Hey Bro, watch out for that curve

[FJRBluesman]

I feel a lot of love in the room..............

I never thought I'd agree with odot but... Gunny.

 

[FJRMGM]

yes - it definitely looks like that bike was laid down..

Nothing like an agricultural excursion to screw up an otherwise good ride.

 

[docsulivan]

As a former Motor Co zombie, I have to admit to a drop in a turn due to poor lean on a Softtail. Of course I was asking for it- 4 weeks into owning my first bike, riding in unfamiliar territory on the Blue Ridge Parkway, with guys who were much more experienced riders, and trying to play the game of "keep up". Freaked in a sharp turn, popped up, locked up the rear, passed through the left lane and dropped it in the opposing break down lane before a moderate drop off. Able to drop from 50-something (in a turn very clearly marked as 35)to 15 before laying it down. Cost me a mirror, some tank work, and a new pair of boxers. It was a nerve wracking 350 mile ride back home (bike still operational). Enrolled in a MSF class the next week, arguably a week too late. Things I learned:

Steel toe boots are good

Full finger gloves are good

Sleeves are good(kevlar would've been better)

Full face masks are good (learned that later but at least wearing a DOT approved 1/2 helmet rather than a plastic novelty brain bucket which took a good ding & made me get the full face)

I've owned two other Hogs and spent 9 yrs before I got tired of hearing from other riders that I took too long to put on gloves, jackets, and helmets before I made the FJR jump.

It's not "just about the ride" , it's about being able to go on the next one. I will be happy to lend a hand to a downed HD- I'll get the first aid kit from my spacious trunks, call 911 from my fully charged cell phone, and use the GPS to tell them exactly where we're at...while I listen to MP3s.

Doc

 

[drew231506]

Lesson? Keep your eyes on the road folks. Simple as that.
GZ

[*]Riders with low skills are more likely to crash.

I'm still not sure I agree with you (and Toe, and the guy who doesn't wear a helmet) on this. Someone with low skill performing a high skill maneuver...Well, yes I would agree. I know many highly skilled motorcyclists that have crashed. (and also watch some on tv) Higher skilled riders tend to push it more often as well. So "more likely", maybe, maybe not.