Persuading parents I won't die...
Discussion
Hiya,
I know I haven't really posted here before (mainly because I've had nothing interesting to say!) but I've browsed the forums for quite a while.
Basically, I'm currently trying to persuade my parents that a restricted bike (I'm 17) wouldn't kill me, have any of you guys had any experience with this and do you know anything I could say that would help?
I'm currently looking at a restricted Suzuki GSX-R600 (I want a bike that looks big and powerful!)
Thanks,
Ori
I know I haven't really posted here before (mainly because I've had nothing interesting to say!) but I've browsed the forums for quite a while.
Basically, I'm currently trying to persuade my parents that a restricted bike (I'm 17) wouldn't kill me, have any of you guys had any experience with this and do you know anything I could say that would help?
I'm currently looking at a restricted Suzuki GSX-R600 (I want a bike that looks big and powerful!)
Thanks,
Ori
Edited by Orichalon on Tuesday 29th January 22:16
When people decide to ride a motorcycle, they select a unique and challenging form of transportation. However, riding is not for everyone, and a motorcycle will not always be your best choice of transportation.
For many, motorcycling is more than a means of transportation -- it is an enthusiast's sport. The attraction of motorcycling often comes from the unique mental and physical skills necessary to operate the machine. There are many varieties of motorcycles and motorcyclists. But all motorcyclists share something in common -- an increased element of physical risk.
The first step in making a responsible decision to ride is understanding the high level of risk in motorcycling. We can lower the risk through our attitudes, with the protective gear we wear, and developing mental and physical strategies through training. But even so, the motorcyclist is physically vulnerable in a mishap. You are 20 times more likely to be injured on a motorcycle than in a car.
People who ride motorcycles: the motorcycles they ride
Many different types of people ride motorcycles, and for many reasons -- recreation, commuting, touring, image, sport riding, and competition.
There are also a wide variety of motorcycles - cruisers, touring, sport bikes, dual purpose, and standard. Since it is not feasible for one type of motorcycle to meet all a rider's needs, each of these represents a compromise between, performance, rider comfort, and other capabilities within intended use.
Often there is a connection between the rider, riding style and type of motorcycle. The young service member may be attracted to a motorcycle's price vs. the high level of performance. Others may be attracted to the cruiser with its black-leather-jacket mystique, as a break from life's routine. Motorcycle touring, either solo or with a group, may be both a recreational and social activity.
Car vs. motorcycle: advantages and disadvantages
Exposing the myths
Size - Motorcycles are smaller than cars. They are easier to park. But... they are harder to see (especially when you wear dark, non-reflective clothing); have limited loads; and can carry only one passenger.
Maneuverability - Motorcycles can be quite maneuverable (with a trained rider) at lower speeds. But... maneuverability decreases as you ride faster.
Performance - Motorcycles provide a high level of performance per purchasing dollar. But... require a higher level of physical skill to operate. The rider can get in trouble very fast.
Cost - Motorcycles may have a lower purchase cost. But... use may be limited by season extremes (hot and cold); passenger and load limits. Also, cost and frequency of routine maintenance (especially tires on high performance machines) may be much higher than a car.
Protection - When you ride, you become one with the environment and have the wind in your face. But... the motorcycle rider is more physically vulnerable; is more likely to be injured in an accident (must dress for the fall); and when not dressed properly, can be mentally distracted from the riding task.
Safety and risk
You ride home on that new bike. Your family, friends, and even neighbors offer their opinion, "Motorcycles. Seem like fun... ..but they're so dangerous!" And you know they are right.
Can you ride a motorcycle with no risk and free from danger, damage or injury? The obvious answer is no! There are many things we do that have risk. We fly planes. We scuba dive. We ride bicycles. We jog. We drive cars. Some activities have more risk than others.
The element of risk and our perception of it is constantly changing. We can't eliminate risk, but we can lower it. We should first understand the risk inherent to motorcycling. Next, we should be mentally and physically willing and capable to take the steps necessary to reduce the risk. Training and experience are the most effective ways of completing these two steps.
However, when we ride, we must accept the possible consequences of the risk. Even when we have reduced the risk to the lowest possible level, we are still 20 times more likely to be injured in a crash than the operator of a car.
Managing risk: mental preparation
It has been said that motorcycling is perhaps 90 percent mental. Mental preparation for the ride is critical for the motorcyclist. This begins with being alert and free from stress and other emotional distractions.
Equally important is the rider's attention. Lack of attention to the riding task is a predominate cause of many vehicle crashes. The physical vulnerability of motorcycling adds unique challenges to our attention - motorcycles offer little protection against the environment. It's hard to concentrate when we are freezing cold or hot or with rain pelting against unprotected hands or face.
Protective gear helps. Dressing for the ride can minimize physical distractions of riding so the motorcyclist can pay attention to the riding task.
There are also times when the motorcyclist might decide NOT to ride. The most obvious would include times of fatigue, stress or any type of mental or physical impairment. Perhaps less obvious, yet equally important, would be any time the rider is not comfortable with a given situation - like inclement weather or heavy traffic. The motorcyclist should always have the option to decide that the risk, real or perceived, is too high. It may be best to use an alternate means of transportation.
Managing risk: physical preparation
In the days where a car-driver's comfort in even a modest car is controlled by a computer chip, the motorcyclist must rely on protective gear. Given the rider vulnerability and the ever- changing environment, selecting, purchasing, and wearing appropriate protective gear is critical. It is may also be a time-consuming and potentially expensive task.
The section on mental preparation talked about dressing for the ride so we can enjoy the ride and better pay attention to the riding task. Research says that protective gear can sometimes reduce injury in the event of an accident. Thus, motorcyclists must also prepare by dressing for the fall.
Protective gear warrants a separate discussion. However, the minimum-protective gear includes a helmet, eye protection, gloves, over-the-ankle boots, long-sleeve upper garment and long pants constructed of a material that protects from the environment and the potential fall.
Detection of the motorcyclist in traffic is another major cause of accidents, so in addition to dressing for the ride as well as the fall, we need to dress to be seen. Bright colors and retro-reflective materials on the helmet, upper garments and vest should be mandatory components of our protective gear.
By deciding not to wear any one part of protective gear, vulnerability and risk increase. Are we willing to accept this increased level of risk? Bottom line: if you feel that you have to compromise your safety for comfort, leave the motorcycle at home and select another means of transportation. Do you have that option?
Managing risk: motorcycle preparation
A lost part of the romantic motorcycle lore of yesteryear was the rider's need to be a mechanic. Modern motorcycles are reliable and high-tech machines. In fact, many manufacturers recommend that certain maintenance procedures be performed only by certified mechanics. Manufacturers also recommend using only recognized accessories for a given model.
However, studies show that lack of maintenance can lead to mechanical failure, which can contribute to an accident. The motorcycle operator is responsible for pre-ride inspections. The most important items are lights (for visibility), suspension and tires. Motorcycles have a limited carrying capacity. Underinflation is the most common cause of tire failure.
Managing risk: knowing the limits of the rider
Motorcycle trainers often comment that questioning a motorcycle rider's skill is embarrassingly confrontational. Yet one of the most important parts of understanding risk management is knowing the limits of the rider.
Though some natural coordination is required, most of a rider's skill comes through knowledge and experience. Knowledge can be gained through formal training -- learning riding risks in the classroom and physical skills in guided on-cycle practice supervised by a professional instructor. Knowledge through training can make the experience we gain through riding less painful and expensive.
But even the most experienced rider's skill level varies. There are the physical limitations of age, sight, hearing, and coordination. There also can be physical impairments due to alcohol and other drugs.
Limits vary. Limits are not the same at the end of a long day or at the start of a new riding season. Limits can vary with a new or unfamiliar motorcycle.
Managing risk: knowing the law and limits of the environment
The environment provides limits. Things like weather, temperature and light can affect the level of risk. Riders are also responsible for knowing specific licensing, vehicle equipment, and military requirements.
Managing risk: knowing the limits of the motorcycle
Riders on new or unfamiliar motorcycles are over-represented in accidents. Through design and purpose, motorcycles have different handling characteristics, size, and control operation. Cornering clearance is not the same -- a sport bike has different handling characteristics than a cruiser. Because of limited engine displacement, some motorcycles may not be legal on interstates or freeways.
In addition to being careful when riding a new or unfamiliar motorcycle, it is probably best not to loan your motorcycle to a friend. Because of the frequency and severity of accidents, some military installations specifically prohibit anyone, other than the registered owner, from operating a motorcycle.
Managing risk: riding strategies
Riding a motorcycle is mostly mental. Strategies define the way our minds deal with the hazards in the riding environment. One of the most important strategies is to see and be seen.
Equally important is the ability to react to what we see. Strategies can help you anticipate and avoid problems before they occur. Riding strategies are the most effective way of recognizing and lowering risk.
Managing risk: in summary
Motorcycling is an activity with a high level of risk. Once recognized, the first step in lowering risk is to prepare our minds, our body, and our motorcycle.
The second step in risk management is knowing limits of the rider, motorcycle, environment, and law. We come to understand the changing nature of these limits, and their impact on the risk we accept.
Finally, our attitude provides the basis for using this knowledge effectively. We understand the risk, know the limits, and ride within these limits, using our mental strategies. Sometimes this means deciding not to ride.
Rider responsibility: who is responsible?
A typical traffic scenario: A rider is on a two-lane roadway. A car turns left in front of the rider. The rider overbrakes on the rear brake, uses no front brake, and collides with the car. Who is responsible?
Regardless of who was responsible, who had the most to lose?
Making the decision: Evaluate yourself based on how you would answer each of these questions.
Riding a motorcycle requires a higher level of acquired physical and mental skills. Research tells us, "more than half of all motorcycle accidents involve riders with less than five months experience. More than 90% of the riders involved in accidents are self-taught." Am I willing to accept the responsibility to develop the skills?
"Studies indicate that in crashes, motorcycle riders and passengers are more likely to be seriously injured or killed than automobile operators or passengers. Injury can often be avoided by wearing protective gear." What are the consequences in increased vulnerability to my work, family, others?
"Many motorcycle crashes are single-vehicle accidents. Crashes with other vehicles also occur because either or both drivers make errors in judgment. Injury can often be avoided by knowing when and how to swerve and brake." Why is a motorcyclist's judgment potentially more critical than a car driver's?
What are the "perfect" times to ride?
When might motorcycling not be my best choice of transportation (especially if there is not an alternate mode of transportation)?
Summary
There are many reasons for wanting to ride a motorcycle - and there are motorcycles and riding styles for almost everyone. But the prime consideration in deciding to ride is a decision to accept the risk inherent to motorcycling. This risk can be lowered. But motorcycling is still a high-risk activity. In an accident, we have a high chance of personal injury.
We can also apply the basic principles of risk management to other high risk activities. By definition, high risk activities represent increased chance of personal injury or property loss. We can sometimes lower the risk to acceptable levels, and participate in the activity.
However, there are activities, or even times within activities, where the risk is simply too high -- you can't afford the loss. Then, the best decision is not to participate. It's a personal decision. But the better you understand the risk and how it can be lowered, the better chance of making a responsible decision.
Taken from http://www.safetycenter.navy.mil/ashore/articles/m...
For many, motorcycling is more than a means of transportation -- it is an enthusiast's sport. The attraction of motorcycling often comes from the unique mental and physical skills necessary to operate the machine. There are many varieties of motorcycles and motorcyclists. But all motorcyclists share something in common -- an increased element of physical risk.
The first step in making a responsible decision to ride is understanding the high level of risk in motorcycling. We can lower the risk through our attitudes, with the protective gear we wear, and developing mental and physical strategies through training. But even so, the motorcyclist is physically vulnerable in a mishap. You are 20 times more likely to be injured on a motorcycle than in a car.
People who ride motorcycles: the motorcycles they ride
Many different types of people ride motorcycles, and for many reasons -- recreation, commuting, touring, image, sport riding, and competition.
There are also a wide variety of motorcycles - cruisers, touring, sport bikes, dual purpose, and standard. Since it is not feasible for one type of motorcycle to meet all a rider's needs, each of these represents a compromise between, performance, rider comfort, and other capabilities within intended use.
Often there is a connection between the rider, riding style and type of motorcycle. The young service member may be attracted to a motorcycle's price vs. the high level of performance. Others may be attracted to the cruiser with its black-leather-jacket mystique, as a break from life's routine. Motorcycle touring, either solo or with a group, may be both a recreational and social activity.
Car vs. motorcycle: advantages and disadvantages
Exposing the myths
Size - Motorcycles are smaller than cars. They are easier to park. But... they are harder to see (especially when you wear dark, non-reflective clothing); have limited loads; and can carry only one passenger.
Maneuverability - Motorcycles can be quite maneuverable (with a trained rider) at lower speeds. But... maneuverability decreases as you ride faster.
Performance - Motorcycles provide a high level of performance per purchasing dollar. But... require a higher level of physical skill to operate. The rider can get in trouble very fast.
Cost - Motorcycles may have a lower purchase cost. But... use may be limited by season extremes (hot and cold); passenger and load limits. Also, cost and frequency of routine maintenance (especially tires on high performance machines) may be much higher than a car.
Protection - When you ride, you become one with the environment and have the wind in your face. But... the motorcycle rider is more physically vulnerable; is more likely to be injured in an accident (must dress for the fall); and when not dressed properly, can be mentally distracted from the riding task.
Safety and risk
You ride home on that new bike. Your family, friends, and even neighbors offer their opinion, "Motorcycles. Seem like fun... ..but they're so dangerous!" And you know they are right.
Can you ride a motorcycle with no risk and free from danger, damage or injury? The obvious answer is no! There are many things we do that have risk. We fly planes. We scuba dive. We ride bicycles. We jog. We drive cars. Some activities have more risk than others.
The element of risk and our perception of it is constantly changing. We can't eliminate risk, but we can lower it. We should first understand the risk inherent to motorcycling. Next, we should be mentally and physically willing and capable to take the steps necessary to reduce the risk. Training and experience are the most effective ways of completing these two steps.
However, when we ride, we must accept the possible consequences of the risk. Even when we have reduced the risk to the lowest possible level, we are still 20 times more likely to be injured in a crash than the operator of a car.
Managing risk: mental preparation
It has been said that motorcycling is perhaps 90 percent mental. Mental preparation for the ride is critical for the motorcyclist. This begins with being alert and free from stress and other emotional distractions.
Equally important is the rider's attention. Lack of attention to the riding task is a predominate cause of many vehicle crashes. The physical vulnerability of motorcycling adds unique challenges to our attention - motorcycles offer little protection against the environment. It's hard to concentrate when we are freezing cold or hot or with rain pelting against unprotected hands or face.
Protective gear helps. Dressing for the ride can minimize physical distractions of riding so the motorcyclist can pay attention to the riding task.
There are also times when the motorcyclist might decide NOT to ride. The most obvious would include times of fatigue, stress or any type of mental or physical impairment. Perhaps less obvious, yet equally important, would be any time the rider is not comfortable with a given situation - like inclement weather or heavy traffic. The motorcyclist should always have the option to decide that the risk, real or perceived, is too high. It may be best to use an alternate means of transportation.
Managing risk: physical preparation
In the days where a car-driver's comfort in even a modest car is controlled by a computer chip, the motorcyclist must rely on protective gear. Given the rider vulnerability and the ever- changing environment, selecting, purchasing, and wearing appropriate protective gear is critical. It is may also be a time-consuming and potentially expensive task.
The section on mental preparation talked about dressing for the ride so we can enjoy the ride and better pay attention to the riding task. Research says that protective gear can sometimes reduce injury in the event of an accident. Thus, motorcyclists must also prepare by dressing for the fall.
Protective gear warrants a separate discussion. However, the minimum-protective gear includes a helmet, eye protection, gloves, over-the-ankle boots, long-sleeve upper garment and long pants constructed of a material that protects from the environment and the potential fall.
Detection of the motorcyclist in traffic is another major cause of accidents, so in addition to dressing for the ride as well as the fall, we need to dress to be seen. Bright colors and retro-reflective materials on the helmet, upper garments and vest should be mandatory components of our protective gear.
By deciding not to wear any one part of protective gear, vulnerability and risk increase. Are we willing to accept this increased level of risk? Bottom line: if you feel that you have to compromise your safety for comfort, leave the motorcycle at home and select another means of transportation. Do you have that option?
Managing risk: motorcycle preparation
A lost part of the romantic motorcycle lore of yesteryear was the rider's need to be a mechanic. Modern motorcycles are reliable and high-tech machines. In fact, many manufacturers recommend that certain maintenance procedures be performed only by certified mechanics. Manufacturers also recommend using only recognized accessories for a given model.
However, studies show that lack of maintenance can lead to mechanical failure, which can contribute to an accident. The motorcycle operator is responsible for pre-ride inspections. The most important items are lights (for visibility), suspension and tires. Motorcycles have a limited carrying capacity. Underinflation is the most common cause of tire failure.
Managing risk: knowing the limits of the rider
Motorcycle trainers often comment that questioning a motorcycle rider's skill is embarrassingly confrontational. Yet one of the most important parts of understanding risk management is knowing the limits of the rider.
Though some natural coordination is required, most of a rider's skill comes through knowledge and experience. Knowledge can be gained through formal training -- learning riding risks in the classroom and physical skills in guided on-cycle practice supervised by a professional instructor. Knowledge through training can make the experience we gain through riding less painful and expensive.
But even the most experienced rider's skill level varies. There are the physical limitations of age, sight, hearing, and coordination. There also can be physical impairments due to alcohol and other drugs.
Limits vary. Limits are not the same at the end of a long day or at the start of a new riding season. Limits can vary with a new or unfamiliar motorcycle.
Managing risk: knowing the law and limits of the environment
The environment provides limits. Things like weather, temperature and light can affect the level of risk. Riders are also responsible for knowing specific licensing, vehicle equipment, and military requirements.
Managing risk: knowing the limits of the motorcycle
Riders on new or unfamiliar motorcycles are over-represented in accidents. Through design and purpose, motorcycles have different handling characteristics, size, and control operation. Cornering clearance is not the same -- a sport bike has different handling characteristics than a cruiser. Because of limited engine displacement, some motorcycles may not be legal on interstates or freeways.
In addition to being careful when riding a new or unfamiliar motorcycle, it is probably best not to loan your motorcycle to a friend. Because of the frequency and severity of accidents, some military installations specifically prohibit anyone, other than the registered owner, from operating a motorcycle.
Managing risk: riding strategies
Riding a motorcycle is mostly mental. Strategies define the way our minds deal with the hazards in the riding environment. One of the most important strategies is to see and be seen.
Equally important is the ability to react to what we see. Strategies can help you anticipate and avoid problems before they occur. Riding strategies are the most effective way of recognizing and lowering risk.
Managing risk: in summary
Motorcycling is an activity with a high level of risk. Once recognized, the first step in lowering risk is to prepare our minds, our body, and our motorcycle.
The second step in risk management is knowing limits of the rider, motorcycle, environment, and law. We come to understand the changing nature of these limits, and their impact on the risk we accept.
Finally, our attitude provides the basis for using this knowledge effectively. We understand the risk, know the limits, and ride within these limits, using our mental strategies. Sometimes this means deciding not to ride.
Rider responsibility: who is responsible?
A typical traffic scenario: A rider is on a two-lane roadway. A car turns left in front of the rider. The rider overbrakes on the rear brake, uses no front brake, and collides with the car. Who is responsible?
Regardless of who was responsible, who had the most to lose?
Making the decision: Evaluate yourself based on how you would answer each of these questions.
Riding a motorcycle requires a higher level of acquired physical and mental skills. Research tells us, "more than half of all motorcycle accidents involve riders with less than five months experience. More than 90% of the riders involved in accidents are self-taught." Am I willing to accept the responsibility to develop the skills?
"Studies indicate that in crashes, motorcycle riders and passengers are more likely to be seriously injured or killed than automobile operators or passengers. Injury can often be avoided by wearing protective gear." What are the consequences in increased vulnerability to my work, family, others?
"Many motorcycle crashes are single-vehicle accidents. Crashes with other vehicles also occur because either or both drivers make errors in judgment. Injury can often be avoided by knowing when and how to swerve and brake." Why is a motorcyclist's judgment potentially more critical than a car driver's?
What are the "perfect" times to ride?
When might motorcycling not be my best choice of transportation (especially if there is not an alternate mode of transportation)?
Summary
There are many reasons for wanting to ride a motorcycle - and there are motorcycles and riding styles for almost everyone. But the prime consideration in deciding to ride is a decision to accept the risk inherent to motorcycling. This risk can be lowered. But motorcycling is still a high-risk activity. In an accident, we have a high chance of personal injury.
We can also apply the basic principles of risk management to other high risk activities. By definition, high risk activities represent increased chance of personal injury or property loss. We can sometimes lower the risk to acceptable levels, and participate in the activity.
However, there are activities, or even times within activities, where the risk is simply too high -- you can't afford the loss. Then, the best decision is not to participate. It's a personal decision. But the better you understand the risk and how it can be lowered, the better chance of making a responsible decision.
Taken from http://www.safetycenter.navy.mil/ashore/articles/m...
Ok, I'll get this in now, coz you're going to hear it soon enough - bikes don't kill people, people kill people.
The average/mean speed of a bike accident in the UK is about 22mph, not 220mph. It's not the bike which is the issue, it's the way it is ridden, the observation and anticipation of the rider. Yes, sometimes it's the idiot in the car, or some unforeseen mechanical mishap, but not always.
Your job isn't to convince your folks that the bike won't kill you, it's your task to convince them (and yourself) that you're a sensible young chap who shall learn at his own pace, not take chances, and seek advice, training and skills as soon and as often as he can.
I'd suggest you don't mention you want a "big, powerful" bike, and perhaps not scare them by getting one, either.
Nobody from the biking world is ging to think less of you for taking it at a decent pace, and anyone who does, you should be very wary of.
Hope this isn't patronising, but it's how i'd like my kids to approach it.
My tuppence.
The average/mean speed of a bike accident in the UK is about 22mph, not 220mph. It's not the bike which is the issue, it's the way it is ridden, the observation and anticipation of the rider. Yes, sometimes it's the idiot in the car, or some unforeseen mechanical mishap, but not always.
Your job isn't to convince your folks that the bike won't kill you, it's your task to convince them (and yourself) that you're a sensible young chap who shall learn at his own pace, not take chances, and seek advice, training and skills as soon and as often as he can.
I'd suggest you don't mention you want a "big, powerful" bike, and perhaps not scare them by getting one, either.
Nobody from the biking world is ging to think less of you for taking it at a decent pace, and anyone who does, you should be very wary of.
Hope this isn't patronising, but it's how i'd like my kids to approach it.
My tuppence.
Hello mate, and welcome 
Good to see a healthy appetite for a nice sorts bike. Just talk to the "olds" and assure them you'll continue with advanced training after passing the test. It's not just more boring old highway code stuff, it'll actually teach you how to ride properly, and more importantly safely. The basis of the trining is observation, and assessing your position on the road. It's very, very good, and has kept me safe(ish!!) for a couple of years now. Plus being old and slow helps!
ps - take it easy though eh, it ain't a race. I think if I'd been riding when I was 17, well...things may have been different. Not suggesting we're all the same here, but you know what I mean.
ps - you may call me dad if that helps?!
Cheers, and keep us posted.
Good to see a healthy appetite for a nice sorts bike. Just talk to the "olds" and assure them you'll continue with advanced training after passing the test. It's not just more boring old highway code stuff, it'll actually teach you how to ride properly, and more importantly safely. The basis of the trining is observation, and assessing your position on the road. It's very, very good, and has kept me safe(ish!!) for a couple of years now. Plus being old and slow helps!
ps - take it easy though eh, it ain't a race. I think if I'd been riding when I was 17, well...things may have been different. Not suggesting we're all the same here, but you know what I mean.
ps - you may call me dad if that helps?!
Cheers, and keep us posted.
I started riding bikes when i was 17, 20 years later i still get grief from my dad about owning a bike. When i turned up with my new zx10-r he just shook his head.
Point is you will never convince your parents that bike are not dangerous, because the facts tell us that they are, something like 30 times more likly to be killed riding a bike than a car.
Best not to tell them that btw.
Whatever you do spend as much money as you can on good training, both road and track if you can. Learing good radcraft is the key to staying alive. Good bike control helps alot.
Point is you will never convince your parents that bike are not dangerous, because the facts tell us that they are, something like 30 times more likly to be killed riding a bike than a car.
Best not to tell them that btw.
Whatever you do spend as much money as you can on good training, both road and track if you can. Learing good radcraft is the key to staying alive. Good bike control helps alot.
m3evo2 said:
I have what you want 
Old dear was not best pleased but realises it's my life, my choice.
sorry poor excuse to show off my new toy
Oi, that's my bike: Old dear was not best pleased but realises it's my life, my choice.sorry poor excuse to show off my new toy
Lol.
Good points have been raised on this thread: It is about your attitude to risk and showing that you can handle the responsibility of controlling the throttle, that is why I waited till I was 30 . :P
Edited by IsMad on Tuesday 29th January 23:24
Edited by IsMad on Tuesday 29th January 23:25
edited as I am soooo crap at adding pics
Edited by IsMad on Tuesday 29th January 23:26
Evening.
I started out on a GSXR-600 (2000). And nearly killed myself in the first few roundabouts.
My mum denied me the opportunity whilst living at home but once I was my own man my 1st bike was a GSXR-600.
Not that quick in the grand scheme of things but PDQ.
As long as you're more sensible than i was, and you're already ahead of me by asking on here, then you may be ok.
I'm still here, although I've had a some very close encounters.
Cheers,
Johnny
I started out on a GSXR-600 (2000). And nearly killed myself in the first few roundabouts.
My mum denied me the opportunity whilst living at home but once I was my own man my 1st bike was a GSXR-600.
Not that quick in the grand scheme of things but PDQ.
As long as you're more sensible than i was, and you're already ahead of me by asking on here, then you may be ok.
I'm still here, although I've had a some very close encounters.
Cheers,
Johnny
mym mum was always against me riding as my dad died on a bike just before I was born. so I did not do my DAs till i was 29. the wife is not happy but allowed me to do it 
and it was the best thing I done in a long time. if I knew know wbout biking when younger i would have done it years ago. as long as you are carful and not stupid on a bike you can just put them at easy buy keeping safe.
well thats what I do
and it was the best thing I done in a long time. if I knew know wbout biking when younger i would have done it years ago. as long as you are carful and not stupid on a bike you can just put them at easy buy keeping safe. well thats what I do
I wanted a bike for about 6 years before I got off my arse and did my DAS. Didn't tell my mum, dad knew as he used to ride bikes. Views are going to differ, some people would say its the rider that controls the bike, others would say take it slowly. I would say it depends very much on you, you know yourself best. To convince the parents though, do further training, don't skimp on safety gear etc. They won't approve, but it will help to lessen their fears a bit. Oh, and don't ride like the mopen 2@s you see everywhere. 
Welcome to the board!
Getting a GSXR600 may not be a great idea at 17. The engine is very rev happy and will be chocked with restricters and will not be good to ride.
They are extremly quick and competant machines. The only time I struggled to keep with anybody was against 1000cc+ in a straight line.
Check out insurance costs first Group 14 at 17 may be stupidly high to ensure.
I would get a 400cc or 125. you will have more fun on a bike that is standard closer to 33bhp rather than one that is running at 33% capability.
With bikes don't worry about what others think. Don't bother trying to get a bike that looks quick & powerful. A CBR400 will look quick and powerful to those that don't know bikes. And to those that do know bikes will know you have a great fun bike.
Getting a GSXR600 may not be a great idea at 17. The engine is very rev happy and will be chocked with restricters and will not be good to ride.
They are extremly quick and competant machines. The only time I struggled to keep with anybody was against 1000cc+ in a straight line.
Check out insurance costs first Group 14 at 17 may be stupidly high to ensure.
I would get a 400cc or 125. you will have more fun on a bike that is standard closer to 33bhp rather than one that is running at 33% capability.
With bikes don't worry about what others think. Don't bother trying to get a bike that looks quick & powerful. A CBR400 will look quick and powerful to those that don't know bikes. And to those that do know bikes will know you have a great fun bike.
Thanks for all the quick replies!
Just out of interest, do any of you guys use your bike to commute in to work/school? If so, what protective gear do you wear - I doubt it'd be particularly easy to wear leathers if there are no changing rooms etc.
I'll make sure I do as many extra courses as I can, I'm not looking to waste a life here.
As with the insurance, does anyone know an insurance company that offers good deals? I didn't have much time yesterday, but I took a quick look at a couple at it looks like it'll be circa £1300 to insure the gsx at 17, does this sound about right?
Thanks again,
Ori
Just out of interest, do any of you guys use your bike to commute in to work/school? If so, what protective gear do you wear - I doubt it'd be particularly easy to wear leathers if there are no changing rooms etc.
I'll make sure I do as many extra courses as I can, I'm not looking to waste a life here.
As with the insurance, does anyone know an insurance company that offers good deals? I didn't have much time yesterday, but I took a quick look at a couple at it looks like it'll be circa £1300 to insure the gsx at 17, does this sound about right?
Thanks again,
Ori
Orichalon said:
Thanks for all the quick replies!
Just out of interest, do any of you guys use your bike to commute in to work/school? If so, what protective gear do you wear - I doubt it'd be particularly easy to wear leathers if there are no changing rooms etc.
I'll make sure I do as many extra courses as I can, I'm not looking to waste a life here.
As with the insurance, does anyone know an insurance company that offers good deals? I didn't have much time yesterday, but I took a quick look at a couple at it looks like it'll be circa £1300 to insure the gsx at 17, does this sound about right?
Thanks again,
Ori
£1700 sounds for a Gixxer bodes well for me at 19 insuring a CBR600F Just out of interest, do any of you guys use your bike to commute in to work/school? If so, what protective gear do you wear - I doubt it'd be particularly easy to wear leathers if there are no changing rooms etc.
I'll make sure I do as many extra courses as I can, I'm not looking to waste a life here.
As with the insurance, does anyone know an insurance company that offers good deals? I didn't have much time yesterday, but I took a quick look at a couple at it looks like it'll be circa £1300 to insure the gsx at 17, does this sound about right?
Thanks again,
Ori
I'm going to use mine to commute to work, and am going kit shopping at Hein Gericke in Liverpool.
Probably going to get leather trousers, textile jacket. I'll just bung some jeans in a backpack.
Orichalon said:
Thanks for all the quick replies!
Just out of interest, do any of you guys use your bike to commute in to work/school? If so, what protective gear do you wear - I doubt it'd be particularly easy to wear leathers if there are no changing rooms etc.
I'll make sure I do as many extra courses as I can, I'm not looking to waste a life here.
As with the insurance, does anyone know an insurance company that offers good deals? I didn't have much time yesterday, but I took a quick look at a couple at it looks like it'll be circa £1300 to insure the gsx at 17, does this sound about right?
Thanks again,
Ori
To be honest £1300 sound pretty cheap, i assume its 3PFT.Just out of interest, do any of you guys use your bike to commute in to work/school? If so, what protective gear do you wear - I doubt it'd be particularly easy to wear leathers if there are no changing rooms etc.
I'll make sure I do as many extra courses as I can, I'm not looking to waste a life here.
As with the insurance, does anyone know an insurance company that offers good deals? I didn't have much time yesterday, but I took a quick look at a couple at it looks like it'll be circa £1300 to insure the gsx at 17, does this sound about right?
Thanks again,
Ori
When i take the bike to work i will wear kevlar armoured jeans (Hood Concept 6) and a Belstaff textile armoured jacked.
Both are very comfy but the jeans can be very warm indoors.
Plenty of threads on here about insurance, and a fairly recent one, too, about what people wear.
I commute, and yes the kit can be a bugger. In summer i've got a light leather jacket and kevlar lined jeans. Right now it's textile jacket and textile trousers, both gore-tex. Heated gloves. They rock.
Both my summer and winter outfits are knee, elbow, back, hip and shoulder armoured, as are my gloves.
You shouldn't skimp on your safety gear. Get down to Hein Gericke http://www.hein-gericke.co.uk/shop/ and have a look. They are a helpful bunch, and will keep you right. It can be bloody confusing, but for commuting stay away from one peice kit, and leave enough room for thermal gear under whatever you get.... It's cold at XX0mph, regardless of time of year.
I commute, and yes the kit can be a bugger. In summer i've got a light leather jacket and kevlar lined jeans. Right now it's textile jacket and textile trousers, both gore-tex. Heated gloves. They rock.
Both my summer and winter outfits are knee, elbow, back, hip and shoulder armoured, as are my gloves.
You shouldn't skimp on your safety gear. Get down to Hein Gericke http://www.hein-gericke.co.uk/shop/ and have a look. They are a helpful bunch, and will keep you right. It can be bloody confusing, but for commuting stay away from one peice kit, and leave enough room for thermal gear under whatever you get.... It's cold at XX0mph, regardless of time of year.
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