • Accident rates in the USA are about 33% higher than in the EU in europe we have manditory vehicle mastery courses with very strict examinations
I once took a drink and rode my bike, and immediately noticed my lack of ability to keep the bike balanced properly. I cannot agree more about not drinking and riding, life is hard enough living in Little Rock, AR, which is one of the top 25 most dangerous cities to drive in. Medicinal marijuana is absolutely what catapulted this city to be a horror to drive in unfortunately.
I'm a car guy but with the rising car prices and interest rates, I'm thinking of selling my Camaro, getting a Camry and a bike instead. This is one of the biggest concerns I have. I know of people who have died
Age correlation is so true and I bet almost everyone who is above 30 can relate. I used to speed race on a beat up sedan with my friend at 100 mph, but at age 48, I only go 50mph because I know that even at that speed I can die in an head on collision. And at 50 mph, I know that I have split second to brake and reduce to 30-40 mph to at least survive with broken bones but not die or damage my spine.
I’m a new rider I absolutely love riding my bike. I hate riding with other people(cars)on the road. Literally in traffic with Karen 2 inches behind me. In my truck not a big deal but where I live they are doing everything but driving….
Had a seventyish something dude pull up next to me in a parking space the other day on his new Ninja 500 and full gear. He said he'd never ridden before because he was too scared but wanted to overcome it and check it off his bucket list. That's gonna stick with me for a while. Just a really cool thing to see.
I love seeing those older guys get into it. Life's short, nobody knows how much we have left.
I get that. The actuarial tables tell me I've lived well over 90% of my life already. There's a few things I want to do before I use up the
could as well been me, im 27 tho, but also on a new ninja 500 and full gear most of the time (when it's not TOO cold).
yeah same here... 33 now and i wanted to ride since i was 16 but always thought iam going to die if i ever sit on a 600cc supersport.
but now is the time to just f*cking do it. :D
@Abensberg I hear that. Waited until I was 27 which was probably a good thing because I was way too immature to be on a bike before that. Probably would have become a statistic.
In a world of full of technology, distracted drivers are one of the biggest concerns for not only motorcycle safety, but for other vehicles and pedestrians alike. Please put the phone down and have respect for the road, because it will humble you in an instant.
Distracted driving is the number one cause of collisions in the US.
The same goes for having a phone mount on your bike. The only thing you *SHOULD* need a phone mount on your bike is for GPS... but really, just buy a Cardo(or whatever is comparable) and have it give you street directions through audio. Way less distracting AND it makes it easier to remember the route.
The increase in 'self drive vehicles' is gonna become a serious issue for bikers in the future too
I couldn;t agree more with you! Also, the same technology that seems to overwhelm some new motorcycle models seems to be a distracting factor for all involved.
what about the number of pedestrians that me included are head down on their phones in this age of social media... yesterday no joke I almost walked into oncoming traffic when I heard the light go off because I did not look properly no phone in hand either but thankfully I took one step and then quickly stepped back onto the pavement so no issue. otherwise no me or worse.
As a rider myself, I tend to have a sense of "protector" of ither riders when driving my car. If I get behind a rider, I leave plenty of distance and try to be the buffer between the rider and other cars. Kind of like a protective barrier.
While thinking "I got you bro". ✌️
Thank you, I do the same by the way 👍🏻💪🏻
@padrepiomotociclista8315 We have to look out for each other. Especially when we're in a car.
@NoFrictionZone That's exactly my thought process.
🤘😎🤘
...gotta love when a clapped-out Honda Accord, or Nissan sentra, rides your ass because they feel the need to prove they can keep up with your liter bike 😑
I'm 74, been riding since 16. I ride within my abilities and still watch safety courses. Avoiding traffic too, just out in country. Never down, Never accident. Great review, thank you
My father passed away on his motorcycle on 10/22/24 after a driver was attempting a left hand turn across incoming traffic. He and I are both avid fans and subscribers of Yammie. He knew the risks as well as anyone, and never let it stop him. I can’t help but think that he would continue to encourage those that ride, to do so safely, and not let fear get in the way of living. Be careful out there. Love you dad.
😥 almost always a damn cage driver…
“You choose to ride that motorcycle, so you need to take responsibility for it." The words of our instructor when I took the MSF course years ago still resonate with me. Now I teach a defensive driving course to employees at my work and use that lesson in my presentation. If all drivers were responsible …
They are only as dangerous as the rider. I have been riding 32 years and have no crashes on a public road. Just have to ride within your limits, stay sharp and anticipate. Most importantly don’t do stupid shit .
I have 34 years, my luck ran out on the 5th of December last year. I did everything right but this one was unavoidable from my end.
That’s not true unfortunately.
Friend of mine crashed head to head with another motorcycle from the opposite lane, because that motorcyclist lost control out of the blank turn and went on straight on our lane.
We were doing 20km/h under the limit and we knew the road well. That was just sad coincidence, bad place and time.
It could’ve been me, but I happened to be following my friend instead of being ahead.
My friend got his arm broken badly and the other guy lost leg.
Accidents happen and you might be the best rider, but still have a bad luck.
Wish you all the best luck on the road!
They are as dangerous as the other vehicle. Statistic prove more riders are killed by 3rd party morons than self inflicted stupidity.
@@MrQuezPL Were you group riding? Group riding tends to be riskier than riding alone. I personally only ride alone. I don't really trust other bikers to know what they are doing. But yeah, things do happen, but there are ways to mitigate the risk.
@@joemann7971 It was just me and one of my best friends. I get the point of group riding risks, but that's not our case, we purposefully never ride with other guys to prevent risky behaviors and had strict rules while riding together.
Funnily enough, the other guy who felt out of curve and crashed with my friend, was 3rd guy in the group of like 8 bikes, so your point just proves itself.
On Sept 14th, 2024 an old lady pulled out of a parking lot, turning left, into me. It wrote off my 2019 Yamaha MT09. Right leg shattered, bones protruding, muscles and tendons ripped up. Titanium rod installed + 2 screws. 1 week hospital stay. Still can't walk as of today, Jan 27, 2025. I'm at 50% weight bearing, doing physio since week 2. She was fined at the scene. Was only doing 31mph. Insurance has been a headache. Haven't heard from my lawyer since October. Everyone, especially old folks should be retested each year for their license. My 89 year old grandmother recently had an accident and lost her license. She had the option to retest to renew it, she didn't. I was silently glad. Been riding for 7 years, no issues until this. I'm 42. Past bikes since 2017 have been '02 GSXR 750, 06 R6, 04 R1, 19 MT09. Been a fan since the early days!
I know SO many young guys who crash 600's and want a 1000 still. I teach them counter steering but it falls on deaf ears. You can't fix stupid.
living in australia its actually insane knowing that some countries dont enforce helmets by law
You’d be truly surprised at just how many people **really** don’t like being told what to do by the government. Even if that requirement would really be by any objective metric entirely reasonable for the sake of just ensuring people don’t accidentally kill or maim themselves or others. I’m all for requiring helmets by law, but a lot of people really want to go without for the sake of “freedom” and avoiding “government overreach.” To which I can only ever really concede and just tell them “Fine. It’s your funeral.”
Some nations, the United States for example, value the individual rights of their citizens, and let them decide how much risk to assume, like adults.
@@MalachiWhite-tw7hlunfortunately a lot of people are not very smart
What’s the motorcycle scene like in australia? I’m planning to move there at the end of the year for a working holiday and am considering a bike instead of a van for the Gold Coast?
@@destroyer6869 Its called evolution, dumb people wont survive
Great video. I started riding for the first time last year in 2024. Still a noob and yes my family isn't the most happy about it. I like watching videos like these to remind myself that there is still plenty things I can do myself to keep safe.
I am 59 years old soon to be 60 years old and I am riding a 2018 CBR1000RR which I use to commute to work and have fun. So far I have put 22,000 miles no issues. I had a bike accident early in my riding career at 60 MPH and thanks to my protective gear I am still alive. I learned to respect the bike and just enjoy it. My bike has plastics that honor teammates killed in Afghanistan and that I believe gives me extra protection. I used D30 gloves and jacket plus a helmet that is high quality. Stay safe and keep riding.
100% w/Yammie, all great tips here. If you are new to riding, I’d argue, don’t buy new, buy used, sub 600cc class, learn backroads, practice manholes avoidance and virtual obstacles in absence of traffic, and slow down for Pete’s sake. I’ve been riding for 20+y, car drivers are more distracted than ever, watch a car drivers head movements, watch pavement after a rainfall, gravel or dust hangs on corners. Wear protective gear at all times, pavement is unforgiving! ( Helmet, Gloves, Jacket, Pants)
Been riding for 3 years with a 2006 Aprilia Scarabeo 250, it was my father's, a few months ago I got my A license finally but then an 87 year old driver (certified Greece moment) didn't stop at a stop sing to check for incoming vehicles and I crashed into him returning from work. My scooter didn't have abs so my wheels locked and I couldn't stop. I broke 8 ribs plus a bit of my elbow. My scooter was totaled and after 2 months I'm not yet okay. All of this could've been avoided if I was a bit more cautious of that junction because the other drivers rarely look out of bikes. But I always wear my helmet and it helped that day, saved my from getting something even worse!
Hint: drivers have the hardest time seeing a MC is when they are coming straight on to the auto driver. I’ve upgraded to the brightest headlight I could install for daytime use. Nights are usually standard beam.
Main thing, do not take your eyes off the road in traffic.
I’m 27 and just got my first bike, a Honda rebel 500. I don’t honestly know how to ride but I have uncles who are teaching me and I will be taking the msf course once I feel a bit more comfortable, hopefully a month or two from now once I got a bit of the basics down. I was very careful about choosing a first bike since I wanted some to big that looked good but wasn’t too powerful and I think I made a great choice. Got it brand new and custom built so to me, it is an absolute beauty. I already went through my “gotta go fast” stage since my first car was a 392 shaker, and while nothing bad happened I do admit I pulled some stupid stunts with my car. Got lucky a lot of the time so I’m taking no chances with my first bike.
As someone who has ridden for years. Bikes are super dangerous. Not because of the bike but the other road users. Lost friends cause motor vehicles didn't see them. You not only have to think for yourself but others too. Be careful out there
I agree with you, other road users are a moving obstacles course!,here in South Africa we have bright yellow reflective safety jackets,with the boldly written words on it , THINK BIKE!
My family tells me all the time something like, its not how good of a rider you are its how bad of a driver other people are. It really doesnt matter how good you are ride safe you guys. Happy new years
I feel like this is a massive oversimplification. You have to be watching drivers and ensure you have the space and distance to maneuver if/when they doing something stupid. Yeah there are situations where you might have no recourse, but there are many more you can avoid.
a friend of mine told me when i stared driving "just expect everybody on the road to do the STUPIDES thing possible in EVERY moment you are on the road" and i certanly avoided some stupid crashes i would have gotten into if i didnt listen to him and i would multiply that advice like 5 time if i was on a bike meaning u have to be pepared to react in worst imaginable situations...
Sending this to mom 😂
Love u Yammie. Watching since 2018 era
I'm from the rural zone of a small city in Brazil. I drive motocycle since 14. Now I'm 23 and have my motocycle license and car license. During this 9 years, I only had 3 accidents. And in none of them i got hurt. And none of them involved traffic. I just took a lot of care and policing.
I'm looking forward to buying the 2025 NX 500, it would be my first bike, had already passed the written test. I'm feeling confident, thanks to yammie I've learned a lot things to keep in mind while riding. Thank you
As a Vermont rider it is so scary when I ride to New Hampshire and see soooo many people without helmets and it’s crazy during events like Laconia when a lot of alc is often involved
Yup, nh rider and I swear it’s more than half that don’t wear helmets here
Good video. It's really true that there is so much nuance to motorcycle crash stats. Appreciate your newbie advice videos, they were a lot of what helped me get into riding a couple years ago.
I feel like breaking down statistics by power to weight ratio might be even more illuminating. My first bike is a 650, but it weighs a lot and is underpowered for its size, so it's allowed under Australia's Learner Approved Motorcycle Scheme
I'm 55 now my last accident was aged 21 riding round a traffic island hitting a patch of black ice , young & stupid 🤣
From there I took up all the training courses and now ride an Ex Police BMW R1200RT ,
Wearing all the Gear and a top Quality Helmet
What price do you put on your Brain / Skull - Get the Best Brain Bucket you can afford
😉👍 .
Happy long time Riding All
From 🇬🇧
I’ve had more potential incidents in my car than motorcycle, I generally find car drivers are more cautious around bikes than cars.. not always clearly.
It's the motorists. Besides cell phones it's important to be visible. My bike and helmet are white. But I get attention either with horn or throttle reving for those motorists who are half asleep on the road or on social media platforms.
As a new rider who was very apprehensive about the danger of riding (especially learning in NYC) I will say, despite all the hazards I have WAY more agility and room to maneuver than I ever thought possible. It gave me a new prospective about the danger of riding if you stay within your limits.
I am 31 right now just taking the MSF equivalent of the course in Australia. thank you Yammie Noob and other motorcycle you tubers who are safety first and education. cannot wait till you get the MSF instructor certified course. also thoughts on my motorcycle instructor saying I should be first practising on a pedal bike first and look straight ahead at 30km/h I am going to put that into practise.😊
I watched a lot of DDFM and Yammie before getting my first bike. Until the MSF I hadn't so much as sat on a bike, the week after I bought a 600 and haven't looked back. I stay safe by choosing my moments, and by seizing initiative. I don't wait for a car to make a move, nor do I sit in one spot for any particular amount of time which could allow me to become invisible.
I invested in track schools and track days. There I get a better confidence with my machine and when I've crashed was able to walk away. Every second on and off, is a lesson and lesson learned.
Who cares bro
Good shit bro 💯
I've wrecked dirt bikes at least 100 times in my life... Never wrecked on a public road thank God! I'm 43 years old and have been riding dirt bikes and supermoto since I was 10.
Hi yammie I have been following you for like 2 years now and it feels nice to see that you are doing well
Thanks youngster for the truly sage advice! At 72 y.o., the proud owner of a '25 Kawasaki Z900 SE and a burning desire to tame the beast in the twisties (God willing 😇), your call for the prudential approach will be well heeded. First decision was to sign up for the Champ U online courses. Although I've been riding for decades now, a review of their curriculum convinced me that I still have tons to learn to be the most safe and effective rider I can be.
My top reasons i want a bike
1. i love driving in general
2. its such a waste for me to drive 2 tons of steel every day when 90% of the time its just me sitting in there
3. parking in german cities is awful. Especially going to university every day. I struggle. Motorcycles can literally park infront of my lecture halls legally and FOR FREE!
4. they sound, look and feel fkn amazing, obviously
6:16 might’ve just changed my mind about getting a 600 I’m 18 and I rode an r3 about 8000km in a couple months lots of highway and city, paired with the way I drive and I’ve ridden probably 13000 km on electric longboard I’m pretty aware of what goes on around me but I think I’ll get a drz400 because it can do it all and teach me even more before I turn into a gsxr semi squid lol
Am getting a bike this season, did my license a few months ago and I am exited.
My dad gifted me a safety training course when I got the license, which I will attend in march or aprill this year.
Very hyped for this year! :D
They don't allow for mistakes, especially at high speeds.
However, even if you ride very careful, there is still the possibility of randomness that can cause an accident.
They provide more freedom than cars but with freedom comes risk.
very true. i would add wear full body armor but ride like naked (a hard habit to acquire, i admit). These optimistic videos are good and inspiring, but they leave many things out.
Sixth sense is something incredible. I remember that when I was just starting as a motorcyclist and active road user in general all the vehicles around were just something like big boxes I have to be aware of, but their movement could be difficult to fathom.
Now they are still sort of big boxes I better be wary of, but somehow I see how the drivers behave, what to expect from them and what they are going to do next. It's mind boggling how you can tell that someone will be OK, someone else is hardly a threat and then this guy over there, he's going to do something reckless and you better steer the hell way ouf of his way.
Yeah you better develop that survival instinct and threat detection. It'll keep your ass safe.
Sixth Sense=Don't trust any of the big boxes.
Even when some cars seem well behaved, I still don't trust them. Never let you guard down.
@@joemann7971 that is VERY true.
It's just that I find it amazing how I moved from not having any idea what to expect to the place where I can predict some actions to quite a degree. I do not let my guard down though.
After seeing what’s happening here in my hometown of Los Angeles….motorcycles are the only vehicle that can escape chaos and roadblocks. At this point…a motorcycle is a way to save my life.
I was given that talking to when I got back to riding after almost 24 years, but I was struck by a car while I was crossing the street, he was texting even though he saw I was going to cross and I had the walk sign in green, a few years later I was doing road work and some lady plowed through the safety barrels and struck me and my coworker....what new danger do I have to fear? Dumb ass drivers are already coming for me. Ride defensively.
This is some kind of luck you have bud😮
Thank you for the excellent video! Everyone who operates a vehicle and understands English should watch this video.
I'm turning 64 in March, and I am thinking of getting into riding a motorcycle, last time I was on a motorcycle was back in the late 80's, I don't have a motorcycle license and here in Quebec it's mandatory to pass a course at a driving school, I hope I can pass, the bike I want to get is a Kawasaki Ninja 500 SE which I heard was a good starter bike can't wait till spring comes.
Simple rule - nobody sees you. Never expect them to or assume that they do. You are already 95% safer. The other 95% is paying attention and not riding over your skill level. After that, your chance of dying or being in a wreck in pretty minimal. That said, I work with a guy who was rear ended and is now paralyzed in his lower body. A good back protector may have saved him. Wear good gear.
oh yeah, try to ride at 7/10 of your skillset - this allows a lot of braintime to avoid shit when it happens - no panic braking etc, having skill to spare means having enough time to make adjustment in line choice, exit options etc without needing brakes
I was riding home the other night on a mostly clear interstate, coming up on a flatbed 18-wheeler in the lane to my right. I glanced down at my dash for such a miniscule amount of time I don't even remember what I was checking, and when I looked up the wind had nudged me in the direction of the truck. I calmly corrected, swinging my left leg out just a little bit, and avoided an accident. It happened so fast, I don't even remember actively reacting - it just happened. Moral of the story: training your brain on emergency maneuvers so they become second nature or muscle memory is crucial, and wind, either from the weather or tailwind from a big truck, will affect your ride far more than if you're in a car.
69 here; been riding sport bikes for the past 44 years...and my worst "accident" was last July 4th. PICKING UP my bike. Blew rotator cuff, bicep, and 3 tendons; still rehabbing. Haven't had to pick one up in about 42 years! I NEVER Trust car drivers, so that's kept me alive. I also ride w/ helmet mount GoPro...and I think that helps keep drivers around me honest/safer, because they ARE being recorded.
I just turned 73 years old and I just bought my 12th motorcycle. A 2024 Yamaha MT 07 naked sport bike. I’ve never crashed riding a street bike on pavement. I don’t ride at night and I avoid city traffic as much as possible. I ride mostly on winding country roads and I wear full protective gear all the time and every time.
Thank you for making this video. Statistics are very powerful bits of info.
Chopin Scherzo No. 2 in background is crazy
Not only the helmet. These days they have body armour jackets and other equipment that would change a fatal situation to a few wounds
Those armored jackets and pants sadly do very little in blunt trauma protection.
Those pads only stop a quarter of the minimum force needed to break bones. They may help in miracle situations for blunt trauma but really only protect from sliding.
@@triyo1089 Helite Airbag Vest. They also sell jackets that have the same technology integrated. They make armored jackets and pants look like a joke by comparison. It's not bulletproof but it can certain save your life by working with your helmet to lock it in place and potentially avoid neck injuries.
@@joemann7971 yea the helites are fuckin amazing lol i wanna get one when i get back on two wheels next szn
I had a friend of mine die a few months ago. Police say no other vehicle involved. (solo motorcycle) All injuries were mid torso. Several surgeries, but he did not survive. Most probable reason: he was taking a curve too fast (2:10), bike slid out from underneath him, and he slid off the road and hit something (tree/telephone pole) enough to break bone. With localized mid torso injuries, that's what makes me think he hit something. I've only been riding for a few years, but I've quietly told people I would NEVER ride with this guy. He's been arrogant all his life. He's a show-off. He'll ride too fast, trying to impress or embarrass me, and that would put both of us in danger.
I’m terrified of another rider being reckless and causing a head on collision in the twisties. I pretty much only do commuting on my motorcycle now lol. Maybe that will change in the future, but I wanna cage around me now. I eventually only want to ride in track. Maybe an adv later.
yes corners just slow down going into them and then power out especially on the public road, u dont know what is around that corner!!! u dont need to trail brake just slow it down, keep your speed for track days!!!
Thanks for your diligence in research Yamm
Avoiding large group rides also helps, but that's been covered in another video.
Been riding about ten years now. Started out with the MSF and exploring riding. Now in my mid forties and I’d like to take some more trainings. Some refresher stuff would be great for the low speed maneuvers the MSF teaches in a weekend but I’m not sure what else I would want or expect from a course; nor where to look for one. Closest track is a days ride away and just isn’t really feasible for me (work, kids, wife, etc). Would love to see a video or discussion on what to do next after you have your endorsement and a sometime under you.
5:52 even Yammies content ain't free of AI generated content.
Unpopular opinion. I think if we looked more closely at motorcycles we'd see another disparity of reckless riders who die far more often just based on the style of riding. You're telling me a 50 something dude on his harley going 45 an a 20 year old on his squid going 120 both have the same increased chance of death simply because they're both on a motorcycle?
I doubt it.
Another unpopular opinion a lot of those 50 something harley riders, at least in my experience, are leaving the bar or clubhouse. So yes, they could have the same chance. Squids are riding stupid cruisers are riding drunk lol
@@chrisgallows7085 That, and like the video explains, a lot of the bad stats on the older crowd are from people who are start in later age and are overconfident. It's not so much the older Harley guys that don't drink and ride and have been riding for decades.
@@chrisgallows7085 Good point. I would still categorize that as 'high risk' though.
I actually use the specific helmet he used as the first helmet image. Love the namasushi
The fact is, if you drive SUPER safe in a car, your risk of dying is almost 0. However no matter how safely you ride a bike, the risk of death is always there, thats just the nature of it, you can never anticipate someone blowing a red light and wiping you out in their truck
If you look, you can find a study of CHP moto officers. As a result of their extensive comprehensive training and amount of road time, CHP officers had fewer incidents per mile than any other vehicle. I don’t think motorycycle are inherently more dangerous than cars. Bikes can avoid accidents cars can’t. How much does that offset the accidents that are because of being on a motorcycle? Certainly the consequences of an accident are higher on a bike. But if you avoid the accident…Training, practice and riding style most impact safety.
The motorcycle itself- zero danger. An untrained, intoxicated, naked, cocky rider is the most dangerous animal on the planet -to itself. Now in-between we have many safe to mid riders. The main crashes are 1 vehicle meaning just the bike. After that it's not riding safe and being in blind spots. You just can't trust any other driver. Even if you are looking them in the eye, never ever trust and have an exit at all times. Riding the right bike is important too. You can have as many as you want but make sure they are good for you is what I was told. Pretty sound. 😂For me, my 10 minutes of practice and brake checks before every ride is crucial and fun. My mid life crisis is riding and I would like to survive it. So I can go back to quilting. 😂 But if I don't survive it, I regret nothing.
I want to start to ride @ 43 but with being responsible for small people I feel I need to wait till they’re bigger before I do.
Just don't ride reckless. I have a 7 month old and my son is what keeps me from doing otherwise dumb things. It's not all that dangerous, and I commute regularly with all the psychos. lol.
Also, make sure to take a riding course, and if you you can get something like Term Life Insurance should anything happen to you, at least your family is set financially. That's obviously not going to replace you, but it's something.
I was riding to work and somebody pulled out on me breaking my upper arm and damaging the nerve that moves the hand..
I had an operation and a metal bar in my arm..
That was a year ago, I still can’t use my left arm for carrying even light loads
I had to change job, and now I cant get insured, even though the driver admitted liability
I loved riding, Though I think it’s worth really considering the risks..
I wouldn’t recommend it for commuting as it increases the risk considerably, particularly in the UK
This is an excellent video. I use this type of critical thinking every time I ride. Use the accident data to decrease your chances of getting in an accident. It just makes sense. It also doesn’t mean don’t have fun. Pick your spots. Be safe. Enjoy your bike. Don’t drink and ride.
Some regulations in certain states in US are just incomprehensible to me, like helmets being not mandatory AND lane-splitting being prohibited. What?!?
I drive 50 hours a week in columbus oh and see 4 car fatalities a week. 1 motorcycle death in 5 years
It sucks because sometimes even when you’re riding safe, and know the time and place to speed sometimes people still will do something unavoidable. It’s important for motorcycle riders to have things prepared in case of an accident. Having my very premium shoe I rf-1400 helmet saved my life. If I had been wearing anything with less protection I would have died or at the very least had life altering brain injuries after being t boned. I hope everyone stays safe out there!
me as a 17yr old going to ride a 125 probably gonna drive safe. I watched many crash vids with motorcycle to analyise what i shouldnt do on the road (like driving in the center of 2 roads) and always thinking with the unawerness of the other drivers. In my opinion the first step to be safer on the road is WHEN you drive safe.
I rented a car the other day (had to move some things around) and I was so stressed by how many times I almost got hit, BLOCKED into a parking space and just stuck in traffic. I returned the car after a few hours b/c I had no need for it any longer. The chick couldn't understand how I felt safer on my bike. Cars stress me out. With my 2-wheels I can avoid and get passed so many obstacles. HEY STOP ASSUMING BIKERS ARE DUDES! * testrone * *male ego* etc. Not cool.
2 simple rules that work for me; #1. Ride looking for trouble, not to get into it but rather avoid it. #2 Ride like a pensioner. Better to be late than dead on time!
Its actually a pretty crazy statistic, here in NZ, 45% of motorcycle serious injuries or fatalities in 2023 were in the 40+ age group. Looking at the graph is quite eye opening, they spiked up in the early 2000's and have been steadily increasing ever since.
Long ago I heard the phrase "motorcycles themselves are not inherently dangers. They are, however, extremely unforgiving of inattention or poor decision-making." That has stuck with me for my 18 years of riding.
I have been riding a Daytona Rockstar 400cc for 3 months now and have 4000km under my belt. Before I even got on that thing I watched a lot of youtube videos about how to drive. Those videos can never prepare you for the real world but they can help you translate your experience into wisdom a lot, lot faster. Avoid cornering at high speeds (if you are at a road with a speed limit of 80km and suddenly you see a sign dropping it at 30 you can pretty confidently assume a sharp corner is coming), Only split traffic when its completely packed with cars. If a car driver has open space next to them they will at random times and for random reasons steer into it! And if you are gonna speed speed into roads you know very well and that are empty.
And learn your breaks godammit! Most times in the beginning I found myself in a dangerous situation were when I almost rear ended other cars as I was completely unaware of who hard I could break without triggering abs. Even when you are driving, if the road is clear and you're familiar with it practice swerving and braking. And last but not least your mirrors will most times save you not from cars but other drivers that are lane filtering. If you are gonna lane filter or switch lanes always check for other riders!
30s new rider here 😊 (70 odd miles only so far). Thankfully in the UK it's illegal to ride without a helmet and I don't drink. That mortgage mention hit me right in the gut haha.
Here's to hoping to many happy accident free miles on my Mutt Mushman 125 :)
Stay safe out there people.
I slightly disagree w the more dangerous at night . I commute home at between 1-2am for about 20-25 minutes on back country roads/ small town … the only thing I’m worried about at night is a fucking deer jumping out . I rarely see any cars that late . So it depends where you live . Riding in a major city on a Saturday night fs more sketchy . But chill speed limit commute out in the woods . So calm and peaceful
Well it’s a statistic what is there to disagree with. You’re just an outlier
@@basharalbutseggs8056yes I agree it’s all about context . Statistically riding at night is more dangerous I agree as per all the facts he stated .
Hopefully I’m on the bottom of the list. Honda Grom 125 ABS, with full gear, including airbag vest.
Very good video, I feel a lot of riders who say there was nothing they could have done to prevent something, if you watched a video of their accident you could see how much control they actually could have had to change the end result but a lot just dont have that mindset, almost child like way of going about riding a bike, even at 15mph..you cant have time to not pay attention all the time,have to have that 6th sense All the,time..once you do it becomes second nature and in a sense it doesnt become extra work to be cautious, because all obstacles and surroundings will give you the signs
You covered this topic very well. Take a MSF course. Ride sober, ride at sane & safe speeds, avoid riding at night or in low visibility conditions. That’s how you stay alive to keep riding and enjoying life.
The 'time and place' rule rules.
I have been riding motorcycles for 40 years +, have only had one minor accident! The secret is make yourself visible, reflective jackets etc,ride slow and defensively,if you want to feel some speed,do it for short, take note SHORT spurts! on a wide open road where you can see for miles!
I may not be truly atgatt... but I don't even ride my bike down the driveway to my mailbox without a helmet on.
I'm 44 and been riding since 29. 15 years and NEVER laid it down. Six bikes, 3 states. I plan to hang it up soon in the next 4-5 years so I hope I can be one of those who can say they never crashed.
the fact you're allowed to ride without a helmet in most states is wild. helmets have been mandatory in europe for as long as I can remember. Other gear isn't, but you should wear all the gear. I have never seen a fellow rider without full gear in 10 years of riding.
Yam its now my second season and my second season watching the person that got me to pull the trigger to buy a bike
Buy used.
@@nonyabusiness4151 read my comment its my second season not first already have a bike
@iamscrab420 Correct, I only read it twice, and since you didn't mention what bike you got... I spaced the first six words, my mistake.
Depends where you live, if you live in Europe it's safe. If you live in America, well better up that life insurance.
Another factor contributing to the higher death rate for older riders is that retirement gives you a lot of spare time. I put on more miles per year than I would in five or ten years during my working life. This past summer I put on 23,000 km. That exposes me to more risk than years where I would ride 2500 km.
The percentage of fatal accidents per displacement range provides no meaningful information. It needs to be further correlated with the mileage accrued per category at the very least.
Very well done and very well said, sir
The fact there are so many reckless and risky people who take to riding really skews these statistics. That means, as the video concludes, if we don't ride like a squid, we are already "ahead of the curve"
• The USA has approximately 53% higher fatality rates compared to the EU
• Accident rates in the USA are about 33% higher than in the EU
in europe we have manditory vehicle mastery courses with very strict examinations
Way to make me feel old. I did the math and it is 25 years since my last major accident. I'm old. 😢
I once took a drink and rode my bike, and immediately noticed my lack of ability to keep the bike balanced properly. I cannot agree more about not drinking and riding, life is hard enough living in Little Rock, AR, which is one of the top 25 most dangerous cities to drive in. Medicinal marijuana is absolutely what catapulted this city to be a horror to drive in unfortunately.
In Canada, helmet are mandatory, so is rider training and licence.
Been riding for 34years.Took recently again some advanced rider training.
I'm a car guy but with the rising car prices and interest rates, I'm thinking of selling my Camaro, getting a Camry and a bike instead. This is one of the biggest concerns I have. I know of people who have died
Born the UK and starting riding in 1989. Helmets were mandatory. It's insane that in 2025 that's still not the case in a lot of states. Ride safe.
Age correlation is so true and I bet almost everyone who is above 30 can relate. I used to speed race on a beat up sedan with my friend at 100 mph, but at age 48, I only go 50mph because I know that even at that speed I can die in an head on collision. And at 50 mph, I know that I have split second to brake and reduce to 30-40 mph to at least survive with broken bones but not die or damage my spine.
That lose tyre accident was insane.
Thank you for the Video! very motivating to chase my dream to learn to ride a motorcycle ♥
Great info...Great topic...Great video. THANKS Yam!!!
I’m a new rider I absolutely love riding my bike. I hate riding with other people(cars)on the road. Literally in traffic with Karen 2 inches behind me. In my truck not a big deal but where I live they are doing everything but driving….