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CVO Technical => Riding Gear => Topic started by: Chains on July 22, 2011, 10:45:37 AM
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Traveled up to Ohio on Wednesday to a supplier conference to get an award for my company. Been a few years since I went back home and was taken back by the riding attire in Kentucky and Ohio.
Saw more riders in shorts, flip flops, no shirts, no helmets on the I75 going well over 80MPH. I enjoy riding without a helmet probably more than the next guy, but riding in shorts, no shirt flip flops at a high rate of speed is against all the ways I know to stay safe.
Wide variety of bikes from Harley's to Honda's, ages varied from teens to seniors. I believe you should have the right to wear a helmet if you want to or not, but half dressed just doesn't seem right.
Have I slipped into senility or has the heat affected the riders I witnessed with a death wish?
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Saw something similar the other day at the local dealership. A young man had just bought a new wide glide and was getting ready to ride it home wearing a wife beater, shorts, and tennis shoes. I told the sales guy when he came back into the building after the kid left that he should have sold him a pair of boots and some jeans to. He just smiled a little. I guess he will learn his leason when he gets a bumble bee up those shorts going down the road. I'm guess also, the kid has never riden a 110 Harley with shorts on. OUCH!
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No helmet law in CO but I ware one most of the time... so do a lot of other riders I see on the road. Have not seen many in shorts etc...
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Saw something similar the other day at the local dealership. A young man had just bought a new wide glide and was getting ready to ride it home wearing a wife beater, shorts, and tennis shoes. I told the sales guy when he came back into the building after the kid left that he should have sold him a pair of boots and some jeans to. He just smiled a little. I guess he will learn his leason when he gets a bumble bee up those shorts going down the road. I'm guess also, the kid has never riden a 110 Harley with shorts on. OUCH!
Just like we had to learn lessons in life.....the school of hard knocks. I'm a real knucklehead so sometimes I had to learn the lessons more than once.
By the way, it doesn't take a bumble bee to learn that lesson..........a couple little ol' honey bees will teach that lesson just as fast. That was one lesson that I never had to learn the hard way. But there was a time not to many years ago that I was riding my Heritage and got stung in the throat about six times.....guess I rode through a swarm of them and didn't know it. Ended up in the hospital for the night. But it does occur to me when I see guys in shorts....especially if they don't have fairings. :o
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Guilty! I have ridden in shorts and still do on occasion. Sleeveless T-shirts, guilty again. Shoes of all types but never flip flops.
If I could get that bee to sting certain areas and make it swell to twice normal size....well then my wife would probably make me wear shorts riding all the time. :huepfenlol2:
I do guess Chains it maybe just a matter of prioritizing, whats more important to save if you do go down...legs, arms, face, head. I dunno, to each his own.
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I bet that was a wasp JC, they will get you over and over again. Nasty damn things. You can probably remember the days when it was cool to wear those big bell bottom jeans on stretched choppers, all kinds of stuff went up those funnels...did it and ouch. Doc
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Got so used to wearing all the gear all the time when I was in the service that I still do. We were told that if you weren't wearing protective gear and got in a wreck and died they didn't have to pay the insurance. Not sure if it's still the same but I hardly ever ride without all the gear.
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Been stung on two different occasions, funny thing is both were inside my helmet. Once I got stung 5 times on my cheek as I was driving hitting and moving my helmet around by the time I got to a place I could stop I found a dead wasp laying between my legs on the seat....whew that was bad
I always ride with at least jeans, sometimes chaps, always riding boots and leather jacket even when 90 deg. Don't wear a helmet when in a non helmet state though.
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Some of the members of this forum can tell you what it looked like from the back when I got a cricket (or was it a beetle) inside my helmet, jumping all around. Between trying to get my face shield opened and trying to get the bike stopped (yes, in the middle of Hwy. 50 somewhere in Nev.) it was apparently quite funny to those riding behind me. :nixweiss:
Let me just tell you that no matter how small it is......when it's flying or jumping all around inside your full face helmet it's bigger than life! :o
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I always ride with full gear on.
The only evidence that I have ever seen that Darwin's theory might have some validity is when I see the shorts/flip-flops/no helmet people riding a motorcycle.
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Some of the members of this forum can tell you what it looked like from the back when I got a cricket (or was it a beetle) inside my helmet, jumping all around. Between trying to get my face shield opened and trying to get the bike stopped (yes, in the middle of Hwy. 50 somewhere in Nev.) it was apparently quite funny to those riding behind me. :nixweiss:
Let me just tell you that no matter how small it is......when it's flying or jumping all around inside your full face helmet it's bigger than life! :o
It's not fun, the story of when that wasp just started stinging me was while I was doing 65 on the expressway. Your story sounded just like mine, brought back some bad memories, kind of funny if your on the other side but something like that could get ugly real fast.
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Got hit in the upper lip one day by a bee going around 70, felt like a rock hit me. Got stopped, wife pulled the stinger out and we went on. In less than one half hour, my upper lip looked like Mary Jo Buttafucco's and I talked like Elmer Fudd. Last time I rode my Road King without the windshield. Had a helmet and full gear on but no shield.
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40 years ago I went down at 50mph without any riding gear... It was an awful painful expierence that lasted for months. Not quite as bad as the time I jumped sand dunes and went in face first with my mouth open. I got all "choked up" over that one.
Then my wife and I were hit head-on by a woman who just flew past a stop sign and hit us head-on. At that point I figured I was well protected by a hellmit, jeans, Tee shirt, etc. After leaving the hospital, I was stuck on a couch for two weeks before I could even get up and go pee. And even that was difficlt with two casts on my arms. Forget about going #2, it was good to have a wife. Did I mention my crushed leg and football size foot? Oh, and a fractured back was big fun too... At least I got to watch 911 on TV as it happened, since I couldn't move anyway. Kinda pointless screamin at the TV sayin; "Let me at those guys!" when I was basically just a vegetable, huh? However, since the only decent riding gear I had on was a hellmit, I didn't die from the impact of flying thru the air and landing on my head and right shoulder.
In 2004 I was actually geared up pretty good with hellmit, leathers, boots, ect. when I was hit from behind while turning by another bike going at least 65mph. Even with gear I ended up with two broken wrists, broken arm, broken nose, and my face crushed in breaking off a section of my skull. At least I didn't suffer any major road rash, LOL. Of course my brain had bounced off the front and rear of the skull inside causing the loss of a few very useful brain cells, but at least they did bolt my skull back together so I still looked "Purty"... And, they used that "high quality" plates and screws made from titanium. That was thoughtful of them because I don't set off alarms in airports now...
If you ride casually dressed because you think there is no chance of you going down, get ready for some serious pain and make sure your doctor gives you good pain meds...
If this happens to you, I have lots of good info on assisting recovery I will share if needed. I am considering writing a book. How to make those anoying motorcycle injuries fun and exciting, by jimbob
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Real riding boots, full gloves, heavy denim jeans, helmet, and either a leather jacket in cold weather or a lightweight windbreaker type of jacket in hot weather (the kind Harley has sold for years for riding, with the clipped down collars and zippered pockets). I used to do without the jacket, but in recent years I've decided that having to constantly slather on that greasy feeling sun screen was a bigger PITA than just wearing a jacket. So even when it's 90° out, I wear the jacket and all the other gear. When the temps climb well above 90, like this past week, I just park the bike. The old body doesn't tolerate that kind of heat anymore.
I've seen my share of knuckleheads in flipflops or sneakers, shorts, no shirt, no gloves, no helmet, etc., but for some reason I'm seeing a lot fewer of those types the past couple years. Not sure if it's got anything to do with them becoming wiser (probably not), or maybe it has something to do with all those folks who weren't real bikers but just Johnny-come-latelys trying to be "cool", who have probably either sold their bikes or lost them to repossession since the depression and are no longer out there acting like fools. Who knows.
No skin off my nose if folks want to ride naked, but it's likely to result in some skin off them eventually. And maybe those nasty burns on folks legs and ankles from exhaust pipes is a badge of honor these days. We do seem to have a large segment of the population that seems to think doing really dumb and painful stuff is "cool".
Jerry
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Boots, Jeans and or leathers, helmet and gloves 100% even if I am going to the corner store.
Leathers and full finger gloves when it is cold in Tampa HA! will put on the fullface if it gets too cold
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Go for a ride?????????? HAHAHAHAHA!
The story from the Victorville Daily Press:
Motorcyclist crash lands in back seat of van; Driver was unaware
July 21, 2011 5:24 PM
Brooke Edwards
Staff Writer
VICTORVILLE • Deputies and witnesses were left scratching their heads Thursday after a motorcyclist rear-ended a minivan and landed in the back seat unscathed.
Meanwhile, the driver of the van continued making his turn and pulled into his own driveway nearby, completely unaware that he had a new passenger.
“We’re calling this one a non-injury collision with a twist,” Karen Hunt, spokeswoman for the San Bernardino County Sheriff’s Victorville station, said, glad the crash had a happy ending.
Authorities got a call at 3:46 p.m. about a motorcycle crashing into a minivan on Village Drive at Rancho Road, Hunt said.
“Then callers started saying, ‘We don’t know where the rider is,’” Hunt said, afraid he’d slid under the vehicle. “That’s when it started to sound ominous.”
After they got to the scene, deputies pieced together the story.
The driver of the minivan was heading north on Village Drive when he slowed down to turn left on Rancho Road. The motorcyclist following behind him didn’t stop in time and crashed into the rear of the van, shattering the van’s window.
By then, the minivan driver had already committed to the turn and pulled onto his driveway less than half a block away, Hunt said, calling out to his wife that he’d just been rear-ended and needed to get back to the scene.
As he turned around, the man discovered the shocked motorcyclist behind him.
Though there was severe damage to the motorcycle and back of the minivan, Hunt said no charges were filed in the case and neither of the men required any medical attention.
“The helmet sustained most of the impact,” Hunt said, with the motorcyclist only asking for an ice pack for one of his hands.
Any questions????
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Leather, well over the ankle, lace up riding boots, jeans, full deerskin gloves, full face helmet, and 90% of the time some kind of jacket. If it gets too hot for at least that stuff, I just don't ride, if given a choice. If the weather is even slightly cool enough, leather chaps go on, and either my thick leather jacket, or my mesh jacket with armour in the shoulders, elbows, and back. I will never, ever get on the bike without a helmet, regardless of the state...I value what little thinking ability I have too much. I prefer not having my wife empty my drool bucket until I'm at least 90.
It literally almost makes me sick to my stomach to see someone on a bike with shorts and flip flops on.
I got enough road rash riding bicycles when I was a kid...I don't like pain, even if I do get good drugs to ease it.
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I see the shorts and flip flops here alot..and I dont get it...Maybe they are just cruising up and down the beach.
Boots n jeans/T for me at least. Besides if I rode topless there would be people either sceaming in fear or laughing uncontrollably.
Go out country by me and blood will flow from all the sharp edged bugs..and its cooler not having the sun cook you like bacon. Ever get sunburn on the tops of your feet, yow!
I have to wear a helmet now because I have to (skull busted), not want to...
But I dont miss the frizzing skull sensation from extended ride sans helmet.
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99.9% of the time I have a helmet on and wear jeans and gloves when I ride. 98% of the time I am also wearing some type of motorcycle jacket whether it is leather, nylon or mesh or any combination thereof. Last weekend it was 102 degrees here with 83% humidity so a heat index of 115! Kandy and I went to a dealer event that evening and I just wore a short sleeve shirt, 1/2 helmet and jeans. Felt underdressed!
When I see people riding in cutoffs, sandals, sleeveless shirts and no helmets, I just assume they haven't been exposed to a portion of the motorcycle experience.
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FULL GEAR all the time. I enjoy riding and I want to continue as long as I am physically able. And since I can't predict when that bad event might happen, why take an unnecessary risk? However, I do believe that we all should have the freedom to make our own decisions concerning this.
Tom P.
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Boots, Jeans, Helmet, Eyewear and a T-shirt.
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This has been a fun read. And I don't mean for this to be serious but I do need to point out the irony.
Isn't it funny that scuffing your pumpkin because you chose not to were a helmet seems more tolerable than skinning your knee because you wore shorts vs. jeans?
And for the sleeveless vs the short sleeve t-shirt well...well...ahh never mind.
I am not going to judge.
I am going to go run an errand on my HD and I am wearing shorts, but I will have a full short sleeve t=shirt on. :huepfenlol2:
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No helmets in Oklahoma for adults (18 & over).
Therefore, I only wear a helmet to stay warm in the winter.
I ride in shorts every now and then. It's not for everyone.... you gotta have the legs for it ;D
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This has been a fun read. And I don't mean for this to be serious but I do need to point out the irony.
Isn't it funny that scuffing your pumpkin because you chose not to were a helmet seems more tolerable than skinning your knee because you wore shorts vs. jeans?
And for the sleeveless vs the short sleeve t-shirt well...well...ahh never mind.
I am not going to judge.
I am going to go run an errand on my HD and I am wearing shorts, but I will have a full short sleeve t=shirt on. :huepfenlol2:
I like this - great points. :xyxthumbs:
In AZ, no helmet required. We ride year-round and the summers can get brutal. However, anytime I am on the main roads or Highways, its helmet, Jeans Boots and ey protection. I wear a half shell, so I am vulnerable to all the objects flying. But, it's what I am comfortable with.
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Good leather boots (HD FXRG or Ridge Ultimate 9000's), Held Air Gloves in summer and FXRG's in winter, both full finger, Vanson Mesh with CE Armor in summer, HD Textile with full armor in winter and heavy weight jeans and Shoei Multi-tec full-face helmet, never ride without these combo's, never. Went down @ 50mph in '74 from collision with another bike and have never forgot how that felt. I live in central Florida where it is hot, but sweating always beats roadrash.
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It's all gear for me, I've grown to dislike pain and opt for protection, a simple bicycle helmet and motorcycle helmet has save my life, might as well keep the rest protected. 8) MAT
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I like what has been said about freedom to choose and I say ride as you like but you may pay for it. I live 15 minutes from KY and see all the bare heads but keep my helmet on. I was raised on dirt bikes and helmets, gloves and good shoes/boots were are must. I would feel naked without my gear. They won't evev wear a helmet for warmth in the winter.
Flip flops?? I almost dropped the bike in the driveway after doing a wash due to the poor footing of those things. Little thing like that cheap rubber strap breaking could cause you to dump it a the red light. Boots for me.
Shorts? Tried it at the Outer Banks last year and the sand and heat ate me up, never again.
I do like T-shirts and have a trillion of them with all the Harley propaganda.
The least dressed and the most dressed around here are the young crotch rocket riders, go figure?????
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Jeans, Gloves, leather zippered riding boots, (don't like laces they can get tangled in pegs and stuff) leather or mesh jacket (depends on which bike I am Riding) always a helmet (half or full face). I do alot of riding in PA...as soon as we cross the state line my buddy peels his helmet off :nixweiss:
I know a lot of people who ride in shorts flip flops T shirts etc.. "Crazy" I kept warning a girl i work with. Always had to look like the sexy biker chick.. she burned the inside of her leg on the exhaust of her boyfriends bike.Now she wears jeans, go figure
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Boots, Jeans, Helmet, Eyewear and a T-shirt.
Eyewear, absolutely! You might survive all your life with no helmet and no injury but it is only a matter of time till you get eye damage, especially with no windshield.
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Don't ware a helmet much anymore, I wear jeans and riding boots, but don't think jeans offer much protection. Summer when it's hot just ride in a tee shirt, no jacket. I jump on once in a while with sneakers and shorts to go just down the street.
Craig
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For me, it's always, jeans, zip up leather boots, gloves (either full fingered or fingerless), jacket of some sort (leather or heavy mesh) 75% of the time, ANSI approved safety lenses in my sun glasses or clear lenses for night riding, and ALWAYS, regardless of where I am, at a minimum, a half-helmet. I'm still here to enjoy riding my bikes because of my helmet after some yahoo in a pickup truck T-Boned me on my bike many moons ago. So there's no option in my opinion, law or no helmet law, I wear one. I get a kick out of the crotch-rocket riders around here. They'll wear shorts, t-shirts, and sandals or tennis shoes, and a full-face helmet. They may get road-rashed totally, but their pretty faces will be left in tact. :-\
:devil:
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Now that we've bared our souls concerning outerwear, what about underwear? Do you always follow the advice of your mother and make sure you have clean underwear before every ride just in case you wind up in the hospital? How about wearing a cup to protect against impact damage to vital parts? Or perhaps those who prefer to exercise their freedoms choose to ride sans underwear?
Personally, I think all good looking chicks should have to ride in thong bikini's. After we get that law passed, I don't care what all you ugly old guys wear.
Jerry
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Now that we've bared our souls concerning outerware, what about underwear? Do you always follow the advice of your mother and make sure you have clean underwear before every ride just in case you wind up in the hospital? How about wearing a cup to protect against impact damage to vital parts? Or perhaps those who prefer to exercise their freedoms choose to ride sans underwear?
Personally, I think all good looking chicks should have to ride in thong bikini's. After we get that law passed, I don't care what all you ugly old guys wear.
Jerry
Glad to see you qualified it to good looking chicks...............
the other day I overtook a sport biker that must have been pushing a big weight number and her clothing was pushing a number much smaller than needed. Not sure why I was compelled to sanp a pic, but it was most likely so I could post a don't ride unless you are properly attired as to not offend others post.
Unfortunately FORTUNATELY this picture didn't turn out too well, details are missing
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Now that we've bared our souls concerning outerwear, what about underwear? Do you always follow the advice of your mother and make sure you have clean underwear before every ride just in case you wind up in the hospital? How about wearing a cup to protect against impact damage to vital parts? Or perhaps those who prefer to exercise their freedoms choose to ride sans underwear?
Personally, I think all good looking chicks should have to ride in thong bikini's. After we get that law passed, I don't care what all you ugly old guys wear.
Jerry
TMI!
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No Helmet law in Maine, but I have worn a helmet since 1963, just something I do.
I have seen plenty of Wife Beater, Shorts, Tennis Sneakers and No helmets this summer.
Cheers
DR
No helmet law in CO but I ware one most of the time... so do a lot of other riders I see on the road. Have not seen many in shorts etc...
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If, and/or when, I ever go down again, it won't be because I couldn't see, or couldn't hear. HUB just can't operate no Motorsickle with his view, and what little ability he has left to hear, obstructed. Not to say I'm careless or on a death trip, but when I ride, I ride for the freedom. Freedom from all these fu*king rules and regulations I have to abide by in my work-a-day life everyday. Freedom from the fear of thinking about somebody taking what I've worked for all my life. Freedom, man. Freedom from chit I can't find anywhere else, except on Ol' Maudie. I ain't thinking about wreckin' when I'm in the breeze, either. If I did, that would seem to create fear. Fear has no place on a Motorsickle. Respect of the Motorsickle and the privilege to ride it any damn way I want to, is what I have. I ride without a helmet every chance I get. But that's just me. ;) Later--HUBBARD
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40 years ago I went down at 50mph without any riding gear... It was an awful painful expierence that lasted for months. Not quite as bad as the time I jumped sand dunes and went in face first with my mouth open. I got all "choked up" over that one.
Then my wife and I were hit head-on by a woman who just flew past a stop sign and hit us head-on. At that point I figured I was well protected by a hellmit, jeans, Tee shirt, etc. After leaving the hospital, I was stuck on a couch for two weeks before I could even get up and go pee. And even that was difficlt with two casts on my arms. Forget about going #2, it was good to have a wife. Did I mention my crushed leg and football size foot? Oh, and a fractured back was big fun too... At least I got to watch 911 on TV as it happened, since I couldn't move anyway. Kinda pointless screamin at the TV sayin; "Let me at those guys!" when I was basically just a vegetable, huh? However, since the only decent riding gear I had on was a hellmit, I didn't die from the impact of flying thru the air and landing on my head and right shoulder.
In 2004 I was actually geared up pretty good with hellmit, leathers, boots, ect. when I was hit from behind while turning by another bike going at least 65mph. Even with gear I ended up with two broken wrists, broken arm, broken nose, and my face crushed in breaking off a section of my skull. At least I didn't suffer any major road rash, LOL. Of course my brain had bounced off the front and rear of the skull inside causing the loss of a few very useful brain cells, but at least they did bolt my skull back together so I still looked "Purty"... And, they used that "high quality" plates and screws made from titanium. That was thoughtful of them because I don't set off alarms in airports now...
If you ride casually dressed because you think there is no chance of you going down, get ready for some serious pain and make sure your doctor gives you good pain meds...
If this happens to you, I have lots of good info on assisting recovery I will share if needed. I am considering writing a book. How to make those anoying motorcycle injuries fun and exciting, by jimbob
jimbob, if we ever meet at a gathering I would love to shake your hand! But if we ever go on a group ride...I might have to sit that one out! :o :D ;D :huepfenlol2: :huepfenlol2: :huepfenlol2:
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Traveled up to Ohio on Wednesday to a supplier conference to get an award for my company. Been a few years since I went back home and was taken back by the riding attire in Kentucky and Ohio.
Saw more riders in shorts, flip flops, no shirts, no helmets on the I75 going well over 80MPH. I enjoy riding without a helmet probably more than the next guy, but riding in shorts, no shirt flip flops at a high rate of speed is against all the ways I know to stay safe.
Wide variety of bikes from Harley's to Honda's, ages varied from teens to seniors. I believe you should have the right to wear a helmet if you want to or not, but half dressed just doesn't seem right.
Have I slipped into senility or has the heat affected the riders I witnessed with a death wish?
I share your outlook 100% , on all points. I seem to have noticed an increasing number of the shorts/flip-flops crowd on the high speed crotch-rockets also .
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I hit a bee or wasp or something like kind on the way home two nights ago running about 90mph. Hit me on bridge of nose just below glasses, I knew at moment of impact I had been stung but was only a few miles from house so I rode on home. Never found a stinger but both eyes swelled almost shut.
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What a great thread....I can relate to all the bee sting stories and the road-rash stories and can only add as I'm still recovering from the latest bike accident that you will truly appreciate each and every bit of gear you have on very much as you bounce & slide & tumble. And yes, jeans do give a lot of protection, but not as much a leathers. Gloves & boots are as important as helmets to me at least since the fingers and toes/ankles really take a beating on the pavement. Even the leather vest I was wearing over the T'shirt absorbed a lot of abuse on the back (and retained my pistol throughout the entire cannonball episode) Wear what you want to and you'll be glad you did . Oh, and Jimbob, you need to write that book. ;) har. spyder
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Boots & long pants a must!! Never a helmet unless forced!!
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What a great thread....I can relate to all the bee sting stories and the road-rash stories and can only add as I'm still recovering from the latest bike accident that you will truly appreciate each and every bit of gear you have on very much as you bounce & slide & tumble. And yes, jeans do give a lot of protection, but not as much a leathers. Gloves & boots are as important as helmets to me at least since the fingers and toes/ankles really take a beating on the pavement. Even the leather vest I was wearing over the T'shirt absorbed a lot of abuse on the back (and retained my pistol throughout the entire cannonball episode) Wear what you want to and you'll be glad you did . Oh, and Jimbob, you need to write that book. ;) har. spyder
So true...hands and feet are the most common injury in a motorcycle crash...next to the head. Having just recovered from a relatively minor fracture of the 5th metatarsal on my right foot, broken bones in the feet are NO fun and will put a grown man down for a while. If you don't do anything else, find a comfortable pair of over the ankle leather boots, wear some wicking socks so they'll be comfortable in all kinds of weather, and wear some kind of decent gloves. Most of us here are no longer Spring Chickens...things I'd get over in a couple of weeks when I was younger now take at least twice as long, and I'm not in that bad a shape for my age. No sense taking chances that might keep you from pursuing this passion we all love because of not having the proper gear on your body when the need arises. The trade-offs just aren't worth it for me.
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FXRG boots all the time, Jeans all the time. Above 80 a tee shirt or sleeveless tee shirt, below 80 long sleeves or light jacket. Usually light weight perforated gloves. Helmet depends on the situation, mandatory in my state. Out of state it depends on traffic level. I wear a 1/2 dot helmet. I have considered a full face for the winter.
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For me its boots and gloves as a must and helmet optional depending what state I'm in. Up until I got my ClearView I needed a full helmet or mask to protect from wind burn, but the CV took care of that. I like a full helmet when its cold or raining though and always take it on long trips for protection from the elements. I don't like the helmet law we have here in CA, and would rather have a choice. CA just went along with the federal law or would have lost some of its highway money, but soon after that the feds repealed their helmet law. I'm thinkin with the help from ABATE we will loose out helmet law in the future because the statistics that were promissed by the pro helmet bunch didn't happen. Doc
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Helmet, boots, jeans, gloves but with the occasional short sleeve shirt. Call me a rebel ;)
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In South Carolina, except Myrtle Beach, if you are 18 or over you have the choice of the type of injuries you receive in an accident. Helmets are optional. I used to ride without, but having pushed my luck to the max I decided to ware a helmet. Over the past few years I have worn a helmet every time I ride. I am still guilty of riding in tennis shoes on occasion. ( working on that one. ) Gave up flip flop riding in the 60's. I guess the older I get the more painful injuries are.
After all I'm not 10 foot tall and bullet proof any more. :o
Mike
:drink:
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Apparantly, flipflops and shorts are suitable attire for smoking an R1
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=fZowicdbNxo
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All the time! I rarely go for a ride without a helmet and either a First Gear Armored Jacket or a set of Armour from High Velocity. I'd rather live to ride another day by being properly protected. When I spent my time working at the H-D shop, I've seen too many people with broken limbs, had to be put back together with pins, or just plain had their skin removed from their bodies unwillingly by a nice and rough patch of blacktop. This includes my father who has the scars to show how well t-shirts works against a 67mph road rash. No thanks. Since I copied a link to the helmet topic, here's High Velocities link: http://www.highvelocitygear.com/JuggernautBodyArmor.html
...And no I'm not a seller of their product, just a believer of what they are peddling from wearing their product. FYI - They are super comfortable and the only downside I can see is the chin protection on my full face helmet bumps into the shoulder pad when completely turning your head back for a lane change.
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95 % of the time it's helmet, jacket ,chaps ,jeans, boots. Can think of only 1 or 2 times ever to ride without boots. After T boning Mazda Miata at 50 mph wearing full gear no road rash as Basically think of wiley coyote slamming off a cliff, is how I landed, just a broken arm, finger, and hip fracture. Lucily it was in March and not August as I sometimes forgo the leather when real hot.
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95 % of the time it's helmet, jacket ,chaps ,jeans, boots. Can think of only 1 or 2 times ever to ride without boots. After T boning Mazda Miata at 50 mph wearing full gear no road rash as Basically think of wiley coyote slamming off a cliff, is how I landed, just a broken arm, finger, and hip fracture. Lucily it was in March and not August as I sometimes forgo the leather when real hot.
In our ride reports and pictures of nor cal /so cal reports someone will ask from time to time "how come you guys all leathered up the weather looks great" These two prior posts says it well--AK
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i wear a helmet and boots at all times
but i dont wear a jacket when its hot
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I live in Florida and there is no helmet law.. But I won't ride without one.. I like my head way too much not to protect it. I always wear jeans and shoes.. no boots any longer.
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Only times I wear a helmet is going on and off base (Required) and when traveling with my wife. Never know when you will cross over state lines into a state requiring helmets
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I have always worn "full" motorcycle clothing when riding my scooter and after my unfortunate accident back in June, I will continue to ride with full gear. Every piece of clothing/gear that the ER doctor's peeled off my body I could hear them saying "well, this saved her life". :angel:
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When I was young and invincable....I didn't wear a helmet. After doing a face plant into a van and shattered jaw, I now wear a modular and have always wore levis and boots. Protect my feet but not my head :nixweiss:
In Sturgis a few years ago, we left the B&B (yea, we were roughing it) that we were staying at to go into town. We both felt very vulnerable and turned around to go get our helmets.....never tried to ride without one since. I am paying attention to God's wake up call. ;D
Levis and boots have always been standard for me.....wether I'm riding or not.
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No helmet law here.... but gear in this tropical climate is always an option.
Bees in helmets.... yup.. with the visor open just one click I had 2 find thier way in once.... stung on the forehead, ear, neck over the years... fortunately no allergies.
For my commutes to work, classes , or other things that put into the pack with inattentive cagers, gear is a must... Boots, Jeans, Jacket with body armor, gloves, normally a 1/2 helmet.
If the weather is more inclement, a modular helmet works in addition to all the above.
Now... on a casual weekend or night ride (no deer or other large game except an occasional feral mountain pig) usually minimal gear (unless its really cold ~ 65 degrees or below) yeah.. cold is relative here
There were three motorcycle crashes here last week... one fatal, in morning traffic... he had all his gear on.
Bottom line is sometimes gear helps, sometimes it doesnt...all we can do is be prepared...
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The whole road rash thing can be almost as bad as having your head busted open. I don't know if anyone here has ever been burned badly, but road rash is virtually the same thing, only they have to pick gravel and chit out of the meat before they scrub it down and bandage it up. My neck was serverly burned in a soldering accident on a commercial refrigeration unit, and let me tell you, the pain is something you don't want to experience, nor the visits to the doctor to have the wounds debreeded (I think that's the term), where they remove the bandage and then scrub the wound with a sponge and phisohex. That's to let it heal from the inside out, rather than scabbing over and causing big scars. It works, but laying on a table having that done is not something I ever want to go through again. So, I wear full gear, 98% of the time...only when it's 98 degrees and 90% humidity might I take the jacket off when around town. The new mesh jackets with armour are really not too bad as long as you're moving a little.
Three things are likely to get injured in a bike wreck: Head, feet, and hands. I have seen 4 or 5 bike wrecks in my lifetime, and in at least three of them the person was wearing tennis shoes, which came off immediately after they hit the pavement. Their feet were not pretty to look at. And that was just the skin/meat ground off them, much less the broken bones. And there are a lot of small bones in your feet to get broken, and they take a while to heal. Good boots and wicking socks are a good idea...
In the early 70's I didn't worry about that kind of stuff when riding a death trap chopper. Nowadays I'd just as soon be around as long as possible.
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The whole road rash thing can be almost as bad as having your head busted open. I wear full gear, 98% of the time...only when it's 98 degrees and 90% humidity might I take the jacket off when around town. The new mesh jackets with armour are really not too bad as long as you're moving a little.
Three things are likely to get injured in a bike wreck: Head, feet, and hands. I have seen 4 or 5 bike wrecks in my lifetime, and in at least three of them the person was wearing tennis shoes, which came off immediately after they hit the pavement. Their feet were not pretty to look at. And that was just the skin/meat ground off them, much less the broken bones. And there are a lot of small bones in your feet to get broken, and they take a while to heal. Good boots and wicking socks are a good idea...
In the early 70's I didn't worry about that kind of stuff when riding a death trap chopper. Nowadays I'd just as soon be around as long as possible.
So true, so true. spyder
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Just read all the comments. It seems there are two schools of thought, but we're all personally responsible for what happens if we're not prepared for the worst. I've ridden without a helmet in the past. When I lived in Hawaii it was no big deal to jump on the chopper and run around the island in a T-shirt, shorts and tennis shoes. Burned my leg once, so it convinced be to wear jeans at all times. Over the years, I too have become more cautious.
Now, I wear full gear in all kinds of weather, but will strip down to a vest on the topside when it gets hot. When it is over 90dg I wear a cool vest under a mesh jacket. As long as you're moving it's as if you're in a swamp cooler. Nice.
I was a medic at Tripler Army Medical Center on Oahu in 1974. We went on an Ambulance call one night to a MC accident. The rider was in critical condition. One of the guys walked over to pick up what looked like his tennis shoe and fount it still had his foot in it. After that night I always wore boots.
I also believe it should be the individual's right to decide what works for them. Having the guberment dictate how and what we do with our lives just irritates me to no end. Their intrusion into our lives is...okay, I'll shut up.
But one more thing:
"Those who would give up essential liberty to purchase a little temporary safety deserve neither liberty nor safety." B. Franklin
And I agree. They're not hired to protect us from ourselves. Although some may need it, I don't.
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Just read all the comments. It seems there are two schools of thought, but we're all personally responsible for what happens if we're not prepared for the worst. I've ridden without a helmet in the past. When I lived in Hawaii it was no big deal to jump on the chopper and run around the island in a T-shirt, shorts and tennis shoes. Burned my leg once, so it convinced be to wear jeans at all times. Over the years, I too have become more cautious.
Now, I wear full gear in all kinds of weather, but will strip down to a vest on the topside when it gets hot. When it is over 90dg I wear a cool vest under a mesh jacket. As long as you're moving it's as if you're in a swamp cooler. Nice.
I was a medic at Tripler Army Medical Center on Oahu in 1974. We went on an Ambulance call one night to a MC accident. The rider was in critical condition. One of the guys walked over to pick up what looked like his tennis shoe and fount it still had his foot in it. After that night I always wore boots.
I also believe it should be the individual's right to decide what works for them. Having the guberment dictate how and what we do with our lives just irritates me to no end. Their intrusion into our lives is...okay, I'll shut up.
But one more thing:
"Those who would give up essential liberty to purchase a little temporary safety deserve neither liberty nor safety." B. Franklin
And I agree. They're not hired to protect us from ourselves. Although some may need it, I don't.
Well said.... the right to choose to protect yourself..... like wearing a condom.. you know there is risk..... do chose protection or heightened pleasure? (yes, it does feel better with it off)
Maybe I'm getting older, a little wiser, and the body does take longer to heal... so wearing gear is a good idea.... do I always follow my own advice?... no
I have been solicited by the local MSF instructor who is looking for skilled riders to help teach the classes.. my balk is having to practice what I preach... all the time. Maybe its time to pass the torch.
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Maybe I'm getting older, a little wiser, and the body does take longer to heal... so wearing gear is a good idea.... do I always follow my own advice?... no
I have been solicited by the local MSF instructor who is looking for skilled riders to help teach the classes.. my balk is having to practice what I preach... all the time. Maybe its time to pass the torch.
Uh Oh. :oops: There go the 'flip-flops'. har. :drink: spyder
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Uh Oh. :oops: There go the 'flip-flops'. har. :drink: spyder
Exactly! :huepfenlol2:
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Okay, while I didn't read all 5 pages... Can anyone confirm, as I simply haven't followed up because what I'm fixin' to type only makes perfect sense to me.
Being a Veteran, and having served in a few States that did not require helmets, I've often been told that because it is a DOD requirement that all Active Duty must wear helmets, regardless of State laws, IF you were to get killed while operating a motorcycle while without a helmet, the Life Insurance Policy under the Gov't System will not pay out to the benefactors, because you simply did not have on a helmet.
Has anyone else heard of this, because I've also been told (and again, cause it makes sense) that if after you got out or retired and transferred your Life Insurance to the Civilian equivalent, the same applies... No Helmet, No Payments to Benefactors.
I've been down... as maybe some on this forum... my gear saved my life and limbs and I wouldn't be here today if not for my helmet.
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I always wear a full face helmet, boots, and jeans. I wear as much leather as I can stand depending on the heat. Over about 90 degrees I switch to an armored mesh jacket.
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Okay, while I didn't read all 5 pages... Can anyone confirm, as I simply haven't followed up because what I'm fixin' to type only makes perfect sense to me.
Being a Veteran, and having served in a few States that did not require helmets, I've often been told that because it is a DOD requirement that all Active Duty must wear helmets, regardless of State laws, IF you were to get killed while operating a motorcycle while without a helmet, the Life Insurance Policy under the Gov't System will not pay out to the benefactors, because you simply did not have on a helmet.
Has anyone else heard of this, because I've also been told (and again, cause it makes sense) that if after you got out or retired and transferred your Life Insurance to the Civilian equivalent, the same applies... No Helmet, No Payments to Benefactors.
I've been down... as maybe some on this forum... my gear saved my life and limbs and I wouldn't be here today if not for my helmet.
I am unaware of any stipulations on Civilian Life Insurance Policies ( I used to sell life insurance)
Joe
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jimbob, if we ever meet at a gathering I would love to shake your hand! But if we ever go on a group ride...I might have to sit that one out! :o :D ;D :huepfenlol2: :huepfenlol2: :huepfenlol2:
LOL. Some say a cat has nine lives; so I figure I'm on my second cat now. My favorite was 440 volts using my body as a ground. I have a lot of good stories to tell, but some will have to come out after I'm actually gone. One thing I can tell you is that there isn't any virgins on the other side. Man are those suicide bombers gonna be surprised, LOL..
jb
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I am unaware of any stipulations on Civilian Life Insurance Policies ( I used to sell life insurance)
Joe
Two of my favorite hell-mitts sacrificed themselves to keep me alive.
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I always wear a helmet and boots, usually a jacket with armor and chaps. One of my riding buddies will go out with a t-shirt and shorts, tennis shoes and a skull cap. He chides me for the time it takes to take all my gear off when we go somewhere, he just unsnaps his beenie and is done. What gets me is he has had a few trips to the ER from some bad judgement days when he decided to drink and drive way beyond his capability to do so. Last one nearly killed him and he has some lingering brain injuries that will be with him the rest of his life. My noggin has a lot of important stuff in it that I would have a hard time functioning without. I don't know anybody that would leave all their valuables exposed for the taking by who ever comes along, they wouldn't call them valuables if that were the case. Why leave our bodies, especially our heads, exposed to whatever comes along when it is so easy to put a helmet and other protective gear on?
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Started off riding without a helmet on short trips around town and would wear a helmet on long rides. That all changed after a friend of mine almost lost his life do to a freak accident where his jacket; that was rolled up and strapped to the back of his chopper; came loose and got stuck in his wheel and catapulted him off the bike at 80 mph sans helmet. He is very lucky to be alive but he will never walk again let alone ride a bike and he has lost a lot of his capability to speak.
Ever since that day my wife and I ride with helmets (even thought they are only 1/2 helmets) no matter how long of a bike ride we are taking.
I have always ridden in boots, jeans & t-shirts (w/wo sleeves) in hot weather. Cool weather I add a light jacket and cold weather the chaps, heated gear and leather jacket get put on.
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Okay, while I didn't read all 5 pages... Can anyone confirm, as I simply haven't followed up because what I'm fixin' to type only makes perfect sense to me.
Being a Veteran, and having served in a few States that did not require helmets, I've often been told that because it is a DOD requirement that all Active Duty must wear helmets, regardless of State laws, IF you were to get killed while operating a motorcycle while without a helmet, the Life Insurance Policy under the Gov't System will not pay out to the benefactors, because you simply did not have on a helmet.
Has anyone else heard of this, because I've also been told (and again, cause it makes sense) that if after you got out or retired and transferred your Life Insurance to the Civilian equivalent, the same applies... No Helmet, No Payments to Benefactors.
I've been down... as maybe some on this forum... my gear saved my life and limbs and I wouldn't be here today if not for my helmet.
It doesn't have anything to do with the life insurance itself. The military requires, by regulation, that you must ride with all the appropriate safety gear, including a DoT approved helmet, both on and off base. If you were to have an accident and were killed, the military, through a line of duty investigation, could, and probably would, determine that it was a non-line of duty accident and therefore insurance would not be paid. When I was in the Navy, I was told all this when I had my accident on my bike. I was stationed in Washington State, which was a helmet optional state, and I was wearing, per regulation all my safety gear, and it was found to be a line of duty accident, and the military covered all my hospital and other medical expenses. Had I not have been wearing a helmet, they could have found it non line of duty, and I would have been responsible for about $30K in medical expenses, plus, I could have been charge with destruction of Government property, namely me!!!
Once you are out of the military, you are no longer subject to military regulations, so therefore, line of duty investigations would not pertain.
:devil:
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Thanks Red Devil... the whole line-of-duty determination process was something I had forgotten all about. Makes total sense now that your mention it. Ted 8)
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Florida State Law requires a helmet unless you are over 21 and have proof of medical insurance for 10Gs. I meet both requirements. I wear a 1/2 helmet but have ridden without a helmet up the A1A a few times. It is the exception not the rule. Most trips up Ocean and everywhere else are wearing a helmet, gloves, goggles, and leather vest. I have a leather jacket with armor and have a pair of Draggin' jeans (the size I ordered is a bit too large so I need to shrink them in the dryer a few times).
I also wear boots but frequently ride at lunch and have my work duds on including dress shoes. I do wear the helmet, vest, goggles, and gloves. Most folks in SoFlo go without helmet. I see a lot on I-95 like that. Funny thing, they are mostly riding cruisers. The crotch rocket riders all seem to wear helmets. Can't completely confirm as they are usually going about 90 mph or more.
Ride like everyone's out to kill you and get someone to give you a road gremlin bell for the bike. Loud pipes also help.
Ride Safe!
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I always wear the lid as well. Dont have to, but riding a bar-hopper and not having a windshield encourages have something to protect your face from dirt, debris, spit, coffee, lit cigarette butts, and all of the other wonderful things you encounter on the highways in DFW..... ;)
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It doesn't have anything to do with the life insurance itself. The military requires, by regulation, that you must ride with all the appropriate safety gear, including a DoT approved helmet, both on and off base. If you were to have an accident and were killed, the military, through a line of duty investigation, could, and probably would, determine that it was a non-line of duty accident and therefore insurance would not be paid. When I was in the Navy, I was told all this when I had my accident on my bike. I was stationed in Washington State, which was a helmet optional state, and I was wearing, per regulation all my safety gear, and it was found to be a line of duty accident, and the military covered all my hospital and other medical expenses. Had I not have been wearing a helmet, they could have found it non line of duty, and I would have been responsible for about $30K in medical expenses, plus, I could have been charge with destruction of Government property, namely me!!!
Once you are out of the military, you are no longer subject to military regulations, so therefore, line of duty investigations would not pertain.
:devil:
I wonder if that is a more recent development? When I was stationed in Hawaii between '73 and '77, I had a '69 BSA 650cc Thunderbolt chopper. I rode that thing to work at Scholfield Barracks all the time and never had a helmet. The subject just never came up, on or off post. At 25ish years of age, I didn't give it a thought. Rode in shorts and sandals a lot. Didn't even have any MC gear back then, even riding dirt bikes. Not even a vest or boots.
Now, when it came to tattoos, that was another subject alltogether. We were prohibited, but if we didn't show them, it was don't ask, don't tell...pretty sure. Article 15 if caught with a new one. :nixweiss:
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I wonder if that is a more recent development? When I was stationed in Hawaii between '73 and '77, I had a '69 BSA 650cc Thunderbolt chopper. I rode that thing to work at Scholfield Barracks all the time and never had a helmet. The subject just never came up, on or off post. At 25ish years of age, I didn't give it a thought. Rode in shorts and sandals a lot. Didn't even have any MC gear back then, even riding dirt bikes. Not even a vest or boots.
Now, when it came to tattoos, that was another subject alltogether. We were prohibited, but if we didn't show them, it was don't ask, don't tell...pretty sure. Article 15 if caught with a new one. :nixweiss:
I know it was already required in the 80's when I had my accident (1981). At least the Navy was mandating it. :nixweiss:
:devil:
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I live in a Helmet state and my helmet is off my head the min I enter a state that does not require it. Hate them. Everyone has a different comfort level with risk.
Monolyth
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When I was just a wee lad I wore next to nothing. Luckily the Marine Corps required gear and I got used to it. Thanks to that I came out of two bad crashes in fairly good shape. For me its jeans boots helmet jacket gloves all the time. Although I do go with a vest sometimes when it is hot enough.
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I came from a non-helmet law state (Illinois) :2vrolijk_21:, and live in a helmet law state (Michigan) :confused5: After 7 years, I guess I am used to it for the most part, but I still take it off on the back roads on hot days and put it in my lap to cool down. I guess I've gotten used to it being a false sense of security and I would wear it on the highways around other vehicles, but on the back roads where there is less traffic, it comes off immediately!
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I have been known to go with shorty gloves and no jacket at times but I always wear a helmet.
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I came from a non-helmet law state (Illinois) :2vrolijk_21:, and live in a helmet law state (Michigan) :confused5: After 7 years, I guess I am used to it for the most part, but I still take it off on the back roads on hot days and put it in my lap to cool down. I guess I've gotten used to it being a false sense of security and I would wear it on the highways around other vehicles, but on the back roads where there is less traffic, it comes off immediately!
Not sure where you're coming from calling a helmet a false sense of security. :nixweiss: I'm here today because of wearing a helmet during an accident, and the last thing I would call a helmet is a false sense of security. To me at least, it's a very real sense of security. But, whatever spins your prop. ???
:devil:
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Not sure where you're coming from calling a helmet a false sense of security. :nixweiss: I'm here today because of wearing a helmet during an accident, and the last thing I would call a helmet is a false sense of security. To me at least, it's a very real sense of security. But, whatever spins your prop. ???
:devil:
Probaly because a helmet only protects the HEAD and its contents, but doesnt do much for the rest of the rider.
I've seen many accidents that people walked away from while wearing helmets. The helmet helped some survive and others not. I can honestly say that given a choice between living my life in a wheelchair or a bed versus death, that my choice is not the bed or the wheelchair.
A helmet, coupled with the rest of the correct riding GEAR, and the correct MINDSET is what saves lives, not simply a helmet by itself.
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Probaly because a helmet only protects the HEAD and its contents, but doesnt do much for the rest of the rider.
I've seen many accidents that people walked away from while wearing helmets. The helmet helped some survive and others not. I can honestly say that given a choice between living my life in a wheelchair or a bed versus death, that my choice is not the bed or the wheelchair.
A helmet, coupled with the rest of the correct riding GEAR, and the correct MINDSET is what saves lives, not simply a helmet by itself.
You're absolutely correct, but still there isn't a false sense of security in a helmet. Again, my own opinion. I can't dispell anyone's wish to be dead rather than be disabled. Thank God, all our military personnel don't feel that way though. God bless 'em.
:devil:
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Okay, while I didn't read all 5 pages... Can anyone confirm, as I simply haven't followed up because what I'm fixin' to type only makes perfect sense to me.
Being a Veteran, and having served in a few States that did not require helmets, I've often been told that because it is a DOD requirement that all Active Duty must wear helmets, regardless of State laws, IF you were to get killed while operating a motorcycle while without a helmet, the Life Insurance Policy under the Gov't System will not pay out to the benefactors, because you simply did not have on a helmet.
Has anyone else heard of this, because I've also been told (and again, cause it makes sense) that if after you got out or retired and transferred your Life Insurance to the Civilian equivalent, the same applies... No Helmet, No Payments to Benefactors.
I've been down... as maybe some on this forum... my gear saved my life and limbs and I wouldn't be here today if not for my helmet.
Okay T-Hawk, here's the skinny from all the research that I've done.
SGLI is NOT required to pay IF you lose your life in a motorcycle wreck without a helmet AND the COD was blunt force trauma to the head.
HOWEVER, there has never, to this date, been a case where SGLI did not pay under those circumstances - the negative publicity would be too much for them.
Please keep in mind that they could start denying at any time but I think the odds are on the beneficiaries side if the worst should happen...
FEGLI - I need to look into now that I'm affected by it - I didn't even realize they had that same requirement - thanks for pointing that out!
Sparky
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Thanks Sparky, while I seldom ever ride without, at minimum, a half-helmet I've simply gotten used to wearing one having spent 22 years where it was mandatory to ride on Base/Post... and even now that I've been working 6 years with the Corps of Engineers. It's nice to ride wearing my cowboy hat during a parade that's under my personal 2mi limit... but during the rallies, you'll find me wearing a helmet. 8)
Picture of me pulling back into the staging area on the 4th of July, 2009 Parade in North Pole, AK
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Half helmet always - DOT one, not a cheap lid to avoid state laws. Full Face in the winter months. Texas repealed the helmet law, but I still wear it. Keep the grey matter in is my moto - the brain doesn't work well when it loses it.
I will admit in the summer, the leather comes off except for fingerless gloves and boots - and short sleeves are common. I know the sunscreen won't protect against road rash, and I know I will regret this if I ever go down on the road.
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Not sure where you're coming from calling a helmet a false sense of security. :nixweiss: I'm here today because of wearing a helmet during an accident, and the last thing I would call a helmet is a false sense of security. To me at least, it's a very real sense of security. But, whatever spins your prop. ???
:devil:
I have to agree with the devil........again. :nixweiss: For years I never wore anything until Calif. got a helmet law. Then it was the bear minamum novelty skull cap (can't really call it a helmet). Eventually I grew up just a bit and started wearing a legal (DOT approved) half shell helmet. Had a slow speed accident (25 mph) where I got all busted up and amongst other injuries, ended up with a shattered jaw. Now I wear a full face modular helmet.....even in states that don't have a helmet law.
I was very surprised to learn that they actually keep your head and face cooler in the hight temps, than no helmet at all (but of course if makes sense if you consider that your head is out of the sun and in shade all day). I had a mental block against that kind of thinking.....in the Marine Corps of the early 70s, they taught us that 80% of body heat escapes out the top of your head.....so I thought.....naturally you don't want to cover it up when it's in the triple digits that are normal for this area in the summer months. :nixweiss:
Of course, I knew it'd keep my head warmer in the cold weather.
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One of my crashes, the helmet worked very well, as in saving my sorry arse...The rest of me was well bashed....
Of course then when no helmet was an option, off it came....Now I must wear one because of the new $90K titanium plate in mee skull, the area around the plate attachement points are weak..Its not bad, just get used to it is all...Arai Profile full face to fit my oblong noggin...and a nxt carbon fiber 1/2 for local runs...
No more sunburnt head, as I aint got no crainal fur.
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and probably a good idea......if you go to Key West and get out there on one of those high speed wave runners.....wear a full face helmet and full body armour. Damn killer machines.... :nervous:
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I still cant reckon how you did what you did......Still owe you a Ruths Chris dinner too.... :D
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DOT helmet, leather jacket, gloves and boots all the time. First accident my gear protected me well. I rode one day in a long sleeve and leather vest, met with a ford excursion and now have the scars to show which areas were protected and which werent. Yes DOD policy requires gear for me, but I exceed that requirement due to experience. And not wanting any more metal fixtures.
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I came from a non-helmet law state (Illinois) :2vrolijk_21:, and live in a helmet law state (Michigan) :confused5: After 7 years, I guess I am used to it for the most part, but I still take it off on the back roads on hot days and put it in my lap to cool down. I guess I've gotten used to it being a false sense of security and I would wear it on the highways around other vehicles, but on the back roads where there is less traffic, it comes off immediately!
I hear that same sentiment from a lot of folks, and I always question why they think a crash on a back road is safer than a crash on a main highway. You can smack your head severely enough to cause trauma just falling off the bike while it's sitting still, you don't have to have someone in a cage run you down to get hurt or killed. Try having a dog chase you on that back road and get tangled up in your wheels, or a deer jump out in front of you. And a lot of farmers still drive like they did back in my youth, where they paid no attention to stop signs or looking both ways before flying out of a driveway.
I do most of my riding these days out in the country, and I find I still have to be constantly vigilant. My full face helmet stays on wherever I'm riding, city or country. I've had some deep gouges in the helmets and/or shields over the years just from road debris alone; gouges that would have been in my head or face if I chose to ride without a helmet.
Jerry
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I hear that same sentiment from a lot of folks, and I always question why they think a crash on a back road is safer than a crash on a main highway. You can smack your head severely enough to cause trauma just falling off the bike while it's sitting still, you don't have to have someone in a cage run you down to get hurt or killed. Try having a dog chase you on that back road and get tangled up in your wheels, or a deer jump out in front of you. And a lot of farmers still drive like they did back in my youth, where they paid no attention to stop signs or looking both ways before flying out of a driveway.
I do most of my riding these days out in the country, and I find I still have to be constantly vigilant. My full face helmet stays on wherever I'm riding, city or country. I've had some deep gouges in the helmets and/or shields over the years just from road debris alone; gouges that would have been in my head or face if I chose to ride without a helmet.
Jerry
I cant say I've had the chance to enjoy a long ride like you folks do, But personally I advocate the choice to decide. I often wear a modular for commutes involving traffic, inclement weather and unfamiliar territory.
We have always been taught to dress not for the ride, but for the crash. Personally, If all the gear was a requirement, I'd likely just buy another 'Vette.... at that point, IMWO it takes the pleasure out of riding here.
The media sesationallizes the fact that a rider wasnt wearing a helmet here, even though there is no legal requirement. In a recent fatal accident the rider was zipping in and out of traffic when he swerved in front of a Lincoln Navigator... needless to say, a helmet would not have saved him, yet all the media reports is that he wasnt wearing a helmet. The cause is not the lack of helmets, its simple behavior. Unfortunately, people ride motorcycles because they like to rebel a bit. We know the stats for alcohol related accidents and motorcycles are staggering... Helmet or not, its the bahavior that is the cause of death not the equipment.
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Never ride with a helmet if not required. Never ride without good boots and heavy jeans. Just the way I have for over 50 yrs. Got one of the 1st tickets in 1969 when SC passed a helmet law, got another in 2010 when MB,SC passed a helmet law. The more things change the more they stay the same.
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Totaled a Road King out a few years a go and walked away from it ...l aways wear a helmet now...got a 2nd chance
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The media sesationallizes the fact that a rider wasnt wearing a helmet here, even though there is no legal requirement. In a recent fatal accident the rider was zipping in and out of traffic when he swerved in front of a Lincoln Navigator... needless to say, a helmet would not have saved him, yet all the media reports is that he wasnt wearing a helmet. The cause is not the lack of helmets, its simple behavior. Unfortunately, people ride motorcycles because they like to rebel a bit. We know the stats for alcohol related accidents and motorcycles are staggering... Helmet or not, its the bahavior that is the cause of death not the equipment.
How was it known what caused this rider's death? I can "behave" in every way possible, but that doesn't stop somebody else from: running into the back of me while stopped; running a stop sign/red light; driving on the wrong side of the road; cutting me off; attempting to be in my space at the same time, etc.
None of those things have anything to do with my behavior, even if I am the most careful, well trained rider in the world, and it is a fact that I have a much better chance of surviving someone else's behavior if I'm wearing a helmet. Period. I have control over my own behavior, but NO control over the behavior of others. I wonder if all those riders who died due to massive head trauma could talk, if they'd still advocate not wearing a helmet? Or, if you asked their family members if they wish he/she had been wearing a helmet, what they would say. I would bet that the 10 year old child who doesn't have their parent any longer would wish that their Dad or Mom had worn a helmet. It's not just about you, it's about the impact it has on others who love you as well. Even if I don't give two hoots in hell about my own life, I have to think about how my wife would feel if I weren't around because I refused to give up my "freedom" and wear head protection. Riding in a topless cage is in no way a comparison to riding on two wheels...the only common thing between the two, if you choose not to wear a helmet on the motorcycle, is a bare head.
This horse has also been beaten until it's dust...there is no logical/rational reason for not wearing a helmet...all other reasons are emotional in nature.
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And thats why they say "Let those that ride decide" What you think is best for you is NMB. If you want to wear a helmet.....do so. When you pass me without a helmet, its not because I have a deathwish.
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How was it known what caused this rider's death? I can "behave" in every way possible, but that doesn't stop somebody else from: running into the back of me while stopped; running a stop sign/red light; driving on the wrong side of the road; cutting me off; attempting to be in my space at the same time, etc.
None of those things have anything to do with my behavior, even if I am the most careful, well trained rider in the world, and it is a fact that I have a much better chance of surviving someone else's behavior if I'm wearing a helmet. Period. I have control over my own behavior, but NO control over the behavior of others. I wonder if all those riders who died due to massive head trauma could talk, if they'd still advocate not wearing a helmet? Or, if you asked their family members if they wish he/she had been wearing a helmet, what they would say. I would bet that the 10 year old child who doesn't have their parent any longer would wish that their Dad or Mom had worn a helmet. It's not just about you, it's about the impact it has on others who love you as well. Even if I don't give two hoots in hell about my own life, I have to think about how my wife would feel if I weren't around because I refused to give up my "freedom" and wear head protection. Riding in a topless cage is in no way a comparison to riding on two wheels...the only common thing between the two, if you choose not to wear a helmet on the motorcycle, is a bare head.
This horse has also been beaten until it's dust...there is no logical/rational reason for not wearing a helmet...all other reasons are emotional in nature.
The rider swerved too close to the Navigator, got hit, subsequently run over and dragged... No helmet is going to save you in that case.
There is risk everytime we get on our bikes. We know it, we understand it... and while I will agree that we cant control the actions of others, we can teach ourselves to observe our surroundings to see the potential for someone else's stupidity. What we cant change is the probability of chance... So, you can dress to enjoy the ride, or you can dress in probability of the crash.
Personally, I bought a bike so I can enjoy the freedom riding brings me... If I feel the need to wear full gear if I am travelling in unfamiliar territory, lots of trafic or inclement weather I do so... by CHOICE. I dont believe in overregulation of citizens by gov't.
I lost a good friend last year to a tourist excecuting a U-turn from the far right lane. Turned direcly into the path of my friends who were riding as a group. He left his wife and young family behind. Would he change anything? No... he had massive internal injuries as well as head injuries. In many cases the internal injuries are the cause of death.
IMHO, a helmet reduces the probability of injury due to impact, it doesnt save the rest of the body from injury. Now, if you want an open casket funeral... thats fine. I've opted for cremation and scattering of ashes... I'm the youngest of 5, with no children, no parents, a few cousins, two aunts and an uncle...life insurance will leave the wife a nice nest egg abd assure she is set for the rest of her life...
Enjoy the ride, however you choose to.. isnt that what its about?
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No one in their right mind would ride a MC in todays traffic of distracted or impaired drivers with or without a helmet. But, yet, we still get up (if we can) after being run into and ride on again because that's what we do.......spyder
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No one in their right mind would ride a MC in todays traffic of distracted or impaired drivers with or without a helmet. But, yet, we still get up (if we can) after being run into and ride on again because that's what we do.......spyder
I'll simplify this statement:
No one in their right mind would ride a MC in todays traffic, yet, we still get up (if we can) after being run into and ride on again because that's what we do
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I can careless who and who does not wear a helmet. I always were one when riding.
What I would like to see is insurance companies giving different rates for those who agree to wear a helmet and those who don't. That way those who choose not to wear a helmet don't affect my insurance rate.
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We choose to ride, knowing the risk is much greater than being in an automobile. The second choice made is whether to minimize the risk of being permanently or fatally injured and never having the choice to ride/not ride again. That's it in a nutshell.
It's kind of hard to know if a dead person would make different choices with regards to gear if he/she had it to do over again.
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I can careless who and who does not wear a helmet. I always were one when riding.
What I would like to see is insurance companies giving different rates for those who agree to wear a helmet and those who don't. That way those who choose not to wear a helmet don't affect my insurance rate.
^^^ interesting thought... but how will the insurance company determine that?
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^^^ interesting thought... but how will the insurance company determine that?
They give different rates for smoking and non-smoking.....same way to determine each......fill in the blank. spyder
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They give different rates for smoking and non-smoking.....same way to determine each......fill in the blank. spyder
Right, aaaaaand if you're in an accident with head injuries due to not wearing a helmet; it will be recorded and dealt with on an individual basis. As it should be.
Bottom line, wear safety gear and having a good riding/driving record should count for something. While it might not prevent broken bones from impact, it definitely reduces the severity of injuries, road rash, etc... :2vrolijk_21:
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Right, aaaaaand if you're in an accident with head injuries due to not wearing a helmet; it will be recorded and dealt with on an individual basis. As it should be.
Bottom line, wear safety gear and having a good riding/driving record should count for something. While it might not prevent broken bones from impact, it definitely reduces the severity of injuries, road rash, etc... :2vrolijk_21:
Thats fine if you use gear or not.. you lie on the application... fine.. I can see you penalized for it.. but for many, gear is a part-time choice. How do you judge them?
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Thats fine if you use gear or not.. you lie on the application... fine.. I can see you penalized for it.. but for many, gear is a part-time choice. How do you judge them?
Nope. To each his own. ;-)
For the first 20 years, I never owned a helmet. I didn't give it a thought. More than 100,000 miles of riding in that time and no incidents. I did do a header over my handlebars onetime when a car cut me off at an intersection. I was only going about 20 mph and the little Kawasaki KZ400 started to do the front end flop. I went right over the handlebars and landed on my back. Somehow I managed to avoid hitting my head, but it was a very close call with granite curbs and a power pole. After that, I started to wonder if my luck was running out. No since in pushing it, if not necessary.
But that's my call. I don't believe in judging others who choose to live differently. It is best to respect and appreciate those differences. More good times that way.
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I take off the helmet riding the roads around Sturgis. We ride slow and in a group is my excuse. On a daily basis the rest of the year I wear one of three helmets depending on the weather. Shoei Multi-tec in the winter, 3/4 Arai in Spring/Fall, 1/2 helmet in the summer. I am proud to live in a country that allows us to have choices. It's our head and if we choose to crack it open riding, it should be our choice. I also understand that there may be a difference in insurance rates as it should be. Another reason is my wife will kill me if I'm in an accident and not dead without wearing one!
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Nope. To each his own. ;-)
For the first 20 years, I never owned a helmet. I didn't give it a thought. More than 100,000 miles of riding in that time and no incidents. I did do a header over my handlebars onetime when a car cut me off at an intersection. I was only going about 20 mph and the little Kawasaki KZ400 started to do the front end flop. I went right over the handlebars and landed on my back. Somehow I managed to avoid hitting my head, but it was a very close call with granite curbs and a power pole. After that, I started to wonder if my luck was running out. No since in pushing it, if not necessary.
But that's my call. I don't believe in judging others who choose to live differently. It is best to respect and appreciate those differences. More good times that way.
Having spent a couple seasons roadracing a GSXR750, taught me a LOT about riding fast, and being able to look far enough ahead to keep you out of trouble... not that it always did... However, the two track instances I had were enough to make me realize just how fragile the human body is... a full one-piece leather suit with all the body armor and back brace helped minimize tissue damage... but it sure doent mean I want to wear one on a daily commute, seeing as it takes 2 or 3 guys to help peel it off you after sweating in it for a couple of hours on the track.
I rode the same bike as my commuter, but in one of the more severe crashes, the bike was unridable while we waited for replacement parts... when my friend had a 79 shovelhead and told me to ride it... he was unable to due to health reasons... drag pipes, drag bars, invader mags, open primary with no belt guard (that thing loved to eat dress slacks BTW) and kick start only... :) It was loud, brash, and annoying as hell, but it ran... and was fun to ride... and the chicks LOVED it!
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Different rates for health insurance only works if you're dead or alive. If you lie on the policy and are involved in a crash where it is determined that head injuries were the cause of death, and you die on the scene, it's a mute point. On the other hand, you lie on the policy, are involved in a crash, are taken to the hospital with head trauma...guess what? The insurance may not pay, but the hospital is not going to leave you out on the curb...they are going to do what it takes to keep you alive, regardless of costs. And those costs get passed on to the consumer, like all other business losses that can't be written off dollar for dollar on tax returns. The losses to the hospital from motorcycle accident victims are small in comparison to losses incurred from people generally not having adequate health care insuance, but it adds to the losses, nonetheless.
In fact, the relatively small number of people who ride motorcycles, compared to those who drive cars, is likely the very reason mandatory helmet law is not Federal, and State, across the board. Statisically, it's relatively insignificant whether a person chooses to wear/not wear a helmet. On the other hand, seatbelts also save lives, and enough of them that it is now a law to always wear them. People bitched and moaned about that too, and some still do. But they'll give you a ticket for not wearing it. It's more about numbers than percentages.
People need to realize that riding/driving on public roads is a priviledge, not a right.
One thing is certain...this issue is not going to be resolved here. One of these days, helmets will be mandatory, like it or not, and then the choice will be ride/don't ride. I'm pretty sure that most who enjoy riding will continue to ride...with a helmet on. The same way people didn't quit driving cars when seatbelts became mandatory.
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DOT Helmet: Always
16" leather lace up boots: Always
Wiley X Glasses: Always
Leather chaps, heavy leather jacket and leather gloves: Only when cold outside
Jeans and t-shirts: Summer only (We have many 90+ days here in St. Louis in the summer.)
By the way, I took what appeared to be a tractor trailer lug nut off the center of my left lense on my Wiley X glasses at 70 mph a couple of years ago. Almost knock me off the bike and the glasses almost came off to. I had a sunglass shaped red mark for about a day but it did not even scratch the lense. Needless to say I'm a big fan of eye protection.
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Eye protection is mandatory here in floridar...helmets not so much.....saw 2 beemers 2 up on I95 yesterday, no lids, shorts n flip flops..No explainin some folks ya know....
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I can careless who and who does not wear a helmet. I always were one when riding.
What I would like to see is insurance companies giving different rates for those who agree to wear a helmet and those who don't. That way those who choose not to wear a helmet don't affect my insurance rate.
The size of house...the kind & number of cars...the number of college age kids...etc, that your agent has affects your rate more than me not wearing a helmet does!! :nixweiss:
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Buried a close friend a couple weeks ago from a bike crash. He was riding a crotch rocket city hadn't put steel plate over a manhole that was under construction and he found the hole at 60mph. Severe head trauma to the back of his head. Was wearing tshirt and jeans with tennis shoes. Would've walked away with road rash had he been wearing a helmet. I will never get on a bike without one. Michigan just repealed the helmet law so now it is a choice, but my choice is to wear one. Always have and always will. I prefer to enjoy another day of riding than my last ride to be in a hearse.
Full leathers and boots as well...Ventilated mesh with armor on hot summer days. Like others have said it's a choice. I still choose not to wear a seatbelt, but one day I'm sure that will be a choice I wish I would've chosen differently when I eat the windshield or am ejected from the car. Safe riding all.
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Buried a close friend a couple weeks ago from a bike crash. He was riding a crotch rocket city hadn't put steel plate over a manhole that was under construction and he found the hole at 60mph. Severe head trauma to the back of his head. Was wearing tshirt and jeans with tennis shoes. Would've walked away with road rash had he been wearing a helmet. I will never get on a bike without one. Michigan just repealed the helmet law so now it is a choice, but my choice is to wear one. Always have and always will. I prefer to enjoy another day of riding than my last ride to be in a hearse.
Full leathers and boots as well...Ventilated mesh with armor on hot summer days. Like others have said it's a choice. I still choose not to wear a seatbelt, but one day I'm sure that will be a choice I wish I would've chosen differently when I eat the windshield or am ejected from the car. Safe riding all.
Sorry for the loss of your friend Irish. RIP brother. I hope if he had a wife and children they're taken care of by the city that neglected to provide proper barricades around the open hole. I've spent the last 35 years as a Communications Engineer. We do lots of underground work. Safety in these environments are a matter of life or death. This is proof. This one angers me, because it was preventable.
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I've seen too many people die right in front of my very eyes that would be here today if they had only had on a helmet. i wear mine religiously.
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Always do ,despite the crap I get from buds. I'm against helmet laws , but I choose to wear protective gear , I know what it feels like to go down hard.
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and it has nothing to do with speed. My friend died turning right at 15 miles per hour when his tire hit a RR groove and he went down and slid to the curb where he hit his head ... Instant vegetable and he never woke up
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Always wear a helmet, gloves, jeans, 14" linemens (Danner) boots, long sleeve shirt, even in states where (helmets) are not required, my choice. If I lived or rode in Arizona or where its super hot, that would be another story I'm sure. I see (mostly) young folks in shorts, flops, tank tops etc... their choice ~ a poor one in my opinion but to each his/her own.
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Always do ,despite the crap I get from buds. I'm against helmet laws , but I choose to wear protective gear , I know what it feels like to go down hard.
Well said. Here in Michigan we have had to wear Helmets until last month, I like the fact that it is now 'MY CHOICE'
I think I would feel naked without it now. Plus the fact that it will co$t me an additional $200 a year for the added insurance.
WD :2vrolijk_21:
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I finally got out for a ride last Sunday, 1st real ride of the year for me because of chit getting in the way. Logged about 150 miles and it was interesting. Me and my bud both wore our helmets and probably 4 out of 5 bikes that I saw on the road were wearing helmets too! BIG PICTURE, small example. GIVE PEOPLE THE CHOICE, LESS GOVERNMENT REGULATION, and generally they will make the best choice on what's right for them as an individual......or business! After all the BS about repealing the helmet law in Michigan for years, at the end of the day it was all about having the choice versus government mandating what people need! Hmmmm, sounds familiar, something we hear every fricking day for the last 3.6 years!
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I finally got out for a ride last Sunday, 1st real ride of the year for me because of chit getting in the way. Logged about 150 miles and it was interesting. Me and my bud both wore our helmets and probably 4 out of 5 bikes that I saw on the road were wearing helmets too! BIG PICTURE, small example. GIVE PEOPLE THE CHOICE, LESS GOVERNMENT REGULATION, and generally they will make the best choice on what's right for them as an individual......or business! After all the BS about repealing the helmet law in Michigan for years, at the end of the day it was all about having the choice versus government mandating what people need! Hmmmm, sounds familiar, something we hear every fricking day for the last 3.6 years!
Amen! I couldn't agree more. Make it our choice. We have too much government intrusion into our private lives as it is. Kudos to the Great State of Michigan for doing the right thing.
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amen to that!
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Go down one time and you will ware the correct gear !!!
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Amen! I couldn't agree more. Make it our choice. We have too much government intrusion into our private lives as it is. Kudos to the Great State of Michigan for doing the right thing.
:2vrolijk_21:
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On the way to Vegas a couple years ago, I rode without a helmet a bit on some nice Montana backroads....but would feel uncomfortable in any amount of traffic.
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I was in Panama City, FL for Thunder Beach rally this past weekend. Saw a very drunk girl, no helmet on and wearing shorts and flip-flops, trying to get on back of a bike. About the time she stood up on the passenger peg she lost her balance and fell off backwards and cracked her head on the curb, knocked her out cold. It took the EMT's about 20 minutes to get there and they worked on her another 15 minutes or so before they loaded her on the ambulance and she was unconscious the whole time. Probably had a major concussion at the very least, possibly much worse. IF she had been wearing a helmet she probably wouldn't have had much worse of a headache than the hangover would've caused. One poor decision can change your life forever, not worth the risk to me.
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Always full gear. Even in central FL. If its gonna be 103 degrees , then I ride the cage, but on my bike always geared up!
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Always 3/4 helmet long sleeves, boots and gloves. I live in VA, Hampton Roads. Traffic is hell and people drive like crazy.
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Been down twice....always wear helmet / jacket....
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Too much government?. Tell that to the one head that God gave you. I won't riide without a helmt. Maybe I like my head more than others here. :nixweiss:
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This is always such a touchy subject.
But I will add to it.
I wear it when I feel like wearing it. (And yes, I have wrecked dirt and street bikes, so I know what it feels like to hit the floor)
But I make my passengers wear one all the time.
How do you guys like that for being a hypocrite.
Anyhow, this debate won't last much longer.
If you guys check, I believe the Fed's are getting things ready to made it a federal law to wear helmets.
So the states will be out of it.
Correct me if I am wrong, and I may be.
Can't remember where I read it, but I know I did.
Big Dave
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This is always such a touchy subject.
But I will add to it.
I wear it when I feel like wearing it. (And yes, I have wrecked dirt and street bikes, so I know what it feels like to hit the floor)
But I make my passengers wear one all the time.
How do you guys like that for being a hypocrite.
Anyhow, this debate won't last much longer.
If you guys check, I believe the Fed's are getting things ready to made it a federal law to wear helmets.
So the states will be out of it.
I haven't heard that, but it would not be a surprise at all. It has no effect on me one way or the other, as I wear ALL the time.
I
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I don't see how the federal government can mandate you wearing equipment, and I surely do not see the states giving up the authority of equipment violations. They may be able to mandate it on interstates for some reason or another. I'm sorry but I just don't see the Feds getting into this. They have always left this type of stuff up to individual states. Would you have to go to the White House to pay your fine??? I'll be back in a week Honey, I have to ride out to DC to appear in the supreme court for riding without a helmet. Just a joke.
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Always wear helmet, boots, gear until temperature becomes to uncomfortable..... :nixweiss:
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where the whole sticky wicket goes comes from and goes to is this:
folks with damaged heads go on disability and taxpayers have to pay for it
if the rules changed so that folks with no helmet could never ever collect taxpayer funded disability - THEN it would in fact be the riders choice
but as long as taxpayers have to pay disability - the representative of the taxpayer has some say in the matter. since its not really riders choice - its really riders responsibility to try to avoid becoming a ward of the state - that is where choice comes in - be responsible or not.
im completely for free choice - wear a helmet or not - but i dont want taxpayer dollars going to keep vegies alive if they were not wearing a helmet, ie if they were not trying to avoid going on disability.
if somebody is wearing a helmet & being responsible and some drunk puts them in a chair - im all for paying disability - but somebody with no helmet being the drunk and crashing - then i do not want to have to pay taxes to fund disability.
freedom - it ends right where you take away others rights/life/livelihood/
oh well
to
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where the whole sticky wicket goes comes from and goes to is this:
folks with damaged heads go on disability and taxpayers have to pay for it
if the rules changed so that folks with no helmet could never ever collect taxpayer funded disability - THEN it would in fact be the riders choice
but as long as taxpayers have to pay disability - the representative of the taxpayer has some say in the matter. since its not really riders choice - its really riders responsibility to try to avoid becoming a ward of the state - that is where choice comes in - be responsible or not.
im completely for free choice - wear a helmet or not - but i dont want taxpayer dollars going to keep vegies alive if they were not wearing a helmet, ie if they were not trying to avoid going on disability.
if somebody is wearing a helmet & being responsible and some drunk puts them in a chair - im all for paying disability - but somebody with no helmet being the drunk and crashing - then i do not want to have to pay taxes to fund disability.
freedom - it ends right where you take away others rights/life/livelihood/
oh well
to
States that helmet laws don't require riders over a certian age to wear helmets must show proof of insurance (with extra minimum coverage) if they choose not to wear a helmet. Not sure all the (No helmet law) states do that; but many do. There is a premium associated with that right.
I agree with the "it's my head" argument; but also believe in the above argument about making sure if disabled because of that choice, not becoming a ward of the state.
First 20 years riding never owned one; but youthful folly is reserved for the young. The older I get; the more I appreciate being here. I wear a helmet, but that is my choice. If I were in a non-helmet law state; I'd wear one anyhow. I've only got one head and it has had far too many lumps as it is. No need to take unecessary chances. 8)
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I don't see how the federal government can mandate you wearing equipment, and I surely do not see the states giving up the authority of equipment violations. They may be able to mandate it on interstates for some reason or another. I'm sorry but I just don't see the Feds getting into this. They have always left this type of stuff up to individual states. Would you have to go to the White House to pay your fine??? I'll be back in a week Honey, I have to ride out to DC to appear in the supreme court for riding without a helmet. Just a joke.
OK, I'm guessing you must be a whole lot younger than me, or you have forgotten how helmet laws were in fact dictated by the Feds back in the late 60's and early 70's. It's real easy for the Fed's to make the states do what they want, they just attach the requirement to the highway funding authorization. If the state doesn't pass and enforce the required law or rule, it doesn't get any Federal highway money. It took about ten years for the states to convince Congress to take away the ability of the Department of Transportation to tie helmet laws to highway funding. Once that happened, many states eliminated their helmet laws. But for a while there I think nearly every state had some sort of helmet law thanks to Federal intervention.
Jerry
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OK, I'm guessing you must be a whole lot younger than me, or you have forgotten how helmet laws were in fact dictated by the Feds back in the late 60's and early 70's. It's real easy for the Fed's to make the states do what they want, they just attach the requirement to the highway funding authorization. If the state doesn't pass and enforce the required law or rule, it doesn't get any Federal highway money. It took about ten years for the states to convince Congress to take away the ability of the Department of Transportation to tie helmet laws to highway funding. Once that happened, many states eliminated their helmet laws. But for a while there I think nearly every state had some sort of helmet law thanks to Federal intervention.
Jerry
The good thing, Jerry, is that you can still recall this history. :) har. spyder
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It really doesn't matter about the insurance, unless the policy covers an indefinite amount, which most do not. It can take about a week in the hospital to go through several hundred thousand dollars worth of coverage...something as relatively simple as a stint can cost as much as 100K before all is said and done. A head injury that made one totally disabled for life would go through most private insurance in a heartbeat, then guess who picks up the tab...not only taxpayers, but others who have private insurance, over time, have their rates jacked up to cover any losses incurred by any given health system. So, we all pay for those who are underinsured, have no insurance, etc, one way or the other. There are exceptions to every rule, of course, but 90% of the time, we all end up paying.
I'm not saying that the NUMBERS of riders who choose not to wear helmets, then get involved in an accident that causes an injury to the head that could have been prevented by wearing a helmet, is significant compared to the general population of either riders or non-riders, but whatever the cost, it is passed on to each and every person who is old enough to pay taxes, have health insurance, and lives long enough to retire. And how in the world does anyone think that it's going to make a dime's worth of difference whether the person is insured or not? What are the health care providers going to do with a case that comes to them with half their brain laying on the gurney, has no insurance, or a relatively small coverage amount...roll them out to the dumpster in the alley and slide 'em off? I don't think so...will never happen, so we pay. Not to mention the fact that what if they are the primary bread winner in the family and because of their injury, which could have been prevented by wearing, it causes that family to become "wards of the state"? The point being that choosing not to wear, and being injured because of that, has a ripple effect that does not just involve that single individual. Riding on public roads is not a RIGHT, it is a privelege...the "government" imposes all kinds of safety laws, but the hot button seems to be helmet laws. I don't really care if somebody doesn't want to wear, but I'm also fully aware that I'm going to pay, one way or the other, if something bad happens. The whole helmet thing is an emotional issue, not a rational one. That's a fact...
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I was in Panama City, FL for Thunder Beach rally this past weekend. Saw a very drunk girl, no helmet on and wearing shorts and flip-flops, trying to get on back of a bike. About the time she stood up on the passenger peg she lost her balance and fell off backwards and cracked her head on the curb, knocked her out cold. It took the EMT's about 20 minutes to get there and they worked on her another 15 minutes or so before they loaded her on the ambulance and she was unconscious the whole time. Probably had a major concussion at the very least, possibly much worse. IF she had been wearing a helmet she probably wouldn't have had much worse of a headache than the hangover would've caused. One poor decision can change your life forever, not worth the risk to me.
Was the problem here caused by her being stupid drunk or because she wasnt wearing a helmet?
People make bad choices... all the time. It's far too easy to say she wouldnt have gotten hurt if she was wearing a helmet, vs. saying she wouldnt have gotten hurt if she never got in the bike drunk!
At the drunkeness you describe, she had other problems other than falling down.
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again I'll say the Federal government does not pass laws for states, yes they may try and influence them but so do lobbyists for there own personal agenda. There are no federal traffic law statutes out there and when was the last time anyone has seen a federal cop car that is marked like state police and locals. The feds influenced states to go to the 55 mile per hour speed limit also, but they themselves did not pass any laws requiring it. Just like now you have some states with a 70 mph and others still the 55mph. What Jerry is saying is true but the feds can't do it on there own, at least not yet.
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I think that people not wearing helmets, getting injured and being a burden on taxpayers is significantly minor compared to all of the other reasons there are burdens on the taxpayers. And I do mean taxpayers (considering 46% of the country doesn't pay taxes). How about people driving cages without proper coverage or no coverage at all? How about people riding without coverage? How about any other injury where the person doesn't have health insurance? Is the argument for forcing people to wear a helmet going to be because there will be a burden on the taxpayers? That's not very convincing...
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I usually go no helmet. If I'm going very far from home or it's real cold I wear or take along. Riding in the rain is much better with helmet with drop down shield on it! Funny though how we have to wear a seatbelt in a car but can ride a bike without a hard hat? About those bugs and stinging critters. Worst for me must have been a hornet! A Big Hornet!! I was riding along and felt a burning sensation on my right hand! Never saw it but just keeping my hand on the throttle was killing me. My hand was swollen up double by the time I got home. Took some Benadryl and by the next morning all was good. Big grasshoppers down the back of your shirt will make you pull over real quick too!! ;D
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I think that people not wearing helmets, getting injured and being a burden on taxpayers is significantly minor compared to all of the other reasons there are burdens on the taxpayers. And I do mean taxpayers (considering 46% of the country doesn't pay taxes). How about people driving cages without proper coverage or no coverage at all? How about people riding without coverage? How about any other injury where the person doesn't have health insurance? Is the argument for forcing people to wear a helmet going to be because there will be a burden on the taxpayers? That's not very convincing...
The overall costs to taxpayers for those injured in motorcyle related accidents who do not have coverage, or inadequate coverage, is miniscule in the global view...just like those on "welfare" are low single digit percentages of any given budget.
But that's not the point. It's not "taxpayer dollars", it's the costs passed on to every individual who DOES have insurance (of whatever description) in the form of higher (and rising) premiums, and/or medicaid costs, which are taxpayer funded, as is medicare. We all pay for those who are not insured, one way or the other, and as long as insurance providers are profit driven, we will all continue to do so. That is a fact without argument.
And while the Feds may not be able to directly pass laws governing the use of safety equipment while operating any vehicle, making tax dollars contingent on "recommendations" is a VERY strong motivation for most states to comply. It is beyond rational debate that seat belt laws save lives every day...so do helmet laws. No if's, and's, or but's. Is there the rare case where a seat belt or helmet actually caused MORE injury...Yes, but those cases are so rare as to be statistically insignificant in the larger picture.
In the case of the woman falling off the back of the bike while it was sitting still because she was drunk...No, she should not have been drunk, nor getting on the bike while drunk, but that fact does not negate the fact that IF she had put a helmet on prior to getting on the bike, she would likely have not been injured. Yes, she could have been injured just walking around, but that's not the point.
All other arguments to the contrary...if you hit your bare head on an immobile object while your head is traveling 40mph, there are likely to be dire consequences. Period, period, period. Whether it's legal or not, the question is "Is it worth it?" For me, it's not. Others may make a different decision, but facts are facts, and riding a motorcycle without a helmet is similar to playing Russian Roulette...you're playing the odds.
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To the argument of it costing people that pay insurance premiums more, use the comments from my previous post and replace taxpayers with people paying insurance premiums. The argument is still not very convincing considering the previous statement that those cases are miniscule in the global view.
Here's the deal. Riding a motorcycle is dangerous. Helmet or not. Every time you swing your leg you risk your life. If anyone thinks that all of sudden you put on a helmet and other gear that you won't be a ward of the state or that you're immune to injury you're kidding yourself. You may be slightly better off when wearing a helmet and gear but at what cost? Making your ride less enjoyable? Those are personal decisions that should be made by an individual. The point here is whether or not you should be told by the government that you have to wear a helmet. In my opinion the government should stay out of my life as much as possible to include telling me I have to wear a helmet.
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To the argument of it costing people that pay insurance premiums more, use the comments from my previous post and replace taxpayers with people paying insurance premiums. The argument is still not very convincing considering the previous statement that those cases are miniscule in the global view.
Here's the deal. Riding a motorcycle is dangerous. Helmet or not. Every time you swing your leg you risk your life. If anyone thinks that all of sudden you put on a helmet and other gear that you won't be a ward of the state or that you're immune to injury you're kidding yourself. You may be slightly better off when wearing a helmet and gear but at what cost? Making your ride less enjoyable? Those are personal decisions that should be made by an individual. The point here is whether or not you should be told by the government that you have to wear a helmet. In my opinion the government should stay out of my life as much as possible to include telling me I have to wear a helmet.
Well said...
A DOT helmet protects your heat at impact speeds of 15 MPH... so it might help the drunk falling off the bike or the idiot staggering down the street drunk. It might lessen the injury at higher speeds as well.
Having the correct mindset and making the right choice before you swing your leg over the bike will provide far more protection than any helmet.
There are inherent risks involved in our hobby... and if you are going to spend your time protecting yourself against those around you, you might be better off in a cage with side curtain airbags, collision avoidance systems, etc, than on a bike.
Yes, I carry a large insurance policy, moreso because of the stupids around me rather for my own actions. If they want to increase the premiums for those that choose to not wear a helmet, so be it. However, a helmet wont prevent an accident. It MIGHT reduce injury in an accident situation.
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This horse has been beaten to the point of it being nothing but bones and hair, and the discussion is generally an exercise in futility. There are dozens of things that can cause you to crash on a bike. And riding is more dangerous than riding in a car. The act of leaving your house is more dangerous than not leaving, but that is an irrational statement/argument. Both statements have no real life validity unless you are a recluse or don't ride. The point is what can a person do to REDUCE the likelyhood of going home after a crash without having a drool bucket fastened around their neck, and incurring greater costs to themselves, their loved ones, the health system, etc., blah, blah, blah, ad nauseum. There is one thing that is an absolute fact: a person is less likely to suffer a TBI (traumatic brain injury), and facial injuries, by wearing a helmet. If you accept that fact, and wear a helmet, you reduce the danger of riding. Statistics don't lie. Period...end of discussion on my part.
Make no mistake about it: I don't care what an individual does, as long as it only does harm to him/herself. I would prefer not to hear of anyone on this site, or anyone else I know who rides, suffering an injury that could have been prevented by wearing any given piece of protective gear. But, in the end, whatever blows your skirt up...
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This horse has been beaten to the point of it being nothing but bones and hair, and the discussion is generally an exercise in futility. There are dozens of things that can cause you to crash on a bike. And riding is more dangerous than riding in a car. The act of leaving your house is more dangerous than not leaving, but that is an irrational statement/argument. Both statements have no real life validity unless you are a recluse or don't ride. The point is what can a person do to REDUCE the likelyhood of going home after a crash without having a drool bucket fastened around their neck, and incurring greater costs to themselves, their loved ones, the health system, etc., blah, blah, blah, ad nauseum. There is one thing that is an absolute fact: a person is less likely to suffer a TBI (traumatic brain injury), and facial injuries, by wearing a helmet. If you accept that fact, and wear a helmet, you reduce the danger of riding. Statistics don't lie. Period...end of discussion on my part.
Make no mistake about it: I don't care what an individual does, as long as it only does harm to him/herself. I would prefer not to hear of anyone on this site, or anyone else I know who rides, suffering an injury that could have been prevented by wearing any given piece of protective gear. But, in the end, whatever blows your skirt up...
What TC said! :2vrolijk_21:
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I've often heard the phrase: "Dress for the crash, not for the ride"
I dont know about you, but I dont get on a bike EVER planning to crash.
YES, something MIGHT happen, but I MIGHT get struck by lightning too.
I will say that being a responsible rider and making the right choices will protect you from being involved in an accident vs. wearing gear that will protect you in the event you get into an accident.
I have already said I wear gear by choice... If the chances of being involved in a wreck increase I am likely to wear more gear. (example, inclement weather, different traffic route with more cars, etc) but for my normal commute which is a hop for most of you at a mere 17 miles, against the heavy morning raffic flow, and almost never any rain, I rarely wear a lot of riding gear because the risks are minimal.
Speed limits, good weather and road conditions, following distance, correct lane positioning, and defensive riding strategies all make for a safer and enjoyable commute.
Your ride, is as safe as you choose to make it. If you want to run at 80-90 MPH, vs. 60-70 MPH, $h!t happens much quicker, and you'd better be ready for it, or make other right choices. (Which at those speeds should include some type of safety gear)
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I live in Ohio and I am totally amazed on how few riders where helmets. Worse I am totally amazed at how many riders where shorts and flip flops. Even the guys who where the right gear who have a passenger who the let where tank tops and flip flops. The government conducts health tests all the time via surveys someone should conduct motorcycle rider surveys and report on the least safety concious states.
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We were in Monument Valley, UT a couple of weeks ago in a sandstorm and watched riders pull off to the side with shorts and tennis shoes. I wish I had this one with me at the time. It was in our "King Arthur" room in Kernville, CA.
Doc
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rode in non helmet state today. the lid stayed on! :builder2: :builder2:
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I like the old saying " you got a two dollar head wear a two dollar helmet" after years of getting bombed by rocks,bugs,bigger bugs,sewer water,rain,birds rubber chunks etc. I always wear my fullface.
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Check out this web site for Mark Hopkins. No helmet now his life and so many others are changed forever. Where do I begin............... http://www.caringbridge.org/visit/markhopkinsIV?utm sourcesiteannounceSIR&utm medium=email&utm content=text&utm campaign=visit
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We were in Monument Valley, UT a couple of weeks ago in a sandstorm and watched riders pull off to the side with shorts and tennis shoes. I wish I had this one with me at the time. It was in our "King Arthur" room in Kernville, CA.
Doc
I want one of those...
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NH baby, "Live free or die"
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NH baby, "Live free or die"
....and howl at the moon!!!! 8)
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Always
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I have a friend who is a trauma surgeon. They refer to patients that go down on bikes without protective wear as "pizzas". I think you get the picture. In Florida we are not required to wear anything but eye protection. I wear a DOT approved low profile half helmet, glasses with shatterproof lens, boots over the ankle always, long pants (with chaps if cold), and a weather appropriate jacket. That said, it IS a personal choice. Kris Kristofferson said it best; "Freedom is just another word for nothin' left to lose". I guess this includes your skin, if you so choose.
OWL893
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I have a friend who is a trauma surgeon. They refer to patients that go down on bikes without protective wear as "pizzas". I think you get the picture. In Florida we are not required to wear anything but eye protection. I wear a DOT approved low profile half helmet, glasses with shatterproof lens, boots over the ankle always, long pants (with chaps if cold), and a weather appropriate jacket. That said, it IS a personal choice. Kris Kristofferson said it best; "Freedom is just another word for nothin' left to lose". I guess this includes your skin, if you so choose.
OWL893
yeah my cousin's a nurse in the ER and they all refer to bikers as organ donors :o
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I was told by a friend who races and doesn't ride on the street anymore: "You only need to cover the stuff you plan on using again!!!" I wear all the gear...all the time. Helmet, gloves, jacket, boots, MC jeans minimum. With technology and variety of gear out there.....there is something for even the HOTEST weather that will keep you safe.
My favorite Kit:
Vanson Jackets: They make mesh for summer and zipper drops and vents on full leather that will get you through all but the coldest and cool enough till it's over 90.
Held Gloves. STEVE for cooler seasons and RODNEY model for hot.
Diamond Gusset Riding Jeans: Kevlar lined butt and knees. Made in America.
Just my 2 cents!
Dundertaker
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I want one of those...
Don't bother looking in the King Arthur Room........Grandpadoc stole that one!!!! :ons_1: :lipsrsealed2:
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We were in a non helmet state for many years and the only use for a helmet was to keep the BSR quiet. You know how it goes...your on a nice ride and all of a sudden your girlfried snuggles up to your ear and says "why don't you ever tell me you love me" :nervous: :vrolijk27: :wall:. That one got a full face helmet, and the bike got louder pipes. The years went on and CA became a helmet state and we eventually got married. I should add that we have been in two major accidents and the only reason we are still together is because of the helmets we wear all the time, except in AZ and ...
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Grandpadoc...I concur. The first time wife # 2 looked at the Ultra Classic I was preparing to buy in Phoenix Az and said " look Honey, we have an intercom system on this bike and we can buy helmets and put speakers in them"!!! My reply was " Baby this is a non helmet state....and let's leave it like that"!!! Didn't get any browny points with that comment!!! Having to wear a helmet in the great state on N.C. , I will be "sans" helmet in Sante Fe, N.M. in a couple of weeks!!! Wife # 3 will probably be wearing hers.
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I always wear my helmet when I ride drunk. :drink:
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I have a friend who is a trauma surgeon. They refer to patients that go down on bikes without protective wear as "pizzas". I think you get the picture. In Florida we are not required to wear anything but eye protection. I wear a DOT approved low profile half helmet, glasses with shatterproof lens, boots over the ankle always, long pants (with chaps if cold), and a weather appropriate jacket. That said, it IS a personal choice. Kris Kristofferson said it best; "Freedom is just another word for nothin' left to lose". I guess this includes your skin, if you so choose.
OWL893
:2vrolijk_21: well said :drink:
We here in the Great Lake State of Michigan, recently had the "Manditory" helmet law reversed, I choose to wear mine, but it is nice to have the "Choice" :2vrolijk_21:
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I ride with gloves and boots, always. Since the wreck, I've been vigilant about riding in armored pants and an armored jacket. I rarely use the half helmet anymore, and I won't go lidless again.
That said, there's a marked difference in airflow between the GS/A and the Ultra. My Arai that worked so well in the heat on the Beemer gets far less air on the Ultra. Same with the mesh gear or vented gear. Not sure what I'm going to do when it gets really hot. I'll either gear up or I won't. My choice though.
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I always wear my helmet when I ride drunk. :drink:
Good idea! I rode with some folks last Saturday on a poker run. Of course every stop was at a bar so by the third stop they were getting sloppy. I don't drink when I'm riding and always wear protective gear, sort of out of place with that bunch. I had a mesh jacket on and full face helmet with gloves and boots. They wore only the minimum required skull buckets, one guy wore sandals and his BSR had on heels, all of them were sunburned and drunk when it was over. At stop #4 one of the guys drops his bike with his wife on it in the parking lot, to get over his shame he had another beer and a double shot at stop #5. Not my kind of riding fun. the best part of that day was the 30 miles home that I rode solo then the cold one on the deck after the bike was put away.
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Good idea! I rode with some folks last Saturday on a poker run. Of course every stop was at a bar so by the third stop they were getting sloppy. I don't drink when I'm riding and always wear protective gear, sort of out of place with that bunch. I had a mesh jacket on and full face helmet with gloves and boots. They wore only the minimum required skull buckets, one guy wore sandals and his BSR had on heels, all of them were sunburned and drunk when it was over. At stop #4 one of the guys drops his bike with his wife on it in the parking lot, to get over his shame he had another beer and a double shot at stop #5. Not my kind of riding fun. the best part of that day was the 30 miles home that I rode solo then the cold one on the deck after the bike was put away.
Smart man...that's one reason I never have participated in local rides like that. They always tend to go bar hopping, regardless. I love my beer as well as the next guy, but alcohol and motorcycles don't mix very well.
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Good idea! I rode with some folks last Saturday on a poker run. Of course every stop was at a bar so by the third stop they were getting sloppy. I don't drink when I'm riding and always wear protective gear, sort of out of place with that bunch. I had a mesh jacket on and full face helmet with gloves and boots. They wore only the minimum required skull buckets, one guy wore sandals and his BSR had on heels, all of them were sunburned and drunk when it was over. At stop #4 one of the guys drops his bike with his wife on it in the parking lot, to get over his shame he had another beer and a double shot at stop #5. Not my kind of riding fun. the best part of that day was the 30 miles home that I rode solo then the cold one on the deck after the bike was put away.
I agree with you whole heartedly, my comment about riding drunk was just an attempt at poor humor. I made one of those rides you have described. Just once. I don't fault anyone for having a drink but there is always a time and place for it. Not every 30 minutes with two or three beers downed and back on the road. As you stated in your comment, I was out of place with that bunch too. That's probably why I always ride alone or with one or two others that have their heads screwed on straight.
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I am a Diabetic. I don't heal well. I ride with Leather chaps,boots,gloves,jacket,reflective vest and DragonKevlar Jeans and helmet always. Real pain in the but leather is cheaper than skin. I love to Ride e even with my medical condition. I had bike since I was 9. Been riding 50 years. Had numerous other bikes and 5 Harley's
Ltank
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I must admit, when I was down at Panama City Beach this last week, we took off our helmets when we hit the FL state line and never put them back on until we hit the Alabama stateline coming home. It was so nice riding with just a doo rag... no helmet buffeting even at 80 MPH. Stupid, I know... but man was it FUN! No gloves, either.
Ken
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Usually wear full leather and 3/4 helmet with face shield when traveling. Riding around White Mountains it depended on weather as to which helmet w/faceshield or without. Generally wore jacket as I do around home.
Did have a good chuckle up there. Raining pretty hard. I'm on ultra... helmet face shield rain gear, guy coming at me no helmet, no windshield little teeny goggles, bald head. He had to be getting pelted hard. I do not know how guys do it. I must be getting to be quite a Candy Butt in my years.
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I've started to always wear my leather coat and gloves (as well as boots and chaps). But recently I got caught in torrential rain and hail. What hurt the most was the hail bouncing off the road and then I'd ride into it and my shins took a beating. Now that really stings. Hate hail. I don't have lowers, but would have loved them then.
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Those of us that have had the "opportunity" to try out their gear are very conscious of the value of it. I met a deer one night, he wasn't wearing any gear and he paid the price for it. Even with gear I did my share of bleeding, but grateful that I had it on. Oh, and I was lucky I was on a Yamaha (dime a dozen) sportbike, not the Harley, so I did not have to endure the mental anguish of seeing my baby ruint. :o
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Good idea! I rode with some folks last Saturday on a poker run. Of course every stop was at a bar so by the third stop they were getting sloppy. I don't drink when I'm riding and always wear protective gear, sort of out of place with that bunch. I had a mesh jacket on and full face helmet with gloves and boots. They wore only the minimum required skull buckets, one guy wore sandals and his BSR had on heels, all of them were sunburned and drunk when it was over. At stop #4 one of the guys drops his bike with his wife on it in the parking lot, to get over his shame he had another beer and a double shot at stop #5. Not my kind of riding fun. the best part of that day was the 30 miles home that I rode solo then the cold one on the deck after the bike was put away.
I have been known to drink a beer and ride.....that's the key A beer. Had the same thing happen last year, at the 3rd stop my wife and I left early and made the last 2 stops alone. Still got the after ride comrodery and food.
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I have been known to drink a beer and ride.....that's the key A beer. Had the same thing happen last year, at the 3rd stop my wife and I left early and made the last 2 stops alone. Still got the after ride comrodery and food.
You hit the nail on the head...I think most of us can probably handle one or two beers every 3 hours or so when riding, but one or two at every stop, when the stops are 30-45 minutes apart starts getting to the point of impairment, IMO. I'm not going to say I've never ridden my bike when I was under the influence of whatever, but I was much younger then and indestructible... ::)
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I like the young and indestructible comment earlier. When I was in high school, I remember riding my '74 Sportster home late one night higher than a kite and watched my speedometer float around in front of me. Even at that age I realized this was a really bad idea, and yes I am living proof we have a God! It's entertaining watching the beer flow in Sturgis every year. I'll have my share but walk around and watch the eye candy before riding back to camp. Love this forum! Where else would I confess my youth?!
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I live in South West Fl, 5 months out of the year its a cross between a swamp and a jungle down here with tropical heat, I wear a carbon fiber half helmet, Wayfarer sunglasses, long sleeve white tee shirts, Carhart duck canvas carpenter jeans and Rdewing 6" high steel toe boots. In the cooler weather i wear my old Vanson Leather A-1 full grain leather, have it for over 25 years, and in winter i switch to Carhart !5oz work jeans.
The most important piece of gear for me is foam ear plugs, after 40 plus years of riding my hearing isnt what it used to be, i have been wearing the foamy ear plugs for the last ten years, i wont even ride to the cornor store with out earplugs :apple:
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Some of us old farts still wear helmets and are staunch supporters of "boots-gloves-glasses" mentality. Haven't lost a foot, eyeball, or finger yet, although I have given away a finger or two. I guess some of us don't need to ride like the recent dorks in New York. We ride High Dollar motorcycles and aren't posers and/or wannabes. Some habitsd aren't all that bad to adopt.
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Full Face lid, gloves, Jacket, boots, pants.... I'm not saying that I haven't gone without gear, but I can count those times on one hand.
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Always wore a helmet, boots, and gloves since Day 1, so using pro gear has always been normal for me. The heat can be uncomfortable, but once I get moving, it's less of an issue. Taught MSF classes for 9 years, but always believed that if you didn't want to wear a helmet, it's your call. Personally, I prefer leather and a helmet.
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Always wear a helmet, jeans, eye protection, boots gloves, sometimes without a jacket in the heat of the summer. Also, wear a helmet in states that don't require them.
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Just because I'm in a state that doesn't require me to wear a helmet, doesn't automatically make me suddenly decide that I wanna be an organ donor!! :nixweiss:
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Normally No helmet, but i got a new schuberth C3 and I can say its the most comfortable one I have ever had still going to take some getting use to but I'm trying :) always wear boots and jeans
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Right there with ya.... Almost. We left our helmets on until we got to our condo and we also put them on for the trip over to Mexico Beach, but that was it. Boots, jeans, T-shirt, sunglasses, sunscreen and a big old smile on both of us while we were cruising around PCB and for the trip out to The Outpost on Saturday. Helmets back on when we left the condo headed for home. BTW, good thing we never believe the weather forecasts: couldn't have asked for nice weather for nearly the entire 4-day weekend in PCB!
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For the Record....
I've got all the gear for just about all of the weather conditions and wear it when I'm so moved, and a collection of DOT helmets... from 1/2 to full face race. In fact, I commute year-round on my BMW R1100S down to the single digits with armored winter gear & Gerbings and about the only thing that keeps me off the bike -- weather wise -- is the threat of ice or snow. But I choose when to where what for a variety of reasons: it's simply risk management.
FWIW, I was AGATT for about the first 35 years, but it dawned on me that when we're cycling and bombing down mountain roads at 60 mph or riding in traffic around home, we're essentially wearing nothing more than a tupperware lid with lycra shorts and short-sleeve shirts. The "risk" of a collision with a vehicle or a crash at speed are just as high as when we're cycling as when we're motorcycling, as are the consequences. Kinda a double standard to be dressed like an Imperial Storm Trooper on the motorcycle "just in case" when there's no practical way to replicate that as a cyclist.
ITs a higher risk on a bicycle than a motorcycle.
Having crashed my road bike into the side of a car at 40 MPH and thrown over the hood onto the roadway and suffering a rather painful roadrash on my right side I'd prefer NOT to do that again.
On a bike we wear basic, lightweight excersize clothes with a piece of vented plastic for a helmet. Sure the helmet did help... but my body took a hit that I would not like to repeat.
Does it stop me from casual dress while riding my scoot?... no, but I do wear a helmet most times regardless of what I choose to wear on the rest of my body.
Maybe its the sheer number of accidents that has prompted me to wear more often than not. Maybe its the need to survive, but regardless I know that the helmet only protects my head, and the potential for damage to other parts of my body is a very high risk.
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Always wear boots and jeans, no gloves most of the time if it's not cold. I wear t-shirts if it's hot, and as for the helmet, in Canada, no question here.
If I go to the states, helmet on Hwys and in heavy traffic. On scenic roads, near the ocean, traveling in small towns, no helmet, but still wearing jeans and boots...
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should but don't
not the same feeling
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(http://www.cvoharley.com/smf/index.php?action=dlattach;topic=89266.0;attach=249840;image)
The collared shirt is not normal for me
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Just started wearing helmets about 6 months ago. Used to only wear half helmets when we were in the neighboring states.
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I thought I would try the "cool" factor and ride with shorts. With short legs, I wouldn't advise it. Have a nice scar on my left leg from the primary!!! Usually leather vest in the heat. Debating on the full face or modular helmets, the ear ringing after a long day is starting to get to me and after going through a sand storm! Always wear gloves and usually boots. I find it hard to gear up in the heat. As someone mentioned earlier, I think there is different gear for different weather.
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I am a believer in to each his own but since I only have a couple marbles left I would like to keep them. We ride with full face helmets, boots, and protective mesh gear all of the time.
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Funny how hitting the pavement once changes your wardrobe! Wear padded pants and jacket all the time now. Always wear a helmet.
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I always wear jeans and boots, (I have seen hamburger helper ankles from sandals and tennis shoes). Upper body depends on the weather,minimum is a T-shirt, helmets well that too depends on the weather. It gets cold here and a full face helmet feels pretty nice in the fall/winter months, I use a half helmet in the summer and I do go without a helmet quite often when the law allows.
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My state (KY) does not have a helmet law. I do wear a full helmet in the winter and in the summer mostly wear my novelty helmet.
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No helmet law in Iowa. I always wear and jeans and boots but most of the summer I ride with a sleeveless t-shirt. Never wear a helmet.
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When California did not have a helmet law I rode without one, always have worn boots and jeans. Now that I am older I ride with a DOT half helmet even in states without a helmet law. Still enjoy riding helmet free for short rides on back roads.
Just this month I purchased a pair of Diamond Gusset defender jeans with Kevlar.
Have tried full face helmets a couple of times but just can't stand the feeling of being confined.
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When California did not have a helmet law I rode without one, always have worn boots and jeans. Now that I am older I ride with a DOT half helmet even in states without a helmet law. Still enjoy riding helmet free for short rides on back roads.
Just this month I purchased a pair of Diamond Gusset defender jeans with Kevlar.
Have tried full face helmets a couple of times but just can't stand the feeling of being confined.
What kind of helmet do you ride with?
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Mostly always wear a helmet but defend the right to make one's own decision. I have owned many helmets over the years and could never seem to get one that fit and is comfortable until last year. Bought a Seer helmet. Made in the USA (can you believe it) and worn by cops (mostly). Fits close to the head and has adjustable inserts for custom fit. It's a half helmet with muffs for speakers. It is the most comfortable helmet I have owned yet. No pressure points or itchy head and can wear it all day with no headache. http://www.superseer.com/
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Used to not wear one years ago. But now my flabby skin hurts as it flaps without one!!! Always wear a full face modular.
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I have not bothered to read thru about 14 pages on this topic on this subject. So, I may or may not be repeating a somewhat similar theory. Your head weighs around 15-16 pounds as I once was informed. Your ability to keep your (head) from making contact with the ground/pavement if you go down..........would be very rare and circumstantial. I've always been known as a hard headed guy, but I know my head cannot survive a direct smack with the pavement at most any speed.
Thus, I wear a full 3/4 helmet at all times. Obviously, some of you that choose to go without one, have a much harder head than do I. Lots of luck with that. :drink:
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Most people (87%) that have posted here say they most always wear a helmet. Why is it that when you go to one of the big 3 Rallies, 95% of the riders have NO helment on......do most members here not attend????
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I always wear gloves, boots and jeans. I will occasionally ride with just a t-shirt on very hot days, but I usually have a leather vest on as well. I also always wear a helmet. I have a Biltwell DOT 3/4 but I just bought a Schuberth C3 Pro modular Full face. I haven't tried it out yet, but plan on it being my go to helmet. I do have a novelty polo helmet but I'm planning on retiring it even though it's my favourite helmet.
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Unless I am close to HOME where I KNOW the roads, I have a helmet on either a 1/2 or 3/4.
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I live in a freedom of choice state and defend the right to not wear a helmet. I have learned over the years that
my head has become more important to me over the years. I wear a helmet. The more you wear one the more comfortable they become.
Mike
:drink:
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My helmet has never bothered me since day one. I feel more comfortable with one on the off. Makes me a bit more aggressive,, not crazy,, well,,,,,,, :D. The few times I don't have one on,,, that's all I'm thinking about. Just sayin.
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Most people (87%) that have posted here say they most always wear a helmet. Why is it that when you go to one of the big 3 Rallies, 95% of the riders have NO helment on......do most members here not attend????
Haven't attended the big 3 yet; but have ridden in a few states where helmets are optional, and always wear a helmet. To each his own though.
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Been to Sturgis, Daytona and Laconia many times and always wear a helmet.
Would never ride without one
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It's nice that most of us get to choose. To me part of the ride is the freedom. :nixweiss:
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It would seem from the following list, a lot of us don't really "get to choose". :nixweiss:
http://www.consumerreports.org/cro/news/2011/06/state-by-state-guide-to-motorcycle-helmet-laws/index.htm
:oops: Only three states show as having (no helmet law).
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It would seem from the following list, a lot of us don't really "get to choose". :nixweiss:
http://www.consumerreports.org/cro/news/2011/06/state-by-state-guide-to-motorcycle-helmet-laws/index.htm
True, however, most are partial law. I know Michigan changed to 21 and under as long as you are insured. I can ride from my home state up into South Dakota, Minnesota, Wisconsin, Michigan, and Illinois. I specifically avoid Nebraska and Missouri because I don't own a helmet lol.
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I'd ride in a dress if it'd stop freaking snowing.
Sent from my iPad, probably while I'm pooping.
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I'd ride in a dress if it'd stop freaking snowing.
Sent from my iPad, probably while I'm pooping.
Train, I would put 5 helmets on if I could ride right now! :coolblue:
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Jswerve .........Hope you are going to continue to "survive" your riding without a helmet. A little mind-boggling to me that you choose to avoid adjacent states that just might cause you to have to wear one or buy one. :oops:
On two occasions, I have had a s-l-o-w speed incident (less than one mile and hour) spill. One time in a crowded gas station with multiple bikes around and I was forced into a slow speed right hand type turn. I couldn't go for the rear brake and of course grabbing any front brake in a slow speed turn causes fork lock-up. Results were we went over and my (normally not clumsy wife) turned into a "rag doll" going down and hit helmet first on the pavement.
Another time, a low (dip) in a garage parking lot caused me to (at almost zero speed) to put a foot down and "hello", the pavement was below what my foot could reach.........down we went. Again, my "rag doll" wife hit head first. (Actually, she is well coordinated, but these two incidents would lead you to believe otherwise).
Bottom line, was she ended up (shaken up) but OK. Given how she hit the ground...........again at less than one mile per hour, the lack of a helmet could have been a very serious injury of head injury to her............that could have been very serious. :nixweiss:
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Sat at a light in Sturgis a few years ago. Guy on a Glodwing pulls out to cross the road (he had the green light) some idiot in a pick up truck went throug red and hit him from the side. This was very slow and the Goldwing rider fell over to his left, very slow fall as well. (No helmet). I expected him to come back up pissed but he didn't. Instead there was a small puddle of blood under his head and he was dead.
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Unfortunately it happens, just like people die with helmets, in car wrecks, airplanes, boats, bathtubs, fires, lakes, the list goes on and on.
If you want to where a helmet I'm all for it. Rubber side down.
Sent from my SCH-R970 using Tapatalk
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Agree with the above.
I wear a modular and keep it open at slower speeds. I have times where I'd prefer a half helmet, but the modular is a good compromise.
I highly recommend Shoei.
Sent from my iPhone using Tapatalk
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I choose the wear a helmet, the key work here is "choose" If we keep giving up our "right" to choose we loose our freedom little by little. I seem to feel that I am capable of making my own decisions re. what is good for me and not good for me. I don't need a group of politicians to make those decisions. Not sure why some people of groups want to push their agenda on me just because I think differently from them. Live and let live.
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Everybody do as they please with helmets. Including choosing not to ride because of mandated helmets in your locale (know two who use this excuse). No skin off my head (nor anywhere else) because of someone else's choices. On (finally) warm spring days like this morning on the ride to breakfast, however, my ass in the saddle had no idea my head had a helmet on.
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:2vrolijk_21:
Everybody do as they please with helmets. Including choosing not to ride because of mandated helmets in your locale (know two who use this excuse). No skin off my head (nor anywhere else) because of someone else's choices. On (finally) warm spring days like this morning on the ride to breakfast, however, my ass in the saddle had no idea my head had a helmet on.
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Soon enough we will have to purchase helmets for those trips where helmet laws are unavoidable. Where are some good places to try on helmets besides the Harley dealer? Really hard to find one that I like.
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Any MC shop with clothing should have a decent selection. Rally's and MC shows are good places, but not all brands show up.
My decision to wear Shoei modulars was based on comfort and quality. But you have to try for yourself. Lots of great helmets out there. Happy hunting! :2vrolijk_21:
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Any MC shop with clothing should have a decent selection. Rally's and MC shows are good places, but not all brands show up.
My decision to wear Shoei modulars was based on comfort and quality. But you have to try for yourself. Lots of great helmets out there. Happy hunting! :2vrolijk_21:
Shoei keeps coming up I will check in to that.
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Shoei keeps coming up I will check in to that.
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Make sure you check out Arai b4 you buy Swerve. While I only wear it for law-TG for SC- mine is very comfortable.
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Shoei keeps coming up I will check in to that.
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Make sure you check out Arai b4 you buy Swerve. While I only wear it for law-TG for SC- mine is very comfortable.
Thanks brother
Sent from my SCH-R970 using Tapatalk
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Thanks brother
Sent from my SCH-R970 using Tapatalk
Check out this site for reviews of almost all helmets, description of fitment issues, head shape, etc. MOST people have a "normally" shaped head, but if you have a long oval head, it will be more difficult to find a helmet that fits properly without hotspots. http://www.webbikeworld.com/motorcycle-helmets/motorcycle-helmets.htm
Shoei, Nolan, and Schuberth all make excellent modular helmets. HD helmets are made by HJC and a few other manufacturers...none of the aforementioned companies make helmets for HD.
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BMW and Schubert = great helmets (You can't buy the BMW version Stateside but Schubert is pretty much the same)
Silent helmets and great for headsets as well.
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Great info
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I have a very expensive Arai 3/4 helmet which I bought a few yrs ago to go with my SE Ultra. It has a microphone hanging off the left side and that is (more or less) permanent and not removable. It's a comfortable helmet, but kind of hard to get on and off as it squeezes pretty tight till it is in position.
What I don't like about it is the mike hanging there now that I don't have the ultra with the mike switch and also it is kinda big on the sides (looks like a space helmet). My old standby helmet is worn out and I'm looking for a (safe) but not quite so big around 3/4 helmet......Guess I will check out some Honda/Yamaha dealers for possible brands that might work.
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:cherry:
This one is really too large.
(http://i138.photobucket.com/albums/q277/moscooter/helmethead.jpg) (http://s138.photobucket.com/user/moscooter/media/helmethead.jpg.html)