I apologize if this sound harsh, but it's been on my mind lately. This isn't really a comment about any specific accident but just a general reaction of seeing way too many headlines like this. About five years ago, my family was camping in the Black Hills while the rally in Sturgis was taking place. Nothing gives you a clearer perspective of how stupid some motorcyclists can be when you're going in the opposite direction driving a F-150 pickup with wide side mirrors. About one in ten motorcyclists were crossing the double center line into my lane on curves. Very few of them were aware that if I hadn't pulled my truck all the way over as they approached and crossed into my lane that their ride could have ended with tragedy.
While the majority of the riders are safe riders, there are some that just shouldn't be riding routes like the Tail of the Dragon or those in the Black Hills to test skills they don't actually have. It gets even more complicated with a passenger and/or extra luggage on the bike/trike. My whole point is we (I'm including me) all need to be reminded to check our ego from time to time on rides like this so we return home safely.
Speed Kills…..
I have ridden and lead many groups through the Tail of the Dragon and other roads like that. Whenever I have a group, I ask them to line up in the order as to how they want to ride, with the faster riders in front and then slower ones in the rear. But I also say that if you think you are fast, chances are that you might not be, or you might be riding above your skill level. The key is that you don't want someone slower in the front to be slowing down someone who wants to ride faster, and you don't want anyone faster pressuring someone else to ride beyond their skill level. But I make it clear that regardless, you will never be left behind. We will have a designated point for us to wait and gather up to check on everyone before going further.Lack of control kills.
Riding outside of your skill set kills.
Stupidity kills.
Speed can kill if any of the above apply.
Exactly Right !I have found that people tend to be a more accurate judge of other's skill level than they are of their own.
And though I hate to admit it... That probably includes myself!Exactly Right !
You forgot the “Unknown Variable “.Lack of control kills.
Riding outside of your skill set kills.
Stupidity kills.
Speed can kill if any of the above apply.