I’d kill myself on one of those

"Spaze" (spazegun2213) 07/22/2015 at 17:37 • Filed to: Motorcycle

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I can remember most of my life saying “I’d kill myself on one of those” as I’d look at a Ducati thunder past. But I’d still stare, longingly as one would pass because of the allure, the perfectly sculpted of the red panels, the throaty rhythmic melody of a glorious V-Twin. Hell, even the ability to pin the throttle and outrun anything made those motorcycles as much form as they were function. The problem was I didn’t think that way about just Ducati’s. Older cafe racers elicited the same reaction from me. Even a sport bike, with the rider dangling precariously off to the side would make me smile and stare. But, I never once twisted the throttle until I was well into my 20’s.

Sure some of you may say that’s still young, and others may have been riding since they were 5. But for me, it wasn’t about the thrill or romance of a motorcycle, it was about the cost. At this point in my life I had sacrificed a fair amount to go racing. My bedroom and garage were the only rooms in the house that showed any signs of life. I worked 2 sometimes 3 jobs to make sure I could afford used tires. My fridge was constantly filled with little more than condiments and the odd beer or two. The living room would sit untouched for days, and the cable was barely used. However, the garage was teaming with life, from suspension swaps, to brake bleeding, I was constantly working on whatever my race car was. The driveway changed very little over those years with a truck and a trailer taking up most of the space. I had everything I needed for weekend fun.

But that was exactly the problem, I could only have fun on the weekends at the track. My pickups would shuttle me to and from work without a problem. The good trucks would even provide me the thrill of taking up 2 lanes of traffic when the roads were wet and my foot got heavy. But those were the only smiles my trucks gave me. I don’t remember how long it took me to figure it out. But I was dying on the inside a little every day that I drove my truck. I needed something I could smile about. I needed something FUN!

While that may seem all well and good, I was poor. Not the “I live on the mean streets” poor, but the “I own a legit race car” poor (although the more I think about it the more those situations seem very similar). I couldn’t spend money on a car, I’d have to stop racing to afford one. This is when my neighbor stopped by on his sport bike and asked me why I didn’t have a motorcycle. I liked to go fast, I liked to work on things, and I wanted something that was fun and cheap. “I’d kill myself on one of those” I replied. We spoke for a little while and he said I was silly for not considering it. Needless to say the seed was planted.

I eventually signed up for the MSF class, obtained my license and acquired a bike. I bought a lightly loved 2000 SV650 from a friend (who graciously rode it to my house since he didn’t trust me on the bike, lol). I’d love to tell you it was all smooth sailing from there, but honestly the first few months sucked. I was ALWAYS afraid... What was that sound? Is that driver even paying attention? Do I lean and turn the bars in a tight turn? There is so much to think about on a motorcycle, and 90% of it is simple... Don’t Die!

The more miles I put on, the more my riding style changed to suit the conditions. I became much more confident that I wasn’t going to kill myself but I also grew less confident the mother of two doing her makeup while sipping her latte on a conference call beside me in her HUGE SUV, wouldn’t either. I eventually started going on weekend rides with a group and saw some amazing places in western Virginia. Whenever I had a bad day I’d jump on the bike and hit some back roads before dinner. Sometimes I’d just park the bike by the side of the road and sit on a fence enjoying the view. I ended up growing to love being on two wheels because of how it made me feel.

That being said, perching yourself on top of an unstable object is not all fun and games. In my time on two wheels I’ve only had 3 unsavory experiences. My first was on the last ride I took on my SV. Not because it was totaled, but it was because I had just taken a deposit on it (which leads me to the don’t drive/ride it once its “sold”). I was in a turn and hit some new pavement, complete with all the pebbles from the patch. I’m not exactly sure of the details, but I ended up sliding face down with my hand trapped under my body. Luckily my helmet did its job, but the “glove” didn’t (I still have small scars on my left hand). I rode the bike home, and sold it the next day (for substantially less than planed). The second was, what I would assume looked like, a spectacular high side in a parking lot due to a little too much throttle on a supermoto. Three cars passed by and no one stopped, but the bike was fine. I was also fine other than a bruised rib and blow to my pride. The last caused me to stop ridding for 2 years, not that I missed DC traffic. I was still on that supermoto near a construction zone and traffic was sucking so I decided to make a lane change. Ordinarily its an innocent maneuver... until a school bus driver decides to do the same thing into the lane you are in. I made it almost past the oblivious bus but I manged to clip the STOP sign with my shoulder and it knocked me into the jersey wall. I ended up being apologized to when we both stopped at the stop light. But without a scratch, I was on my way.

I bring those stories up because they also impact how I ride, since I ride a lot now. I ended up stopping racing (school, marriage, and moving all made that nearly impossible to sustain) and selling every car I own (save for a project car that doesn’t run). I now commute 100% by motorcycle. I do have access to my wife’s car, but its scheduled in advance and isn’t used much. As I look back on it all its funny to see how my view on motorcycles has changed. I believe its for the better, but I’m probably biased. The one thing I can say is that I still enjoy twisting the throttle and taking off to beautiful and scenic places.

DJ Seatbuckets > Spaze 07/22/2015 at 19:33

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Nice article. I have the same reaction to Ducatis. I lust after them, but know eventually I’d start thinking I was Valentino Rossi and then it’d just be a matter of time before the local coroner would be asking himself, “how in the hell did he get way up there?” You could call it a Siren’s Song... Except there’s a much better name for it: The Song of the Sausage Creature.

http://totallygonzo.org/2008/08/06/fea…

Groagun > Spaze 07/22/2015 at 19:37

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You have to get her to ride now and enjoy it together.

NomadicRecluse > Spaze 07/22/2015 at 19:39

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ehhh... I have this reaction to all bikes. I know myself and I WILL kill myself on one. I’m now just starting to get “mature” enough to take the plunge.

Jid > Spaze 07/22/2015 at 19:40

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This is such a great story for me to read. I’m now in my late 20’s, going on 30. I’ve always, always loved motorcycles. I have never ripped that handlebar grip. I came thiiiiis close to signing up for the MSF class, and then life happened, and I could no longer afford it, let alone afford a bike to accompany my newly acquired skills.

I can’t help it any more. The next thing I buy once the big debts I have are paid isbike gear, a ticket to an MSF training course, and a bike. I’m dead set on this goal. I don’t know when that will be, but it will be.

Thank you for this story, Spaze!

Maxxuman > Spaze 07/22/2015 at 19:48

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!!! UNKNOWN CONTENT TYPE !!!

That’s how I always thought about it - I’ve known people who’ve ridden defensively and seemingly done all the right things but still ended up with life changing (but fortunately not ending) injuries. I really admire motorcycles as machinery and I know I’d have loved riding them but I just won’t trust other road users with my life on one.

69montego > Spaze 07/22/2015 at 19:52

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I’m just getting back into it after a long hiatus. I rode dirt bikes and did some street cruising on an old cb750. fast forward 20+ years and I’ve got an old Suzuki I’m fixing up to ride again.

Wife wants a Goldwing, but I told her I needed something smaller to get used to again

that being said, I kinda like the looks of the new "scrambler" bikes by ducati and yamaha

Earnest Borgwarner > Spaze 07/22/2015 at 19:58

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Get a bike, and go ride. If you need training, do it. From motorcycle safety courses to advanced track days with an instructor, it’s there for the taking. So whether you go for the fundamentals/basics for competent street riding, or want a PHD in motorcycles, just do it. A lot of people get swept away by looks and/or performance when choosing a bike....don’t forget comfort. FYI, I’ve got a Ducati, and a pretty fast one at that, and I haven’t (absolutely pounds on wood) had a ticket in over 10 years. Wanna see plaid without having to buy a Veyron? A bike might just do that for you. I could go on and on...get a bike.

fourvalleys > Jid 07/22/2015 at 19:59

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I’ve taken the MSF class before, but I feel that even if you aren’t buying a bike now it’s still worth doing to get a feel for it. I plan on taking it again when I buy my own bike.

Even though I paid for the class the first time, I suppose this is a good public service announcement: in Illinois it is very easy to take the MSF class for free. Well, a $3 “registration fee” and a $20 deposit (that you can donate when you’re done... or get back). Sure, the classes are filled for the next month or two, but it’s a phenomenal deal. I remember seeing some places offering the same course for $350+.

Timmy > Spaze 07/22/2015 at 20:03

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Haha. This is so similar to how I got into riding. Right down to the bikes. I had a Kawasaki 250 Supermoto to start. Awesome bike, no power. I had a 2000 SV650. That thing could do 0-100 (kmph) in 3.2 seconds, and it’s considered a great starter bike. I grew my balls on that one. hah Now I am riding a KTM Duke 390. It’s a little monster. Not as much power, but as commuter, it’s unbeatable for the value. Crazy torque for a single.

No accidents yet (knock on wood), but had some close calls.

Great article!

DoctorNine > Spaze 07/22/2015 at 20:08

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Start ‘em early.

nlzmo400r > Spaze 07/22/2015 at 20:08

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Great story. We share a very similar recent past. I too used to race cars, then stopped once I found how much cheaper and more exciting it was to race motorcycles. I began working at Ducati/Triumph dealer 6years ago when I decided to go to college. 2 years ago I disassembled my race bike to rebuild it (actually, to keep me from spending money racing it). I graduate next spring and the race bike is back together again. I cannot wait to get back into riding! Enjoy it and be as careful as you can be.

iwrock > Spaze 07/22/2015 at 20:13

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Pretty cool. Like you, I always said “oh, I’d kill myself on one of those” and was a late bloomer with regards to 2 wheels. I never could wrap my head around why people (normal, sane people) were so devoted and in love with two wheels... Until I rode one. The rest is history.

Duckferd > DoctorNine 07/22/2015 at 20:15

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... why not both?

lingenfelter > Jid 07/22/2015 at 20:17

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Take the course now. Simply holding a license for a given period of time helps decrease your premiums when you DO buy a bike and start riding.

DJ_Buttchug > Spaze 07/22/2015 at 20:26

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Awesome story and one very similar to mine. I’ve always loved vehicles and going fast and the thrill of having an engine I can control. I’ve always owned trucks but last year (at 23) decided to take the plunge and get a bike (no room for a project car). I bought a 2003 SV650S and have never looked back.

Thanks for sharing such a great story. I can't wait to get home from my business trip to get on my bike!

bobasaur > Spaze 07/22/2015 at 20:30

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I took MSF a week before I turned 21 because, 1) learning a new skill is fun, 2) I’ll have a motorcycle endorsement for as long as I have my driver’s license, and 3) MSF is WAYYYY cheaper when you’re under 21. I didn’t touch a bike for the next 5 years, although I always gazed longingly at the bikes I saw on the street, wondering what it’d be like to have one myself. The cautious side of me always saying, “it’s too dangerous!”

A year and a half ago, I bought a cheap 1988 Yamaha Riva 125cc with some transmission issues. Fixed it up, rode it for 6 months it until I’d built up enough confidence, and sold it for double what I’d paid for it. The modest profit I made just about covered the parts and materials expenses so I essentially rode my starter bike for free. I then bought a 2002 BMW F650GS Dakar which I ride to work and school. It’s fun, saves gas (~50mpg vs 21mpg by car (Accord V6)), cuts time spent in traffic (CA baby!), and I don’t have to pay for parking ($8/day at school). Now getting around by motorcycle is just a natural part of my routine.

NasalRadiator911 > Spaze 07/22/2015 at 20:30

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Love my Ducati’s. Like crack.

FullSpectrumPotato > DoctorNine 07/22/2015 at 20:35

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You could always tell which kids got dirt bikes for Christmas because they’d always come back from the holiday with casts.

Loping Camshaft > Spaze 07/22/2015 at 20:40

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I became much more confident that I wasn’t going to kill myself but I also grew less confident the mother of two doing her makeup while sipping her latte on a conference call beside me in her HUGE SUV, wouldn’t either.

This is where I’m at. I admire from a distance, but not confident in myself or others to be 100% safe 100% of the time on the road. Instead I think I’ll stick to getting my ya-ya’s out on the water, and especially jet skis.

AWD_OWNZ_U > Spaze 07/22/2015 at 20:41

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Nice pics! Looks a fun ride that you probably should have invited your friends on. Good story, I started riding at a similar age to you. My mom got her first bike in her late 40s so it’s never too late! It’s dangerous sure but most fun things are. Just gotta manage the risk as best you can.

IDRIVENEON > Spaze 07/22/2015 at 21:16

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Spaze, I’ve wanted a bike since I was a teen. I got to ride dirt bikes a handful of times. Every time I’d get close to pulling the trigger on getting MSF classes my wife would shoot it down. I know a bunch of people that have got hurt riding and it’s a scary thought for me. Especially being in the MD area. And I use the phrase id kill myself on it a lot.

Still, I really love the look of the older cafe racers and want one bad.

I’ll be 30 next year. Maybe that’s the birthday present I’ll give myself.

Justin Hughes > Spaze 07/22/2015 at 21:32

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Great story! I, too, didn’t start riding until I was almost 30. Considering what a punk ass kid I was behind the wheel at first, and then how much I learned about how to actually drive through autocross and how little I now realize I knew in the beginning, I’m glad I waited. I probably would’ve killed myself if I started riding younger. I’m also glad I got on two wheels when I did and had some awesome adventures.

Driver > Spaze 07/22/2015 at 21:56

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When I was 16 my Mom and Dad gave me a toy scooter for Christmas with a note saying I get a real one when I turned 16. 16 came and went, no MC, they regeged. The day I turned 18 I bought my first bike for cash I saved doing lawns; a new 1968 Penton Six Day 125, steel tanker. Lost count of all the bikes I have owned since. I think it was around $600!!

Nice post, kid.

budgie654 > Spaze 07/22/2015 at 22:14

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“The allure, the perfectly sculpted of the red panels,” .....lol wut?

Meridock > Spaze 07/22/2015 at 22:32

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Is this the same Spaze that had a custom fender on his STi??

AnotherHobby > Maxxuman 07/22/2015 at 22:46

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You already are trusting other roads users with your life. Every day when you drive your car. I’ve known people that drove cars defensively, done all the right things, but still ended up with life changing (and ending) injuries.

Maxxuman > AnotherHobby 07/22/2015 at 23:19

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True, but the odds are a little better when you’ve got so much protection around you, compared to being out there in the open on a bike.

centz > fourvalleys 07/23/2015 at 00:28

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Buy a cheap dirt bike and take yourself out to an empty/ unused piece of land. Thats how i started (at 25yrs) and its a fun and inexpensive way to get yourself on two wheels. I bought my well used but very reliable xr200 for 800 bucks and it was well worth it. I can probably sell it for a minimal (if any) loss too.

greencow > Jid 07/23/2015 at 01:14

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I’ve wanted a motorcycle for as long as I could remember. My initial plan (back when I was around 13-14) was something along the lines of, save money for shit car, buy a bike. That way I could commute in the snow, and ride the bike all the other times.

That never happened, my love of cars grew greater, and I started getting into four wheel fun more so. The motorcycle bug never quite left, but it did subside. For awhile.

Fast forward a bit, just turned 30, married, two kids, bought my first bike just over a year ago. Somehow was able to convince my wife that I wasn’t going to die my first time out, that it would save me money in gas, and wear-n-tear on the car. I honestly cannot tell you how I was able to accomplish this. I’m still baffled myself.

I will find every excuse possible to jump on the bike and ride, as long as the sky isn’t falling I’ll ride. I never, ever thought I would enjoy riding this much. My car is getting driven less and less, someday I might not feel this way about riding, but that day hasn’t come close yet. For what it’s worth, I drive a modded out Evo VIII, it’s not like I’m choosing the bike over a minivan!

It really can be as cheap as you make it. I bought a older used bike for around a grand, ran great, minor cosmetic issues. Fixed it up, been riding it for pennies a day. (Old Honda CB, cheap to maintain, cheap to ride). Neighbors on both sides of me ride older Honda’s, a somewhat rare 350 inline 4 and a 80’s 650 nighthawk. The 350 was purchased for 200 bucks, and the nighthawk for 500. They aren’t the most flashy bikes, but damn they’re fun....

kmoney > AnotherHobby 07/23/2015 at 01:32

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This is true, but it would take a fluke of an accident to leave you with crippling injuries going city speeds in any car made in the past 10 years. On the bike, doing an endo over the bars at 30mph to avoid someone pulling out in front of you could quite easily leave you paralyzed or with other permanent injuries.

MyNameIsZach > Spaze 07/23/2015 at 02:59

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Your story sounds so much like mine. I’m 21 right now and few months ago my friend was showing me his new bike and seeing him have tons of (relatively cheap) fun on it and after watching countless videos on riding, I took the MSF course to see if it would be something I was really interested in. I ended up falling in love with it during the 2 days we spent learning how to ride and a week ago yesterday picked up a 2000 SV650 with 43k miles on it. So far I’ve limited myself to riding short distances around town and longer distances at night when there’s hardly any traffic but I’m hooked. It conjures the same feelings I had just after turning 16 and getting my drivers license. The cliche “freedom”, going for a drive/ride to nowhere, making silly mistakes and learning from them. It’s just the best thing ever. I hope that even years from now riding doesn’t totally fade into just something to do sort of like driving has for me. Now, whenever somebody say “You’ll get killed doing that”, I respond with “No, I’m going to live doing this”. They usually don’t get what I mean but whatever. Anyways, here’s a picture of my newest hobby.

JEM > Jid 07/23/2015 at 03:16

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I took the MSF course in my late 30s so no worries.

I now commute by bike daily 80 miles roundtrip. I love my Jeep but I’ll be damned if I ever buy a “sporty” car again.

The biggest thing though, and my immediate takeaway from the course was how much of a better driver it made me. I honestly think every should go through the course.

The English Guy > Jid 07/23/2015 at 03:28

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Go take the MSF class.

If you wait until money’s right, you’ll still be planning it as your next big purchase in ten years.

If you take the class and love it, you’ll find a way to get the gear.

A cheap helmet and an expensive helmet, both certified the same, both keep your head intact... Albeit with fewer niceties. That’s $50. Gloves start at about $20 for something decent. And there’s always someone giving up their midlife crisis and selling a decent jacket at a yard sale. If you love the course and NEED to ride, you can get basic protection for $100.

Or you can wait until you've got money for the $700 Arai helmet, the $600 jacket, the $200 boots, the $400 pants, the $100 gloves and, never having $2k to blow, you can never get around to that MSF.

Joneez > Loping Camshaft 07/23/2015 at 04:04

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Lol at thinking jet skis on a lake are safer than a motorcycle on the street!

Joneez > Spaze 07/23/2015 at 05:01

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I started my riding life at 11 on a Yamaha 100 that my brother and I had to share. Neither of us could touch the ground, so we leaned it against a tree to start it. Now I’ve recently hit 45. I’ve put over 100k miles each on 4 different bikes and many more miles on a multitude of others.

The memories are as numerous as the miles. Riding down highway 395 with my Dad. Doing big donuts in a snowy parking lot on my DR350 in Angel’s Camp. Riding through Newport Beach with three buddies with nothing on but our helmets and boots.

That’s why I ride and it’s why you should too.

Loping Camshaft > Joneez 07/23/2015 at 05:01

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The lake I ride on aren’t huge and aren’t insanely busy except for on the 4th of July (and then I don’t usually ride). I’ve wiped out a few times due to taking some jumps at odd angles, and guess what? No road rash, no broken bones, no damage to my vehicle. I promise, it’s safer.

scubahood > Jid 07/23/2015 at 05:34

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i bought my first bike the year i lost my job and my net income for that year was less than $10 000

it was a memorable summer to say the least :)

sucksqueezebangblow > Loping Camshaft 07/23/2015 at 07:35

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I don’t know anyone who’s drown in asphalt.

Jason Channell > Jid 07/23/2015 at 07:51

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You can do all that for $3000 if you spend wisely. Do it! I’m glad I did.

Segador > Jid 07/23/2015 at 07:52

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Do it. I took the leap 3 years ago and took the classes over three oppressively hot July days, and now I ride one of these to work :)

Jason Channell > Justin Hughes 07/23/2015 at 07:53

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I started riding at 29. Glad I started later too.

fourvalleys > centz 07/23/2015 at 08:11

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I might be buying my own bike sooner rather than later, so we’ll see.

When I was younger, I did the dirt bike thing and I’ve spent serious hours as a passenger on bikes... but I still want to get a cheap one I’m not afraid to lay down. I guess we’ll see what I can find!

Doran > Jid 07/23/2015 at 08:22

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I was in the same exact position last year. Got tired of not purusing the motorcycling dream, so I registered for the motorcycle training course, bought the best gear I could afford, and picked up a mint 2012 Ducati Monster 796. Likely the best decision I’ve ever made. Get after it, Jid!

Doran > Earnest Borgwarner 07/23/2015 at 08:24

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Ditto everything Jubas just said. #truth

AlBosnien > Earnest Borgwarner 07/23/2015 at 08:42

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Started riding last year, at age of 32.....got a Star Cruiser, and haven’t stopped since...It’s my new go to...

thirstforspeed > Spaze 07/23/2015 at 08:49

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Pro-Tip: for those out there that are _thiiiiis_ close to pulling the trigger and have to balance life/family/mortgage etc, here is an alternative plan to convince your S/O that riding is a good and safe alternative.
**disclosure: this is what i did, so i guess it’s ‘tested’, but the sample size is too small to be useful. YMMV**

1) the gear is a sunk cost, so whether you get a 100cc or 1000cc bike, you’re gonna pay that. same with the MSF. Don’t skip the MSF, it is critical that you learn to ride ‘correctly’. consider it more safety equipment and explain it to the S/O as such.

2) buy a tiny modern bike. CBR125 or 250, or a ninja 250/300. These bikes never lose their value so you can sell it for what you paid after you get your S/O to buy into the idea that bikes are awesome and give you their blessing to get a bigger/faster bike. Besides, if you ride a 250 for a year or so, you’ll know if you like it and want to sink more $ into the sport or not.

3) I know it will be slow on the hwy and you’ll feel like everyone is thinking you’re a wiener for riding such a small bike. But only the squids will actually think that, and they’ll kill themselves on their GSXR1000’s next year, so whatever. Everyone else on 2 wheels will respect you for being rational and smart while you learn.

RabidWombat88 > Spaze 07/23/2015 at 08:59

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Great read! In my late 20s now, always wanted a motorcycle and an now looking at courses in the fall. I’ve been commuting to work on my roadbike for a few years now when the weather is nice, prior to doing that and really getting an understanding of just how little the typical driver pays attention, I don’t think I’d have been ready. I’ve taken a defensive driving class years ago, have a track day or two, and some autocrosses in my old Miata under my belt, but its really the awareness from other drivers that freaks me out still. Doubt I’ll do much highway riding, aiming more for back roads and forgotten state routes.

Dick Trickle > Jid 07/23/2015 at 09:30

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Like others have said, take the MSF class. I have been riding/racing dirt for pretty much my entire life and after a broken collarbone and a serious headsmack racing local motocross, I finally listed to Dear Ole Dad and got my license taking the MSF course. It was hands down some of the best training I’ve gotten.

I was in a small class of 4-5 students and the instructor was a long time ADV rider so he was quick to adjust my dirt oriented tendencies (rear brake only, one finger on the clutch, power-shifting, etc.) but the things I learned helped me off-road and made me a better driver as well. I have yet to purchase a street only ride but I hope to in the next few years, so I can switch up my work commuting and get some more seat time. I forsee myself going back to another MSF class when I finally get that street ride and convince the Mrs. to ride passenger with me.

UncleWalty > Spaze 07/23/2015 at 09:33

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I learned to ride on friends bikes, mostly dirt, when I was a teenager but never owned one of my own. Finally, at age 30, I bought a used 1997 Ducati Monster M900. It was like living a dream and I have never regretted it!

MotoMott > Spaze 07/23/2015 at 09:35

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I’ve always been an avid car and motorcycle enthusiast since I was a kid - more two-wheel biased though. A lot of your story is easy to relate with and what a lot of people go through, especially with the first months being quite terrifying. It’s a very different realm to get used to compared to cars and definitely why I’ve enjoyed it so much. I have since stopped riding much on the street and know all to well the dedication of my time and wallet to club racing in Supersport class and living on ramen.

This year has been a bit of a break for me from racing (marriage, new car payments, etc.) but I still enjoy riding my wife’s 150cc scooter to work. Altogether, it’s been 10 years of riding for me, 5 major crashes with some broken bones, and in the midst of starting racing, realize from my father that my real grandfather who I never met also raced motorcycles long ago which was quite a shock (I guess it’s in the blood). It’s a very compelling and emotional sport, very different than cars - it demands a lot more from the individual. No matter if I’m racing a liter bike at Road America or just puttin’ around town on the scooter, it’s always thrilling and elicits a smile from my face.

Rick Blasty > Jid 07/23/2015 at 09:38

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do it. do it. do it. do it. do it.

Rick Blasty > Spaze 07/23/2015 at 09:40

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I started riding at 27. Took the MSF course. Admired motorcycles me whole life, was just told by everyone “oh you want to fucking die” or “Oh yeah? I like my skin on my body” by everyone til I finally said enough is enough and did it for myself. Its been the best decision of my life.

Loping Camshaft > sucksqueezebangblow 07/23/2015 at 09:51

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Of course there is some risk, but there is some degree of risk in everything we do.

Unlike motorcycling, the essential safety gear is required by law in most states. And there is a much higher compliance rate on the water. If you wear a good life jacket, you would have to try very hard to drown; they’re designed to turn you on your back if you’re unconscious.

timmybadshoes > Spaze 07/23/2015 at 10:02

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This was such a great read!

I told myself the same thing for many years. It wasn’t until I returned from a deployment a couple years ago that I decided to just go for it and took a MSF class. Shortly after I was the proud owner of a Triumph Scrambler and then turned it in for a Tiger 800 that better suits my riding style and commute.

Riding in Florida definitely makes me terrified of the SUV driver who is too busy looking at their phone but despite that I got rid of my truck and get around completely on the motorcycle unless I need my wife’s car. Wouldn’t trade it for anything. The feeling of engagement with what you are doing while riding is practically euphoric.

Scott > Jid 07/23/2015 at 10:07

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You will never regret it!

Chris_K_F drives an FR-Slow > Spaze 07/23/2015 at 10:12

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The beginning of your story is pretty much exactly where I’m at in life (apart from the dedicated race car). Late 20s, turning 27 on Saturday actually, FR-S is my daily driver/weekend fun, and I’ve always loved bikes but have also always said I’d kill myself on one. I’ve owned/ridden dirt bikes a decent amount and ridden a friend’s GSXR600 before too. However, recently the bike bug has been biting me again. Signing up for a MSF class, the free one in IL that fourvalleys mentioned, very soon. Then looking at probably getting a used SV650 as a first bike, although I’d really like a Duke 690. I know better than to get a new bike for my 1st one though. If I can pull it all together in the next year or so, perhaps I’ll reward myself for my 30th birthday with a brand new naked bike. :)

2WheelsAreBetter > fourvalleys 07/23/2015 at 10:28

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I had my license since I was 18 but had taken a long break from riding (living in the frozen north and traveling by plane for work ALL THE DAMN TIME). I switched jobs and moved to FL. I had ridden recently even, for days on end on borrowed bikes with a good crew, but even though they found no real flaws in my riding the universal suggestion was to take the course again. I am glad I did, I still learned more and working those tight drills in a class environment is excellent practice.

Take the damn course. If you think you are already experienced and don’t need it, then take the advanced course! It will save your ass.

randomadjuster > Spaze 07/23/2015 at 10:32

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So my tagline isn’t just words. I’m an insurance adjuster. Every year, spring rolls around and I want a motorcycle. Then, like clockwork, my first motorcycle accident claim rolls in and it causes me to want a motorcycle less. More claims roll in and I wind up usually not wanting a motorcycle so much by the end of summer.

I started riding at six years old. My dad, in a complete surprise move, bought me a brand new 1978 Suzuki JR50 (which we still have, and I got running a few years back), and my 6yr old butt was on a dirt bike. I was officially the ultimate envy of all my friends. Then, as these things go, I decided to hot dog it and crashed into a row of trash cans, producing a finger injury and a scar that is still faintly noticeable to this day. That did not stop me from riding, but did cool my jets. Then I got too big for the automatic clutch on that bike, and we moved to a place where there were heavy restrictions on dirt biking, and the money wasn’t there for a bigger bike for me, so I stopped riding for about a decade.

In my mid teens, my dad picked up a kawasaki 305 cruiser for basically nothing. The PO had hooked the dead battery to a charger set for the wrong voltage and popped the battery all over the bike. My dad and I chassed wiring and such for a while and got it running. I think he paid $100. Dad, a lifelong rider, went through the hassle and trouble of getting his international license (we were living in West Germany at the time), and the bike became his commuter. When we got back to the States, I started riding it. It was fine and good until I hit a patch of gravel and faceplanted into the pavement pretty badly. I drove my bloody ass home and we went to ER where they spent a couple of hours scrubbing gravel out of my face and stitching me up. Aaand I stopped riding for about a decade.

Then a buddy bought a honda cb250 and needed a place to store it. I offered my place with the caveat that he had a certain amount of time to do something with it or it became mine (as I’d lent him half the money to buy it). He never did anything with it and didn’t pay me back, so I had a bike. I got my learner’s permit and started riding. A bad incident with an SUV and an inattentive driver coming literally about two inches from splattering me across the road convinced me that bike needed to go (in no small part because I’m a big dude and it was too underpowered to just goose the throttle and scoot away from said SUV).

It’s been almost a decade since then. I haven’t had many claims this years for bikes, so ravaged motorcycles haven’t been pounded into me. I just bought a beater sports sedan in an attempt to foist off that want for a bike, but I don’t think it is working.. Looks like I need to wait for fall/winter to snag a cheap bike off craigslist. Maybe this time I can avoid my weird cycle of riding, wrecking, and laying off for ten years. I don’t know how many more of those I have in me.

2WheelsAreBetter > Maxxuman 07/23/2015 at 10:32

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Yes and no - On a bike you have the advantages of maneuverability, visibility, acceleration and usually breaking. You are higher up than most drivers and can move around a lot in your lane to keep an eye on things. It’s just different. Maybe the way to describe it is less passive safety (cage) and more active safety (ability to avoid issues).

No matter what going out on the road, in a car, a bicycle, a motorcycle or on foot is the most dangerous thing many people will ever do (statistically speaking). Be safe.

blacksapphire08 > Earnest Borgwarner 07/23/2015 at 10:32

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Or even if going fast on 2 wheels aint your thing there are options for everybody. Maybe you’d like to just cruise down the road and enjoy the scenery, get a cruiser. Bad balance? Check out a trike or those Can-Am spyder things. Hell they even make dual purpose bikes for street and a bit of offroad. I have to agree that comfort is key here which is why I bought a sportster, fast enough and easy to operate standard controls.

2WheelsAreBetter > 69montego 07/23/2015 at 10:33

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Goldwing is a beast. A very well built beast that you can learn to do stupefying things on, but certainly one that you need to build up your skills for.

fourvalleys > 2WheelsAreBetter 07/23/2015 at 10:44

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The plan is to take the course again when I have a free weekend. They do take walk-ins for the free course if someone doesn’t show up - I just happen to be busy enough that I don’t have a free weekend anytime soon. If I bought a bike I’d make time for it, though.

cheesetrader > JEM 07/23/2015 at 11:29

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Fully agree - I took the MSF in my 40s to “learn to ride” and was surprised how much of a better car driver the class made me

Schnabeltier > Spaze 07/23/2015 at 12:04

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I took the MSF course in April and bought a 150cc scooter from a friend. Fun and practical for living downtown, but I can’t wait until I have my own garage so I can get a 300cc bike like a CB300F.

Schnabeltier > AnotherHobby 07/23/2015 at 12:09

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There’s no such thing as a fender bender on a bike, as they say. Coming to terms with the fact that bikes are inherently much more dangerous is a key part of becoming a competent rider.

g_k > Spaze 07/23/2015 at 12:09

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Nice article - I was hoping for a description of the 690 Duke, as it seems most riders aren’t aware of them. I’ve owned a few “thumpers” as second bikes, including earlier Dukes, but my 2013 690 is a big improvement over the previous generations (especially the kickstart-only ‘95).

I’m 68, been riding ‘since I was 16, and in spite of the standard argument, (“I’m not worried about myself making a mistake - it’s the other guy trying to kill me!”), I’ve stayed alive, including years of daily commuting on San Diego freeways. I’ve even helped others decide to take the plunge - a few co-workers have told me that my being alive after years of riding caused them to modify their attitudes. I always recommended the MSF course, and everyone who took it was glad they did.

I’m often amazed that 4-wheel gearheads dismiss motorcycles. I’ve owned a Lotus Elise, BMW M Roadsters (Z3 & Z4), and I’ve taken two Ferrari test drives (California and FF); none of them are as exciting as my 2010 Aprilia RSV4 Factory, and my Duke is even more fun on tight roads (only weighs 330 pounds). If I lived and commuted in New York or a city like that I’m sure I’d feel differently, and living in Colorado restricts my riding season, but people who don’t try it just don’t know what they’re missing.

Ladymopar > Jid 07/23/2015 at 13:19

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Even if you just take the class, it’s great knowledge to have. I think you could probablt buy a cheap bike and have just as much fun, then work your self up from there.

Never give up and never surrender :)

Deathocracy > Spaze 07/23/2015 at 13:24

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Hah, I liken my first experience on a bike to the Jerry Seinfeld joke about him Scuba diving. The main point is to not die.

“Dont die... dont die, dont die, dont die. Theres a fish, theres a rock, who cares? Dont dieee...”

cardriverx > Spaze 07/23/2015 at 13:50

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Are you me? I had an 03’ SV in college for over a year, then went to sell it for what I bought it for. Day of the sale, everyone agrees on price, and on my ride home I decide to go down a long straight stretch to wind it out one more time. At the end I turned around and failed to see a little barrier between the lanes (was dark). Low sided it right there, dented the tank and broke the shifter off. Thankfully just scraped my knee.

Needless to say, the guy did not buy it. Ended up selling to my friend for $800 loss :(. Learned a good lesson lol.

Now, after moving to CA I have an 02’ SV. Works well but I really want fuel injection again.

Is the Duke 690 your current bike? I almost bought one, sat on it and it felt sooo right. Love how light it is and I think it would fit my personality really well (tight twisty roads, slow speed wheelies, etc). Seat was comfy. I just couldn’t quite justify paying that much for a bike right now sadly and talked myself out of it.

How do you like it?

skllsqd > Spaze 07/23/2015 at 13:59

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Sorry to be pedantic but Ducatis are L-Twins not V-Twins.

Spaze > cardriverx 07/23/2015 at 14:20

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First a short history of the bikes I’ve owned:
‘00 Sv650 - loved everything about it, I just wanted a sport bike, so I sold it
‘03 R6 - probably my most favorite bike. With a brembo radial, it felt amazing
‘04 SV1K - bought it to flip it, but it sounded amazing and was great for cruising
‘05 DRZ-SM - hooligan bike, but hated not having a gas light and doing 80 was a pain
‘05 625SMC - faster hooligan bike, it could easily do 80, but it would also shake you to death

I wanted a bike with ABS, and the duke fit the “it does everything well” button. Sure I paid a premium for it, but I always get people asking me what it is, and saying how great it sounds. I’m tall, so its not the most comfortable bike to ride, but its everything I want and need right now. IT chews up the highways and twistiest roads equally as well. It also has the right amount of power for me (granted mine has all the go fast bits).

Spaze > Jid 07/23/2015 at 14:23

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Jid, sign up now, even if you have to beg, borrow or steal a helmet (although some classes have rentals). Even if you never use it, riding is a skill you’ll start to learn. Its not for everyone, that’s for sure, but it may be for you. Bottom line is, you never know until you try!

Spaze > Earnest Borgwarner 07/23/2015 at 14:27

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I’ve been to a few skills classes and a 125cc “track day” at a cart track. Recently I completed a school on supermotos (which was a ton of fun) and that spurred me to sign up for an actual motorcycle track day. We’ll see what happens, but I know I’ll have fun!

+1 on your Plaid comment, I owned an R6 for a few years and that thing felt ludicrously fast to me (which is likely why I’ll stay on bikes that make less power than it did).

Spaze > Chris_K_F drives an FR-Slow 07/23/2015 at 14:30

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Chris, I learned this first hand.... you WILL drop a bike. Sometime, some where... it WILL happen. For me it was giving an oil change to my first SV... I went to check the level and it just kept going. Some bikes (like that one) are way more forgiving about it than others. Both the Duke and the SV are great bikes! good luck!!

Spaze > Groagun 07/23/2015 at 14:31

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My wife? I may have just bought her a Vespa (used of course) that she is commuting on. Earlier this year I convinced her that she should know how to ride just in case anything happened to me.... that turned into a vespa so I am not complaining.

Spaze > budgie654 07/23/2015 at 14:33

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Sorry about that. Both my English and grammar suck. I also need to proof these better.

Y47Z > Jid 07/23/2015 at 14:46

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Nice attitude man. I have been riding for 35 years and it still puts a smile on my face every day. Good luck.

Spaze > randomadjuster 07/23/2015 at 14:55

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Random, I can only imagine seeing that side of the motorcycle world. When you deal with destruction and death I can see how that would eat away at your wants. As for wrecking, its like riding a horse, you just have to get back in the saddle.

AnotherHobby > Schnabeltier 07/23/2015 at 16:03

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Yes, you can have a fender bender on a bike. I had one 8 years ago. It was pretty harmless, albeit a bit spooky.

I never suggested that bike’s weren’t inherently dangerous. I wouldn’t wear a helmet, armored jacket, kevlar jeans with pads, protective boots, and gloves if they perfectly safe devices. I didn’t even suggest that there were as safe as a car (I certainly don’t wear the gear when I drive). I only said that cars are also dangerous, and that every time you get in your car you are also putting your life into the hands of other drivers.

I also think that going through life in a bubble avoiding all risk and danger leads to a very boring life. That said, everyone has their own level of risk they are comfortable with. As my frontal lobe has developed more with age, I’m definitely not the risk taker I used to be.

KEWKSTER > Spaze 07/23/2015 at 16:18

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All these Bike posts.... they’re starting to work... I fucking want to ride, damn it!!! When Wes talked up the Cleveland Cycleworks and what they had going on, I drooled over “The Heist” but sadly they never passed Cali emissions, so here I sit... gawking at these posts telling me to quit being a pussy and to have some fun. I want to, I really do, but when I start looking at used bikes, I have fucking zero intelligence on the matter and end up just clicking off, dejected and stuck in my cager...

cardriverx > Spaze 07/23/2015 at 16:20

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Great to hear. I have a feeling the duke (or an FZ-09 honestly, got to test ride one and that engine is just... amazing) will be in my future.

Segador > Jid 07/23/2015 at 17:13

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Also, you can get a totally ride-able, good first bike preettttty cheap.

Giant Lobster Monster > randomadjuster 07/23/2015 at 17:37

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“I don’t know how many more of those I have in me.”

I know right? I’m 33 and really hope I have more years left before me than behind.

Airchompers > greencow 07/23/2015 at 19:27

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Oh man you need to try one of the nekkid 1000s, each and every one has the penultimate inline-4.

randomadjuster > Spaze 07/24/2015 at 01:01

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To an extent, the near-wreck was worse than the wreck. With the wreck, I could at least point to the fact that my bike was fragged. With the near-wreck, it my willingness that got fragged. It’s weird too, as I’ve been in far, far worse bicycle wrecks. I’ve demolished myself on a mountain bike, yet I have exactly zero fear of riding my MTB in heavy traffic. Makes no sense. A couple of years ago I got clipped by an ambulance. I managed to keep ont he bike and just bounced up the curb onto the sidewalk. Didn’t even stop riding. Makes me wonder what the difference is between my attitude toward street and trail riding on my MTB and on a motorcycle.

And, interesting, while I average dealing with a couple of fatal wrecks each year, I’ve never once dealt with one that involved a motorcycle. Whole lot of wrecked scoots and injured people, but no deaths to date in almost twenty years.

Spaze > randomadjuster 07/24/2015 at 13:20

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For the motorcycle vs MTB comment, you probably have 2x the time on a mtb than you do on a motorcycle. I’m more comfortable on my bicycle than a motorcycle because I have WAY more time on that saddle. You also know how cars are going to treat you and that your speed is relatively low so the odds of being seriously injured are lower... I think.

NunzioC > Spaze 07/24/2015 at 13:41

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Great write up! Thanks for sharing. I didn’t start riding motorbikes until my early 20’s. The MSF course (in Canada) was the best thing I ever did, and gave me excellent life-long habits regardless of the actual mode of transportation. That really helped to keep me from killing myself on the bikes. I also dabbled a bit in track racing which took care of the need for speed in a safe controlled environment, and sobering reminder that no matter how good I thought I was on the street, I was only playing catch up to much better riders on the track. I rode some interesting 80s/90s bikes, started on the RZ350, baby-sat a friend’s Gamma for a year, got a FZR600, raced a GS500, fell in love with a Ducati 900SS, best wheelie on a GSX-R750 LE, etc.

I had fun on the road, but I always felt something was missing. After we moved to the UK, I found an excellent motocross school in the Chilterns (just outside London) for my then 11-13 yo boys, because all the best riders got their start on dirt :) I got tired of watching, so I hopped on the school’s KX125 and KX250. The 250 (4-stroke) was a beast but sounded great. Being a skinny (i.e. light weight) guy, I was much happier, faster, and got more quality air-time on the KX125 (2-stroke). It was great to be able to bomb around the tracks with my boys and compare notes afterwards. A moment of pride came when my boys advised me they much prefer 2-stroke powerbands over the “boring” 4-strokes.

I have no plan to ride on the road again, but if I somehow find myself back on the road, it will have to be a Ducati or a KTM for sure :) I would love to have a dry clutch again...

randomadjuster > Spaze 07/24/2015 at 15:11

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No, that makes total sense. Part of my brain thinks it’s silly because I’m considerably more vulnerable on the bicycle than the motorcycle, but you’re correct. Way, way more saddle time there. I’ve also done more, well, I wouldn’t call them stunts, but activities that I would never do on a motorcycle due to vastly less saddle time. It is something to think about, thanks.

Ike B > Spaze 07/28/2015 at 22:10

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I know what you mean. Having gotten my first bike at 25, I know I would have killed myself if I was younger. The lure of hooliganism is too damn strong.

After riding for quite a few years it’s everybody else who scares me now. Thankfully that’s just made me a better rider, and driver.

Maxxuman > 2WheelsAreBetter 07/28/2015 at 22:21

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I am well aware of passive vs active safety and understand the advantages of a having a responsive, manouverable machine. But if the unexpected happens and there’s simply no way to avoid it having the extra protection of seat belts, airbags, expansive crumple zones etc may be the difference between life and death. I’ll continue to try and be as aware as possible of other road users, on 2 or 4 wheels (or legs) and I hope other drivers do the same for you.

jhonysweeti > Maxxuman 07/29/2015 at 10:25

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Judged > Maxxuman 07/29/2015 at 12:10

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I’ve been riding for just over 10 years now, all over the country. I’ve been in many scenarios where I’d have been run over had I not taken action to prevent it. I’m sure by now it numbers in the low 100’s. That being said, I’ve been able to avoid every single one because I pay attention to traffic and conditions around me and effectively remove other’s abilities to run me over. You should absolutely be concerned about the other guy/gal. But, you can absolutely help avoid the large majority of their inattentiveness.

Maxxuman > Judged 07/29/2015 at 12:26

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A friend of mine rode much the way you do. One morning he was on a suburban street and made eye contact with a guy in a car looking to enter from a sidestreet. Despite the eye contact the guy pulled out anyway and my friend hit his car and ended up losing an eye, an arm and badly damaging one leg. If he’d been in a car he’d have probably been uninjured.

I hope you continue to stay safe but while as you say you can avoid the large majority of inattentiveness, it’s the potential consequences in the remaining small minority of cases that led me to stick with 4 wheels.

2WheelsAreBetter > Maxxuman 07/29/2015 at 14:14

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I appreciate the safe vibes :)

For me it just all comes down to risk vs. reward. I love to ride and find the risk acceptable, though I do what I can to mitigate.

This is one of the reasons I am 110% behind automated cars. I think they will prove to be a helluva lot safer!! Only problem will be the collective freak out when a ‘robot’ kills someone.

Maxxuman > 2WheelsAreBetter 07/29/2015 at 14:38

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Yeah, I can see the headlines - “Attack of the Robot Cars”, “Programmed to Kill”, etc.

Judged > Maxxuman 09/26/2015 at 18:08

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Haven’t been on in a while. Truly sorry to hear about your friend.

Sadly, even eye contact doesn’t ensure proper attention from the other driver. I’ve witnessed that myself. People often misjudge available remaining time to pull onto a street with a bike approaching, almost always when crossing to turn left. I think it’s the lack of visible mass affecting the perception of speed. It’s been my experience that holding the throttle steady or even accelerating a bit will make drivers on side roads reconsider pulling out in front of me. Usually. As I said, I’ve had my share of close calls.

Gratitude for the safe wishes, I’ll do what I can.