Take that extra second.... - Motorcycle-Journal Forums

posix · 04-23-2009, 12:01 AM

Well I had my first put down over the week-end. Word to the wise, take that extra second to be absolutly sure you are clear. Short cuts on a bike will cost you, maybe not today, but one day.

Here is the scenario:

- Two riders ( He has about 10k kms, I have about 4000kms)
- Blind left corner (A bunch of illegally parked cars)
- We are at a stop sign.
- 100 people watching you pull away, a test ride day.

My friend pulled out and I went with him. I should have pulled up that extra foot and stopped to peer around the blind left...but I went with it. A very bad mistake. They tell us to not ride away or turn as a pair...guess I know why.

As I pulled out a car was immediately on my left hand broadside. I slammed the back break down, slid the back tire out and layed the bike directly down. I stood there holding the bike while on its side, hitting the kill switch to stop my flaring engine.

It happened really fast so I can't recall exactly what I was thinking. I half believe I was about to run away from the incoming collision. Not so sure that was the best route. In hind sight I think I should have just pressed on with the turn as she never actually made contact.

Since then I've been putting serious work in cutting out all shortcuts from my riding approach. I think this may actually turn around to be a blessing, I was by far getting too comfortable out there.

I have also been scouring forums, posts and articles regarding riding practice.

Consider this post humble pie therapy for me

btw the damage to the bike was 0. I have a small scuff on the clutch lever...somehow...that is it. I still don't see how, but I chalk it up to someone firing me a proverbial warning shot.