View Full Version : What's with motorsickle riders??
Okay, I'm going to have to amend W3SY's First Rule of Pick-Em-Up Trucks to include Motorsickles. W3SY's First Rule states:
A pick 'em up truck in FRONT of you will drag butt at least 10 mph below the speed limit on a clear, dry day. A pick 'em up truck BEHIND you will ride your bumper no matter how froggin' fast you go.
I do believe the same law applies to motorsickles. Yesterday, I had a pack of five of them hog (ha ha!) the road in front of me at about 40-45 mph on a 55 mph two-lane highway. Yet just a week or two ago, I had some punk inches from my bumper, POPPING WHEELIES. I was only minimally concerned -- I knew if he rear ended me, he'd EASILY get the worst of it.
And how many times have you been passed by 3 or 4 Japanese bikes EASILY going 90+ mph?? (It's NEVER just one of 'em.) They come right up on you, too, before they scoot around you with millimeters to spare.
And I'd LOVE to know what's up with this little hand gesture motorsicklists do when they pass each other. I had a LOT of time to observe these morons as they poked along endlessly in front of me. Every time ANYONE on ANY kind of motorsickle came by from the other direction, they held out their left hand. The other motorsickle driver (usually) did the same. What's the deal on that?? Is that like a "We're all in the International Brotherhood Of Motorsicklists" salute? Or is it like, "Hey *I* have a motorsickle... and YOU have a motorsickle... SMALL WORLD! HELLO!!" Gimmeabreak.
Do Dodge Caravan drivers wave at each other? Is there a special greeting exchanged by owners of Honda Accords? I doubt it. So what's this nonsense between motorsickle riders? Explain it so we'll ALL know.
Over....??
kc7mrq
05-30-2006, 08:09 PM
LOL, up here we have the same trouble with true motor sickles. They are called combines and swathers. They fit your rule perfectly.
KC9ECI
05-30-2006, 08:50 PM
I could 'splain it to you, but if you don't ride, you'd never understand.
I rode for years. It is quite common for riders to wave at one another.
However, riders riding in the manner you discribe are not riders, they are accidents looking for a place to happen.
kj6nt
05-30-2006, 09:47 PM
Bikers wave because they are having a good time and are glad to see others doing the same.Also the more bikes on the road keep the four wheelers aware that they share the road.
It is a hobby,like having a good qso or making a meaningless post on a website.
a motorsiclist
KD8COO
05-30-2006, 09:56 PM
Quote[/b] (w3sy @ May 30 2006,12:56)]Do Dodge Caravan drivers wave at each other? Is there a special greeting exchanged by owners of Honda Accords? I doubt it. So what's this nonsense between motorsickle riders? Explain it so we'll ALL know.
Us sportscar owners wave at each other http://www.qrz.com/iB_html/non-cgi/emoticons/smile.gif You must just own the wrong kinds of cars http://www.qrz.com/iB_html/non-cgi/emoticons/smile.gif
KA9VQF
05-30-2006, 11:01 PM
Yep, got’s me a sickel {1973 CB 450} an’a MGB. When I’m out and about with the MG I not only have to wave at anyone else in a sports car but pretty much anyone else in the world or be thought of as rude ‘er sum’thin.
What is really strange is when I had the Honda Express going {wrongly called a moped by most of the world, it was really just a silly little scooter} the folks on their big gnarly Harley’s would still wave to me.
We have a Harley shop in town these last few years now. They put up a new building on the south edge of town and have a restaurant and bar on site so lots of ‘bad bikers’ come to town on their bikes through the summer. Not nearly as many in the winter but still a few will tote their bikes on trailers for service or just to show they really do own one. Lots of other folks have been thronging the place in winter to talk about how bad their bikes are and such.
I stay away from the place. My daughter on the other hand spends a lot of time there getting tattoos. I personally don’t like tattoos much but she is paying for them herself and after all it is her body I guess. I keep worrying that one day the Nazi’s or someone like them will come along and make her into a lamp shade.
WA4ABM
05-30-2006, 11:02 PM
It's just a greeting. #The left hand is used because the right hand in on the throttle. #The left hand is not waved because it might indicate to someone following a turn, which is not the case. #Just an extension of the left hand in a lowered position is like a handshake that hopefully you do when meeting someone. http://www.qrz.com/iB_html/non-cgi/emoticons/wink.gif
N4AUD
05-30-2006, 11:07 PM
VW drivers used to wave at each other in the 50's when the little cars first became widely available..
KC9ECI
05-30-2006, 11:09 PM
Quote[/b] (KD8COO @ May 30 2006,16:56)]Quote[/b] (w3sy @ May 30 2006,12:56)]Do Dodge Caravan drivers wave at each other? Is there a special greeting exchanged by owners of Honda Accords? I doubt it. So what's this nonsense between motorsickle riders? Explain it so we'll ALL know.
Us sportscar owners wave at each other http://www.qrz.com/iB_html/non-cgi/emoticons/smile.gif #You must just own the wrong kinds of cars http://www.qrz.com/iB_html/non-cgi/emoticons/smile.gif
True. When I used to own a Vette, a wave to another Vette driver was almost mandatory. Out on the river, it is very common and again, almost expected to wave at other boaters. I have seen harley riders wave at crotchrocket riders with one finger on occasion, but most of the time they use the whole hand.
WD8OQX
05-30-2006, 11:59 PM
Quote[/b] (W7WV @ May 29 2006,14:51)]I rode for years. It is quite common for riders to wave at one another.
However, riders riding in the manner you discribe are not riders, they are accidents looking for a place to happen.
Yeah, I'll say the same thing. Word for word....
Still ride from time to time.
kf6rdn
05-31-2006, 04:15 AM
Often people that engage in somewhat dangerous sports are tighter knit. Like dirt riders out in the desert, the dude you are passing, knows you might be the dude pulling his arse out of a ditch the next hour.
Like 'ECI said, kinda have to be there to understand I guess..
kf4vgx
05-31-2006, 04:31 AM
I've had quite a few complements on my Chevy truck ! http://www.qrz.com/iB_html/non-cgi/emoticons/biggrin.gif
Here's a link for you to visit please note ,
Police: Bike drag sparked by anger !
See link ,
http://www.myrtlebeachonline.com/mld....e_beach (http://www.myrtlebeachonline.com/mld/myrtlebeachonline/entertainment/special_packages/bikers_at_the_beach/)
Interesting read,I'm sure. http://www.qrz.com/iB_html/non-cgi/emoticons/biggrin.gif
Quote[/b] (W7WV @ May 29 2006,15:51)]I rode for years. It is quite common for riders to wave at one another.
However, riders riding in the manner you discribe are not riders, they are accidents looking for a place to happen.
I should add that a couple of them weren't wearing helmets.
Coconuts, anyone?
http://www.wegmans.com/kitchen/ingredients/produce/fruit/images/coconut.jpg
I got my first bike over 20 years ago, and rode for about 5 years. #I was confused by all the extended hands on the road, but I waved back. #I finally concluded that it was a sincere greeting to a fellow rider.
I also found that, unlike how many motorists will go passed you if you're dealing with a car problem on the side of the road, the first approaching biker will normally stop to offer help if you experience motorcycle trouble.
I once went over the handlebars at 50mph in the Santa Cruz, California mountains, late at night, on then highway 17. #I was riding a 1980 Yamaha 850 Special. #I was in a left turn, and realized too late that I was no longer in the lane. #I was in a turn-out. #My bike hit a pile of dirt and my body kept going. #I landed between the steep hillside and the road, barely missing a telephone pole. #My bike managed to keep going though, and landed on top of me. #I had to grab the exhaust pipe to push the bike off of me. #Fortunately, I had a full-face helmet, gloves, boots, and a good jacket.
The first person to stop was was a biker, who said he worked in a bike shop, and swore he could get me back on the road. #In so many words, I told him I didn't care. #My bike ended up being completely totalled, and I learned how to speed shift in my car, because I could barely bend my left leg after losing most of the skin on my knee.
Some time later, I bought a Yamaha FJ1200. #It was, at the time (as I understood), the fastest production motorcycle on the planet. #I got it because it really felt nice to ride. #However, on my first trip on the freeway, a merging car didn't see me. #Knowing that it is easier to accelerate than brake on a motorcycle, I hit the throttle hard. #In a moment, I realized that I was a 1/4 mile passed that car, and I freaked myself out from the temptation of speed.
Therefore, I decided to take the bike back to the dealer, and find a way to get my money back, with a loss for their trouble. #I succeeded, and haven't ridden since then. #However, I really miss riding.
---Michael
kf6rdn
05-31-2006, 05:27 AM
Another thing, a few years back, riding around some local trails I wondered why some on-coming riders held out a single finger (no, not middle!) and some held out 2, more rarely 3 or 4.
It was finally explained - they were signalling the number of riders in their party.
Doh! (duh?)
KA9VQF
05-31-2006, 10:50 AM
Here in beautiful Savanna Illinois it is up to the rider to wear a helmet or not.
When I started riding I lived in Wisconsin. Up there it is now a state law that motorcycle riders must wear a helmet. Since I started out wearing one I still do. I have known to many people, including myself, who spent a long time combing gravel out of their hair not to. In the early years it was riders choice wither or not you wore one.
While I was living in Wisconsin I was on the local volunteer fire and ambulance department. Although we really didn’t have a lot of motorcycle accidents in a years time most of those that were fatal would have been only real bad and devastating if the rider had just been wearing a helmet.
Sure, being a vegetable laying in a hospital or nursing home might not be very appealing to most folks but there is always the chance you might get better. Might be a really slim chance but that is better than being worm food to me.
So I wear a helmet all the time when I’m on powered two wheelers or even 4 wheelers {no not cars but ATV’s}. I own two of the safety devices, they are bright orange, one for me and one for the wife when she will ride with me.
To me your just an organ donor waiting to be harvested if you are on a bike without your helmet.
aa3re
05-31-2006, 11:02 AM
Quote[/b] (w3sy @ May 30 2006,12:56)]Okay, I'm going to have to amend W3SY's First Rule of Pick-Em-Up Trucks to include Motorsickles. W3SY's First Rule states:
A pick 'em up truck in FRONT of you will drag butt at least 10 mph below the speed limit on a clear, dry day. A pick 'em up truck BEHIND you will ride your bumper no matter how froggin' fast you go.
I do believe the same law applies to motorsickles. Yesterday, I had a pack of five of them hog (ha ha!) the road in front of me at about 40-45 mph on a 55 mph two-lane highway. Yet just a week or two ago, I had some punk inches from my bumper, POPPING WHEELIES. I was only minimally concerned -- I knew if he rear ended me, he'd EASILY get the worst of it.
And how many times have you been passed by 3 or 4 Japanese bikes EASILY going 90+ mph?? (It's NEVER just one of 'em.) They come right up on you, too, before they scoot around you with millimeters to spare.
And I'd LOVE to know what's up with this little hand gesture motorsicklists do when they pass each other. I had a LOT of time to observe these morons as they poked along endlessly in front of me. Every time ANYONE on ANY kind of motorsickle came by from the other direction, they held out their left hand. The other motorsickle driver (usually) did the same. What's the deal on that?? Is that like a "We're all in the International Brotherhood Of Motorsicklists" salute? Or is it like, "Hey *I* have a motorsickle... and YOU have a motorsickle... SMALL WORLD! HELLO!!" #Gimmeabreak.
Do Dodge Caravan drivers wave at each other? Is there a special greeting exchanged by owners of Honda Accords? I doubt it. So what's this nonsense between motorsickle riders? Explain it so we'll ALL know.
Over....??
If I have to explain you wouldn't understand.
68 BSA 441, 69 BSA 250, 69 Triumph 250, 01 HD Electraglide, 03 HD low rider. Motorsickels first, radio second. http://www.qrz.com/iB_html/non-cgi/emoticons/tounge.gif
Riding with or without a helmet is a choice. I rode for years without one myself.
One day while in the Army and riding on base with a mandatory helmet I hit a car that ran a red light. The helmet saved my life that day and changed my views on helmets.
I still did not wear them all the time, but most.
I never was into stunt riding. I found out all to quick with my first small bike that it hurts when you crash on a bike and it doesn't matter who is at fault.
Spinning the dial~~~
KW4MW
06-01-2006, 02:11 AM
I give motorcyclists the same courtesy that I extend to all drivers on the road. #
A few pointers:
(1) If we're in heavy traffic and I'm leaving a little room between me and the car in front of me, don't assume that you can just zoom into that space because your bike fits neatly there. #Give me an indication that you want to change lanes and I'll accomodate you, other wise if the guy in front of me brakes at the same time you cut over one of us may get hurt. #
(2) #The right rear corner of my vehicle is my blind spot. #Don't ride there. #I started to change lanes one time and heard this funny sound, like #what a sick duck would make. #Queennnkkk #Queeennnkkk Queeennnkk. #It turned out that a rider was sitting on my right rear fender on a low cc rice burner and he was too stupid to either pass on ahead or drop behind so I could move over. #I had to slow down and let Feeble Knievel drift ahead of me.
(3) #What's with those damned high beam headlights directed at my rear view mirror? #You're behind me dude; my responsibilty is use my directionals and brake lights to let you know my intentions. #Your responsibilty is to be aware of them. #Aiming that high beam at my rear view mirror, even in the day time will only piss me off and I usually flip the mirror away which is to your disadvantage. #Otherwise I'll get a frigging head ache from that beam stabbing me in the eyes and then I'll really be pissed. #Oh, those modulated beams dude - even worse effect. #Read up on Photosentive Epilepsy and maybe you'll get a clue.
KC0OGH
06-01-2006, 02:12 AM
I ride my bike almost all through the year as long as there is no ice or snow on the roads. The wave with the left hand is just a way of saying hello to fellow riders.
As for the stupid things that some people do on bikes, deep down you almost wish they would wreck!!! Almost...
True motorcycle enthusiasts are truly a unique breed of people and a true joy to be associated with. You will find them to be some of the most courteous and careful drivers on the road. I am not talking about the beer swilling, Hell's angels types, or the young morons on their sport bikes that have not figured out that racing is done on the track and not the street. These are the riders that give the rest of us a bad name. But do us all a favor and please keep a look out for us out on the road.
Some things you can do to help us stay safe on the road:
Don't crowd us...nothing is quite as scary as someone riding your back tire at 70MPH.
Use your turn signals...you know the little lights that tell others when you want to turn or change lanes.
Do not pull out in front of us. Emergency stops on a bike are no fun. Not only do we have to manage both the front and rear brakes manually and try not to lock up either one, we also have to maintain balance and directional control. Yes we can be hard to see at times, but it is not unheard of for someone to look right at a biker and pull out anyway. Take time to really look.
Blind spot on some motorcycles can be large. When passing us, pass us and get it over with. Don't dilly dally around in our blind spots. If you can not see my face in my mirror, then I can not see you.
Thanks to all the people that DO pay attention when driving and 73 to all.
KC0OGH
WA2ZDY
06-01-2006, 02:33 AM
It's interesting that wearing a brain bucket would seem to be logical. Yet states with no mandatory skid lid laws are statistically much safer for bikers. Go figure.
I was young once. I put a whole heck of a lot of miles on a 1971 Honda 750 that I bought in the summer of 1982. I laid it down once, got knocked off it once and continued to love it until the day I could no longer justify trying to keep it on the road.
Then came a wife, family, and that was that.
I know I'll never ride again, but I keep the "M" endorsement on my license just because . . .
KC9IUX
06-01-2006, 02:39 AM
Quote[/b] ]Do Dodge Caravan drivers wave at each other? Is there a special greeting exchanged by owners of Honda Accords? I doubt it. So what's this nonsense between motorsickle riders? Explain it so we'll ALL know.
You never drove a Jeep CJ.
As far as helmet laws go, whos head is it? The states? If so, can they also control what goes on inside of it?
I miss my '56 Pan.
KC9IUX
06-01-2006, 02:41 AM
As far as another safety rule goes, STAY AWAY FROM SEMIS!!!!!! Pass as quickly as possible, don't follow.
Where do you think those big chunks of tire on the side of the road come from?
Personally, I think riding a bike looks like a helluva lot of fun. I doubt I'd take it up, though, because of all the other idiots operating larger motor vehicles on the road. I always give the motorsickle rider plenty of room. I NEVER tailgate them or give them any reason to be nervous about me.
But if I were driving a sickle, I damn well wouldn't weave in and out of 65 mph traffic while going 85. And I'd keep it up AT the speed limit, rather than drag butt 10-15 mph below, risking that I might get mowed down by an impatient 4 (or MORE) wheeler.
If you like to bike, have fun, be safe, and wear your "skid lid" (HAW!!!!!!). I think motorsickle riders are a lot like truckers -- most are excellent, courteous, careful drivers. They HAVE to be. It's the MORONS that get the most attention!
KC9ECI
06-01-2006, 02:57 AM
It is fun Steve, but a safe rider course is a MUST.
Quote[/b] ]I should add that a couple of them weren't wearing helmets.
We've had five fatal motorcyle accidents in the last two months here. None of them involved another vehicle. None of the fatalities were wearing helmets. In every case the riders were going way to fast at night. The last one which happened last night was caused by missing a curve after driving over Saylorville dam. The driver lost control, hit a guard rail. Both he and the rider were launched 150 feet onto the rock (3 foot boulders) embankment of the dam.
Quote[/b] ]Personally, I think riding a bike looks like a helluva lot of fun.
It is. In an average year I ride 35,000 miles...more if on vacation and we take our bikes. Myself and the XYL each have our own bikes; just picked up another one for her a couple days back. I have a lot more $$$ tied up in our 'fleet' of motorcycles than I do in my ham shack...which ain't small by any stretch.
Quote[/b] ] I doubt I'd take it up, though, because of all the other idiots operating larger motor vehicles on the road.
Those of us who road-race (on tracks) tend to view brain-dead road drones as back markers...something to be passed and forgotten. You must ride like you're invisible when on the street - NEVER trust the other driver to do the right thing. They almost never will, usually with detrimental consequences to the motorcycle rider.
Quote[/b] ] I always give the motorsickle rider plenty of room. I NEVER tailgate them or give them any reason to be nervous about me.
You're the exception, rather than the norm. Thank you for being considerate.
Quote[/b] ]But if I were driving a sickle, I damn well wouldn't weave in and out of 65 mph traffic while going 85.
And if I was a LEO, I damn well would ticket anyone whom I saw engaging in this sort of behavior - motorcyclist or auto driver alike. Many sportbike riders view 'squids' (as the reckless riders are known) with an immense amount of disdain. It draws lots of unwanted attention to those of us who actually have half a clue about riding and prefer sportbikes to other types.
Quote[/b] ]And I'd keep it up AT the speed limit, rather than drag butt 10-15 mph below, risking that I might get mowed down by an impatient 4 (or MORE) wheeler.
On the other end of the spectrum...is the 'putt-n-puff' crowd, who putt down the road a ways, stop for a cigarette and/or a beer...putt down the road a ways...repeat...etc.
Most of these folks don't ride enough to keep their survival skills honed and further diminish their coordination by drinking themselves half into the bag. I want nothing to do with this type of 'rider'. It's also not fair to class the hardcore bikers in with this group, as the vast majority of the bikers whom I ride with wait until AFTER the run is done to hit the sauce.
Quote[/b] ]If you like to bike, have fun, be safe, and wear your "skid lid" (HAW!!!!!!).
Certain states require you to don a lid; not an option. Here in Ohio, you may or may not wear one...but if you race - either road course or dragstrip - full protective gear is an inviolate requirement.
Quote[/b] ]I think motorsickle riders are a lot like truckers -- most are excellent, courteous, careful drivers.
And some are downright a-holez; serious riders tend to shun these poseurs and go their own way.
The 'wave thing'...years back, we often had to depend on each other to stay on the road. (How many of you reading this have ever stopped to fix a broken-down bro, or gone home for the truck in the event that you couldn't fix the problem beside the road?) It is somewhat of an exclusive 'club'...admission is not always gained just because you have a motorcycle, either. Waving to a fellow rider is a way of saying that I'm there for you if you need me...
W0LPQ
06-02-2006, 04:22 PM
In Cedar Rapids, during the early 70's I happened upon an accident that had happened maybe 15 minutes prior. The guy was not wearing a helmet, was speeding, lost it in a slight curve in Center Point Road (loose gravel spill) and literally, ground his head off on the concrete curb. You could see the yellow "stuff" on the curb that firefighters were trying to hose off.
Do not know if Iowa still has a helmet law or not, but at that time many were calling for mandatory helmet laws. Of course, many said ... "I'll do as I please"..! Well this guy did and paid for it. Sad, but rather dumb.
This incident provided me with enough incentive not to get my cycle license. Stuck with flying..!
Bill, W0LPQ
I agree fully with kf6rdn and kc0ogh. Over on this side of the puddle, we HAVE to wear lids, by law. (It does keep you from getting a faceful of dead flies!) I'm a biker myself, although you harley bashers wouldn't consider my 125 a bike! We also acknowledge each other as we pass, as a matter of courtesy, and as said, it JUST might be your backside that is being rescued, after the pile-up round the next corner.We don't wave, though, we nod to each other., and save the waving, usually single-digit, for the four wheel motorist who pulls some crazy move just in front of us. I think it is also partly because there is so much legislation over here that is anti-biker, so we are recognising that the other person is also #defying being ruled off the road. Oddly, bikers do not wave to scoot riders, and vice versa.
Mind you, if Blair and his cronies get their way, LL motorists will be priced off the road, leaving all that space for the few rich sods to play, (ie 'two-jags' Prescott, and his pals!)
Never met a motor cyclist that wasn't injured. They should be banned just like the 4 wheel thingies.
K2WH
ad4mg
06-04-2006, 08:49 PM
Quote[/b] ]'SY: #And how many times have you been passed by 3 or 4 Japanese bikes EASILY going 90+ mph?? (It's NEVER just one of 'em.) They come right up on you, too, before they scoot around you with millimeters to spare.Quote[/b] ]W7WV: #However, riders riding in the manner you discribe are not riders, they are accidents looking for a place to happen.
Around here, the nurses in the hospitals refer to these types of riders as "organ donors"! # http://www.qrz.com/iB_html/non-cgi/emoticons/laugh.gif
Quote[/b] ]Do not know if Iowa still has a helmet law or not, but at that time many were calling for mandatory helmet laws. Of course, many said ... "I'll do as I please"..! Well this guy did and paid for it. Sad, but rather dumb.
I don't think they ever got it passed Bill.
I remember at least two attempts when I was younger but the rather loud anti-helmet law lobby (ABATE) won out.
Quote[/b] (K2WH @ June 04 2006,13:41)]Never met a motor cyclist that wasn't injured. They should be banned just like the 4 wheel thingies.
As should a pastime or two of yours.
Ever been in a car wreck? You don't need to be driving; you might injure yourself...
Quote[/b] (AC0H @ June 04 2006,13:59)]I remember at least two attempts when I was younger but the rather loud anti-helmet law lobby (ABATE) won out.
There's a saying:
'Let those who ride, decide'.
We (motorcyclists) don't tell Joe Citizen how to go about his business, and expect the same in return. Unfortunately, this is not always a two-way street...and thanks to organizations like ABATE, MMA and a number of others, parity is maintained.
I can usually be found with a lid on my head...ALWAYS if at the track...but openly support riders' rights groups who lobby against helmet laws, and will continue to do so as long as the non-motorcyclists of the world think they can dictate what we can or cannot do.
As they say in EP's part of the world; applicable to non-riders: "You ain't got a dog in this fight..."
If I'm not mistaken, in North Carolina it's LEGAL to skydive or bungee jump without a helmet, but you can't ride your sickle without one?
Also, the “seatbelt” law is a giant money making machine for townships. Ask lawyers why 40 million kids can ride a school bus twice daily without seatbelts…
Quote[/b] (WZ4I @ June 04 2006,18:37)]Also, the “seatbelt” law is a giant money making machine for townships. Ask lawyers why 40 million kids can ride a school bus twice daily without seatbelts…
You had better believe it. http://www.qrz.com/iB_html/non-cgi/emoticons/mad.gif
Not a bike guy, "lots of bugs and TOO dangerous!" http://www.qrz.com/iB_html/non-cgi/emoticons/laugh.gif
(A Kudo for any one who can identify that quote).
Out here in lovely CA, the "four-wheelers" get all bent out of shape about lane splitting. Personally, I don't care. If a cyclist wants to "lane split", I get out of his way. If he wants to take the chance with his life by riding a bike, I'm not going to be the one to take him down.
Dave WX7B
Sonoma County, CA
The "Redwood Run" is coming up I think. Every accountant and lawyer in the Bay Area gets on his hog and goes to Laytonville. It's really quite the spectacle.
KC0KBH
06-08-2006, 02:29 AM
It's just those Honda riders. http://www.qrz.com/iB_html/non-cgi/emoticons/biggrin.gif :P http://www.qrz.com/iB_html/non-cgi/emoticons/biggrin.gif
Actually, though I see a ton of bikes on the road, I rarely see one behind the vehicle, or in front. I still don't have my bike going, but it will be soon. I've got a 1984 Kawi KLR250 dual sport.
KC0 Kawasaki Beats Honda http://www.qrz.com/iB_html/non-cgi/emoticons/biggrin.gif
Actually, I'd LOVE an '80s Honda XL, CR, or XR. All very cool bikes in the '80s. http://www.qrz.com/iB_html/non-cgi/emoticons/smile.gif
Edit-
I just remembered, my uncle has a '70s Honda CB750 (supersport, I believe). Very cool.
I'm not really brand specific when it comes to bikes, though I do seem to get my hands on a lot of Kawasaki stuff. Any bike that is either a dirt bike, both road legal and a dirt bike, or a really cool street bike, regardless of brand, I think it is cool. http://www.qrz.com/iB_html/non-cgi/emoticons/biggrin.gif
K0RGR
06-08-2006, 04:02 AM
When gas hit $1.00 a gallon for the first time, I bought a Honda 360 and rode it and a subsequent Yamaha Maxim to work every day for about 3 years.
If you have a good throttle lock, you can wave with the right hand, too.
My guardian angel worked overtime when I was riding. I remember a very, very long canyon race with a guy on a Gold Wing up I5 in Oregon. It went on for what seemed like forever at speeds way over twice the speed limit. My guardian angel reminded me that if I blew a tire at that speed, it would be absolutely fatal, so I backed it down to about 80 and watched the Gold Wing pull away. A biker coming the other way flashed his lights at me and frantically motioned to me to slow down. Around the next corner, half the Oregon Highway Patrol had that Gold Wing rider stopped on the side fo the road. I regained my sanity forever after that.
There are two kinds of bikers - those who've had accidentrs and those who will. I am in the first group. If I had not been wearing a helmet, I'd be dead. I hit a pile of gravel in the dark going about 60 and the bike was riding me before I knew what had happened. The skull bucket was broken neatly in two when we stopped, with the bike laying on top of me. My leather jacket was ripped to shreds as were the very heavy jeans I had on.
But I miss bikes. My XYL worked for brain surgeons when I met her and she made me give it up, because they saw too many bikers in her office. It's probably for the best - my driving has gotten a bit ragged as I've gotten older.
KD6NIG
06-08-2006, 04:34 PM
Quote[/b] (WX7B @ June 04 2006,19:03)]The "Redwood Run" is coming up I think. Every accountant and lawyer in the Bay Area gets on his hog and goes to Laytonville. It's really quite the spectacle.
Yeah, but some of those guys trailer the bikes in to a mile out of town, then ride the last mile in, too.
I mean I don't ride personally, but if thats the case I'd drive all the way in, not to within a few miles then come into town bragging how I went 300 miles from here to there.
I know they are trained, but I have to give credit to the local CHP officers who are on bikes around here. Even with red lights and sirens they are about as unseen as any other bike-and I've seen them definetely have to do some creative manuevers while responding 'code' to somewhere because people don't see them and change lanes right in front of them, or do something else stupid. There have been more than a few times I thought the guy was going to be toast, but a quick move and paying attention kept him continuing on his course to whereever he was going.
KC0NJA
06-08-2006, 04:40 PM
Things that I have noticed while riding my bike. In the summer time the skid lid really causes a heat factor while riding. So I drilled two 1/8 in. holes in front just above the small visor. Inside the helmet I carefully wedged out 2 -1/4 in. holes to let the air pass through. Makes summer riding a lot cooler on the head. Got the idea from a motor patrolman who lives down the street. Only problem is at 45 mph. and a cross wind a whistle sound comes up, sounds like a bottle rocket been shot at you. Finnaly figured this out by holding finger over hole to block the wind. Oh well can't win them all, It dose keep inside of helmet cooler....
Quote[/b] (KC0NJA @ June 08 2006,09:40)]Things that I have noticed while riding my bike. In the summer time the skid lid really causes a heat factor while riding. So I drilled two 1/8 in. holes in front just above the small visor. Inside the helmet I carefully wedged out 2 -1/4 in. holes to let the air pass through. Makes summer riding a lot cooler on the head. Got the idea from a motor patrolman who lives down the street. Only problem is at 45 mph. and a cross wind a whistle sound comes up, sounds like a bottle rocket been shot at you. Finnaly figured this out by holding finger over hole to block the wind. Oh well can't win them all, It dose keep inside of helmet cooler....
Many modern helmets incorporate vents into their design. My XYL's Arai has several, and they're a godsend on a hot day.
But then again, so is the helment. She recently got broadsided by a car whose driver chose to run a red light, rather than bother stopping for it while my wife and her bike were moving through the intersection.
According to witnesses, she was airborne for a bit...as it were, she dislocated a shoulder and got a little road rash. But her heavy jacket, helmet and boots did their thing and protected her. A silver-dollar-sized chunk of paint is missing from the back of her skid lid...woulda been out of her head.
We just picked up another bike for her last week; as soon as she's regained full use of her clutch hand she's back on the road...in a new helmet, of course...
G0GQK
06-08-2006, 09:44 PM
Is a motor sickle used for cutting grass ?
G0GQK
KD8COO
06-08-2006, 10:25 PM
Quote[/b] (WZ4I @ June 04 2006,18:37)]If I'm not mistaken, in North Carolina it's LEGAL to skydive or bungee jump without a helmet, but you can't ride your sickle without one?
Also, the “seatbelt” law is a giant money making machine for townships. Ask lawyers why 40 million kids can ride a school bus twice daily without seatbelts…
As a side note... Driving a car down the road while wearing a helmet seems to be a very good way to get pulled over http://www.qrz.com/iB_html/non-cgi/emoticons/smile.gif http://www.qrz.com/iB_html/non-cgi/emoticons/smile.gif (Not personal experience, but a story heard from someone at the local road course during what the motorcyclists would call a "cager" meet) http://www.qrz.com/iB_html/non-cgi/emoticons/smile.gif
KW4MW
06-13-2006, 02:42 AM
This just in
Steelers star Ben Roethlisberger, the youngest quarterback to lead a team to the Super Bowl championship, broke his jaw and nose in a motorcycle crash Monday in which he was not wearing a helmet (http://news.yahoo.com/s/ap/20060613/ap_on_sp_fo_ne/fbn_steelers_roethlisberger_accident;_ylt=AhoK78SJ Uj.yBsJXYrAtIyas0NUE;_ylu=X3oDMTA3b2NibDltBHNlYwM3 MTY-)
Quote[/b] ]Roethlisberger was on his black 2005 Suzuki Hayabusa — the company calls it the world's fastest bike for legal street riding — and heading toward an intersection on the edge of downtown. A Chrysler New Yorker traveling in the opposite direction took a left turn and collided with the motorcycle, and Roethlisberger was thrown, police said.
kd5rpo
06-13-2006, 03:02 AM
I have been a Motorcycle rider for decades, but this guy is an idiot for not wearing a helmet.
I believe in the right to choose, but that leaves the rider to make a wise decision. He failed the test in real life. I am sure that this will cause some changes in the Steeler's team rules.
The dood wears a helmet to play football, but didn't like wearing one on his sickle. Unbelievable.
Cagers are clueless...
yawn
kd5rpo
06-13-2006, 04:07 AM
I must say something here, and that is that the car involved had the classic symptoms of an errant left turn. The impact was on the back of the front right wheel, and the front wheels were still turned toward the left.
It is a frequent cause of serious motorcycle injuries. The impact on the front of the motorcycle showed that a significant speed was involved.
Is Ben Roethlisberger a Cager who rode a bike once in a while? or was he a victim in this case? It will be interesting to hear about the trial.
KW4MW
06-13-2006, 10:58 AM
Uh - cagers are basketball players,
Quote[/b] ]Is Ben Roethlisberger a Cager who rode a bike once in a while? or was he a victim in this case? #It will be interesting to hear about the trial.
Looking at the crash pics it looks like Rothlisberger hit the car rather than the other way around. The car could have pulled out in front but I don't know. The bike he was riding looked like a Ducati.
You know there are pretty good reasons for the NFL, MLB, NHL requiring the wearing of head gear. I wonder if Mr. Rothlisberger would consider going the entire 60 minutes of an NFL football game sans his helmet? I doubt it.
Quote[/b] (AC0H @ June 14 2006,04:48)]The bike he was riding looked like a Ducati.
He was riding a Suzuki Hayabusa...which is jokingly referred to by the sportbike crowd as the "Eye Abuser", particularly by those in the ZX/ZZR and CBR1100 camps...
KD6NIG
06-14-2006, 02:23 PM
Quote[/b] (AC0H @ June 14 2006,04:48)]Quote[/b] ]Is Ben Roethlisberger a Cager who rode a bike once in a while? or was he a victim in this case? #It will be interesting to hear about the trial.
Looking at the crash pics it looks like Rothlisberger hit the car rather than the other way around. The car could have pulled out in front but I don't know. The bike he was riding looked like a Ducati.
You know there are pretty good reasons for the NFL, MLB, NHL requiring the wearing of head gear. I wonder if Mr. Rothlisberger would consider going the entire 60 minutes of an NFL football game sans his helmet? I doubt it.
He wouldn't because the NFL requires a helmet. Had the state he was in required one, he would have had it also, or he would be facing some kind of citation right now I'm sure.
The news report I read indicated that a car made a left turn in front of him, apparrantly not seeing him, and he plowed into the car. The woman driving the car was apologetic, but no charges were filed against her, leaving me to believe either she had the right of way, or it was just what it was-an accident, or maybe she was in the wrong but he was also, so we're not hearing about it. Who knows.
I wouldn't be overly shocked though if you start seeing sports teams writing some kind of riders into contracts prohibiting certain activites while not playing the game. I'm surprised it hasn't happened already. Either that, or if they want to do such activities, they will be required to pay back any signing bonus or have some kind of insurance to ensure repayment and costs for player replacement back to the team. (I'm sure they do this already, but now you may finally hear of it, publically).
KC0KBH
06-15-2006, 02:56 AM
I've had a blast putting around on the neighbor's mint looking 1977 Kawi KE100 enduro. I got it running again and have been having fun. Very old style of engine, though, and the tranny gets a lot of flase neutrals around 4th and 5th. And, I almost have my '84 Kawi KLR250 four stroke enduro going. http://www.qrz.com/iB_html/non-cgi/emoticons/biggrin.gif I hope to make the KLR road legal again.
KC0KBH
06-15-2006, 02:56 AM
Also, the KE100 has all of its street legal things, including a title and plate. http://www.qrz.com/iB_html/non-cgi/emoticons/biggrin.gif
kd5rpo
06-15-2006, 03:44 AM
Quote[/b] (AC0H @ June 14 2006,05:48)]Quote[/b] ]Is Ben Roethlisberger a Cager who rode a bike once in a while? or was he a victim in this case? It will be interesting to hear about the trial.
Looking at the crash pics it looks like Rothlisberger hit the car rather than the other way around. The car could have pulled out in front but I don't know. The bike he was riding looked like a Ducati.
You know there are pretty good reasons for the NFL, MLB, NHL requiring the wearing of head gear. I wonder if Mr. Rothlisberger would consider going the entire 60 minutes of an NFL football game sans his helmet? I doubt it.
The picture of the car shows that it was making a left turn in front of him when he had the right of way. Center of impact was at the rear of the front right wheel well with the wheels turned left.
If you have spent a lot of time on 2 wheels you know to look at the eyes and face of the idiot in the metal box.
The cage driver is almost always at fault in this type of incident.
The main thing I see wrong here was that he was a rookie who never got past a learner's permit.
That will not affect the problem of who is at fault.
I hope he learns some kind of lesson.
Easy case for him with any expensive lawyer.
Quote[/b] ]The picture of the car shows that it was making a left turn in front of him when he had the right of way.
I didn't know the authorities had made a determination of fault. People around here always try to be the last one through the turning lane at an intersection. Invariably three people will try to run through the turn lane after the light has changed.
I've pretty much decided that the next time one of these Lexus driving, red light running, SOB's turns in front of me while I've got the light I'm gonna nail 'em.
Quote[/b] (AC0H @ June 15 2006,04:50)]I've pretty much decided that the next time one of these Lexus driving, red light running, SOB's turns in front of me while I've got the light I'm gonna nail 'em.
You seem hostile towards Lexus drivers.
Quote[/b] ]You seem hostile towards Lexus drivers.
I have no problem with the brand but the single most agrregious example of blasting though the intersection after the light has changed happened to be a Lexus. Cars/Trucks coming from the other direction had already made it into the intersection. I still can't fathom how there wasn't an accident. This particular incident happened in front of a school too.