Intro - Hello From MA

Christina Rae · 01-03-2024, 09:02 AM

Quote:

Originally Posted by Sport Rider

Just catching up on this thread. To the OP, riding on the street is really not more dangerous than on trails. I've been down 4 times now on my KLR and that's more than my 40 years of street riding combined. I use one of my bikes for commuting every day the weather permits. You certainly have to adjust your approach and watch/learn/understand signs of what people are going to do in cages, but it's a learned skill. I'd suggest you start out slow and build your skills up. if you pay close attention you will learn some of the techniques of lane positioning for better visibility and watching for clues as to others intentions. might be a slight movement of a wheel, might be eye contact with another driver, or at least seeing where their eyes are. avoidance movements on your part. when to slow down or speed up to avoid situations. these things all come with time, experience and training.

Thank you for this reply! I tend to agree. I've been riding bicycles on the road most of my adult life. I have learned to be aware out there - mirrors on my helmet, lots of flashing lights, bright clothing, no headphones. Always rode a Mountain Bike - even on the road. My theory being the fat tires and heartier build will allow me to avoid going deeper into the road to go around a pot hole or sand or something. Plus I felt better being able to "ditch" it onto the soft edge of the road if someone got REALLY close!

Never had any issues (knock on wood!) and I went out there every time knowing this could be it for me! With that mentality it kept me focused. I always remember what my Dad taught me when driving - "Everyone out there is an A**shole!"

I imagine being on a motorcycle would be no different really. My biggest fear is the people turning in front of me. On my bike I was always at the edge of the road - going slow enough for plenty of time to see that. Might be different at 50 MPH.

I have already figured out my way to work. I was trying to find quiet roads to commute by mountain bike with - but at 20 miles, the hills would kill me! I'm 50, not 25 anymore :-) I only need to be on major roads for a few miles. Most of them are slow, quiet residential backroads cutting through town. Yea, its longer - but better ride - and would be safest.