In response to Pittsburgh Steelers quarterback Ben Roethlisberger's helmetless Hayabusa crash, About.com motorcycle guide Walter Kern points to his previously-posted ten tips for safe riding.
Even if you're an experienced rider, it's worth checking them over as a reminder. Ben's crash illustrates the importance of tip #4:
Even if you're an experienced rider, it's worth checking them over as a reminder. Ben's crash illustrates the importance of tip #4:
4.) Beware of Oncoming Left Turners: Beware of oncoming motorists turning left in front of you at intersections. This is the leading cause of death of motorcycle riders. I'm deadly serious here. I have personally lost many friends to this accident. If you only remember one tip here, let it be this one. Slow down before you enter an intersection. Have an escape route planned. Stay visible. Don't travel too close to cars in front of you. Position your bike so it can be seen by the left turner. Eye contact is not enough.Words to live by. Literally.
I can personally attest to the danger and pain of this particular type of accident. One minute you're riding around enjoying the day, and the next minute, you're a hood ornament.
I wasn't busted up as bad as Ben, but then again, my full face Arai helmet was pretty beat up in front. I wouldn't be as pretty as I am now (which is not very) if I had not been wearing it.
It really is important to remember that drivers can look straight at you and not see you.
The logic is that the slower you're going when you hit the car, the less damage it will do. Sliding a bike out won't slow it down as much as braking, since rubber tires have more friction than metal and plastic.
I guess in some cases where there really isn't even enough time to brake at all, you might want to launch yourself over the handlebars and the oncoming car, like this guy did. But in general, the more you brake, the less you'll break.
grew upwas young in Seattle and have made many visits out there, including to the abandoned WWII battery intended to protect against Japanese invasion. Was your brother connected to the Air Force base in some way?A user account is required to post comments. If you do not have an account, please feel free to create one. Accounts with obscene or offensive user names will be rejected.
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