I have to admit, I really do enjoy riding motorcycles. I have been riding them since I was 14 and the experience it like nothing else. If you just remember two things it is these: Watch Your Speed and Watch The Other Guy.

My sister used to work as a nurse in the critical care section of a hospital. It had usually two types of patients. The very old and sick and young male motorcycle riders who crashed their bikes because of excessive speed. 18-25 year old guys are big risk takers and when you throw a motorcycle into the mix bad things can happen fast. I'm no angel and there were times I went too fast but guys do yourself a favor and watch your speed so you can ride another day.

The other thing I noticed in my riding experience is that other driver just do not see a motorcycle. Every rider should know this fact. I can't count the number of times a car turned in front of me, pulled out from a side street on top of me or cut into my path from a U-turn lane as I was going through an intersection on a green light, minding my own business.  Intersections are dangerous places for motorcycle riders. Your senses have to be keenly aware of everything around you. Take an extra second to check around you before you pull out into the intersection on a green light. It will save your life. Watch for pebbles, sand or loose dirt in the roadway when making a turn. Wear bright clothes. Do whatever you can to make the other driver see you. Most importantly, when you see a car approaching, do your best to anticipate what they are about to do. If they look like they are slowing, they might just be ready to turn in front of you. Avoid their blind spots when approaching on their right or left.  

I have never owned a Harley but have rented a few. One thing I like about them is that they are loud. I like them loud for only one reason. If someone does not see you they sure might hear you. I think that is a great safety device. So if you approach them and get in their blind spot, they may just hear you before they decide to change lanes, cut you off and make misery for you.