I hear with motorcycles they are no-nonsense-vehicles and aren't nearly as forgiving as cars. So idiots in cars will get away with being idiots in cars far more often than idiots on motorcycles.
@@spacetaco048 ideally the motorcycle needs to be redesigned to ensure safety over speed. And the car needs to be redesigned for collision avoidance, with added safety for the driver, passengers, pedestrians, and other vehicles.
I've been riding for 46 years now (not without the odd spill in the early days), and I still love to read and watch rider tips to improve. As the roads get busier and consequently more hazardous, there's ALWAYS room for improvement. Your videos are a great source of advice.
I've been riding for 10 years. I have dropped mine a few times and low-sided it once. No broken bones but I lost some skin. I have learned enough to know that I always need to learn more and I watch tutorials any chance I get.
I agree with you. Everyday when I mount on my bike, I tell myself that this is extremely dangerous. One has to acknowledge the danger and not trivialise it. It takes maturity and discipline to ride a bike safely.
There,s always a runing curb whenever you learn to do something new. You will make mistakes but you can learn from that. I,m considering getting a my motocycle licence next year, because i wish to try something new to get away from my normal routine worklife
I've been riding for a long time but still practice riding my 250cc bike cause I crashed 2 times when riding cause a car hit my bike and I crashed on gravel
I’m going to be honest i live in the Uk and about 2 months ago i passed my CBT (equivalent to msf for the americans) and since i’ve got my sports bike i’ve gained hell of a lot of confidence thinking i’m good or even better than everyone else which isn’t the case , my point is this video made me realise that the way i’m riding will only end up one way, without a license or in the grave. I’m only 19 & i will take this advice.
there's an old saying there are Bold riders and there are Old riders but there are no Old Bold riders. I'm 55 and still learning everyday another saying its best to make out your the idiot in the room and find out at the end your one of the smartest by not bragging about things you do or have done this make the braggers feal small :).
That’s an excellent mature attitude @Activist134 I applaud 👏👏 you young man, that’s the sort of attitude that will keep you alive and enjoying your riding for many years to come 👍 It takes years and years of practice, training and loads of miles travelled to become truly fluid on a motorbike, I’ve been riding almost 50 years and I think my riding has improved most over the last 10 years, as previously mentioned get signed up for some professional training and even a few novice track days will help, it’s a corny old saying, but you really do “ never stop learning “
At 19 you can only have an A2 license in the UK (max 47bhp). CBT is the first step to that but most then go direct access route (a decent amount of training over a small time period usually 3 days) to learn to pass their practical tests. To give an insight to non Uk residents the CBT is Compulsory Basic Training, it’s not a test but if they feel you’re unsafe you may be asked to come back again before they will give you a certificate, the instructor is also the examiner whereas the examiner for all bigger bike tests is an approved body, your instructor just tries to teach you how to pass. It is to ensure that a basic understanding of riding is present, a lot of car park drills etc and then 1-2 hours on road making sure your safe and familiar with the Highway Code and have road sense. CBT allows people to ride bikes such as 50cc mopeds and at most a 125cc geared bike. At this stage if your 19-24 you can try and obtain an A2 license for a bike up to 47bhp, if your over 24 you go for your Mod 1 and Mod 2 which allows you to ride any bike (must also pass a theory test). Most do a direct access course which is 2-3 days of riding with an instructor who teaches you pass. some time spent in a car park doing avoidance and u turns, figure 8’s, emergency stops etc and a lot of road time so you build confidence and experience what it’s like to be on the road on a bike. You then take your Mod 1 test, you ride with your instructor to a facility which examines a set list of drills on a course which takes about 10mins. Emergency braking, swerving, u turn, slalom, manual handling of bike etc. You also have to ensure you do your shoulder checks etc. and must pass this before taking your on road test. This is to make sure key procedures are known before you take your Mod 2 test where your instructor and you will ride to a test facility and then you will go out with an examiner who follows giving you directions etc to ensure you meet a pass standard. It’s a lot different to the American system from my understanding.
India Perspective:- 80% of vehicles on my roads are motorcycles. A motorcycle here isn’t a lifestyle, it’s a more practical choice. My country unfortunately leads the world in road accidents and deaths. In spite of all of the above, India has the most number of mature big motorcycle owners and riders. Summary - Be responsible, patient, learn and RIDE…!!!
A lot of the western and European motorcycle channels are focused on their part of the world 99% of the time. India and a lot of the Asian countries have a very different perspective and purpose on motorcycles and riding. A lot of people understand and also don't understand this hahaha. I for one understand motorcycles in the Asian regions are just motorized bicycles most people use as a transport for everyday life. But we still can learn to ride safely and be careful on the roads.. with or without proper gear haha
And always have your gear on. If you think that is to expensive… Wait to you see the prices on body-parts, and fixing them. Another problem. Many countries have so called "free healthcare". What that means is, When it cost to much to fix one person. They let you die. Because they can't tell you to pay extra, even if you have the money. Because it is "free healthcare". That is one thing that show how short sighted socialists, leftist are. If all is free, we can all get it… And we end up with, now one gets what they need, if it is to expensive, to be "free of charge". So then it becomes… Noting we cud do…
Vehicle centric infrastructure is a bad thing regardless if it's tailored for cars, or motorcycles. We need walkable cities with robust public transport.
58 yr old, riding since I was 12, a private pilot since I was 18. I have approached both of these activities with passion and professionalism. Just like my piloting career, my riding has evolved through training and practice every step of the way. Both these activities are dangerous but if practiced with passion and professionalism they are so much more rewarding and life fulfilling. Just follow MotoJitsu’s solid advice! 🏍🇨🇦
Learn to ride on a dirt bike….the learning curve is much steeper and you will have a much greater understanding of riding dynamics… Don’t believe me? See how many Moto GP racers have been training on dirt bikes lately….🤷♂️
One thing strongly disagree with is : you just get your car license and drive. Honestly there is no reason a "car" driver shouldn't so the same practice and training you do on a bike. Cornering, driving in the rain, driving in traffic and especially emergency stops. Also motorcycle riding isn't expensive, Car insurance its more, gas is more, crash a car its more, repairs is more. I ride a bike 8 months of the year in canada. I spend more money on my car to drive it 4 months then it costs to ride my bike for 8. Once you buy the gear if you take care of it, it will last a really long time.
That would discourage me completely of doing anything. If you say "good, the you shouldn't ride", I wouldn't necessarily agree, because I would tick most of the boxes he listed. Yet it would scare the shit out of me.
I love this young man. Former DI, the real deal. I’ve watched every video he’s produced as well as a handful of other top motorcycle instructors. At 68, I’ve been riding 60 including mini bikes. I study these films, put to practice everything I learn and make each ride a learning/honing experience. I appreciate him and his fellow instructors and hope more riders will begin to follow suit.
I’m 60. I retired, moved to Africa and learned how to ride a motorcycle just this summer. I watch motojitsu and mcrider videos every morning then go out and practice then take a ride. I just came back to US a couple months and bought better safety gear. These videos are my lifeline.
I'm glad I came across your post. Wanting to visit some African countries. Maybe retire there. If you don't mind me asking, which country and bike did you settle on? TIA.
@@jamesballard6564 I started out in Bungoma, Kenya. The weather is perfect year around and there’s an abandoned flight line. I bought a simple TVS 125cc and learned the basics for the first two months. I outgrew it after two months and gave it away. I bought a Haojin Hawk 200 next and modified it. Still you don’t want to go too big because Kenya drivers don’t follow any rules whatsoever and you will be hitting the ditch to avoid a head on. You’re going to have to avoid herds of cattle and goats and people hauling wheel barrows down highways if you even are near a paved highway. I’ve had to cross roads washed out with water standing top of my seat. They drive better in Tanzania and even better in Rwanda. I’m looking for 450 range for Rwanda and all the hills. I don’t recommend bigger than that for anywhere in Africa. I occasionally see people with BMW 1200s but I don’t recommend those. The speed limit is 80km (50mph). I don’t ride at night.
@@jamesballard6564 I first moved to Bungoma, Kenya. There’s an abandoned airstrip there I began to learn to ride. The town is the perfect size to learn urban riding and is surrounded by extreme rural conditions. Also, the weather is perfect. Now that I’m a better rider, I moved around Kenya and other East African countries.
I ride a small bike and only ride it for fun. This limits a lot how I use it, but I'd rather ride for long years and stay safe than just collect miles for the sake of it. Saturday/Sunday early mornings are my favourite times to ride since there are less people around and I will probably keep my 300cc forever, since it reached the maximum limit speed and it's fast enough for back roads.
That's the truth. I will keep my Kawasaki Ninja 125 forever simply because it reminds me to enjoy and appreciate life. It goes just quick enough to have a little bit of fun and very never really scary. I love 1000cc super sports but have 110% respect when riding them. I'm guilty of being a hooligan on them sometimes but have the sense of mind not to go overboard with the antics. I hop on my 125 to bring myself back down to Earth. If I ever fail to enjoy and appreciate riding on it. It means I'm not able to enjoy riding a motorcycle anymore. And I will just stop riding entirely.
@@PRSer agreed but 125 cc is too small, unsafe & not worth the danger of going bike road. Get 300 cc, safer, less vibration, power to overtake or brake
@@maomekat2369 I live in Singapore and go on tours around Malaysia and Thailand on both my small and big bikes. I actually enjoy riding around with minimal belongings on my small bikes rather than big bikes.im sure smaller CC bikes don't get that kind of touring usage in the west or Europe but they're everywhere here and everyone uses them for everything haha
I got humbled myself a couple of years back. Not my fault, but at the same time, what happened to me, holds another warning or something to be aware of. Either way, been riding for 15 years, generally a very safe rider. Was out on my Triumph TT600, me and that thing are like one, it's the one bike I gel with perfectly...but I was riding to work, on a 30mph road, and I was headed towards a portion of the road where you have two roads on your left to watch out for and also a road on the right, and a petrol station forecourt exit...I saw this woman in her car on her driveway amongst all this, and my gut had this feeling she was going to pull out, but I handwaived it, and sure enough she pulled out without looking, smashed right into the side of me, no way to dodge it, oncoming traffic, cars exiting the forecourt to the right. She crushed my leg and then as she forced me down, the bike also crushed my leg, still got the limp today. Long story short, the situation made me realise I had gotten a bit lax, had I listened to my gut, I'd have possibly saved my Triumph and have a perfect working leg. On a plus I rebuilt the bike and she's back on the road with loads of new parts. Guess what I am trying to say is, stay vigilant, I KNEW she was going to pull out but i'd relaxed too much and wasn't fully ready when it DID happen, so always be aware, no matter how long you've been riding or how well you are on a specific fave bike. The worst bit was seeing my bike on its side bleeding oil and coolant, smashed fairings, all whilst watching guy wheel it to the side of the road, with those words "It's alright mate, it's just a machine" ... not just a machine, got so depressed when she got wrecked! Be careful all.
Agree with all your comments, new older rider here and I practice at least three times a week as well as before every ride. I find it extremely fun to see growth and improvement in my riding.
I just bought my first bike and hearing this truth bomb makes me think. It doesnt dissuade me from wanting to ride. It does take my already cautious perspective, and makes it that much more cautious. I truly appreciate the candid-ness of your words, because I do not want to end up the crash with excuses, or worse. Thank you for what you do.
Great instructions and critique. A rider must learn their limits but sometimes unfortunately it’s the hard way. A clear head and calm mind is a given for riding. Always pay attention, avoid rushing. If it doesn’t feel right - reflect a moment. I’ve had 3 accidents in 40 years and I consider myself cautious. Every accident was due to the unexpected or my ignorance. Don’t hesitate to train and practice. Make sure you n the bike fit. Ride with smart people. So……., going back to my childhood ; ) I’m now 81, I enjoy riding my HD Trike and I took a Trike training course. Wish me luck and good luck to all. It’s a great lifestyle and experience, ride safe…
I was a competitive pistol shooter for 4 decades, I got good by studying and practicing the correct techniques, I just got my first bike and am looking to approach riding in the same methodical way, I am looking to develop my riding skills as with anything, the more time you put in with the correct techniques the better you get and the more you enjoy it.
Absolute honest, pure facts channel. I'm 62 and considering getting back into riding. My brain says no (seeing all the Twittering Twits and texting people behind the wheel), but my heart says yes. A compromise would be a smaller supermoto or dual sport and really re-practicing all my old skills. What is ironic is that when we are young we are crazy and reckless with so much to risk. But when older like me, when past 75% of my life, I choose NOW to get conservative and caring about safety. How I am still walking and talking with all the crazy stuff I did on bikes back in the 80s-90s is a mystery to me.
Same im 24 and riding for 8 years and I'm watching these videos to improve my skill and i ride every day because in here(nepal)motorcycle is not for fun we use for transportation
@@kirankandel3886 I give you much respect. I have been riding in the USA for over 50 years. Your experience is absolutely different than mine. You could show me skills I never had to learn. If I were to come to your country and ride a motorcycle, chances are I wouldn't do well. Basic riding skills are important but then there's location. Again, much respect to you.
Hit the nail on the head. Hell, it was even shocking to see that when I was upgrading from my learners permit to my license the amount of people that were just “winging it” and gave me weird looks for saying that I’d actually spent hours and hours practicing for the skills test. Even when it seems things are out of your control like cars pulling out in front of you or when my foot slipped on gravel trying to park my bike and I dropped it, you don’t make excuses and say well that wasn’t my fault, you should ALWAYS learn from that and think what you could do next time to avoid it and get a better outcome because 9/10 times you could have avoided that scenario and been better prepared.
Thank you for saying this, there are so many people (motorcyclists included) stating concerns for the other guy. From experience (I am a biker) as well as what I have learned and read of statistics, these accidents are mainly either rider caused or rider prevented. Even instances where a car pulls out in front of the biker, they could have mitigated the wrists before arriving to that point (i.e scanning intersections, reducing speed, taking precaution during pull out areas). If we choose to engage in activity with higher risk, it is our job to ensure our safety. Too many excuses around here.
I agree 100%. Every ride I take I try and do a self critique of things that I could have done better. When there's a close call with a vehicle I always try and rewind and ask myself if I could have prevented or mitigated that situation instead if excusing myself because it was the "moron car drivers fault".
I educated myself on statistics of riders and motorcycles before I started riding. Took a course immediately and practiced in the neighborhood for weeks than slowly started out. Took 3 courses in the first 6 months of riding. I absolutely enjoy riding.
So basically the whole video can be summed up as - don't do it because it's hard and dangerous. But what is not dangerous? Playing with firearms is not dangerous? Driving drunk in the car is not dangerous? Riding a motorcycle in the summer afternoon is extremely pleasant and relaxing. It's totally different than riding a car. In a car, you simply drive from point A to B. On a motorcycle you "experience" riding.
you shouldn’t drive drunk or “play” (use without proper caution) with firearms either????? those are awful examples. there are a million things that are very fun and significantly less dangerous than riding. this is coming from a dumb 22 y/o that races and does wheelies in the mountains. you sound exactly like one of the people that he’s describing right here and you’re just mad that he’s right and you suck at riding
The cognitive dissonance of riders sometimes is crazy. Just cause other things are dangerous doesn't mean riding isn't. As he said in the video 28 times more likely to kill you than a car. Car accidents are amoung the top causes of death in the US. Meaning out of everything that can kill you this is one of the most likely. Idc if people ride or not but not acknowledging the dangers of it before you take a ride leads to poor safety management with most people. Stay safe and have fun.
@@bungodunko4123 In Norway, nobody speeds or drives under the influence. The law is extremely harsh. If police catch you speeding, you will go to jail for 14 days. There is no bail, nothing. You will stay in a nice, comfy room, but you are locked up for two weeks. That's it. Your life, your job ends for 14 days. Everyone is afraid of this and everyone drives safely. Thank you. You too stay safe.
I straight up admit to being addicted to riding motorcycles, just like an alcoholic is to whiskey. Next to women, ocean, mountains, and dogs they are the best things. I love that smell when you fire'em up. Even more, the smell of two stroke, oh yeahhhhhhhh man! That first movement, that feeling. It never gets old. It is a time machine back to being a kid on my dirt bike riding the mountain by my house, dressed like Captain American, with trash can lid correctly painted. Or even wolverine. All the miles, roads, places and people. And all the motorcycles. ^ If I end doing this, I went out happy ^
Speaking as a 40 year rider, 200K+ miles. One stretch 31K in two years. Early 20s, college. Gave it up because at some point your luck runs out and all that pleasure is erased in a few seconds. A dozen spills, one broken bone and some road scars that took 10 years to fade away and yet...I still miss it.
A very real, confronting and true video. I recently started riding again after I sold my 1100GS 8 years ago (which i rode for 10 years). I'm 48 now and so aware of all the things you tell in this video. Riding a motorcycle can be so much fun, but is never a joke. Take it all seriously, invest in practice and gear....... and enjoy!
This is probably your best video ever. Making people aware of who they are and if riding motorcycle is good for them. Another important aspect is age! Just because you've been riding 50 years doesn't mean you're good right now. Age changes a lot of things and you need to adapt your skills. Question yourself whether you are still happy in the saddle. I am an avid follower of your channel and always take something away to be aware of. 55 years experience in the saddle, and I still ride nearly daily, means nothing at all if some idiot skips a stop street. The world has changed and so has the road traffic, you have to learn daily and practice worst case scenarios. Always expect the worst of the other road users. Rather take the roads less travelled and enjoy your ride. Remember; Slower is smooth and smooth is fast. 😀
I'm the same been driving many years but know I'm approaching 40 I'm starting to plain on getting a motorbike thinking of it I'm glad I've waited till now cos as a younger me would of been very dangerous
Finally riding after nearly 30 year break. My goal for each and every ride is to ensure I return safely home to my family, and I ride accordingly and in full gear! My neighbor whom I occasionally ride with occasionally asks me “why you practice so much?? Just go ride”. If I ever want my wife to join me…I need to be the best rider I can be!
I was surprised to find that you really are discouraging people from riding motorcycles if they don't have the commitment to practice and skills acquisition, but I guess I shouldn't have been. It's always been your message. It's really nice that you are willing to make videos that don't just hype motorcycling.
Great message! Before, during and after my BRCs I try to get across this exact message to potential riders. Just yesterday I saw someone acting a fool in 5 o'clock traffic and said to myself they have no idea.... Thanks for sharing, you continue to produce to great content. I always suggest your channel as great way for new and old riders to advance their knowledge. Thank you so much !
My husband has been riding motorbikes over 25 years and im a recently new rider ... His motto to me is "If you've made it home with all your limbs intact, you've had a good ride". My personal challenge is given the fact it is dangerous, this can sometimes stop me from getting on the bike in the first place, even though i know im more than competent to ride if i keep practicing and learning.
This is the most sober summary of the foundation of riding a motorcycle. I’m just happy to hear it. It gives me more motivation to take riding in Al it’s aspects (attitude, gear practicing etc’) more and more seriously , this is I think the Base life saver for all live savers for motorcycle riding and other activities in life. More power to you!
I'm doing mtb'ing for about 15 years. I have experiences with all kinds of places, situations, risks, weather conditions, single tracks, mud, snow, rocks, dangerous cliffs etc. I had never riden a motorcycle, since 2 weeks ago. I've decided to take classes, bought gear already. In few minutes I was doing slaloms and shifting gears already. I couldn't have imagined that scenario. So yeah it seems more approachable than I thought. Every friend encourages me to go for it. Buy a 400-500 and start on. So everything seems on the right track yeah? Tbh I'm scared to death. And the fact I was so comfortable even on my first ride scared me more. I'm almost 40 years old.
I crashed 3 months after buying my bike because I got a little too far beyond my skill level. What I learned was that there's a fine line between getting over your fears and recognizing that the fear is a good warning you might not be ready for what you're trying to do. My advice is no different: take the course, wear the gear, practice a lot!
Can't you revel the juice stuff… What stupid did you do to make you crash… That is what people want to read about. And maybe do the same stupid shit them self. Maybe I try it… or maybe not… Just now got about 2" of snow. That sucked… just been thinking about going for a ride. And now all this stupid snow again. Hope it is gone tomorrow…
@@oldcowbb - That is only people that don’t practice, and push them self until they crash. And they will never get better. You can’t push your self to get better. Most riders never train on slow speed riding. Because they think they look stupid or they think it is boring. After being in a hospital bed all summer, slow riding seems fun compared. It is a lie that you have to crash, sooner or later. That comes from people that always cut corners, and screaming the loudest. So you never hear other people talking sense. And most people take the short easy way, and skip the training and the long way. And they always end up in a crash.
I agree. I am 33 and just got my motorcycle license last summer. I took an ABATE course for riding, and it was a blast. I bought a motorcycle because I thought it was cool. I'm not into the speed or wheelie things. I just like to cruise around town and just enjoy the moment. I LOVE shifting, and working all four limbs at the same time. I live in a place that has winter 9 months out of the year, so I have been craving to get back on the bike. My first bike is a 2007 Honda Shadow 650. It's been a great first bike.
Learned riding at 42, now 58. I totally agree and understand that Discipline and Maturity are the key (besides sticking to good practices like never stop learning, self-improvement,etc.) to life-long enjoyment from being a hobbyist woodworker for over 20 years, who made entire set of kitchen cabinets and stained glass doors 15 years ago for our house built in 1912.
Just finished a beginner motorcycle riding course in California. It’s encouraging to hear you convey exactly the same message from other instructors ~ that riding requires lifelong learning to stay safe and get better. Thank you!
As a rookie but mature/sensible rider I've had 3 close calls in the first year of riding. While each one has been a driver doing something illegal, they've also happened when I was putting myself in a more risky situation that could have been avoided by slowing down/not overtaking/just thinking "what if". They've also all happened on my way home from a ride, so there's probably something in that.
Yeah its best if you’re your harshest critic. You’ll usually notice something off or develop a heighten 6th sense about certain situations, like a slow vehicle changing lanes often with out of state license plates. Just rotating your brake lever slightly down a few degrees and keeping it covered when you sense anything, or your in heavy traffic can improve your reaction by a few 100ths of a second. Keep practicing those emergency stops and flicking around obstacles. Same here , if i have a close call my first thought is that’s my problem cuz i should have spotted their idiotic driving and should of avoided getting in a close call situation.
Thank you for saying this, there are so many people (motorcyclists included) stating concerns for the other guy. From experience (I am a biker) as well as what I have learned and read of statistics, these accidents are mainly either rider caused or rider prevented. Even instances where a car pulls out in front of the biker, they could have mitigated the wrists before arriving to that point (i.e scanning intersections, reducing speed, taking precaution during pull out areas). If we choose to engage in activity with higher risk, it is our job to ensure our safety. Too many excuses around here.
I think this video is one of the most unique videos because it asks the most important question, should one even take up motorcycle riding at all. One thing i think you forgot to mention is the amount of focus and paying attention it takes when riding. You must be focused at task at hand, you can not allow your mind to wander off. You must pay attention to traffic several 100s of meters in front of you, you must also be aware of traffic on your sides, behind you. One thing I always do is keep huge distance between myself and big load carrying vehicles such as buses or trucks. I always observer their tyres and see if I can see any signs to tyre damage, or if the vehicle is overloaded. I ride daily and always wear my protective gear, so does my wife who rides with me. I always keep my ego in check and not race with idiots on two or 4 wheels. Great topic to talk about.
I have been riding 150cc scooters since 15 years and got a 650 as my first bike a year ago, I still consider myself as a noob biker and try to ride as defensively I can. I try to keep my distance as much i can from other vehicles.
Hey, I just want to say thanks for the teaching you are doing. Riding a scooter for a year now I just passed my UK mod 1 motorbike (basically parking lot drills) by using what I learned from watching your stuff and applying it to those exercises. If you have a lot of UK viewers it might be worth doing a mod 1 video for that as most people explain what to do, not the how to do it ;-)
We have had a rash of fatal motorcycle wrecks in my area recently. I am 73 years old and have ridden for more than 25 years. One huge issue - counter-steering. No one is born knowing what counter-steering is. These recent wrecks were "run off road and hit pole," and "crossed centerline and hit car head on," and so on. Those wrecks happened because the riders didn't know what counter-steering is, and it cost them their lives. Never swing a leg over a motorcycle if you don't know what counter-steering is and you have been trained in using it to the point you don't even have to think about it, it is automatic. Counter-steering is the only way to regain control of a motorcycle about to run off the road. And don't make the odds against you by dressing like a Ninja Assassin - all in black. Very stylish, but very foolish. The tendency is for motorists to not notice you in traffic. Make sure they do with a minimum of a white helmet. Hi-Viz is cool, reflective helps, as do added auxiliary lights on the front of your bike. Mine are also tinted yellow for added effect.
Good advice about making yourself visible to drivers. The bike I bought last year is a 2023 KLX300SM with the high visibility yellow plastic fenders. I had the option to go with the all black version of the bike but I want drivers to see me from a mile away.
Great great stuff. I have come to the point where I don’t encourage love ones to ride anymore if there not willing to train with me and the courses I am willing to take. The training is endless. Everyone wants to ride the mountains but don’t want to do even a track day for the skill and dangers that exist. Safety gear is the basics and folks don’t want to hear it. Keep keeping it real. This is my favorite topic as a healthcare professional. 20 plus years and I am still a rookie.
You think attending track days is mandatory to be a "safe rider"? there's absolutely 0 need to track if you dont want to or really do anything above practicing emergency stops, swerves, turns, and figure 8s if you're just a normal rider who doesn't ride fast or insane. Which is the majority of riders. Just people needing to get places. Bikers are so elitist. Just cause you wanna spend your free time speeding away in the canyons doesn't mean everyone else does. It's just transportation bro it's not a way of life lol.
@@ethanrhanielle2474 it’s not just about track days but as you said said safety training in a whole. Even as a commuter having options out there to protect yourselves still requires skills that need to be developed.
@@richthereturnrider6737 I'm just going off what you said. "Even a track day" implies that that's the minimum in your eyes to be a safe rider. Implying the maximum is paying for continued courses. Sorry but I just disagree with this notion that in order to be a proficient rider, even as a commuter, you have to continue to shell out hundreds of dollars a year. Safety training can be done in a parking lot for free. I practice all of my emergency maneuvers constantly. I've taken a few courses when my finances permit. As of recently, I've put a hold on courses to expand my business. Am I not not a safe rider since I've stopped taking courses and making it my priority? No. And for younger riders, courses are just monetarily out of reach. This mentality is gate keeping. Just tell people to wear gear and practice emergency maneuvers lol.
Riding for years but I critique and treat every ride as a learning opportunity. Want to be a good rider? Always think you’re not going to master riding! Always something to get better at! Always!
Genuinely appreciate the honesty here. People should understand what the risks truly are and make up their own mind whether the benefits outweigh those risks. That assessment should be considered anew each riding season. And if they do decide to ride in the face of the risks, as I have, the next step is to increase the odds in your favor by riding smart, learning as much sound technique as possible and ingrain those skills into habit through constant repetition and practice. I have a ways to go, but I feel like this is the best approach.
Thanks for these words! I’m just doing my test, already bought a Ninja 650 and cant help but notice that a lot of vids on RUclips are of squids street racing and other super fast shenanigans…I had to check myself and Watch some “motorcycle crashes” vids to bring myself back to reality. I really appreciate the words of caution and will try to take them onboard.
I am a glider pilot, and started riding a small 300cc bike from two years..I approached "riding" with the same mindset I developed in aviation...just like flying a sailplane or an airplane driving a motorcycle requires a fair amount of skill and coordination and a good dose of wisdom...you never stop learning new things...
I’m at the 5 year mark and fully aware that for many this is when overconfidence and complacency can set in. I dropped the GSA during a slow turn in a deep gravel parking lot the other day in full gear. I was glad. Speed slowed, the front begin to lose it’s a bite, I looked at the ground, thought of Moto Jitsu and down she went. Then I thought of Fast Eddie again, successfully picked up the bike, dusted myself off and went out for 20 more minutes.
I agree completely. I appreciate the way that information is presented and opinions are voiced without being condescending or too simplistic. I've always believed that some people should not engage in certain activities. This video gives a concise bit of information to would-be riders. Thanks, Motojitsu!
Also learn to ride light trails to hone your skills if you can access an appropriate bike. Off-road riding definitely improves my on - road skills too.
Great advice! I started off-road and for the most part stayed off-road! I was very lucky, but I followed your advice. Riding is very dangerous and never for a moment forget that!
Back in the mid80s when I first started writing I was taught one important thing that I storm member to this day. That is, that every time you put on your helmet you become invisible, and every Vehicle is out to get you. Keep that mindset, and watch some of the skills that you can learn on this channel because they will save your life.
I "touched the stove" early on. I haven't taken any courses ever, but I've read everything I could find on safe riding techniques I could find and practiced all the techniques. I did one track day back in 2015 and found out I'm NOT a racer! I've been riding for over 40 years and minus the one accident when I was in my early 20s, I've had no accidents. I've had many close calls, but they were close calls because of all the things I've learned over the years, having your "head on a swivel" is near the top of the list, if not at the top of the list for safe riding.
Really good video! I always wear full gear, keep my bike in top condition so that it doesn't fail me and I always push myself to evolve as a rider, that's in my opinion the only way to survive out there. The part where you mention that it's expensive is the truth of the day but if you can spare the money and push yourself to become a better rider everyday it's so worth it. 🥰🏍💯
You're the type of person that only has to be right one time to turn around and preach "I Told You So" everybody that ever got on a motorcycle knows it's dangerous and when you tell them they're going to have an accident then eventually you're going to be right. Then you can say I told you.
Lane splitting at 150 mph😂 Bro that was accurate I see reckless riders on RUclips sometimes It’s their freedom to not care about their own safety But it’s not right to put others in danger
It has never been a freedom to put others life in danger. Just because you try your best not to hurt someone, you still get arrested; if you start shooting your gun around town, or in a city.
Got my basic handing skills 6 years ago when I was 48yrs old which is the first step to a full license here in NZ, only started riding 6 weeks ago, already made a couple of mistakes all because I let my mate talk me into going on a narrow twisty road that he knew and I didn't, luckily my corning mistake did not involve other vehicles but it was a good wake up call to start riding the right way. Every time I get on my 250cc motorcycle I think about how dangerous riding is. I find myself thinking to myself is this pass time activity for me , but every time I get on the motorcycle those thoughts disappear and I want to keep riding while thinking about what my next motorcycles is going to be. What I'm lacking at the moment is the practice aspect that Iv come to appreciate the importance of doing and shall commit myself to. Thanks for the presentation.
Would be interesting to know the breakdown stats on what causes that 28 x higher accident rate on motorcycles. Speeding, drinking and riding, etc, corners…etc.
@@Anton_G_604 yep, you can never lower the risk to the same as driving a car obviously, but you can certainly lower it from 28x to a LOT less by doing the simple things that Greg teaches. I've been riding for more than 30 years, and my father in law who has been riding for about 60 years was only commenting this morning over coffee that he loves the fact that he's still learning new things and bettering his skill every time he rides. Life long learning is the way to go - as soon as you think you know everything, you're just waiting for the fall. And on a bike, that's literal as well as figurative!
@@spokebloke1 Yeah, if you watch motorcycle accident channels such as Moto Stars or Moto Madness, it's rare to see a crash or near miss that wasn't avoidable. Most of the incidents happen when riders are riding above their skill level, riding too fast for the conditions (especially in traffic), and so on-mostly avoidable things. Let's say that 1/10 are non-avoidable. We can use that to make a rough estimate our real risk for those of us who try to ride safely. If 1/10 of the 30X is non-avoidable, then the real risk for us would be something more like 3X.
India Perspective:- 80% of vehicles on my roads are motorcycles. A motorcycle here isn’t a lifestyle, it’s a more practical choice. My country unfortunately leads the world in road accidents and deaths. In spite of all of the above, India has the most number of mature big motorcycle owners and riders. Summary - Be responsible, patient, learn and RIDE…!!!
This is why in the Netherlands you are given an extensive training before you're even allowed on the road. First you have to pass your vehicle control exam (usually atleast 8 hours training beforehand). Then you are allowed on the road, with an instructor. He or she decides if and when you're ready for your exam. Then you have to pass that exam aswell before you get your license. Oh, and in between there's also a theoretical exam which you need to study for and pass.
@@mafs13 - I agree. People who have never ridden a motorcycle in their life are allowed to ride on city streets just by passing a common sense 10 minute exam. Should be mandatory to take a riding course first in my opinion. Would save some lives I’m sure.
Its better than average. Its not enough, especially over time and given the fact alot of people don't practice (myself included, only around 2-3 times year i ll pratice emergency braking for 10 mins, and only that). But I guess we both acknowledge this hence being on channels like MotoJ.
@MotoDreamR That's true, most schools also give a cycling course for the children (we use a lot of bicycles here). I know I had a course some 20 years ago.
Coordination is key. You’re using both hands, both feet, body weight and movement ,and all senses to ride. Then comes scanning the riding environment constantly to ensure situational awareness of other road users (and their stupidity in action which you have to avoid). Then on top of that you’re dealing with road conditions which change every second of movement and you’re making judgements in a split second to modulate speed ( either through braking, clutch use, accelerator lever or a combination of all three ), adjusting direction of travel taking all inputs and outputs into account during the whole ride. If you don’t have the coordination to achieve that, forget about a motorcycle. And finally a dose of luck .
I ride for about 3 years, started with a 125cc (doesnt need a license in my country, just a car license). Started on a parquing lot just like you said! Trained alone for 6h just to start getting used to it. One year late, got my license and changed bike, didnt ride more because of covid etc. Got only 20.000kms +- on my current motorcycle but ive been training thanks to you! Saw a lot of youtube safety motorcycle movies, and didnt get a motorcycle sooner cause I know I wasnt ready, and wanted adrenaline. Now, with 39 years I have the discipline and realise how dangerous it can be, already had an accident but wasnt my fault and bam, 2 broken arms, but had full gear and 0 scratches, if I didnt wear a full face helmet, all my teeth wouldve been broken. Always, always, dont care if there are 40ºc , I'll always wear my gear. Life is too short to not enjoy and do what you love, and riding is my freshner to the mind, I can just enjoy and forget everything else. Thanks for your work, I've been following your videos and helped a lot to understand, everyday, im learning and practicing. (Started doing your everyday 5m exercise after riding just 3 days ago!). Thanks for the time you put into this, im sure you understand that for many "silent" people around the world, you have been a life saver. Wish you the best, from Portugal with love!
One of the most alluring things about riding a motorcycle is the constant sense of learning every ride I take. We all know every vehicle on the road will experience wear and tear but on 2 wheels the sense is magnified. Every oil change, chain and sprocket wear, the type of tires we run, the type of paths we take is a new experience. Even the type of clothes and gear we wear creates a different experience every ride. So many of my friends say "I wish I could ride a motorcycle but it's too dangerous and I'm scared"; to which I reply, just try the class, if you don't feel comfortable, at least you'll have an endorsement. A scared rider would be a hazard on the road for themselves and others on these unforgiving streets.
I was off bike for about 21 years and resumed on another 650 after some serious health issues. It took me 6 months to get comfortable andfor riding to be fun and relaxing, not work. I was over 10 miles out on country roads and just crossed a US route when I realized I wasn’t concentrating on the speed, RPMs, clutch and shifter. And that was after 2500 miles. That was 5 years ago and I still need to improve, especially my U turn.
I ride everyday, rain, hail or shine. I’ve only been riding for just over a year but I’ve done 86,000 km (53,500 m). I practice everyday. I also watch all of your videos. I’ve done the ChampU online course. I try to hone my safety skills because, when I started riding, I already had all the skills I ever needed to kill myself on a bike; I needed, and still do, skills to save my life. I practice because I know there’s going to be a day that I’m going to need them…and that day was last week. Riding at 110km/hr (about 65mph), following a loaded semi, coming around a corner, prepping to overtake when the semi hit rough road and concrete hit the road; lumps of concrete sliding along the road; flying at my head height. I swerved…ALOT…and missed all of it (didn’t realise until later that I never grabbed the front brake). The car behind me wasn’t so lucky…pulled over with a smashed windscreen. Thanks heaps for the life saving advice…
The most impressive thing about your comment is that you've been covering daily 235km riding for the last year... Now that's a lot of mileage for the first year of riding!!!
My experience has been the exact opposite. If you can’t coordinate your hands and feet then you certainly should not drive a car because that tin cocoon won’t protect you when your head smashes into the door frame. Always wear a helmet driving. Now, I’ve driven motorcycles most of my life and the reason I gave it up was because of drivers who want to kill two wheelers. Had 3 drivers aim their cars at me when there were no witnesses, no other cars around etc. Had a driver try to push me with his car at 50mph. He was rewarded with a rock that fell out of the sky and almost went through his windshield. Then a cop went after him. Another time a driver pulled out to pass in 50mph zone and slowed to 30 mph to force me off the road while I was passing. Took him to court and he lost. Look at accident statistics in Canada. The surest way to die is to drive a 4 wheeler. Deaths of two wheelers are in the 13% range. If cars were that safe (51% driver fatalities, 49% passenger fatalities) we’d all be driving cars. Look at the environmental costs. Cars are so complicated you need a degree to fix them. Most people can do some maintenance on motorcycles whereas cars are going to cost big bucks to operate and maintain. Sure there are idiots on motorcycles the same as for 4 wheelers who will kill themselves showing off. They don’t speak for the majority of drivers or motorcyclists. Then there’s an old lady who drove her car into a friend and took his leg off while he was motorcycling with his daughter on the back. AND SHE WAS LAUGHING! Most people on motorcycles are not killed by their own stupidity, they’re killed by drivers with a God complex. That said, motorcycling does require more skill because unlike dopey drivers with a God complex or lack of basic coordination with machinery, you know it’s up to you to be safe.
This is just gatekeeping. Motorcycling doesn't have to be expensive and quality gear doesn't have to be expensive. Yes it takes skill but you don't have to train like Kobe or whatever to attain those skills. Sure if you wanna tear up a canyon road as fast as possible you should probably have the training to do that. But you're missing a huge chunk of riders who just commute and don't ride fast or want to ride fast. For slow speed stuff, it's literally just a little bit of practice you can do for 15 mins every few rides. This makes it seem like you have to make a huge change in your life to ride but you really don't. The only practice I do is things that are prob simple for you like figure 8s, braking, etc. Am I as good a rider as you? No. But I have no desire to be cause I don't ride like you. I just ride safe speeds and get from A to B. Does that mean I should sell my motorcycle cause I have no desire to be a street rossi? Oh and my gear? $200bell helmet that's still ECE rated, and CE AA $200 jacket, CE AA $200 jeans, CE rated $60 gloves, and $159 TCX boots. Add that all up plus the $7000 bike and I'm still saving money compared to getting a used Honda Civic. And I get 75mpg. Love your channel and you're a stellar rider and coach but I have to respectfully disagree with this.
@@bigfootninjajr1481 bikers tend to be some of the most judgemental folks but only online for some reason. I never see this type of attitude in person. We should be welcoming riders all while positively reinforcing safe riding practices. Not telling them that you have to be a "different breed" to ride. It's cringe
I have been riding since 1962. My motorbike is a Moto Guzzi Breva 750cc. My job was driving heavy goods vehicles, have, since I was 21 years old. Your advice is a life saver, so thank you. I'm an advanced driver, and I encourage others to take the course.
It's only expensive if you want it to be that way. You can get fun + reliable motorcycle in the range $5K MSRP to $8K MSRP. As long as you don't crash, don't make a lot of mods, and don't keep buying other bikes, then it's not going to cost much. There's a top of the line GS right behind you, but a lot of us spend way less than that.
I got into riding this past fall for sub $1500 Found an 86 shadow 700. Had some gear gifted to me. The only cost I've had was the bike, permit, and insurance.
I bought a lot of stuff used including my 08 gsxr 600 which was the color and look I wanted anyways bought used helmets from marketplace made sure they hadn't been crashed and my jacket I bought on clearance
Exactly That's why at 64 I am taking up riding actually. The challenge. saved for 2 years, bought gear, bought the motorcycle, and I am taking training right now. I watched and listened to your videos andoters and I am very aware of the dangers and the earning curve. These what give me the motivation and I love motorbikes .... finally I am able to do it.
I’m doing the same thing at 63. I also ride a bicycle daily, so I well know what it is to be ignored on the road by automobile drivers. I hate that part and I can see that same situation exists for riding motorcycles, mostly.
Eddy, love your videos and as a new rider you taught me a lot and I do your car park drills and your comments about stupid is everywhere are true. My daughter is desperate to learn having seen me on a bike and I’ve recommended your channel to her but I think you could maybe add some positive in your videos. You used to say if I’m in my car I’m just going somewhere, if I’m on my bike I’m having fun . I respect you, love what you do but share the love sometimes please?
I started riding a motorcycle in 1954 and I’m still riding a motorcycle in 2024. When I started there weren’t many cars on the road to start with. I lived in Wayne New Jersey 64 mi.² and 3700 people it was mostly farmland today 250,000. there was very little danger in radium motorcycle when I was younger and it wasn’t many people on the road I could ride for 30 miles on a Sunday and I see your car come either way so you’re right today is a dangerous time to ride motorcycles and I’m not going to stop and 86 years old. I ride in 2021 Harley Davidson. I go back-and-forth to country every year. hi Road slower than I used to. I pull a camper no ride 6065 miles an hour I’m not leaving out of traffic. I’m making sure I have a lot of distance between me and the cars and trucks because I know they can stop faster than I can specially with the camper, pushing me dangers and problems motorcycle riding contributes to. I wouldn’t give it up for anything. I love it I will do the day I die whether it’s on a motorcycle or in my chair in the living room.-
This video is right on. I rode a street bike for years and was always trying to improve my skills. However, increased traffic, distracted drivers (mostly texting), bad drivers always in a hurry and running lights. Way too many close calls which drove me away from motorcycles. Not to be denied the pleasure of riding, I really got into riding off-road only (trails and dirt). Very challenging and a different world than street riding. Road dirt for about 5 years but it came with its own issues. 99% of the land around where I live is privately owned. I had to travel 3 hours one way with my trail bike in the back of my truck. It was fun but it was exhausting to do on a regular basis. I eventually sold my dirt bike and no longer ride but I miss it like crazy.
I'm 68 and I've been riding for over 50 years here in England, and still ride most days (on 40+ year old bikes). I've no intention of giving it up while I'm capable of doing it, but most of the bikers I know are around my age, and the younger generations aren't interested in bikes. I must admit, if any of my family, or my friends' families did show any interest in getting a bike, I would discourage them, because the roads these days are so dangerous. I don't know if I would survive myself if I was starting out now. Back in the seventies, we had the opportunity to make idiots of ourselves and still come through it, a bit battered, but (most of us) alive. Now, I don't think the traffic, and the high performance bikes, are so forgiving. Once my generation have hung up our helmets, I can't see where the next generation are coming from.
those buggers on phones and not even looking for bikers and What I find more and more is drivers crossing the center line on roads as if it don't matter while doing higher speeds lane disciplined here down south is appalling Rick so riding here is a choice but not one to take lightly for sure.
I have been riding a similar amount of time to you but I believe that it is much safer now than the 70"s, 80's and 90's. The accident rates and fatalities were much higher then. Poor brakes, tyres that lost grip in the rain, brakes that did not work when you applied them in the wet ( solid disks) and remember the frames and forks that flexed all the way around corners. All great fun at the time but dangerous as hell. Todays riders have ABS, Traction control, great tyres and brakes. When I think back to the guys I used to ride with they all gave up after multiple accidents and I am the only one left on two wheels. The traffic is greater now but back in the day we would fly around roads not expecting traffic and then there would be a vehicle we had not anticipated. Modern bikes are quick (some) but even in the 70's I had a bike (CBX 1000) that did 140mph and 10+ sec quarter mile times. All that with all the technical issues I already mentioned. I now ride a ZZR 1100 and a ZX14R and I doubt that my average speed is any faster than I was riding back in the day but the bikes are much safer. Just my opinion mate.
@@MichaelZZRrider Totally agree but its still best not to think the fancy electronics will get you out of trouble all of the time that's like most car drivers that drive way too fast expecting the ABS and traction control to get them out of every conceivable situation with no consciences. old saying ride or drive to what the vehicle is capable of and your experience and judgment has always been key.
@@MichaelZZRrider You make some good points, but I think the main factor increasing the danger is the behaviour of car drivers. With the improvements in safety and protection for the occupants of modern cars, the drivers take more risks, believing themselves invulnerable. Unfortunately, this is bad news for other road users outside cars. Although modern bikes also have improved safety features, none of them protect against getting taken out by a reckless or negligent driver. Our experience helps us to avoid these situations, as much as is possible, and allows us to make an informed decision on the risks involved, but for new riders, it has to be a very steep learning curve if they are going to survive. Stay safe, and keep enjoying your riding.
I have been riding a total of 17 years, with a 16-year break in between. The first thing I did upon returning to riding was to take an advanced rider course. The reason was simple, my former advanced riding skills were virtually gone. Now, I attend at least 2 advanced rider skills courses per year. However, I am embarrassed to admit that I don't practice nearly enough, so I am not progressing. One of my goals was to master 18-foot circles, but my best is only 22 feet. The why is pure complacency. I also usually don't practice panic stops, which is just plain laziness because it's not fun. Enough of my excuses; watching your channel has motivated me once again. Who knows, it just might save my life down the road. Thanks for all you do. I have no doubt that your work has saved lives and certainly reduced serious injury for many of your students and subscribers.
Very nice comments. While lane splitting on my commutes, I always found the other idiot riders also lane splitting way too fast were much more of a danger to me than any car ever was. That's even considering the angry, vigilante soccer moms trying to cut me off because they didn't think lane splitting was legal or fair to them and they were going to put a stop to it themselves.
Having a R 1200 RT with saddle bags, I only lane split if there is more than enough room, but even then, I never seem to be in a big hurry when I am commuting during the week and I am on my bike as opposed to my car, I just enjoy the ride.
Thanks for all your great videos. I have been riding for over fifty years and been into advanced training for the last fifteen years and wish I had done it much earlier. I can’t believe how many riders say to me “why do I want to do extra tests, I took a test when I was seventeen”!
You've got a lot of great points and I'm always learning from you. But your last point seems unfair in a sense. Accidents can and will happen. They can happen to even you. And whatever you tell yourself in terms of "Oh I wasn't good enough for this situation, guess I've got more to learn and practice more," that's not necessarily true. There will be accidents that 100% couldn't have been avoided that 100% weren't your fault. No amount of preparing for an escape, or maneuvering can stop that. I'm sure you probably covered this point in other videos but still at the end of this one I had to say my piece
My left leg has been paralyzed below the knee since 1990, so because of that injury, I have never been on a motorcycle because I cannot use the shift lever on the left foot peg. However, I have always been interested in motorcycles, especially the convenience of traveling the world with an adventure bike. Honda has started coming out with dual clutch transmissions (DCT) on some of their motorcycles. If they put the DCT on a smaller bike, such as a 400cc, 500cc, 600cc range, I might seriously consider picking up such a bike to comfortably ride and adapt my physical limitations too. Thanks for this informative video!
My step dad told me this saying, pain is a good teacher. a common saying in the UK is those who have crashed and those still to crash. i passed my CBT (compulsary bike training) at 17 and went on to get my full licence at 18 (UK system at the time) and at 19, within 1 hour of an exact year from passing my motorbike test i was hit side on while filtering and had my leg broken. (passed my test dec 6 2005 at 9.45am, got hit on dec 6 2006 at 8.45am ish) pain is a good teacher, since then i filter slower and watch for the vehicle not paying attention. i feel being a biker has improved my driving on other vehicles as well ( i drive a van, which has similar blind spots to a helmet) and over the years only had 1 other accident that was in my van in 2019, found surprise flood water on the road late at night, no warnings it would be there, van went into it at 40mph, alomost out the other side and the vans traction control system put the brakes on and back end lifted and aquaplained and van speared left and hit a wall and rolled on its side. i walked away from it, annoyed that i missed it. i feel i am above average and ride within my limits, but i also have learned from my experiences, watch out for numpties, be careful in the rain for flooded areas, always be able to stop in a distance you see to be safe, only a fool brakes the 2 second rule, and so on. accidents will never be stopped but all you can do is train and get a better mind set to deal with the situations and aim to come out up right.
I agree with the bodily skill and coordination, if you can play the drums, you can ride a motorcycle, and if you can ride a motorcycle, you can probably play the drums. I do both, it's awesome.
To be fair most people can't drive a car properly either.
Makes sense why there are so many air bags
I hear with motorcycles they are no-nonsense-vehicles and aren't nearly as forgiving as cars. So idiots in cars will get away with being idiots in cars far more often than idiots on motorcycles.
@@spacetaco048 ideally the motorcycle needs to be redesigned to ensure safety over speed. And the car needs to be redesigned for collision avoidance, with added safety for the driver, passengers, pedestrians, and other vehicles.
@@spacetaco048 idiots in cars also kills other ppl too lol, i think if we commit on making drivers better trained everyone would be safer
@@Mrwhomeyou yeah it’s too bad cars don’t suffer the same consequences as motorcyclists.
By that I mean the risk to life.
Death doesn't scare people away or into caution, but permanent lifelong disability does, mention that more often
Last caress. I am waiting for it like boiling water my guy. I ride 160 for that reason. Haha.
I've been riding for 46 years now (not without the odd spill in the early days), and I still love to read and watch rider tips to improve. As the roads get busier and consequently more hazardous, there's ALWAYS room for improvement. Your videos are a great source of advice.
I've been riding for 10 years. I have dropped mine a few times and low-sided it once. No broken bones but I lost some skin. I have learned enough to know that I always need to learn more and I watch tutorials any chance I get.
46 is a good number.
46 Valentino
I agree with you. Everyday when I mount on my bike, I tell myself that this is extremely dangerous. One has to acknowledge the danger and not trivialise it. It takes maturity and discipline to ride a bike safely.
Yes sir, accountability as well. Such as not making excuses when most accidents are either rider caused or rider prevented.
Absolutely rubber side down homie
I've been riding actually only 4yrs though I had my license 15yrs. I still consider myself a "newbie" and take my time and never stop learning.
Spot on Terri! As long as you look at riding that way you will always give yourself the best point of view, and ride safely.
There,s always a runing curb whenever you learn to do something new. You will make mistakes but you can learn from that. I,m considering getting a my motocycle licence next year, because i wish to try something new to get away from my normal routine worklife
I've been riding for a long time but still practice riding my 250cc bike cause I crashed 2 times when riding cause a car hit my bike and I crashed on gravel
I’m going to be honest i live in the Uk and about 2 months ago i passed my CBT (equivalent to msf for the americans) and since i’ve got my sports bike i’ve gained hell of a lot of confidence thinking i’m good or even better than everyone else which isn’t the case , my point is this video made me realise that the way i’m riding will only end up one way, without a license or in the grave. I’m only 19 & i will take this advice.
Use your brain, get your skills up n then ride safe
Good lad.
there's an old saying there are Bold riders and there are Old riders but there are no Old Bold riders. I'm 55 and still learning everyday another saying its best to make out your the idiot in the room and find out at the end your one of the smartest by not bragging about things you do or have done this make the braggers feal small :).
That’s an excellent mature attitude @Activist134 I applaud 👏👏 you young man, that’s the sort of attitude that will keep you alive and enjoying your riding for many years to come 👍
It takes years and years of practice, training and loads of miles travelled to become truly fluid on a motorbike, I’ve been riding almost 50 years and I think my riding has improved most over the last 10 years, as previously mentioned get signed up for some professional training and even a few novice track days will help, it’s a corny old saying, but you really do “ never stop learning “
At 19 you can only have an A2 license in the UK (max 47bhp). CBT is the first step to that but most then go direct access route (a decent amount of training over a small time period usually 3 days) to learn to pass their practical tests. To give an insight to non Uk residents the CBT is Compulsory Basic Training, it’s not a test but if they feel you’re unsafe you may be asked to come back again before they will give you a certificate, the instructor is also the examiner whereas the examiner for all bigger bike tests is an approved body, your instructor just tries to teach you how to pass. It is to ensure that a basic understanding of riding is present, a lot of car park drills etc and then 1-2 hours on road making sure your safe and familiar with the Highway Code and have road sense. CBT allows people to ride bikes such as 50cc mopeds and at most a 125cc geared bike. At this stage if your 19-24 you can try and obtain an A2 license for a bike up to 47bhp, if your over 24 you go for your Mod 1 and Mod 2 which allows you to ride any bike (must also pass a theory test). Most do a direct access course which is 2-3 days of riding with an instructor who teaches you pass. some time spent in a car park doing avoidance and u turns, figure 8’s, emergency stops etc and a lot of road time so you build confidence and experience what it’s like to be on the road on a bike. You then take your Mod 1 test, you ride with your instructor to a facility which examines a set list of drills on a course which takes about 10mins. Emergency braking, swerving, u turn, slalom, manual handling of bike etc. You also have to ensure you do your shoulder checks etc. and must pass this before taking your on road test. This is to make sure key procedures are known before you take your Mod 2 test where your instructor and you will ride to a test facility and then you will go out with an examiner who follows giving you directions etc to ensure you meet a pass standard. It’s a lot different to the American system from my understanding.
Been riding for 59 years ….I always tell folks …ride like every other driver (4 wheeled) is out to get you ….
Only ride as fast as your guardian angel can fly. Mine has clipped wings as I'm 69 and been riding since I was 16.
A hard to swallow pill that literally every motorcycle rider should take. Well said sir.
India Perspective:-
80% of vehicles on my roads are motorcycles.
A motorcycle here isn’t a lifestyle, it’s a more practical choice.
My country unfortunately leads the world in road accidents and deaths.
In spite of all of the above, India has the most number of mature big motorcycle owners and riders.
Summary - Be responsible, patient, learn and RIDE…!!!
A lot of the western and European motorcycle channels are focused on their part of the world 99% of the time. India and a lot of the Asian countries have a very different perspective and purpose on motorcycles and riding. A lot of people understand and also don't understand this hahaha. I for one understand motorcycles in the Asian regions are just motorized bicycles most people use as a transport for everyday life. But we still can learn to ride safely and be careful on the roads.. with or without proper gear haha
@@PRSer true, most of em are 110-150cc scooters
Same in my country. People just cannot afford cars. Riding is the only option.
And always have your gear on. If you think that is to expensive… Wait to you see the prices on body-parts, and fixing them. Another problem. Many countries have so called "free healthcare". What that means is, When it cost to much to fix one person. They let you die. Because they can't tell you to pay extra, even if you have the money. Because it is "free healthcare".
That is one thing that show how short sighted socialists, leftist are. If all is free, we can all get it… And we end up with, now one gets what they need, if it is to expensive, to be "free of charge". So then it becomes… Noting we cud do…
Vehicle centric infrastructure is a bad thing regardless if it's tailored for cars, or motorcycles. We need walkable cities with robust public transport.
58 yr old, riding since I was 12, a private pilot since I was 18. I have approached both of these activities with passion and professionalism. Just like my piloting career, my riding has evolved through training and practice every step of the way. Both these activities are dangerous but if practiced with passion and professionalism they are so much more rewarding and life fulfilling. Just follow MotoJitsu’s solid advice! 🏍🇨🇦
Marc. love your response. i feel the same way, and ride the same way, and follow his video's. helped me a lot!
B
Seems like a lot of pilots ride motorcycles as well. I got my private at 18 too and now looking to get a sport bike at 24
Learn to ride on a dirt bike….the learning curve is much steeper and you will have a much greater understanding of riding dynamics…
Don’t believe me? See how many Moto GP racers have been training on dirt bikes lately….🤷♂️
One thing strongly disagree with is : you just get your car license and drive. Honestly there is no reason a "car" driver shouldn't so the same practice and training you do on a bike. Cornering, driving in the rain, driving in traffic and especially emergency stops. Also motorcycle riding isn't expensive, Car insurance its more, gas is more, crash a car its more, repairs is more. I ride a bike 8 months of the year in canada. I spend more money on my car to drive it 4 months then it costs to ride my bike for 8. Once you buy the gear if you take care of it, it will last a really long time.
This is a completely fair point. The insurance for my bike is almost a quarter of my car
THIS is the video that should be shown at every beginner MSF course on the very first day.
100% agree.
Not just MSF but all the beginner rider courses around the world.
Ha. I met some people in the MSF course that had no business on the motorcycle. I could not believe my eyes on how uncoordinated they were.
That would discourage me completely of doing anything. If you say "good, the you shouldn't ride", I wouldn't necessarily agree, because I would tick most of the boxes he listed. Yet it would scare the shit out of me.
I love this young man. Former DI, the real deal. I’ve watched every video he’s produced as well as a handful of other top motorcycle instructors. At 68, I’ve been riding 60 including mini bikes. I study these films, put to practice everything I learn and make each ride a learning/honing experience. I appreciate him and his fellow instructors and hope more riders will begin to follow suit.
I’m 60. I retired, moved to Africa and learned how to ride a motorcycle just this summer. I watch motojitsu and mcrider videos every morning then go out and practice then take a ride. I just came back to US a couple months and bought better safety gear. These videos are my lifeline.
I'm glad I came across your post. Wanting to visit some African countries. Maybe retire there. If you don't mind me asking, which country and bike did you settle on? TIA.
@@jamesballard6564 I started out in Bungoma, Kenya. The weather is perfect year around and there’s an abandoned flight line. I bought a simple TVS 125cc and learned the basics for the first two months.
I outgrew it after two months and gave it away. I bought a Haojin Hawk 200 next and modified it. Still you don’t want to go too big because Kenya drivers don’t follow any rules whatsoever and you will be hitting the ditch to avoid a head on. You’re going to have to avoid herds of cattle and goats and people hauling wheel barrows down highways if you even are near a paved highway. I’ve had to cross roads washed out with water standing top of my seat.
They drive better in Tanzania and even better in Rwanda. I’m looking for 450 range for Rwanda and all the hills. I don’t recommend bigger than that for anywhere in Africa. I occasionally see people with BMW 1200s but I don’t recommend those. The speed limit is 80km (50mph). I don’t ride at night.
That's great, you're an inspiration to many.
@@jamesballard6564 I first moved to Bungoma, Kenya. There’s an abandoned airstrip there I began to learn to ride. The town is the perfect size to learn urban riding and is surrounded by extreme rural conditions. Also, the weather is perfect. Now that I’m a better rider, I moved around Kenya and other East African countries.
I ride a small bike and only ride it for fun. This limits a lot how I use it, but I'd rather ride for long years and stay safe than just collect miles for the sake of it. Saturday/Sunday early mornings are my favourite times to ride since there are less people around and I will probably keep my 300cc forever, since it reached the maximum limit speed and it's fast enough for back roads.
That's the truth. I will keep my Kawasaki Ninja 125 forever simply because it reminds me to enjoy and appreciate life. It goes just quick enough to have a little bit of fun and very never really scary. I love 1000cc super sports but have 110% respect when riding them. I'm guilty of being a hooligan on them sometimes but have the sense of mind not to go overboard with the antics. I hop on my 125 to bring myself back down to Earth. If I ever fail to enjoy and appreciate riding on it. It means I'm not able to enjoy riding a motorcycle anymore. And I will just stop riding entirely.
@@PRSer agreed but 125 cc is too small, unsafe & not worth the danger of going bike road. Get 300 cc, safer, less vibration, power to overtake or brake
@@maomekat2369 I live in Singapore and go on tours around Malaysia and Thailand on both my small and big bikes. I actually enjoy riding around with minimal belongings on my small bikes rather than big bikes.im sure smaller CC bikes don't get that kind of touring usage in the west or Europe but they're everywhere here and everyone uses them for everything haha
Safer to avoid over taking and just pull over
What bike you got man ? I'm pulling the trigger on a ktm 390 for the same reasons as you, my mates think I'm silly.
You could of course lock yourself in a cupboard, never go out, and live like a hermit. How much fun that sounds...NOT.
I got humbled myself a couple of years back. Not my fault, but at the same time, what happened to me, holds another warning or something to be aware of. Either way, been riding for 15 years, generally a very safe rider. Was out on my Triumph TT600, me and that thing are like one, it's the one bike I gel with perfectly...but I was riding to work, on a 30mph road, and I was headed towards a portion of the road where you have two roads on your left to watch out for and also a road on the right, and a petrol station forecourt exit...I saw this woman in her car on her driveway amongst all this, and my gut had this feeling she was going to pull out, but I handwaived it, and sure enough she pulled out without looking, smashed right into the side of me, no way to dodge it, oncoming traffic, cars exiting the forecourt to the right. She crushed my leg and then as she forced me down, the bike also crushed my leg, still got the limp today. Long story short, the situation made me realise I had gotten a bit lax, had I listened to my gut, I'd have possibly saved my Triumph and have a perfect working leg.
On a plus I rebuilt the bike and she's back on the road with loads of new parts. Guess what I am trying to say is, stay vigilant, I KNEW she was going to pull out but i'd relaxed too much and wasn't fully ready when it DID happen, so always be aware, no matter how long you've been riding or how well you are on a specific fave bike.
The worst bit was seeing my bike on its side bleeding oil and coolant, smashed fairings, all whilst watching guy wheel it to the side of the road, with those words "It's alright mate, it's just a machine" ... not just a machine, got so depressed when she got wrecked!
Be careful all.
Agree with all your comments, new older rider here and I practice at least three times a week as well as before every ride. I find it extremely fun to see growth and improvement in my riding.
Not everyone has the discipline to practice drills or take safety seriously. This is a great video
#Facts
I just bought my first bike and hearing this truth bomb makes me think. It doesnt dissuade me from wanting to ride. It does take my already cautious perspective, and makes it that much more cautious. I truly appreciate the candid-ness of your words, because I do not want to end up the crash with excuses, or worse. Thank you for what you do.
Great instructions and critique. A rider must learn their limits but sometimes unfortunately it’s the hard way. A clear head and calm mind is a given for riding. Always pay attention, avoid rushing. If it doesn’t feel right - reflect a moment. I’ve had 3 accidents in 40 years and I consider myself cautious. Every accident was due to the unexpected or my ignorance. Don’t hesitate to train and practice. Make sure you n the bike fit. Ride with smart people.
So……., going back to my childhood ; ) I’m now 81, I enjoy riding my HD Trike and I took a Trike training course. Wish me luck and good luck to all. It’s a great lifestyle and experience, ride safe…
Dude, in your profile picture you don't look like 80 at all. Wish you a good day, sir!
I was a competitive pistol shooter for 4 decades, I got good by studying and practicing the correct techniques, I just got my first bike and am looking to approach riding in the same methodical way, I am looking to develop my riding skills as with anything, the more time you put in with the correct techniques the better you get and the more you enjoy it.
Absolute honest, pure facts channel. I'm 62 and considering getting back into riding. My brain says no (seeing all the Twittering Twits and texting people behind the wheel), but my heart says yes. A compromise would be a smaller supermoto or dual sport and really re-practicing all my old skills. What is ironic is that when we are young we are crazy and reckless with so much to risk. But when older like me, when past 75% of my life, I choose NOW to get conservative and caring about safety. How I am still walking and talking with all the crazy stuff I did on bikes back in the 80s-90s is a mystery to me.
Just sounds like good training to me. Go for it!
Been riding 55+ years still learning.
True! It never stops.
Yep, agree totally. I’m working at being a life long learner and not a temporary New Zealander.
Same im 24 and riding for 8 years and I'm watching these videos to improve my skill and i ride every day because in here(nepal)motorcycle is not for fun we use for transportation
@@kirankandel3886 I give you much respect. I have been riding in the USA for over 50 years. Your experience is absolutely different than mine. You could show me skills I never had to learn. If I were to come to your country and ride a motorcycle, chances are I wouldn't do well. Basic riding skills are important but then there's location. Again, much respect to you.
@@williamwintemberg and we ride little 200cc bikes which is sucks because of tax 5000 dollar motorcycle costs 20000 dollars in here
Hit the nail on the head. Hell, it was even shocking to see that when I was upgrading from my learners permit to my license the amount of people that were just “winging it” and gave me weird looks for saying that I’d actually spent hours and hours practicing for the skills test.
Even when it seems things are out of your control like cars pulling out in front of you or when my foot slipped on gravel trying to park my bike and I dropped it, you don’t make excuses and say well that wasn’t my fault, you should ALWAYS learn from that and think what you could do next time to avoid it and get a better outcome because 9/10 times you could have avoided that scenario and been better prepared.
Thank you for saying this, there are so many people (motorcyclists included) stating concerns for the other guy. From experience (I am a biker) as well as what I have learned and read of statistics, these accidents are mainly either rider caused or rider prevented. Even instances where a car pulls out in front of the biker, they could have mitigated the wrists before arriving to that point (i.e scanning intersections, reducing speed, taking precaution during pull out areas). If we choose to engage in activity with higher risk, it is our job to ensure our safety. Too many excuses around here.
I agree 100%. Every ride I take I try and do a self critique of things that I could have done better. When there's a close call with a vehicle I always try and rewind and ask myself if I could have prevented or mitigated that situation instead if excusing myself because it was the "moron car drivers fault".
I educated myself on statistics of riders and motorcycles before I started riding. Took a course immediately and practiced in the neighborhood for weeks than slowly started out. Took 3 courses in the first 6 months of riding. I absolutely enjoy riding.
yup. when i got my bike, i practiced for almost 2 weeks everyday before cruising the street.
So basically the whole video can be summed up as - don't do it because it's hard and dangerous.
But what is not dangerous? Playing with firearms is not dangerous? Driving drunk in the car is not dangerous? Riding a motorcycle in the summer afternoon is extremely pleasant and relaxing.
It's totally different than riding a car. In a car, you simply drive from point A to B. On a motorcycle you "experience" riding.
you shouldn’t drive drunk or “play” (use without proper caution) with firearms either????? those are awful examples. there are a million things that are very fun and significantly less dangerous than riding. this is coming from a dumb 22 y/o that races and does wheelies in the mountains.
you sound exactly like one of the people that he’s describing right here and you’re just mad that he’s right and you suck at riding
The cognitive dissonance of riders sometimes is crazy. Just cause other things are dangerous doesn't mean riding isn't. As he said in the video 28 times more likely to kill you than a car. Car accidents are amoung the top causes of death in the US. Meaning out of everything that can kill you this is one of the most likely. Idc if people ride or not but not acknowledging the dangers of it before you take a ride leads to poor safety management with most people. Stay safe and have fun.
@@bungodunko4123
In Norway, nobody speeds or drives under the influence. The law is extremely harsh. If police catch you speeding, you will go to jail for 14 days.
There is no bail, nothing. You will stay in a nice, comfy room, but you are locked up for two weeks. That's it. Your life, your job ends for 14 days. Everyone is afraid of this and everyone drives safely.
Thank you. You too stay safe.
I straight up admit to being addicted to riding motorcycles, just like an alcoholic is to whiskey. Next to women, ocean, mountains, and dogs they are the best things. I love that smell when you fire'em up. Even more, the smell of two stroke, oh yeahhhhhhhh man! That first movement, that feeling. It never gets old. It is a time machine back to being a kid on my dirt bike riding the mountain by my house, dressed like Captain American, with trash can lid correctly painted. Or even wolverine. All the miles, roads, places and people. And all the motorcycles.
^ If I end doing this, I went out happy ^
I quit riding last year, I'm 70 now. I totally agree with you. But now I want a Yamaha Mt-07!
30 years riding. Still learning, still making mistakes.
Speaking as a 40 year rider, 200K+ miles. One stretch 31K in two years. Early 20s, college. Gave it up because at some point your luck runs out and all that pleasure is erased in a few seconds. A dozen spills, one broken bone and some road scars that took 10 years to fade away and yet...I still miss it.
instagram.com/motojitsuclub/
A very real, confronting and true video. I recently started riding again after I sold my 1100GS 8 years ago (which i rode for 10 years). I'm 48 now and so aware of all the things you tell in this video. Riding a motorcycle can be so much fun, but is never a joke. Take it all seriously, invest in practice and gear....... and enjoy!
I owned a suzuki gs 1100 g back in 2000 that bike was scary fast I regret selling it to this day
This is probably my fav of the countless MotoJitsu videos I’ve watched.
This is probably your best video ever. Making people aware of who they are and if riding motorcycle is good for them. Another important aspect is age! Just because you've been riding 50 years doesn't mean you're good right now. Age changes a lot of things and you need to adapt your skills. Question yourself whether you are still happy in the saddle. I am an avid follower of your channel and always take something away to be aware of. 55 years experience in the saddle, and I still ride nearly daily, means nothing at all if some idiot skips a stop street. The world has changed and so has the road traffic, you have to learn daily and practice worst case scenarios. Always expect the worst of the other road users. Rather take the roads less travelled and enjoy your ride. Remember; Slower is smooth and smooth is fast. 😀
Self discipline can take many years to develop. Started driving at 17, didn't trust myself on a bike till my early forties. Never to old to learn.
That,s the spirit. Also the years of riding sure does not matter, what matters is that youre always trying to improve becoming a better,safer rider 😉
I'm the same been driving many years but know I'm approaching 40 I'm starting to plain on getting a motorbike thinking of it I'm glad I've waited till now cos as a younger me would of been very dangerous
I'm 59, been riding since i was a 15 years old, and still learning
Well explained , I don't care who you are or what you ride. Flipped my mini bike at 8 yrsold, now 61...Always learning
Finally riding after nearly 30 year break. My goal for each and every ride is to ensure I return safely home to my family, and I ride accordingly and in full gear!
My neighbor whom I occasionally ride with occasionally asks me “why you practice so much?? Just go ride”.
If I ever want my wife to join me…I need to be the best rider I can be!
I was surprised to find that you really are discouraging people from riding motorcycles if they don't have the commitment to practice and skills acquisition, but I guess I shouldn't have been. It's always been your message. It's really nice that you are willing to make videos that don't just hype motorcycling.
Great message! Before, during and after my BRCs I try to get across this exact message to potential riders. Just yesterday I saw someone acting a fool in 5 o'clock traffic and said to myself they have no idea.... Thanks for sharing, you continue to produce to great content. I always suggest your channel as great way for new and old riders to advance their knowledge. Thank you so much !
My husband has been riding motorbikes over 25 years and im a recently new rider ... His motto to me is "If you've made it home with all your limbs intact, you've had a good ride". My personal challenge is given the fact it is dangerous, this can sometimes stop me from getting on the bike in the first place, even though i know im more than competent to ride if i keep practicing and learning.
This is the most sober summary of the foundation of riding a motorcycle. I’m just happy to hear it. It gives me more motivation to take riding in Al it’s aspects (attitude, gear practicing etc’) more and more seriously , this is I think the Base life saver for all live savers for motorcycle riding and other activities in life. More power to you!
I'm doing mtb'ing for about 15 years. I have experiences with all kinds of places, situations, risks, weather conditions, single tracks, mud, snow, rocks, dangerous cliffs etc. I had never riden a motorcycle, since 2 weeks ago. I've decided to take classes, bought gear already. In few minutes I was doing slaloms and shifting gears already. I couldn't have imagined that scenario. So yeah it seems more approachable than I thought. Every friend encourages me to go for it. Buy a 400-500 and start on. So everything seems on the right track yeah?
Tbh I'm scared to death. And the fact I was so comfortable even on my first ride scared me more. I'm almost 40 years old.
I crashed 3 months after buying my bike because I got a little too far beyond my skill level. What I learned was that there's a fine line between getting over your fears and recognizing that the fear is a good warning you might not be ready for what you're trying to do.
My advice is no different: take the course, wear the gear, practice a lot!
Can't you revel the juice stuff… What stupid did you do to make you crash… That is what people want to read about. And maybe do the same stupid shit them self. Maybe I try it… or maybe not… Just now got about 2" of snow. That sucked… just been thinking about going for a ride. And now all this stupid snow again. Hope it is gone tomorrow…
3 month is the magic crash period according to the statistic
@@oldcowbb - That is only people that don’t practice, and push them self until they crash.
And they will never get better.
You can’t push your self to get better.
Most riders never train on slow speed riding. Because they think they look stupid or they think it is boring. After being in a hospital bed all summer, slow riding seems fun compared.
It is a lie that you have to crash, sooner or later.
That comes from people that always cut corners, and screaming the loudest. So you never hear other people talking sense.
And most people take the short easy way, and skip the training and the long way. And they always end up in a crash.
I agree. I am 33 and just got my motorcycle license last summer. I took an ABATE course for riding, and it was a blast. I bought a motorcycle because I thought it was cool. I'm not into the speed or wheelie things. I just like to cruise around town and just enjoy the moment. I LOVE shifting, and working all four limbs at the same time. I live in a place that has winter 9 months out of the year, so I have been craving to get back on the bike. My first bike is a 2007 Honda Shadow 650. It's been a great first bike.
Learned riding at 42, now 58. I totally agree and understand that Discipline and Maturity are the key (besides sticking to good practices like never stop learning, self-improvement,etc.) to life-long enjoyment from being a hobbyist woodworker for over 20 years, who made entire set of kitchen cabinets and stained glass doors 15 years ago for our house built in 1912.
Just finished a beginner motorcycle riding course in California. It’s encouraging to hear you convey exactly the same message from other instructors ~ that riding requires lifelong learning to stay safe and get better. Thank you!
MotoJitsu.com/courses take them all and practice every time you ride
As a rookie but mature/sensible rider I've had 3 close calls in the first year of riding. While each one has been a driver doing something illegal, they've also happened when I was putting myself in a more risky situation that could have been avoided by slowing down/not overtaking/just thinking "what if". They've also all happened on my way home from a ride, so there's probably something in that.
Yeah its best if you’re your harshest critic. You’ll usually notice something off or develop a heighten 6th sense about certain situations, like a slow vehicle changing lanes often with out of state license plates. Just rotating your brake lever slightly down a few degrees and keeping it covered when you sense anything, or your in heavy traffic can improve your reaction by a few 100ths of a second. Keep practicing those emergency stops and flicking around obstacles. Same here , if i have a close call my first thought is that’s my problem cuz i should have spotted their idiotic driving and should of avoided getting in a close call situation.
Thank you for saying this, there are so many people (motorcyclists included) stating concerns for the other guy. From experience (I am a biker) as well as what I have learned and read of statistics, these accidents are mainly either rider caused or rider prevented. Even instances where a car pulls out in front of the biker, they could have mitigated the wrists before arriving to that point (i.e scanning intersections, reducing speed, taking precaution during pull out areas). If we choose to engage in activity with higher risk, it is our job to ensure our safety. Too many excuses around here.
I think this video is one of the most unique videos because it asks the most important question, should one even take up motorcycle riding at all.
One thing i think you forgot to mention is the amount of focus and paying attention it takes when riding. You must be focused at task at hand, you can not allow your mind to wander off. You must pay attention to traffic several 100s of meters in front of you, you must also be aware of traffic on your sides, behind you. One thing I always do is keep huge distance between myself and big load carrying vehicles such as buses or trucks. I always observer their tyres and see if I can see any signs to tyre damage, or if the vehicle is overloaded.
I ride daily and always wear my protective gear, so does my wife who rides with me.
I always keep my ego in check and not race with idiots on two or 4 wheels.
Great topic to talk about.
I have been riding 150cc scooters since 15 years and got a 650 as my first bike a year ago, I still consider myself as a noob biker and try to ride as defensively I can. I try to keep my distance as much i can from other vehicles.
I think that is key. Keep a good distance and ride at an appropriate speed. Always assume that the driver does not see you.
This is spot on. In my area, the majority of motorcycle deaths have no other vehicle involved, and are usually attributed to loss of control.
Agree. Motorcycle riding enjoyment increases with skills training.
In the Philippines, if you’re not rich but got some cash, the only choice of independent transport/mobility is the motorcycle.
Hey, I just want to say thanks for the teaching you are doing. Riding a scooter for a year now I just passed my UK mod 1 motorbike (basically parking lot drills) by using what I learned from watching your stuff and applying it to those exercises.
If you have a lot of UK viewers it might be worth doing a mod 1 video for that as most people explain what to do, not the how to do it ;-)
We have had a rash of fatal motorcycle wrecks in my area recently. I am 73 years old and have ridden for more than 25 years. One huge issue - counter-steering. No one is born knowing what counter-steering is. These recent wrecks were "run off road and hit pole," and "crossed centerline and hit car head on," and so on. Those wrecks happened because the riders didn't know what counter-steering is, and it cost them their lives. Never swing a leg over a motorcycle if you don't know what counter-steering is and you have been trained in using it to the point you don't even have to think about it, it is automatic. Counter-steering is the only way to regain control of a motorcycle about to run off the road. And don't make the odds against you by dressing like a Ninja Assassin - all in black. Very stylish, but very foolish. The tendency is for motorists to not notice you in traffic. Make sure they do with a minimum of a white helmet. Hi-Viz is cool, reflective helps, as do added auxiliary lights on the front of your bike. Mine are also tinted yellow for added effect.
Good advice about making yourself visible to drivers. The bike I bought last year is a 2023 KLX300SM with the high visibility yellow plastic fenders. I had the option to go with the all black version of the bike but I want drivers to see me from a mile away.
Great great stuff. I have come to the point where I don’t encourage love ones to ride anymore if there not willing to train with me and the courses I am willing to take. The training is endless. Everyone wants to ride the mountains but don’t want to do even a track day for the skill and dangers that exist. Safety gear is the basics and folks don’t want to hear it. Keep keeping it real. This is my favorite topic as a healthcare professional. 20 plus years and I am still a rookie.
You think attending track days is mandatory to be a "safe rider"? there's absolutely 0 need to track if you dont want to or really do anything above practicing emergency stops, swerves, turns, and figure 8s if you're just a normal rider who doesn't ride fast or insane. Which is the majority of riders. Just people needing to get places. Bikers are so elitist. Just cause you wanna spend your free time speeding away in the canyons doesn't mean everyone else does. It's just transportation bro it's not a way of life lol.
@@ethanrhanielle2474 it’s not just about track days but as you said said safety training in a whole. Even as a commuter having options out there to protect yourselves still requires skills that need to be developed.
@@richthereturnrider6737 I'm just going off what you said. "Even a track day" implies that that's the minimum in your eyes to be a safe rider. Implying the maximum is paying for continued courses. Sorry but I just disagree with this notion that in order to be a proficient rider, even as a commuter, you have to continue to shell out hundreds of dollars a year. Safety training can be done in a parking lot for free. I practice all of my emergency maneuvers constantly. I've taken a few courses when my finances permit. As of recently, I've put a hold on courses to expand my business. Am I not not a safe rider since I've stopped taking courses and making it my priority? No. And for younger riders, courses are just monetarily out of reach. This mentality is gate keeping. Just tell people to wear gear and practice emergency maneuvers lol.
@@ethanrhanielle2474 can’t argue against that.
Riding for years but I critique and treat every ride as a learning opportunity. Want to be a good rider? Always think you’re not going to master riding! Always something to get better at! Always!
Genuinely appreciate the honesty here. People should understand what the risks truly are and make up their own mind whether the benefits outweigh those risks. That assessment should be considered anew each riding season. And if they do decide to ride in the face of the risks, as I have, the next step is to increase the odds in your favor by riding smart, learning as much sound technique as possible and ingrain those skills into habit through constant repetition and practice. I have a ways to go, but I feel like this is the best approach.
Thanks for these words! I’m just doing my test, already bought a Ninja 650 and cant help but notice that a lot of vids on RUclips are of squids street racing and other super fast shenanigans…I had to check myself and Watch some “motorcycle crashes” vids to bring myself back to reality. I really appreciate the words of caution and will try to take them onboard.
I am a glider pilot, and started riding a small 300cc bike from two years..I approached "riding" with the same mindset I developed in aviation...just like flying a sailplane or an airplane driving a motorcycle requires a fair amount of skill and coordination and a good dose of wisdom...you never stop learning new things...
As an extremely new rider this is the best kind of reality check. Still in the practicing stage. And looks like I will be there a while longer yet.
I’m at the 5 year mark and fully aware that for many this is when overconfidence and complacency can set in. I dropped the GSA during a slow turn in a deep gravel parking lot the other day in full gear. I was glad. Speed slowed, the front begin to lose it’s a bite, I looked at the ground, thought of Moto Jitsu and down she went. Then I thought of Fast Eddie again, successfully picked up the bike, dusted myself off and went out for 20 more minutes.
I agree completely. I appreciate the way that information is presented and opinions are voiced without being condescending or too simplistic. I've always believed that some people should not engage in certain activities. This video gives a concise bit of information to would-be riders. Thanks, Motojitsu!
Also learn to ride light trails to hone your skills if you can access an appropriate bike. Off-road riding definitely improves my on - road skills too.
I understand how extremely dangerous this is and that’s why I take very calculated risks. Still need to learn more though
Great advice! I started off-road and for the most part stayed off-road! I was very lucky, but I followed your advice. Riding is very dangerous and never for a moment forget that!
Thanks for the reminder. This is like the motorcycle safety sermon that we need often.
Back in the mid80s when I first started writing I was taught one important thing that I storm member to this day. That is, that every time you put on your helmet you become invisible, and every Vehicle is out to get you. Keep that mindset, and watch some of the skills that you can learn on this channel because they will save your life.
Thanks for calling out the RUclips content providers who are becoming celebrities by being idiots. Max Wrist and Gixxer Brah to name just 2.
Skillled idiots. Actually max is an idiot but who cares get yo skills up stop playin
Max Wrist is a total tool.
I "touched the stove" early on. I haven't taken any courses ever, but I've read everything I could find on safe riding techniques I could find and practiced all the techniques. I did one track day back in 2015 and found out I'm NOT a racer! I've been riding for over 40 years and minus the one accident when I was in my early 20s, I've had no accidents. I've had many close calls, but they were close calls because of all the things I've learned over the years, having your "head on a swivel" is near the top of the list, if not at the top of the list for safe riding.
Really good video!
I always wear full gear, keep my bike in top condition so that it doesn't fail me and I always push myself to evolve as a rider, that's in my opinion the only way to survive out there.
The part where you mention that it's expensive is the truth of the day but if you can spare the money and push yourself to become a better rider everyday it's so worth it. 🥰🏍💯
You're the type of person that only has to be right one time to turn around and preach "I Told You So"
everybody that ever got on a motorcycle knows it's dangerous and when you tell them they're going to have an accident then eventually you're going to be right. Then you can say I told you.
Lane splitting at 150 mph😂
Bro that was accurate
I see reckless riders on RUclips sometimes
It’s their freedom to not care about their own safety
But it’s not right to put others in danger
It has never been a freedom to put others life in danger. Just because you try your best not to hurt someone, you still get arrested; if you start shooting your gun around town, or in a city.
Got my basic handing skills 6 years ago when I was 48yrs old which is the first step to a full license here in NZ, only started riding 6 weeks ago, already made a couple of mistakes all because I let my mate talk me into going on a narrow twisty road that he knew and I didn't, luckily my corning mistake did not involve other vehicles but it was a good wake up call to start riding the right way. Every time I get on my 250cc motorcycle I think about how dangerous riding is. I find myself thinking to myself is this pass time activity for me , but every time I get on the motorcycle those thoughts disappear and I want to keep riding while thinking about what my next motorcycles is going to be. What I'm lacking at the moment is the practice aspect that Iv come to appreciate the importance of doing and shall commit myself to. Thanks for the presentation.
Would be interesting to know the breakdown stats on what causes that 28 x higher accident rate on motorcycles. Speeding, drinking and riding, etc, corners…etc.
The annual NHTSA reports break that down- speed, training, alcohol, etc.
@@Anton_G_604 yep, you can never lower the risk to the same as driving a car obviously, but you can certainly lower it from 28x to a LOT less by doing the simple things that Greg teaches. I've been riding for more than 30 years, and my father in law who has been riding for about 60 years was only commenting this morning over coffee that he loves the fact that he's still learning new things and bettering his skill every time he rides. Life long learning is the way to go - as soon as you think you know everything, you're just waiting for the fall. And on a bike, that's literal as well as figurative!
@@spokebloke1 Yeah, if you watch motorcycle accident channels such as Moto Stars or Moto Madness, it's rare to see a crash or near miss that wasn't avoidable. Most of the incidents happen when riders are riding above their skill level, riding too fast for the conditions (especially in traffic), and so on-mostly avoidable things. Let's say that 1/10 are non-avoidable. We can use that to make a rough estimate our real risk for those of us who try to ride safely. If 1/10 of the 30X is non-avoidable, then the real risk for us would be something more like 3X.
India Perspective:-
80% of vehicles on my roads are motorcycles.
A motorcycle here isn’t a lifestyle, it’s a more practical choice.
My country unfortunately leads the world in road accidents and deaths.
In spite of all of the above, India has the most number of mature big motorcycle owners and riders.
Summary - Be responsible, patient, learn and RIDE…!!!
This is why in the Netherlands you are given an extensive training before you're even allowed on the road. First you have to pass your vehicle control exam (usually atleast 8 hours training beforehand). Then you are allowed on the road, with an instructor. He or she decides if and when you're ready for your exam. Then you have to pass that exam aswell before you get your license. Oh, and in between there's also a theoretical exam which you need to study for and pass.
Here in California you just have to pass a 50 question written exam and then you are allowed to ride (just not on highways or at night) kinda crazy 😜
@@slothmarathonpromotions2470 Damn, that's too easy..
@@mafs13 - I agree. People who have never ridden a motorcycle in their life are allowed to ride on city streets just by passing a common sense 10 minute exam. Should be mandatory to take a riding course first in my opinion. Would save some lives I’m sure.
Its better than average. Its not enough, especially over time and given the fact alot of people don't practice (myself included, only around 2-3 times year i ll pratice emergency braking for 10 mins, and only that). But I guess we both acknowledge this hence being on channels like MotoJ.
@MotoDreamR That's true, most schools also give a cycling course for the children (we use a lot of bicycles here). I know I had a course some 20 years ago.
Coordination is key. You’re using both hands, both feet, body weight and movement ,and all senses to ride. Then comes scanning the riding environment constantly to ensure situational awareness of other road users (and their stupidity in action which you have to avoid). Then on top of that you’re dealing with road conditions which change every second of movement and you’re making judgements in a split second to modulate speed ( either through braking, clutch use, accelerator lever or a combination of all three ), adjusting direction of travel taking all inputs and outputs into account during the whole ride. If you don’t have the coordination to achieve that, forget about a motorcycle. And finally a dose of luck .
They really should show this video to everyone who wants to ride a motorcycle!
I ride for about 3 years, started with a 125cc (doesnt need a license in my country, just a car license). Started on a parquing lot just like you said! Trained alone for 6h just to start getting used to it.
One year late, got my license and changed bike, didnt ride more because of covid etc. Got only 20.000kms +- on my current motorcycle but ive been training thanks to you!
Saw a lot of youtube safety motorcycle movies, and didnt get a motorcycle sooner cause I know I wasnt ready, and wanted adrenaline. Now, with 39 years I have the discipline and realise how dangerous it can be, already had an accident but wasnt my fault and bam, 2 broken arms, but had full gear and 0 scratches, if I didnt wear a full face helmet, all my teeth wouldve been broken.
Always, always, dont care if there are 40ºc , I'll always wear my gear.
Life is too short to not enjoy and do what you love, and riding is my freshner to the mind, I can just enjoy and forget everything else.
Thanks for your work, I've been following your videos and helped a lot to understand, everyday, im learning and practicing. (Started doing your everyday 5m exercise after riding just 3 days ago!). Thanks for the time you put into this, im sure you understand that for many "silent" people around the world, you have been a life saver.
Wish you the best, from Portugal with love!
One of the most alluring things about riding a motorcycle is the constant sense of learning every ride I take. We all know every vehicle on the road will experience wear and tear but on 2 wheels the sense is magnified. Every oil change, chain and sprocket wear, the type of tires we run, the type of paths we take is a new experience. Even the type of clothes and gear we wear creates a different experience every ride. So many of my friends say "I wish I could ride a motorcycle but it's too dangerous and I'm scared"; to which I reply, just try the class, if you don't feel comfortable, at least you'll have an endorsement. A scared rider would be a hazard on the road for themselves and others on these unforgiving streets.
I was off bike for about 21 years and resumed on another 650 after some serious health issues. It took me 6 months to get comfortable andfor riding to be fun and relaxing, not work. I was over 10 miles out on country roads and just crossed a US route when I realized I wasn’t concentrating on the speed, RPMs, clutch and shifter. And that was after 2500 miles. That was 5 years ago and I still need to improve, especially my U turn.
I ride everyday, rain, hail or shine. I’ve only been riding for just over a year but I’ve done 86,000 km (53,500 m). I practice everyday. I also watch all of your videos. I’ve done the ChampU online course. I try to hone my safety skills because, when I started riding, I already had all the skills I ever needed to kill myself on a bike; I needed, and still do, skills to save my life. I practice because I know there’s going to be a day that I’m going to need them…and that day was last week. Riding at 110km/hr (about 65mph), following a loaded semi, coming around a corner, prepping to overtake when the semi hit rough road and concrete hit the road; lumps of concrete sliding along the road; flying at my head height. I swerved…ALOT…and missed all of it (didn’t realise until later that I never grabbed the front brake). The car behind me wasn’t so lucky…pulled over with a smashed windscreen. Thanks heaps for the life saving advice…
The most impressive thing about your comment is that you've been covering daily 235km riding for the last year...
Now that's a lot of mileage for the first year of riding!!!
My experience has been the exact opposite. If you can’t coordinate your hands and feet then you certainly should not drive a car because that tin cocoon won’t protect you when your head smashes into the door frame. Always wear a helmet driving.
Now, I’ve driven motorcycles most of my life and the reason I gave it up was because of drivers who want to kill two wheelers. Had 3 drivers aim their cars at me when there were no witnesses, no other cars around etc. Had a driver try to push me with his car at 50mph. He was rewarded with a rock that fell out of the sky and almost went through his windshield. Then a cop went after him. Another time a driver pulled out to pass in 50mph zone and slowed to 30 mph to force me off the road while I was passing. Took him to court and he lost.
Look at accident statistics in Canada. The surest way to die is to drive a 4 wheeler. Deaths of two wheelers are in the 13% range. If cars were that safe (51% driver fatalities, 49% passenger fatalities) we’d all be driving cars.
Look at the environmental costs. Cars are so complicated you need a degree to fix them. Most people can do some maintenance on motorcycles whereas cars are going to cost big bucks to operate and maintain.
Sure there are idiots on motorcycles the same as for 4 wheelers who will kill themselves showing off. They don’t speak for the majority of drivers or motorcyclists.
Then there’s an old lady who drove her car into a friend and took his leg off while he was motorcycling with his daughter on the back. AND SHE WAS LAUGHING!
Most people on motorcycles are not killed by their own stupidity, they’re killed by drivers with a God complex.
That said, motorcycling does require more skill because unlike dopey drivers with a God complex or lack of basic coordination with machinery, you know it’s up to you to be safe.
This is just gatekeeping. Motorcycling doesn't have to be expensive and quality gear doesn't have to be expensive. Yes it takes skill but you don't have to train like Kobe or whatever to attain those skills. Sure if you wanna tear up a canyon road as fast as possible you should probably have the training to do that. But you're missing a huge chunk of riders who just commute and don't ride fast or want to ride fast. For slow speed stuff, it's literally just a little bit of practice you can do for 15 mins every few rides. This makes it seem like you have to make a huge change in your life to ride but you really don't. The only practice I do is things that are prob simple for you like figure 8s, braking, etc. Am I as good a rider as you? No. But I have no desire to be cause I don't ride like you. I just ride safe speeds and get from A to B. Does that mean I should sell my motorcycle cause I have no desire to be a street rossi? Oh and my gear? $200bell helmet that's still ECE rated, and CE AA $200 jacket, CE AA $200 jeans, CE rated $60 gloves, and $159 TCX boots. Add that all up plus the $7000 bike and I'm still saving money compared to getting a used Honda Civic. And I get 75mpg. Love your channel and you're a stellar rider and coach but I have to respectfully disagree with this.
Yep. He’s a bummer.
@@bigfootninjajr1481 bikers tend to be some of the most judgemental folks but only online for some reason. I never see this type of attitude in person. We should be welcoming riders all while positively reinforcing safe riding practices. Not telling them that you have to be a "different breed" to ride. It's cringe
I have been riding since 1962. My motorbike is a Moto Guzzi Breva 750cc. My job was driving heavy goods vehicles, have, since I was 21 years old. Your advice is a life saver, so thank you. I'm an advanced driver, and I encourage others to take the course.
It's only expensive if you want it to be that way. You can get fun + reliable motorcycle in the range $5K MSRP to $8K MSRP. As long as you don't crash, don't make a lot of mods, and don't keep buying other bikes, then it's not going to cost much.
There's a top of the line GS right behind you, but a lot of us spend way less than that.
I got into riding this past fall for sub $1500
Found an 86 shadow 700. Had some gear gifted to me. The only cost I've had was the bike, permit, and insurance.
I bought a lot of stuff used including my 08 gsxr 600 which was the color and look I wanted anyways bought used helmets from marketplace made sure they hadn't been crashed and my jacket I bought on clearance
I've bought my bike 4 years ago. Now I could sell it on a 150% price. So it is not expensive, it can make you rich instead. :)
@@art_by_adrian2913 Used helmet is not smart. Helmets work less well when they age and they form to your head shape.
Exactly That's why at 64 I am taking up riding actually. The challenge. saved for 2 years, bought gear, bought the motorcycle, and I am taking training right now. I watched and listened to your videos andoters and I am very aware of the dangers and the earning curve. These what give me the motivation and I love motorbikes .... finally I am able to do it.
I’m doing the same thing at 63.
I also ride a bicycle daily, so I well know what it is to be ignored on the road by automobile drivers. I hate that part and I can see that same situation exists for riding motorcycles, mostly.
Eddy, love your videos and as a new rider you taught me a lot and I do your car park drills and your comments about stupid is everywhere are true. My daughter is desperate to learn having seen me on a bike and I’ve recommended your channel to her but I think you could maybe add some positive in your videos. You used to say if I’m in my car I’m just going somewhere, if I’m on my bike I’m having fun . I respect you, love what you do but share the love sometimes please?
I agree with you he sometimes comes across as a motorcycle snob lol
No question about that!
If you want something more positive and encouraging check out v YT vids with Jocelin Snow and Cassie Maier
I started riding a motorcycle in 1954 and I’m still riding a motorcycle in 2024. When I started there weren’t many cars on the road to start with. I lived in Wayne New Jersey 64 mi.² and 3700 people it was mostly farmland today 250,000. there was very little danger in radium motorcycle when I was younger and it wasn’t many people on the road I could ride for 30 miles on a Sunday and I see your car come either way so you’re right today is a dangerous time to ride motorcycles and I’m not going to stop and 86 years old. I ride in 2021 Harley Davidson. I go back-and-forth to country every year. hi Road slower than I used to. I pull a camper no ride 6065 miles an hour I’m not leaving out of traffic. I’m making sure I have a lot of distance between me and the cars and trucks because I know they can stop faster than I can specially with the camper, pushing me dangers and problems motorcycle riding contributes to. I wouldn’t give it up for anything. I love it I will do the day I die whether it’s on a motorcycle or in my chair in the living room.-
Yes, it's dangerous. Practice and don't do stupid stuff and presume the other cars can't see you...
This video is right on. I rode a street bike for years and was always trying to improve my skills. However, increased traffic, distracted drivers (mostly texting), bad drivers always in a hurry and running lights. Way too many close calls which drove me away from motorcycles. Not to be denied the pleasure of riding, I really got into riding off-road only (trails and dirt). Very challenging and a different world than street riding. Road dirt for about 5 years but it came with its own issues. 99% of the land around where I live is privately owned. I had to travel 3 hours one way with my trail bike in the back of my truck. It was fun but it was exhausting to do on a regular basis. I eventually sold my dirt bike and no longer ride but I miss it like crazy.
I'm 68 and I've been riding for over 50 years here in England, and still ride most days (on 40+ year old bikes). I've no intention of giving it up while I'm capable of doing it, but most of the bikers I know are around my age, and the younger generations aren't interested in bikes. I must admit, if any of my family, or my friends' families did show any interest in getting a bike, I would discourage them, because the roads these days are so dangerous. I don't know if I would survive myself if I was starting out now. Back in the seventies, we had the opportunity to make idiots of ourselves and still come through it, a bit battered, but (most of us) alive. Now, I don't think the traffic, and the high performance bikes, are so forgiving.
Once my generation have hung up our helmets, I can't see where the next generation are coming from.
those buggers on phones and not even looking for bikers and What I find more and more is drivers crossing the center line on roads as if it don't matter while doing higher speeds lane disciplined here down south is appalling Rick so riding here is a choice but not one to take lightly for sure.
I have been riding a similar amount of time to you but I believe that it is much safer now than the 70"s, 80's and 90's. The accident rates and fatalities were much higher then. Poor brakes, tyres that lost grip in the rain, brakes that did not work when you applied them in the wet ( solid disks) and remember the frames and forks that flexed all the way around corners. All great fun at the time but dangerous as hell. Todays riders have ABS, Traction control, great tyres and brakes. When I think back to the guys I used to ride with they all gave up after multiple accidents and I am the only one left on two wheels. The traffic is greater now but back in the day we would fly around roads not expecting traffic and then there would be a vehicle we had not anticipated. Modern bikes are quick (some) but even in the 70's I had a bike (CBX 1000) that did 140mph and 10+ sec quarter mile times. All that with all the technical issues I already mentioned. I now ride a ZZR 1100 and a ZX14R and I doubt that my average speed is any faster than I was riding back in the day but the bikes are much safer. Just my opinion mate.
@@MichaelZZRrider Totally agree but its still best not to think the fancy electronics will get you out of trouble all of the time that's like most car drivers that drive way too fast expecting the ABS and traction control to get them out of every conceivable situation with no consciences. old saying ride or drive to what the vehicle is capable of and your experience and judgment has always been key.
@@MrKevC Absolutely mate. There is, perhaps, an over reliance on electronics for safety. At the end of the day the laws of Physics always wins out.
@@MichaelZZRrider You make some good points, but I think the main factor increasing the danger is the behaviour of car drivers. With the improvements in safety and protection for the occupants of modern cars, the drivers take more risks, believing themselves invulnerable. Unfortunately, this is bad news for other road users outside cars. Although modern bikes also have improved safety features, none of them protect against getting taken out by a reckless or negligent driver.
Our experience helps us to avoid these situations, as much as is possible, and allows us to make an informed decision on the risks involved, but for new riders, it has to be a very steep learning curve if they are going to survive.
Stay safe, and keep enjoying your riding.
I have been riding a total of 17 years, with a 16-year break in between. The first thing I did upon returning to riding was to take an advanced rider course. The reason was simple, my former advanced riding skills were virtually gone. Now, I attend at least 2 advanced rider skills courses per year. However, I am embarrassed to admit that I don't practice nearly enough, so I am not progressing. One of my goals was to master 18-foot circles, but my best is only 22 feet. The why is pure complacency. I also usually don't practice panic stops, which is just plain laziness because it's not fun. Enough of my excuses; watching your channel has motivated me once again. Who knows, it just might save my life down the road. Thanks for all you do. I have no doubt that your work has saved lives and certainly reduced serious injury for many of your students and subscribers.
Very nice comments. While lane splitting on my commutes, I always found the other idiot riders also lane splitting way too fast were much more of a danger to me than any car ever was. That's even considering the angry, vigilante soccer moms trying to cut me off because they didn't think lane splitting was legal or fair to them and they were going to put a stop to it themselves.
Having a R 1200 RT with saddle bags, I only lane split if there is more than enough room, but even then, I never seem to be in a big hurry when I am commuting during the week and I am on my bike as opposed to my car, I just enjoy the ride.
Thanks for all your great videos. I have been riding for over fifty years and been into advanced training for the last fifteen years and wish I had done it much earlier. I can’t believe how many riders say to me “why do I want to do extra tests, I took a test when I was seventeen”!
You've got a lot of great points and I'm always learning from you. But your last point seems unfair in a sense. Accidents can and will happen. They can happen to even you. And whatever you tell yourself in terms of "Oh I wasn't good enough for this situation, guess I've got more to learn and practice more," that's not necessarily true. There will be accidents that 100% couldn't have been avoided that 100% weren't your fault. No amount of preparing for an escape, or maneuvering can stop that.
I'm sure you probably covered this point in other videos but still at the end of this one I had to say my piece
My left leg has been paralyzed below the knee since 1990, so because of that injury, I have never been on a motorcycle because I cannot use the shift lever on the left foot peg. However, I have always been interested in motorcycles, especially the convenience of traveling the world with an adventure bike. Honda has started coming out with dual clutch transmissions (DCT) on some of their motorcycles. If they put the DCT on a smaller bike, such as a 400cc, 500cc, 600cc range, I might seriously consider picking up such a bike to comfortably ride and adapt my physical limitations too. Thanks for this informative video!
My step dad told me this saying, pain is a good teacher.
a common saying in the UK is those who have crashed and those still to crash.
i passed my CBT (compulsary bike training) at 17 and went on to get my full licence at 18 (UK system at the time) and at 19, within 1 hour of an exact year from passing my motorbike test i was hit side on while filtering and had my leg broken. (passed my test dec 6 2005 at 9.45am, got hit on dec 6 2006 at 8.45am ish) pain is a good teacher, since then i filter slower and watch for the vehicle not paying attention. i feel being a biker has improved my driving on other vehicles as well ( i drive a van, which has similar blind spots to a helmet) and over the years only had 1 other accident that was in my van in 2019, found surprise flood water on the road late at night, no warnings it would be there, van went into it at 40mph, alomost out the other side and the vans traction control system put the brakes on and back end lifted and aquaplained and van speared left and hit a wall and rolled on its side. i walked away from it, annoyed that i missed it.
i feel i am above average and ride within my limits, but i also have learned from my experiences, watch out for numpties, be careful in the rain for flooded areas, always be able to stop in a distance you see to be safe, only a fool brakes the 2 second rule, and so on. accidents will never be stopped but all you can do is train and get a better mind set to deal with the situations and aim to come out up right.
I agree with the bodily skill and coordination, if you can play the drums, you can ride a motorcycle, and if you can ride a motorcycle, you can probably play the drums. I do both, it's awesome.