Many more older drivers are starting to ride motorcycles. Motorcycles are a lot of fun to ride, there is something about the freedom of open air and speed that appeals to a lot of us. We have gotten older and have more discretionary income and we are buying bikes. We also buy large bikes, Harley Davidson bikes are the most popular motorcycle among riders over 50.
Nationally, the sale of motorcycles has increased over the last 20 years and in Minnesota between 2003 and 2008 there was a 38% increase in the number of registered motorcycles. The median age of riders has increased as well, in 1985 it was 27,in 2003 it was 41. Maybe you are thinking of buying a motorcycle, maybe you already ride one. Here are somethings to consider.
According to the National Traffic Safety Administration, Motorcycles nationally account for 2% of all registered vehicles but are involved in 10% of all crashes. You are also more likely to get injured and you have a 35% greater chance of being killed in a motorcycle crash than in a car crash. If you are an older rider, you may want to consider that the number of crashes involving riders over the age of 50 increased 400% between 1996-2006.
In Minnesota, a lot of motorists hit deer. In 2007, there were 2538 crashes in Minnesota involving deer, 9 motorists were killed, 7 of those killed were riding motorcycles. In Minnesota there were 111 total crashes involving motorcycles and deer and of those crashes, only 4 riders escaped without any injury.
OK, you still want to ride, than use some common sense, take a motorcycle safety class. Even if you have taken one in the past, take it again, it is good review and you may learn something new. You can find one at http//nm.msf-usa.org
Remember that you are no longer 20 years old. You have lost some of your reflexes, your reaction time probably isn't as good and your vision has decreased over the years. You need to learn to ride smart.
Wear a helmet. Get one that is comfortable for you and wear it. It does you know good strapped to the back. Invest in good riding wear, that will protect your body from road rash should you crash. Drive in conditions you can handle. Avoid riding in wet conditions. If you are not comfortable riding in heavy urban traffic, avoid it. Be alert at dawn and dusk for animals. Riders over the age of 40 have a significant decrease in night vision, so be more careful riding at night, use your bright light when you can.
Always driver defensively, assume that the other driver's don't see you and act accordingly. Older drivers need to take frequent breaks, riding a bike for six hours is a lot harder on your body than riding in a car for six hours. You need to get off the bike and relax often. Use your turn signals and keep your headlight on. Don't drink and drive.
Getting older doesn't mean you have to park the bike, but you have got to learn to ride smarter. Happy riding.
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