Attitude towards bikers

[j_redley]

Right, so personally I've never been one of the people who had a problem with bikers out on the road, however... having just recently sat my bike licence and now riding relativly regularly, of course the parents and girlfriend found out. I'm 21. My girlfriends words "If you wanted to kill your self, why not just go jump off a bridge" and my mother said something to equally the same effect. Why is it that so many people look at bikes as being dangerous like that? Obviously if in an accident you could get hurt more, but this attitude that Im planning on getting my bike licence just to kill myself is so damn annoying!:scooter:

[Chisanga]

Life is a constant battle against the ill-informed :)

[Ixion]

..
Why is it that so many people look at bikes as being dangerous like that?
..

Perhaps because they are dangerous like that?

[James Deuce]

Don't worry about it. Tell them underarm deodorant causes breast cancer, or something similarly pithy. (It does)

Get a pair of stockings and fill the foot up with mince and then whack it on the driveway for a couple of minutes and when they ask what you're doing, tell them you always wondered what a treadly rider's butt would look like if they fell off at 60 km.hr.

[doc]

Right, so personally I've never been one of the people who had a problem with bikers out on the road, however... having just recently sat my bike licence and now riding relativly regularly, of course the parents and girlfriend found out. I'm 21. My girlfriends words "If you wanted to kill your self, why not just go jump off a bridge" and my mother said something to equally the same effect. Why is it that so many people look at bikes as being dangerous like that? Obviously if in an accident you could get hurt more, but this attitude that Im planning on getting my bike licence just to kill myself is so damn annoying!:scooter:
It's the rebel in you man, you have the gene that makes you different, just remember to feel sorry for the kids in the cages that wave to you as you go past they have the same feeling poor sods don't know what they are heading for. You know the ones that wave then get smacked by mum for waving. Your'e a bad influence.

[Nasty]

Right, so personally I've never been one of the people who had a problem with bikers out on the road, however... having just recently sat my bike licence and now riding relativly regularly, of course the parents and girlfriend found out. I'm 21. My girlfriends words "If you wanted to kill your self, why not just go jump off a bridge" and my mother said something to equally the same effect. Why is it that so many people look at bikes as being dangerous like that? Obviously if in an accident you could get hurt more, but this attitude that Im planning on getting my bike licence just to kill myself is so damn annoying!:scooter:


At least you didn't get my dad's line "why didn't you just go and buy a harley!" (my sistgers accident was on one of those) ... hmmmm

[BUNGY]

I got the same attitude from my parents when I first started talking about getting a bike. Personally I feel safer on a bike than in a cage because im more aware of my surroundings. Sure you could give up biking, get a cage and tomorrow be in a head on crash where you slowly burn to death because the cage has crumpled in around you. Life is dangerous.

[terbang]

Riding bikes is bloody dangerous..! Read an article the other day about a guy who died choking on his morning coffee. Fark the poor bastard missed out on his toast. Should have stayed in bed, safer that way.

[Insanity_rules]

Life itself is terminal....You never make it out alive.

My old's were pretty good about me and bikes. My wife is brilliant, she wouldn't be my wife if she wasn't. Love me, love my bike (quote from a wise fellow KBer).

Just tell them you love them but I gotta do what I gotta do. Keep riding buddy.

[Chickadee]

Yep there definitely seems to be a stigma that bikes aren't safe, but at the end of the day, shit happens to people whether they're in a cage, on a bike, a bicycle etc.

If you wear the gear and ride safe - you're doing your bit. It's the wankers in cars that drive around not paying attention that you have to watch out for, keep your dickhead radar on at all times when riding (think - has he/she seen me?). I personally think Bikers are more switched on to hazards etc as we think about these things, unlike most roadusers.

[onearmedbandit]

Riding bikes never did me any harm.

[Grub]

Why is it that so many people look at bikes as being dangerous like that?

Coz they are ...

If you think like that, there's a better chance of stying right way up. It pays also to think that every car driver is out to get you .... coz most of them are

[Ixion]

Riding bikes is bloody dangerous..! Read an article the other day about a guy who died choking on his morning coffee. Fark the poor bastard missed out on his toast. Should have stayed in bed, safer that way.

You've gotta be joking. Have you seen the statistics for where people are when they die. More people die in bed than anywhere else! It's the most dangerous place you can be. Actually very very few people indeed die on a motorbike, very improbable indeed. It's once they're OFF the motorbike that it gets dicey.

[James Deuce]

Riding bikes never did me any harm.

Yes, that's true, but you were mental to start with.

[onearmedbandit]

Yes, that's true, but you were mental to start with.

My doctor told me to just shut you out. The voices have other ideas...

[Motu]

Peoples attitude towards bikers is a lot different these days - was a time they were scared of us,to say something derogatory to a biker was asking for trouble.You need to wash less,wipe your greasy fingers on your jeans....don't comb your hair for a few weeks,take the muffler off your bike.Pretty soon their attitude will change.

[KATWYN]

Why is it that so many people look at bikes as being dangerous like that? :

Cos they are. Your GF and family are stating the obvious.

Be careful out there.....and prove em wrong!

[Kendog]

You know the ones that wave then get smacked by mum for waving. Your'e a bad influence.

Thats funny. Gonna keep an eye out for that in the future.

[gijoe1313]

Meh, I'm a teacher and I blat around on my ride - haven't heard of a parent yet that complained about me "not setting a proper example" to the kiddies! Mind you, they could be the ones waiting to knock me off when I leave the school gates :scratch:

If you love bikes, then you know the answer already. How's that old saying go? First it is hated, then it is questioned, finally acceptance. With biking - only those who know the feel of two wheels go past it all, if it's in your blood, you'll always love it!

You're a grown-up, you make your choices, you pays your money and you lives your life :yes:

[Crazy Steve]

Right, so personally I've never been one of the people who had a problem with bikers out on the road, however... having just recently sat my bike licence and now riding relativly regularly, of course the parents and girlfriend found out. I'm 21. My girlfriends words "If you wanted to kill your self, why not just go jump off a bridge" and my mother said something to equally the same effect. Why is it that so many people look at bikes as being dangerous like that? Obviously if in an accident you could get hurt more, but this attitude that Im planning on getting my bike licence just to kill myself is so damn annoying!:scooter:

Because its true what they are saying...

You bloody dumb Bastard ! ! !

Crazy Steve..

[doc]

Peoples attitude towards bikers is a lot different these days - was a time they were scared of us,to say something derogatory to a biker was asking for trouble.You need to wash less,wipe your greasy fingers on your jeans....don't comb your hair for a few weeks,take the muffler off your bike.Pretty soon their attitude will change.
Remember reading something from the States a while ago, that basically said cars stopping at a stop sign only really completely stopped because of a perceived danger, and tests show the only perceived danger recognised by car drivers was uniformed type highway patrol and patched bike gang members.
Logical really both going to hurt if you piss them off enough.

[Komuter]

Remember reading something from the States a while ago, that basically said cars stopping at a stop sign only really completely stopped because of a perceived danger, and tests show the only perceived danger recognised by car drivers was uniformed type highway patrol and patched bike gang members.
Logical really both going to hurt if you piss them off enough.

Seems to work well - A white helmet and yellow hi vis vest, over a black jacket - just like the biker cops wear....

[Dadpole]

Life itself is terminal....You never make it out alive.

NEVER..... I am immortal (though I accept the faint possibility I may be in for a surprise one day)

Ask those naysayers if they would prefer you jumped off a bridge and, if so, why.

[kneescraper]

My mother brought me my first bike (FZR250r) and then once I got married I brought my CBR400rr (which my wife loved) and my father is a bike nut (he owns a XJR1300). I come from a biker family and I have never heard any one in my family say a bad thing about motorcycles....so I feel sorry for you mate. I would much rather see my son riding a bike and enjoy it then being stuck in a cage and not feeling the feeling (hmmm) that comes with riding bikes. Tell them to build a bridge....its your passion so they have to handle it. But it is nice of them to show there concern...maybe its because your unco and they are worried you will crash easy.

Go do some riding courses and prove them wrong by not dieing on a bike.

Edit: Not saying if you don't do courses you will die....clear the air before someone gets me wrong :):)

[heyjoe]

Right, so personally I've never been one of the people who had a problem with bikers out on the road, however... having just recently sat my bike licence and now riding relativly regularly, of course the parents and girlfriend found out. I'm 21. My girlfriends words "If you wanted to kill your self, why not just go jump off a bridge" and my mother said something to equally the same effect. Why is it that so many people look at bikes as being dangerous like that? Obviously if in an accident you could get hurt more, but this attitude that Im planning on getting my bike licence just to kill myself is so damn annoying!:scooter:

Hey j_redley,

I would go with the comment someone said earlier in the thread. Your mother and girlfriend are obviously uneducated in the enjoyment of riding and obviously have their own perceptions of motorcycles.

Being 21 you are of age to make your own decisions unless there is a court order saying you cannot. I would assume your decision to get the bike ticket and own your own bike was made as an informed decision having considered all the information. So I assume you take appropriate care on the bike to ride safe and wear protective gear. You will have done all you can to ensure you enjoy what you do and get home safely (I hope). Having said that, most riders will have a 'bin' at some time in their riding years. Doing the right thing may help minimise any harm.

So I ask "whose problem is it?" Not yours.

[Motoracer]

You gotta do what you gotta do.

People get killed in cars/vans/buses all the time.

At the hospital, they call us "spare parts". This partly true cause it does happen..

Just wear your protective gear and be as safe as possible while having fun. Wheather you are a commuter, weekend rider, track day rider, stunt rider or racer or what ever. Safety should be your primary concern. Anything else is secondary.

After that, the people in your life who love you just have to accept you for you.

[Lou Girardin]

This past year has shown the danger of bikes. Whether that should stop you riding is another matter.

[limbimtimwim]

Your mum's attitude will probably soften in time. I got into biking properly when I was 21. Now I'm 25 and she's good with it. No accidents probably has helped a lot. Your girlfriend, well, if she can't get over it, stiff biscuits. You can't pick your parents though :).

Buy good gear, show them you are wearing good stuff so if you do have a accident you are in with the best chance. Ride safe now and look forward to years of riding pleasure.

When you are feeling up to it, take your girlfriend for ride, focus on being a safe smooth rider and you may just convert her.

[ceebie13]

.....My mother brought me my first bike .....

Yeah, my parents are to blame for my addiction too. They bought me a Honda 50 when I was 16. In 39 years of riding I have had two major offs. I T-boned a car that pulled out of a side road (that's unusual isn't it?) and then later in life I tried to get the bike (Z1000MkII) under a London cab after he stopped ahead of me just as I did my over the shoulder life-saver!
But I've not really been preached to by many anti-bike protagonists. In fact it's more the case that people tend to stop, gawp, chat and enthuse about biking rather than knock it as dangerous. Sure, most non-biking folk will ask the usual banal questions, but I take it as a sign that they might just be envious.

[James Deuce]

But I've not really been preached to by many anti-bike protagonists. In fact it's more the case that people tend to stop, gawp, chat and enthuse about biking rather than knock it as dangerous.

How long have you guys been in NZ?

I've been ear bashed more than a couple of times at the top of the Rimutaka hill by old biddies and middle aged men.

I've also been stopped a couple of times by cops for WoF checks and had the purple-faced, foaming at the mouth lecture about bikes being dangerous.

It will happen. NZ is full of righteous zealots and they don't have the natural reserve that comes from living on a small island with 50 million other people to prevent them opening their mouths and proving that they deserve their free annual Jester's club membership.

[ManDownUnder]

Why is it that so many people look at bikes as being dangerous like that?

Because they listen to what others have said, and didn't take the time to form a qualified opinion of their own.

It's common enough.

Like Jim said - point out the links between underarm and breast cancer. Have them give that up if risk is an issue. Crossing the road is clearly out of the question. Don't over cook meat (burned meat equals free radicals - that's any BBQ off the menu)... etc

Or you could entertain a little risk in your life an enjoy it.

It's a common enough complaint, and one based in concern for you (that's agood thing... flattering in a way)... but don't let it be limiting. Be realistic - motorcycling is more dangerous, so ride accordingly.
I think that's it.
MDU

[scracha]

Why is it that so many people look at bikes as being dangerous like that?

Probably something to do with the myoptic drivers and relative lack of driver education in NZ.

[Jimmy B]

Hey JR sorry to hear that you are taking a bit of heat but it will pass. I used to tell Mum that I took the bus to work, she saw my XJ750....Thats the "bus" Mum. :love:


Anyway lots has been said but bikes are dangerous, no question and perhaps this is part of the attraction. They are challenging to ride and this for me provideds an opportunity to expand my capabilities which is very rewarding.

Rather than glossing over the riding experience as a safe enjoyable passtime, try to identify as many dangers out there as possible and formulate strategies as to how you will deal with each when you meet it, I promise you that this will take forever and add another dimension to your riding enjoyment :sunny:

[Toaster]

Riding bikes is bloody dangerous..! Read an article the other day about a guy who died choking on his morning coffee. Fark the poor bastard missed out on his toast. Should have stayed in bed, safer that way.

If I was there I would have eaten his toast.

[Toaster]

Just tell ya Mrs that the vibration turns you on, she might like that.

[KoroJ]

When I got back on a bike my co-workers gave me all the drama, ie Temporary Kiwi...You'll kill yourself etc.

I just replied that at least I'd die with a smile on my face and they left me alone.

Now they see how much fun I'm having, their attitudes have changed and they actually ask where we went etc.

It's all just about what perceptions you've been brainwashed with.

[ceebie13]

How long have you guys been in NZ?

Three years and 19 days, Jim. And in that time, I haven't had any adverse criticism of my chosen mode of transport. Must be my aftershave!

[SixPackBack]

Right, so personally I've never been one of the people who had a problem with bikers out on the road, however... having just recently sat my bike licence and now riding relativly regularly, of course the parents and girlfriend found out. I'm 21. My girlfriends words "If you wanted to kill your self, why not just go jump off a bridge" and my mother said something to equally the same effect. Why is it that so many people look at bikes as being dangerous like that? Obviously if in an accident you could get hurt more, but this attitude that Im planning on getting my bike licence just to kill myself is so damn annoying!:scooter:

Tell your family to fuck off and get another G/freind, its easier in the long run:rockon:

[Steam]

When I went to the Accident and Emergency to get patched up after I fell off my bike, they were all very nice and non-judgemental.
The nurse who saw me first had a good chat, she had a Kawasaki litre-bike and her kids were just getting their bike licenses, and the doctor who put on my cast used to have a 400 back in Germany.
Tell them even doctors and nurses at A&E departments ride bikes!

[James Deuce]

You were very lucky there Steam. Very lucky. My wife has been a Nurse for 20 years, in all sorts of areas, and not one medical professional I've met has anything but scorn for motorcyclists, ranging from friendly needling to ice cold silent treatment.

[RT527]

I`m Lucky ....The local cop knows better than to give a lecture to Me!.

Well not really but like most things some will respect your wishes , others will love you and worry for you, others will think only for themselves ...But only you can do what you know you can do.

Listen to advice tho whether its against or for....Advice is free , its often the listening that we have to pay for....Hindsight is 20/20.

Best of all enjoy your bike. It wont argue with you!!!

[Dave_G]

Mate, I've been riding since I was a kid, and I'm not that young anymore. My old man's been riding since the 30's and at 77 still rides an SV650 and covers around 20000 a year. Bikes are dangerous, but only in the hands of idiots, if you recognise the dangers, and ride accordingly, then you are a long way down the road to enjoyong one of life's great pass times, for a long time. If you like it, keep doing it is my motto.

[LXS]

Life is too short dude, you can spend your life worrying about what people think or you can just go out & do it.

Bikes kill people, plastic bags do too.

Ask the do-gooders, Don't you want me to be happy?

[Swoop]

Ask those naysayers if they would prefer you jumped off a bridge and, if so, why.

Having jumped off the Auckland Harbour Bridge... the answer is "for FUN"!!!:yes:

[McJim]

Back in the UK bikes are really dangerous. Because of the mandatory legal requirment that every motor vehicle be insured motorcycles are the preserve of the incredibly wealthy. you can therefore be sure that if you cause a biker to bin his ride then your great great great grandchildren will still be paying off your lawsuit.

Tell them that all the best Lawyers, Doctors and Accountants ride motorbikes and that you have aspirations.

[Skyryder]

Tell your family to fuck off and get another G/freind, its easier in the long run:rockon:

Yea I picked up on the girlfriend thing too. Anyone want to run a 'book' to see how long she lasts?

Skyryder

[j_redley]

Heh, apparently the girlfriend just cares.... though she did just mentioned that she is over the motorbike thing. Bullshit she is, though since I actually passed the basic handling without the training, she is a bit more comfortable about me riding. Personally.... I think she's a little jelous I go out on the nice days without her...

[babyB]

hay Redley
in relation to family & g/f...

at 38 i am still plauged by lectures from my family
the only support i get from them is there constant inventive reasions why i should sell my bikes. .... every thing from 'becouse im a mother' to 'ill get sick from being in the draft'...... what im saying is if its what you want to do, go for it, if ppl & family dont like it, well it is their problem to deal with it not yours. you could spend many years trying to justify why you ride & all you will get is frastrated.
so be who you are and be happy. life is too short.

[j_redley]

Life is too short, and since Im one of those guys with an older girlfriend, amidetly she has learnt to deal with the fact that Im out on the bike, and will be alot more once I get the helmet. Honestly, the family will learn to deal with it, its the girlfriend that concerned me more. Granted though, since she has gotten better.

[Indiana_Jones]

It gets annoying when some people go "it's a death trap". Truth is you could be killed crossing the street or slipping up in the shower, as I tell people.

But lots of people are more curious about bikes and ask me questions :)


Life is too short, and since Im one of those guys with an older girlfriend, amidetly she has learnt to deal with the fact that Im out on the bike, and will be alot more once I get the helmet. Honestly, the family will learn to deal with it, its the girlfriend that concerned me more. Granted though, since she has gotten better.

If she really likes you, she'll understand. My g/f understands my love for 2 wheels and she lets me ride :D

-Indy

[Swoop]

...being in the draft'.....

Dodge the draft by moving to canada, like so many others did, during the Vietnam war!

[Bloody Mad Woman (BMW)]

It has all been said above - have the proper gear, look out all the time. After writing my bike off - my Father said - isn't it about time you got a car. But not one member of my family rang back to see how I was! I got more care and support from KB.

I do what I want to do and what gives me pleasure - if someone doesn't like it - tuff shit. Not my problem. Life's too short. At times my friends will ask me to ring and say I got home safely (after a long trip) and I respect that and do so.
It is their fear not yours.
So enjoy your riding to the max.

[kevie]

Should have stayed in bed, safer that way.

hahahah dont even know about that nowadays hehe
Look at the kids in Otaki this week..... almost got themselves killed in bed ..... hey getting bored with the road carnage I think and comming up with novel ways of destroying life and limb

[peasea]

I've had a couple of doses of gravel rash, I've endo'ed a bike and still have a couple of creaky joints for my troubles. None of that is going to stop me from riding coz the good points outweigh the bad a thousand times over. If it's wet, slow down; if you're tired, rest; look after your bike, especially brakes and rubber; keep your eyes open and remember my father's words....."just because you have right of way, doesn't mean you're going to get it". To which I'll add my own; "Treat everyone as if they're trying to kill you". After that you can find some road of your own and really get to enjoy life. Then there's the people............

[NighthawkNZ]

Don't worry about it. Tell them underarm deodorant causes breast cancer, or something similarly pithy. (It does)


Ahhh.. but it does... though smoking is healthy

[eliot-ness]

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Description: Have you ever had a well-meaning friend or relative try to talk some "sense" into you about an experience or adventure you are passionate about? From their perspective, their advice is "for your own good", but the last thing you need to hear is their worst-case scenario.

Lyric Excerpt:

I'm tired of hearing all that bad news, from the profits of doom
I've noticed that thier lives are not exactly in full bloom

I'm taking the plunge, ready to lunge off the deep end
Here I go, caution to the wind
Cruisin' on enthusiasm, taking what life gives
Instead of dying before I ever live

From a song by Tupelo and Janey Kenyon, (Laughing Bird) on their album,

"Here Like A River"

[Stickchick]

Right, so personally I've never been one of the people who had a problem with bikers out on the road, however... having just recently sat my bike licence and now riding relativly regularly, of course the parents and girlfriend found out. I'm 21. My girlfriends words "If you wanted to kill your self, why not just go jump off a bridge" and my mother said something to equally the same effect. Why is it that so many people look at bikes as being dangerous like that? Obviously if in an accident you could get hurt more, but this attitude that Im planning on getting my bike licence just to kill myself is so damn annoying!:scooter:

Unfortunately my family has the right to have the attitude as my sisters boyfriend was killed when hit by a drunk driver who was in a car and he was on a bike. But they are also aware that there were also other circumstances involved that caused his death. Howcever is saying that they trust me to make the right decisions for me, maybe you should let your family know that your not just some lunatic thats out for the ride for the adrenaline of speed (Unless thats the reason for the bike of course)

[Bekki]

j_redley your mum and your girlfriend love you!

Which means they are honest with you about their thoughts, and they worry about your safety..

Hopefully it also means that they respect your decisions. :yes:

Take them for a pillion and log them onto KB, I bet they'll catch the bug.

[Macktheknife]

Bikes are dangerous, simple fact, it is also one of the reasons for the attraction to them. As everyone else has said, do what you do for the love of it. Do NOT live your life by taking advice from people who are too scared to enjoy themselves doing something they love.
I would rather die of thirst than drink from the cup of mediocrity.

[Bekki]

amidetly she has learnt to deal with the fact that Im out on the bike, and will be alot more once I get the helmet.

:confused:

I can't figure out if you're joking or not.

[The Stranger]

If she really likes you, she'll understand. My g/f understands my love for 2 wheels and she lets me ride :D

-Indy

Mind you AJ is one out of the box, she even accepts your obsession with Tom when no one else can.
Better hang on to that one.

[Jonny Rotten]

bbaaa!!! my misses is the same..... calls my bike the "DEATHCYCLE".....and a "DONORCYCLE".....as for the family part tho both my olds have there motorbike licences and my mum always nicks off with my bike when my back is turned....so i cant comment on the family not liking them.......

all i have found over the years are that people who say they are dangerous and that you might aswell run infront of a bus....shit like that...have not actually riddin a motorcycle......im sure there opinion would go from...your goin to die!!!! to....it might be dangerous but fuck its fun!!!! woohoo!!! in a very short time if they actually went for a blat on a bike

[breakaway]

Everyone I know (except dad) had a fat cry when I expressed my desire to get a motorbike. Dad has owned a few in his time.

They just can't stop stating "how dangerous it is". Probably because these people drive to get from A to B. They will never understand.

[slinky]

Right, so personally I've never been one of the people who had a problem with bikers out on the road, however... having just recently sat my bike licence and now riding relativly regularly, of course the parents and girlfriend found out. I'm 21. My girlfriends words "If you wanted to kill your self, why not just go jump off a bridge" and my mother said something to equally the same effect. Why is it that so many people look at bikes as being dangerous like that? Obviously if in an accident you could get hurt more, but this attitude that Im planning on getting my bike licence just to kill myself is so damn annoying!:scooter:

i have come to more harm in a car then i have on a bike.
i started out on bikes. BEST THING EVER makes you way more aware of your surroundings on the road.

[The Stranger]

In your case JR it is not the bike that is dangerous, it's the rider.

[Jonny Rotten]

In your case JR it is not the bike that is dangerous, it's the rider.

you bastard

[Delerium]

If it was mandatory to do 6 months driving a bike before gaining a car license, you watch the standard of driving in NZ improve overnight. Unfortnuately the survival of the fittestaspect (the dumb ones screw up and die) is so Un-PC that it wont happen.

[kevie]

If it was mandatory to do 6 months driving a bike before gaining a car license, you watch the standard of driving in NZ improve overnight. Unfortnuately the survival of the fittestaspect (the dumb ones screw up and die) is so Un-PC that it wont happen.

been riding since 1969 and only had 1 bin and been taken out twice by cars. first car vs me wrote off my wheels and he done a runner (caught him 2 weeks later) and the second ( gota be the ultimate...1/ Asian, 2/ Female 3/ a 4x4) $2000+ damage and the dam insurance wouldnt write the bike off lol

Yeh I recon the standard of driving out there is shocking, im on the road about 10 hours a day and more and more convinced drivers cant see or think beyond their windscreens.

Still a few good ones out there but I think common sence and courtesy have been superceeded by intollerance and impatience.

In saying that about cage drivers tho .... theres a lot of 2 wheelers that are also idiots ( a few occasionally get *555 rewards from me).
I cover between New Plymouth and Napier and by far the most driver complaints I lodge would be in the Hawkes Bay, they are shocking compared to Taranaki drivers.

And at present the worst drivers would be ?!?!?!!?! >>>>>>> young females closely followed by middle/late aged males.

[toymachine]

Everyone who talked to me when i mentioned it knew someone who'd died or got wasted on a bike, and i'd hear the stories all the time.

My mum was scared but is so soft she did her best to help me get into it... my dad (parent's are split) doesn't like the bike, but he's in ireland and i was without a bike while he was over here for my sister's wedding so I didn't hear too much (i did get to show him where i went thru a barrier though). He had a few in his day, and had a number of close calls so that's where his worry comes from. He'd never actively try stop me though.

My last gf used to worry a bit, my current gf thinks the bikes hot...

I don't pay any attention to horror stories, but after my last off i'm far more aware and carefull on the road.

[peasea]

been riding since 1969 and only had 1 bin and been taken out twice by cars. first car vs me wrote off my wheels and he done a runner (caught him 2 weeks later) and the second ( gota be the ultimate...1/ Asian, 2/ Female 3/ a 4x4) $2000+ damage and the dam insurance wouldnt write the bike off lol

Yeh I recon the standard of driving out there is shocking, im on the road about 10 hours a day and more and more convinced drivers cant see or think beyond their windscreens.

Still a few good ones out there but I think common sence and courtesy have been superceeded by intollerance and impatience.

In saying that about cage drivers tho .... theres a lot of 2 wheelers that are also idiots ( a few occasionally get *555 rewards from me).
I cover between New Plymouth and Napier and by far the most driver complaints I lodge would be in the Hawkes Bay, they are shocking compared to Taranaki drivers.

And at present the worst drivers would be ?!?!?!!?! >>>>>>> young females closely followed by middle/late aged males.

You're partly right but I also do a few k's in the course of my work. Haven't been to the Mainland since November but covered the 'Naki, BOP, Far North and Coromandel heaps since Christmas. The worst in my opinion are (call me racist) Asians. As soon as we head back to Jaffaland and get over the Bombay Hills in the south or the Brwynderwyns in the north you need to be on full alert. It's weird; Asians seem to do well academically and run successful businesses but don't seem to be able to connect the mechanicals of driving. You don't see too many Asians on bikes do you? Forethought, balance and acute awareness (on the road, anyway) don't appear to be part of their psyche. Just an observation.

[SPman]

Riding bikes never did me any harm.Or any 'arm!

[mstriumph]

................. Why is it that so many people look at bikes as being dangerous like that?.......

It's a fact that more people die in bed than on bikes ......... but you don't hear anyone muttering on about BEDS being dangerous, do you?? :innocent:

:done:

[ManDownUnder]

It's a fact that more people die in bed than on bikes ......... but you don't hear anyone muttering on about BEDS being dangerous, do you?? :innocent:

:done:

But them hot sweaty heart attacks...:buggerd: what a way to go...:love: :love:

[xwhatsit]

I reckon taking the girlfriend (or other dissenting individual) for a pillion ride is the trick.

When I got my bike, mum was mightily worried (wanted me to get a scooter), but I explained my reasons for bike over scooter and she had a little faith in me, and has worried a lot less as of late.

However the girlfriend was the biggest worrier. When I crashed earlier on in the piece, that was the first time I made her cry -- had a few arguments about the bike and all that. Anyway, lately she's been quite good about the bike; still worried about it, but mostly quiet about it.

Very recently though, I managed to convince her to hop on the back of the bike around our culdersack. Put new helmet on her (Dad's Christmas present -- bless that man), Quasi's cordura jacket (on the big side for me, let alone her tiny little frame), gloves, and all the other stuff. She looked hilariously ridiculous :D. Took her around the street ever so gently in first gear, as smoothly as I could. Asked her how she was doing and she said `fine! Let's go a bit further!'. So I took her around the quiet streets in my neighbourhood (Ambury Farm Park is just down the road, so no worries about traffic and intersections). She had an absolute ball; really enjoyed being on the back and wants to make it a regular thing (I'm still on Learner's, mind you, so riding around abandoned local streets will have to do for now). She makes a great pillion, by the way; knows instinctively how to lean with me, and balance perfectly. Feels not much different than a large backpack on the back (although she being Chinese means she only weighs about as much, anyway :)).

After that, it's taken a whole lot of the worry out of her mind. I think many people form this impression of bikers that we're all lunatics roaring around at 200kph scraping our knees. Now that she sees how I ride (like a nana), and also sees that I'm not wobbling around corners like a child who just got rid of the training wheels, she feels a bit more confident in me riding. Riding a 250cc single also helps; nice, mellow and relaxing, especially if I don't go over 5000rpm.

[Patriot]

I've just got back home after riding my Harley Softail 1340 .Brought some fish and chips in Motueka and had a nice peaceful lunch beside the sea at Tapu Bay no hassels ,no public criticism,no one kicking me off the seashore,and no rain clouds in sight.I then carried on to Kaiteriteri ,then through to Marahau following the coastline around then back to Nelson via the Upper Moutere route where I stopped to enjoy a nice cold "Beer",at their local watering hole.Enjoyed it all the way today until coming back via the Stoke bypass.My hog likes to run wild like an untamed stallion.I'd just like to mention about you assholes on 4 wheels who dont get back into the left lane after they overtake and just stay sheparding with your fellow assholes on 4 wheels.If you dont want me to get past then just fuckin say so.Other than that just get out of my fuckin way. " Cheers" to you shithead
:motu:

[Delerium]

There really is a lack of consideration towards other vehicles in NZ, riding a bike you notice it, same thing when driving a truck with work, yes im in a big brown 7 ton truck, no I cant stop on a dime, and if you tailgate me, I cant see you. Cant see my mirrors, then I cant see you. Also ignorance and arrogance, Iv seen plenty of crazy stuff, people with a deathwish and some blatant stupidity. Coupled with the overall poor driving standards and road quality in NZ and it makes life more difficult than it need be.

[peasea]

I've just got back home after riding my Harley Softail 1340 .Brought some fish and chips in Motueka and had a nice peaceful lunch beside the sea at Tapu Bay no hassels ,no public criticism,no one kicking me off the seashore,and no rain clouds in sight.I then carried on to Kaiteriteri ,then through to Marahau following the coastline around then back to Nelson via the Upper Moutere route where I stopped to enjoy a nice cold "Beer",at their local watering hole.Enjoyed it all the way today until coming back via the Stoke bypass.My hog likes to run wild like an untamed stallion.I'd just like to mention about you assholes on 4 wheels who dont get back into the left lane after they overtake and just stay sheparding with your fellow assholes on 4 wheels.If you dont want me to get past then just fuckin say so.Other than that just get out of my fuckin way. " Cheers" to you shithead
:motu:

Can't wait to get down there and again check out the rides you mention. Haven't been to Upper Moutere tavern for two years but will do so when we move to Nelson next Christmas. If we meet up then we can run the rude, slow pokes right into a drainage ditch together. They wouldn't last five minutes on an autobahn.

[CM2005]

fucking cars. i ride down my quiet road on my bike, i use my mirror, and my brake light works, and i still get tailgated, and honked at by fat guys in shiny utes. Fuckers.

[Mr Merde]

Attitude to bikers? mmmm

Here goes a nice one.


My mother, a spritely 70 yo, was at the supermarket here in Papakura this weekend and on leaving she saw this motorbike.

It was a blue Triumph, she noted the make, and it impressed her so much she went up to the rider and congratulated him on having such a beautiful (her words) motorbike.

From what I understand the rider was a litrtle blown away that he received such a complement from a little old grey haired lady.

Mum couldnt wait to tell me all about the bike when she got home.

If this is the face of biking and how we are perseived it is about time and gladly received.

[jtzzr]

Attitude to bikers? mmmm

Here goes a nice one.


My mother, a spritely 70 yo, was at the supermarket here in Papakura this weekend and on leaving she saw this motorbike.

It was a blue Triumph, she noted the make, and it impressed her so much she went up to the rider and congratulated him on having such a beautiful (her words) motorbike.

From what I understand the rider was a litrtle blown away that he received such a complement from a little old grey haired lady.

Mum couldnt wait to tell me all about the bike when she got home.

If this is the face of biking and how we are perseived it is about time and gladly received.

What a cool mum:Punk:

[merv]

I guess this thread http://www.kiwibiker.co.nz/forums/showthread.php?t=46721 doesn't help you much with the family attitude!

[j_redley]

Haha, no it didn't. Mum tried to use it as an excuse for me to not have a bike, and the gf wasn't too happy either. Though Im not giving up the fun I've had so far.

Few more things recently have made me question some people though.

Day before the bin I went out, and at a single lane roundabout a woman in a cage pulled up next to me. Then she tried to go around the roundabout next to me. At first she got the one finger salute, but when she kept going, I looked over, and since I had my visor up and her passenger window was open, she got a bit of verbal abuse.

Same day, some kids thought it would be funny to throw sticks and crap whilst I was stopped at some lights. They kept walking up the street, and decided they were cool enough to shout abuse at me when I rode past. They too got the one finger salute.

Went out today for a quick ride on the bike, though with no back brake cause of my buggered knee didn't go far. Some school kid (who happened to have his pants round his arse and a hoodie on) thought he too could yell abuse. With my buggered leg he got the one fingered salute, which he promtly returned with more abuse, but I need some anger management class of Im gonna get off my bike one of these days and give the little shits a reason to abuse me.

[xwhatsit]

Haha, no it didn't. Mum tried to use it as an excuse for me to not have a bike, and the gf wasn't too happy either. Though Im not giving up the fun I've had so far.

Few more things recently have made me question some people though.

Day before the bin I went out, and at a single lane roundabout a woman in a cage pulled up next to me. Then she tried to go around the roundabout next to me. At first she got the one finger salute, but when she kept going, I looked over, and since I had my visor up and her passenger window was open, she got a bit of verbal abuse.

Same day, some kids thought it would be funny to throw sticks and crap whilst I was stopped at some lights. They kept walking up the street, and decided they were cool enough to shout abuse at me when I rode past. They too got the one finger salute.

Went out today for a quick ride on the bike, though with no back brake cause of my buggered knee didn't go far. Some school kid (who happened to have his pants round his arse and a hoodie on) thought he too could yell abuse. With my buggered leg he got the one fingered salute, which he promtly returned with more abuse, but I need some anger management class of Im gonna get off my bike one of these days and give the little shits a reason to abuse me.

Lol, I was riding home last night (I mean the night before last, but it's near 1am so bear with me), after my police experience, and I turn up the road my culdersack attaches to. This 14yr old or so kid taking out the trash looks up at me, says something I can't hear, and gives me the fingers. Next thing I see, before I can react, is the father walk up behind him and smack him across the head! Lol! He didn't see it coming at all, hahah. Father waves at me and I turn into my own street. What a laugh.

Maybe it's some fad like happy-slapping, or summat.

[peasea]

You've gotta be joking. Have you seen the statistics for where people are when they die. More people die in bed than anywhere else! It's the most dangerous place you can be. Actually very very few people indeed die on a motorbike, very improbable indeed. It's once they're OFF the motorbike that it gets dicey.


Quite right; look what happened to Ginger Gibbs.

[Max Preload]

You don't see too many Asians on bikes do you?

Except in Asia... :doh:

[Krusti]

A couple of weeks ago my son rang to say the TLR had packed up at the top of SH5, Mamaku turnoff.

Here we were, two motorbikes on side of road, toolkit out, parts all over the place. Must have been 12 or so bikes go past and not one stopped.

These two older ladies stop and ask if we are ok, would we like a ride or maybe use their phone?

I was so impressed. But what about all those guys on bikes?

We let ourselves down at times....

[scumdog]

A couple of weeks ago my son rang to say the TLR had packed up at the top of SH5, Mamaku turnoff.

Here we were, two motorbikes on side of road, toolkit out, parts all over the place. Must have been 12 or so bikes go past and not one stopped.

These two older ladies stop and ask if we are ok, would we like a ride or maybe use their phone?

I was so impressed. But what about all those guys on bikes?

We let ourselves down at times....


Been there-done that with the break-down and other bikes flying past.

If the guy off his bike is right beside a house or in a biult up area I might not stop if I'm in a rush, otherwise I always do - especially if I'm in the 'work' car. (But nobody rushes to KB to tell THAT side of the story.)

But yeah, as you say "We let ourselves down at times"

[Sanx]

If a bike (even a Harley) is at the side of the road out in the sticks and the rider looks like he's doing anything other than having a break, a piss or a smoko - I stop. End of story. 90% of the time they're fine, but occasionally the biker may need or appreciate some help.

It takes thirty seconds to stop and make sure things are sweet. And one day, maybe I'll need it, and I'll sure as hell appreciate it.

[Ixion]

A couple of weeks ago my son rang to say the TLR had packed up at the top of SH5, Mamaku turnoff.

Here we were, two motorbikes on side of road, toolkit out, parts all over the place. Must have been 12 or so bikes go past and not one stopped.

These two older ladies stop and ask if we are ok, would we like a ride or maybe use their phone?

I was so impressed. But what about all those guys on bikes?

We let ourselves down at times....

Bad . Very bad. A biker ALWAYS stops (or at least slows enough to check for a thumbs up). 'Tis the Biker Law and the Unwritten Gospel.

[peasea]

A couple of weeks ago my son rang to say the TLR had packed up at the top of SH5, Mamaku turnoff.

Here we were, two motorbikes on side of road, toolkit out, parts all over the place. Must have been 12 or so bikes go past and not one stopped.

These two older ladies stop and ask if we are ok, would we like a ride or maybe use their phone?

I was so impressed. But what about all those guys on bikes?

We let ourselves down at times....

A while back, just out of Thames after the Valley Locals poker run (at dusk)we stopped when we saw a bloke holding up his broken drive belt. Sure, we weren't going to fix that right there and then but we waited for the rescue trailer to arrive and helped to load the bike. You just do stuff like that, it's like an unwritten rule of the road.

[Krusti]

What I couldn't believe was that these two older ladies stopped to help these biker types.....we must look like pussies.

Old people rock :Punk:

[Ixion]

Women over 60 (and watch you y're calling old!) are often very positive about bikes and bikers. Usually 'cos they have fond memories of time spent as a pillion in their teens and twenties , before the negative imaging of bikes and bikers in the eighties and nineties of last century. And they don't have the major "safety" hangups that younger ones do.

When they were young bikes were regarded as a sensible and common menas of transport for young men. And , of course, the young men attracted the young women.

[peasea]

Old people rock

We sure do.
Oops.

[Little Miss Trouble]

Right, so personally I've never been one of the people who had a problem with bikers out on the road, however... having just recently sat my bike licence and now riding relativly regularly, of course the parents and girlfriend found out. I'm 21. My girlfriends words "If you wanted to kill your self, why not just go jump off a bridge" and my mother said something to equally the same effect. Why is it that so many people look at bikes as being dangerous like that? Obviously if in an accident you could get hurt more, but this attitude that Im planning on getting my bike licence just to kill myself is so damn annoying!:scooter:

Hmm, seems like im getting off really lightly!!
My dad started out riding so no complaints from him, in fact hes thinking about getting back into riding:sunny:
Mummy dearest worries of course, thats what they do! she is giving me some money for my birthday with clear insructions that its to go towards the best quality safety gear I can afford:first:
And the boyfriend loves the idea, 'parently theres nothing hotter than a chick on a bike :love:

[Max Preload]

Been there-done that with the break-down and other bikes flying past.

Maybe they recognised you... :yes:

[peasea]

Maybe they recognised you... :yes:

Wearing a Kenny Everitt (read Sid Snott) uniform probably wouldn't help.

[Bass]

Old people rock :Punk:


Some of us even play in rock bands

[idb]

Like Jim said - point out the links between underarm and breast cancer. Have them give that up if risk is an issue.

I'd think of something else if I were you.................

[scumdog]

Maybe they recognised you... :yes:

Yeah, the public use to easily recognise me as a loathsome freezing worker who was almost as bad as the cop I was yet to be, best to be avoided as they blasted past me at the side of the road.

[Max Preload]

Yeah, the public use to easily recognise me as a loathsome freezing worker who was almost as bad as the cop I was yet to be, best to be avoided as they blasted past me at the side of the road.

I guess profiling works better than you'd care to acknowledge.

[peasea]

I guess profiling works better than you'd care to acknowledge.


Funny you should mention 'profiling'. I saw this dude (patched up and with stupid apehangers) watching himself in the shop windows as he cruised downtown Wellington (he might have been perving, but I doubt it) and ran straight into the arse of a trolley bus! Farrrneeee!!!!

Don't tell him I said that tho, coz he looked tough-as...