Big F*****g OUCH!!!!!

[Dezidero]

I think that, as motorcyclists, we would need to be VERY careful about trotting out this rather tired old line.

This is, essentially, a re-hash of an argument used by ill-informed busybodies against biking in general.

Risk is a reality in all our lives. What level of risk is acceptable and how that risk is managed is (providing it's not putting others in danger) surely an entirely personal thing?

Essentially, what those using this argument are saying is: "This is the level of risk that I, personally, have decided is acceptable. Anyone who thinks otherwise is wrong and is, therefore, an irksome nuisance, whose selfish behaviour is taking away much-needed resources from the more deserving - ie; those whose judgement on 'acceptable risk' happens to coincide exactly with mine".

As I say, the anti-bike brigade use this argument time and again in an attempt to portray all biking as, potentially, an unacceptable burden on the health service and the taxpayer.

You are, of course, entitled to your opinion but I just think we need to be careful what stones we fling about our wee glasshouse. I think we are already the subject of enough interference without inadvertently lending a hand to those who would perhaps like to legislate us out of existence altogether.

PS: I wouldn't go anywhere without proper gear on, but this is just my choice.

GORDY
IT WAS MEANT TONGUE IN CHEEK ! i on the other hand would douse the dozy fecker in salt n vinegar

 

[Gordy23]

GORDY
IT WAS MEANT TONGUE IN CHEEK ! i on the other hand would douse the dozy fecker in salt n vinegar

Even as we speak, I am putting a match to my soapbox

 

[Davy F]

I escorted an 18 y.o. chap to hospital today as he was getting his new leg fitted. He came off a 125 whatever and had to have his leg off to save his life. £30 grands worth of medical marvel awaited. As much as I was in awe of this contraption, I did come to the decision that I'd rather have the real things.

 

[Adventure Stu]

A group of us were having this very conversation at the weekend. Personally speaking I think it is stupidity not to wear reinforced jeans at the very least i.e. draggin, hood etc etc. How many have came off a push bike when they were a young'un? or have children now and have patched them up after a fall! Sore enough at a speed very few bikers would realistically come off at.

Gloves is another one. Too hot..."I'll go without" Instinct is to put your hands out to cushion a fall, bye bye palms.

Don't get me wrong, I'm all for freedom of choice but sometimes although I see why they make them I just can't agree with the choices others make.

I reckon it's only a matter of time before it becomes law to be properly attired head to foot when on a bike. Not necessarily a bad thing when the kit is out there and it's not all expensive.

 

[Firefox]

I reckon it's only a matter of time before it becomes law to be properly attired head to foot when on a bike. Not necessarily a bad thing when the kit is out there and it's not all expensive.

Not all that expensive for you guys on the big island. Here in Ireland we pay 21.5% VAT on all our protective clothing despite repeated campaigns for change.

That said, I've been a paramedic for over twenty years and seen plenty of bikers off their mounts with and without gear. I am a confirmed ATGATT believer no matter how hot it gets. (of course, you don't have to buy the gear here).

I agree with you on the likelihood of a legal requirement before too long. then we'll all be shelling out huge sums for "approved" equipment which will be all dayglo, designed by some F***er who never sat on a bike. No input from bikers for comfort etc.

Like the wise men say, "common sense is not all that common"