Bossnass

I'll need to do some commuting this summer, from May 2nd untill the end of August. My cohabitating fiance also has a need of the car we share. The distance I'm traveling (from south central Edmonton to Fort Saskachewan) makes public transport impossible for me, and the hours she will be working and the areas of town make public transport a bad idea/impossible for her.

I'm the most broke that I've been since I was in my mid-teens. I've decided to sell off all my boats (from a starting-to-fail-business) and take a decent paying job that will put valuable work experience on my resume. This means that I no longer need my truck (used to haul boats, won't fit in the parkade and burns way too much gas), which has been uninsured and parked at my parent's farm since September. This also explains why I need to make the drive everyday.

I hope to get enough out of the truck ('91 4x4 F150) and profit on the boats to pick up a used bike. We live in an apartment condo that has one parking stall in the underground parkade. I'm certain that a bike and a Civic can share my parking stall, and condo bylaws don't pose a problem.

I'm thinking bike because

• I think I can afford to buy a used one and to keep fuel in it
• I'm pretty sure that insurance is affordable
• I can park it, and parking is at a premium where we live.
• It is the summer
• I want one

I was briefly on a dirt bike about ten years ago. I've done a bit of cruising on my dad's 'Dyna-Wide-Glide' Harley (Big Twin 88) the last couple summers. But I'm thinking a little sportbike. Nothing smaller then a 750cc, as I'm 6'1" and 200 lbs. Nothing too big, because I don't want more bike then I can handle after a long day at work. Other then a lunch, I don't think I would need to carry much.

(and yes, I plan I taking a safety course if I decide to get a bike, mostly because it would half my insurance premiums)

So talk some sense into me, why shouldn't I get a bike? Bad idea to use one for daily transport?

BadNick

Especially if you learn how to handle it safely, I say get a bike. Sorry I couldn't convince you not to ;(

GetRdone

theres no reason not too. bikes are great.

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bodypainter

Don't get a bike.

Okay, I tried dammit. Get the bike.

Halx

A man riding a bike in traffic is a man who has not yet made a mistake.

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cj2112

Understand that if you ride long enough, odds are that you will at some point lay the bike down, You may be fortunate like me and walk away with some road rash (sideswiped on the 91 freeway in Anaheim Ca. at 65 mph.) or, you may not be so fortunate. I won't try to discourage you from getting a bike but, I would strongly encourage you to do two things: Take the safety course, and dress like you plan on making contact with the pavement. Keep in mind that bikes require much more maintenance than a car, and that the maintenance is costly if you are not able to perform it yourself.

Ilow

I really love bikes and would kill to be riding one this summer. Bikes are fun, burn less gas, have relatively low insurance, and take up less parking space, however they are inherently more dangerous than cars and can be a pain in inclement weather. I've never commuted on a bike (at least not far) but I wonder if it would take some of the fun out of riding one. I know many people use bikes as primary transportation, but I still see them as secondary. Apart from the parking issue, another cheap civic would probably be more useful overall. I think you want one more than need one. Again, i certainly can see why, but i'd be pissed if I had to go to work and it was freakin' pouring and I had to ride a sportbike to work. Then again maybe I don't want anyone else to have a bike if I can't...

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dtheriault

my co-worker's wife works at a mental hospital. 80% of the patients there with permenant severe brain trauma due to an accident are former motorcycle riders.

her husband secretly rides a motorcycle he leaves in a friend's garage.

there's no stopping a willing spirit. wear a helmet.

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Bossnass

I knonw am asking for reasons, but for the sake of discussion.

Granted, I would rather be in a cage of steel and airbags then rolling on pavement. I understand that there are disproportionate amounts of bike related accidents and injuries, but I don't think they are as dangerous as they are made out to be. I also acknowledge that when mistakes are made -or are made by other users of the roads- that a bike is much less forgiving then a vehicle.

That said, 'A man driving a high performance sports car is a man who has not yet made a mistake'. (Also noting that I won't be in California or NY style traffic) Or 'if you drive at all, odds are you will have an accident at some point', further 'if you leave your bubble, you will die.'


First, the Civic is a pretty good little car, but it is only serving a purpose. I am a fan of Honda/Acura, but I never plan on buying another economy car. The parkade is at capacity and, if I could get one, a space would take too large of a bite out of my income.

I'll be working for a Civil/earthworks company. This means if its raining too hard to ride a bike, its raining too hard to work.

Also means I'll have workboots and heavy work pants on. I will pick up some leathers, but I don't know how heavy I want to dress when it 30 degrees out. I should more seriously consider attire. What should a helmet cost?

What sort of mainteince should I expect? I have a decent socket set/set of wrenches/torx and hex drivers/ etc. I'm somewhat mechanically competent, and everything on the bike seems to be easy to access (compared to the Civic, the seadoos, the boats). What should I plan for?

cj2112

by no means am i trying to dissuade you from riding, I just want you to havea realistic picture. As far as maintenance goes, it really depends on the bike you buy. Shaft drive, chain drive, belt drive, tappet adjusted valves, tire changes tend to be more frequent and tires don't come cheap, they'll cost more than the tires on your civic (buy the best tires you can....it makes a huge difference in the way your bike handles), most of the stuff can be done by someone who has a fair mechanical aptitude. Helmets....I'm very happy to see you ask this question, buy a decent helmet, you will be more willing to wear it as it will be much more comfortable than a cheap helmet. epxpect to spend better than 200 dollars american and up to about 400 dollars american, you want one that is full face, well vented, designed so that the face shield doesn't fog up, and one that fits. Fit is very important, an ill fitting helmet can actually cause more problems if you are to need it's protection. Leathers....a good quality jacket designed for riding, is worth it's weight in gold, not only will it protect you in the event of an accident, but it will protect you from the wind, small sticks and stones thrown up by other vehicles tires, and other hazards. a leather jacket is a must. invest in two good quality (are you noticing a theme about quality here?) pairs of gloves, a coool weather pair, and a summer pair. I know you won't be riding in the cold weather, but trust me on this, there will come a morning that you will be very happy you bought the warmer pair of gloves. Do not ride w/o gloves on, your hands will thank you for this the first time you hit a bee with them.

dtheriault

okay. i'm driving my vw bus at 2 in the morning up a small hill. i see a 15 foot high rooster tail of sparks traveling at 65 mph heading straight towards me and i can't figure it out. i'm thinking ufo, satan, skipping meteor when the spark shower veers off to my left and slams into a brick wall. it was a guy on a motorcycle.

every and i mean every person i know who has a bike or vespa has laid it down or been hit by a car or gone over a car hood. i think it's extremely prudent to think of protection. not everyone gets hit the first year or even the first five years and it matters how good and safe you are, where you ride, and how often you ride.

it's a blast. just be careful.

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Bossnass

Thanks for all the input cj. For some reason I had planned on getting approriate gear, but I hadn't worked it into the budget.

The local used market seems to be wanting. It seems that everything for sale right now is new too (2001->) and loaded with aftermarket items or too old (mid 80s and older) and in rough shape.

Also, my deal to sell all the boats off at once has fallen through, so I'm going to have to piece them out. So without a lump sum, the bike is going to be tough or impossible. But now that the idea is so firmly entrenched in my head, I think I'll make it work.

Hektore

Two things in terms of not(in case you don't want to read past here) getting a bike:

1. I realize people get into accidents in cars too, but usually at the same speeds people on the bikes end up much worse off. I've seen more than a couple people die at 35 mph in motorcycle accidents(this probably has a good bit to do with PA getting rid of the helmet law ), not so much in cars.

2. I think insurance companies will more willingly total a bike than a car, buddy of mine had a bike parked alongside the road and it got hit by another bike doing about 30mph and they just flat out totaled his because it would have been so much more to fix it than the bike was worth(it wasn't a cheap bike either). I think bikes take more damage than cars in minor accidents.

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Cycler

Agreed the more stuff you can do your self the easier a motorcycle is on your wallet. Oil changes, brake fluid, brake adjustment try to learn to do these by your self they are relatively easy and the dealer loves to mark up your simple maitenance issues.
Again good points. I have had a coupole of 200-250 dollar helmets made by HJC. While their protection for your head meets all the requirements the issues of fogging and fit are not one of this helmets brand's strengths. My next helmet is going to be in the 400-to 500 dollar range Arai or Shoei much better comfort and quality. Yes definitely here. Don't get just any leather jacket get a motorcycle specfic jacket which is armored in crucial areas to protect you in the even of a fall. Leather is hot in the summer but the benefits outweigh textile type jackets in my opnion and are woth a little discomfort. Look for one with good ventiing and that should eleminate much of the heat problem. My next jacket I think is going to be an ICON brand it has zippered vents instead of perforated leather like my Hans Greicke. Definiely neccessay too you don't know how much you need some of this stuff till the worst happens so don't be without it. Rock, bugs, sliding down the street gloves can really save your hands aong with providing some releif from the inherent vibration in the bars.

I tell everyone that tells me about the risks of riding motorcycles that:
There are two types or riders, those that have had a wreck and those that are waiting.

If you ride protected and prerpared for the possible, some say eventual accident your chances of coming out okay are greatly increased. Take the entry level course, buy the right gear, try to insure your bike with same insurance company as your car (it is sometimes a little bit cheaper), ride aware and always, ALWAYS think that they people around you could do something stupid at anytime and you will have a good time.

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strife

Cycler,

That is a hot avatar. I agree with everything you said.

Last summer I was without a car, and was riding a 1987 Honda Magna 750cc. I live in a suburb of Chicago and traffic can get pretty nuts, that and we all tend to speed . I rode from June to October. My commute was about 25 miles one way. There is a certian kind of freedom involved with riding a bike, one that I can't really describe. Pretty much everything I have to offer has already been said...My choice of helmets is Arai, although you will pay about $400 USD for just a plain black one. When the later months came, I had to drive with one hand while I kept one hand on the engine compartment to warm my hands up. 29 Degrees Farenhiet + 80 mph = really effing cold. You'll experience cold in a whole new way out on a bike. Riding in rain sucks. Try not to ride on painted lines on the road, when that paint gets wet it's uber slippery. If at all possible practice a lot on a dirt bike before you get out on the road. If you really want to be discouraged from riding, here is some graphic footage of motorcycle accidents.




Click here to see Video

You may be a great rider, but there are always people who are oblivious out on the roads and they may not see you. Just be careful. Loud pipes save lives. Sorry, I'm rambling. <3 bikes.

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strife

IanSturgill

I would love to have a bike, just be carefull and don't be hasty when purchasing.

Cynthetiq

I miss having a bike.

I promised grandpa after I got hit on Rt 4 in NJ after an 100+ mile ride about 2 miles from home that I wouldn't ride again until after he died. He spefically asked me for piece of mind since he worried when I was off riding.

I did have a power point file of a motorcycle accident... pieces of the rider everywhere.

there's 2 kinds of riders out there... those that have laid their bikes down, and those that are going to lay their bikes down.

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Ramega

Here's a couple for you:

A friend was driving along the highway and sees two bikes approaching in his rear view at high speed. They pass him, try to change two lanes at once, clip each other then the car in front of him, bounce off the center wall, and are promptly splattered all over the road by a large truck. Right in front of him. Granted, they were riding dangerously.

Another friend used to work in the ER. A guy was brought in by ambulance, had been hit on his bike through no fault of his own. He was lucid and talking on the gurney until they unstrapped his helmet. Most of his head stayed inside when they removed it. He died almost instantly. Almost.

Those are the stories I remember when I start jonesing for a bike.

(You asked to be talked out of it...)

Martian

I love bikes, especially cruisers (I have a soft spot for Dynaglides). By all means if you want one, get one. Just remmber though, that on a bike in traffic everything else is bigger than you and the stakes are higher. You don't get seat belts or air bags or crumple zones to protect you and need to ride accordingly. Keep your head up and don't take any chances.

Is it risky to ride a bike? Well, yeah, but it's also risky to drive a car or even walk down the street. To me, the rewards are worth the risk but it's a choice that everyone needs to make for themselves. Judging by the post you made you've already made your choice. Far be it from me to try to talk you out of it (especially since I agree with it).

bodypainter

There's a third kind of rider. The ones who rode for decades and *never* laid their bike down. I am in that category.

Cycler

I think you fall into my second category those that are waiting to go down. How long have you ridden? First bike, second, third? I think statistically you are going to eventually have an accident. Ya you may not have had one yet but it is almost an eventuality that you will. Wish you the best keep 2 wheels down. Rode about 300 miles this weekend and it was good.

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Cynthetiq

I couldn't find the original one which was much more graphic.. but this gives you some idea...

Identifying the Right Patient

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yellowgowild

Do you ever see the same motorcycle twice?

bodypainter

1970 - 1973 Honda 125
1973 - 1975 Honda 450
1979 - 1982 Yamaha 650
1982 - 1992 Honda 900
1998 - 2004 Honda CBX

I think that qualifies as considerable experience. I have no idea how many miles I rode over the years but I was never in a situation where the bike was my sole transportation for any length of time.

I sold the CBX last year and am now retired from riding (or at least owning) a motorcycle. I guess I'm like the rare boxer who can retire undefeated.

Here's one more bit of heresy. Whenever I was allowed to do so, I went without my helmet. Can't stand 'em.

greeneyes

Honestly I think you should do what you want but since you did ask to be talked out of it, here goes.

Bike Crash Photo 1

Bike Crash Photo 2

These are highly, highly graphic photos of a motorcyclists who was, to put it bluntly, destroyed.

I would consider these NSFW and once again, they are very, very graphic.

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Cycler

Impressive streak of luck especially with the helmet statement but I still stand by my statement given enough time and enough miles I really believe you will have an accident if you ride a motorcycle. Granted my worst currently is a couple of dumbass drops but no real accidents. I fully expect to have one anyday and can only hope that I live through it.

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Martian

Cycler, you could say the same about driving a car. Hell, you could say the same about walking. Sooner or later, you're going to trip, land the wrong way and break your neck. Life is chance.

There are definitely risks in riding and you don't have the same safety devices on two wheels as you would on four. That means that when you do have a crash/collision your chances of being seriously hurt or killed are higher. The question, as with anything else in life, is do you think the odds are acceptable?

Cycler

As you say though the "risks in riding and you don't have the same safety devices on two wheels as you would on four. That means that when you do have a crash/collision your chances of being seriously hurt or killed are higher." Exactly my point. Sure you may wreck or have an accident doing any number of things but with a motorcycle speed, lack of restraint, improper gear, inexperience, other folks on the road can combine to make a motorcycle that much more dangerous and risky to your health. Do I think the risk are acceptable? Yes I rode to work this morning (38 degrees in Oklahoma in May ).

He asked to be talked out of it so I think that is what I am trying to get across if you ride prepared for an accident your chance of survival are much higher.

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Plaid13

They are cheap and good on gas but... if you have alot of traffic where you need to ride you need to take in the stupid people factor. lots of stupid people on the roads and if they hit you on a bike it will be a mess. if theres not much traffic go for it.

jhkayakr

Get one , we can always use another organ donor.

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greyeyes

I once read an article in a local paper that here in Atlanta in 2003 alone 300 bikers (probably motorcycle and cyclers combined) were killed in an accident. Didn't keep me off my bike but keeps me cautious as hell.

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Ruse

Ugh.. after reading this thread I want to get a little bike and give it a try - It really sounds like a lot of fun!

catback

If you want a bike and fully understand what your taking on then get one but if your just getting a bike because it fits your budjet better than your not mentally prepared for a bike. Bikes as a mean of daily transportation suck. Rain, traffic, temperature, wind, they all suck on the bike when your only desire is to get from A to B regardless of how you get there. However if you wanna ride then nothing said will stop you from doing it, not accident stats or videos or stories will keep someone from their passion to ride.