| Author | Message | ||
     Essthreetee |
So here is the deal. I have an '02 S3T that I love...however as of late, I have been a little hesitant about riding it. I can't put my finger on it...I have been riding for 16 years...never hesitating one bit. But now, my 6 year old daughter and 4 year old son are making me think twice. I keep asking myself, "Do I need to put myself in a situation where I could be taken away from them?" I know that it could happen to me regardless of what I am driving, but is it more prone to happen on a bike? Probably. It does save me money (gas), but after the extra insurance...it comes out to about $37 per month savings to ride the bike to work everyday. I am thinking I could sell my bike, sell my truck, get something that gets a little better gas mileage than the truck (Jeep ?) and call it good until my kids are grown... Am I just being dumb?? Am I being responsible?? Someone help me....or at least give me your two cents... Thanks Jason | ||
| Phat_j |
i totaly understand your point of view, but the way i see it..... i could fall out of bed and hit my noggen and die that way.......... or anything else..... take out a nice insurance pollicy that hopefully will be a long time before it gets used, and then live life.... its too short.... spend as much time with them as you can..... teach them to ride and most of all, be happy | ||
| Ratbuell |
The only thing I can suggest - and I completely understand your concerns - is when you're riding....just pay attention. I log well over 20k miles a year on my bikes, and on demo bikes. I ride every day to work and back, as long as there's no snow on the ground (I love me some heated clothing!). And I pay enough attention for me, the other guy, and the third guy/gal who's too busy yapping on their cell phone to pay attention for themselves. I ride "offensive", too...not "what a dick" offensive, but one step beyond "defensive". My spot is my spot. A turn signal is not a right of way - my being there is MY right of way, and I'll get right up in your window and let you know I'm there before you have a chance to pull into my lane. I ride as close to the dotted line as I can without splitting lanes, because I want the "other" lane folks to see me before they start their lane changes. I constantly cover the brake, and I cover the horn and/or high beam. I disassembled a Federal Signal HD police LED strobelight and put 2 of the LED cards (with flashers) in the brakelight housing of my S2. I couldn't even look at them when I was testing them in the garage, LOL. Usually when I protect my space (I pay insurance, I've got a license, and I pay my taxes too) I get a dirty look or a "you're number one" salute...but every once in a while, I get a genuine "I didn't see you, I'm sorry". | ||
| Bake |
People have cars accidents every day too. But no use pushing it if you don't feel comfortable. | ||
| Cpres |
I vote ride if you still enjoy it, life can change in an instant, even in a car. I know this as my wife was in a auto accident and she will have life long problems. She still enjoys a short hop on the Buell when she feels up to it and I fell lucky with her health that day. She rode passenger over 5000 miles in one trip before she got hit in her car. Live life in a way that you have no regrets. | ||
| Bad_karma |
When you start second guessing yourself it's time to stop. If after 16 years of riding you feel it's not a value to your life maybe it is time to let go. Though I will be sorry to see a buell rider go. Best wishes Joe | ||
| Ratman |
Ive been there myself in my 30+ years of riding and found I spent more time worrying about geting run over than looking where I was riding. At that point I just hung it up for a while. I have no kids myself, if I did Id have to think again about the whole deal at this point. | ||
| Rotzaruck |
Essthreetee It's a genuine conundrum for me also, though I'm (I assume) quite a bit older than you. Thinking about leaving those kids Dadless is truly scary. Life is a risky thing, but you don't want to walk on all fours in a mine field, but even that would be a better life than hiding under the bed. Phat has a point, if you're alive, you might as well be living, but you can't keep from thinking about NOT being alive too, but you can try. When my first wife brought home that first baby,(she went into labor after a spirited last ride) I parked my Z1900. It's still sitting 28 years later. I was trying to do the responsible thing, after having a couple of very close calls. As a matter of fact, I was probably still limping!! My upbringing was probably a part of it too. My Mother was and still is, a very outspoken hater of motorcycles. I missed it horribly for a while, but like all losses, it eased up as time went by. After I was divorced for a while, and my kids were mostly grown, I had started kind of watching for a bike, and debating the possibilities of getting that ancient Kaw running. If I had discovered Buell then, I would have bought one, I'm sure. I felt like I had to have a Harley, but just really didn't exactly want one, and didn't want anything else I saw either. Then I met Becky (Becksbuell) and got married again. Almost immediately, we had a crisis that altered our financial situation enough to not think about a bike for the time being, and now I had another young son, to consider also. I think, I just figured, without really thinking about it, what was responsible way back then, was responsible now. Recently, some friends got bikes, and I was quietly a bit jealous, and low and behold Beck started talking about wishing she had a bike. She had ridden off and on since she was a child. She wanted a sport type bike, I wanted American. What to do? Then we found Buell and BadWeB, and ended up getting her a Blast. I made the mistake of riding it, man oh man. What I had been missing. I remembered how therapeutic riding was, when my life wasn't even nearly as stressful as it is now. I remembered how much just flat out fun it was. I knew I was older and would be much less likely to be dodging june bugs at 150 mph. I reminded myself, that economically speaking, I'm worth much more dead than alive anyway. Perhaps I was just trying to justify acting irresponsibly. Maybe I'm wiser now, and know, that to be capable of taking care of my loved ones, I first had to take care of myself. I felt like the curative effect of riding would extend my life if it didn't kill me first. Whatever it was, I found an old M2 that needed some care, used free help from BadWeB, and got it all fixed up finally. I got to take it on my second significant ride, and missed a golden opportunity to fulfill my Mom's prophesy: "YOU'RE GOING TO KILL YOURSELF". Now I'm acting very responsibly, doing just what the doc and pt people tell me to do. I'm also gathering M2 parts to put that killer back together. The docs say it'll take a maybe a year to get my knee as good as it's going to get, but my plan is to walk into that office way before then carrying my helmet. I GOTTA RIDE MAN!!!!! Irresponsible? Could be. We, just tonight, went out and bought our nine year old a used yamaha 50. He loves it, and I have probably stuck him with the same affliction his Mom, and I and you have. Thankfully, the symptoms won't start until he brings a baby home. Geezz!! he'll probably ask the same thing then. Maybe by then I'll be wise enough to actually have an answer. I hope I'm still around. You're not being dumb by the way. You're being a Dad, it's a tough job with lots of issues to keep one in a quandary. With that said (do you ever regret asking a simple question?), all I can tell you for sure is I don't know. I really don't know what you should do. I think I'll ride. Rotzaruck!!!! | ||
| Essthreetee |
I do appreciate ALL of the input. I am in no way going to rush into any decision of getting rid of it. I think what I am going to do is just park it for a little while until I can sort things out. If in that time I am able to dismiss the gremlins n my head, then I will ride. If they just won't go away, then perhaps (PERHAPS) there will be a nice S3T on the market in absolutley no rush to be sold.... Until then, I don't know. Rotzaruck...thanks for the story. It is exactly how I am feeling...Do you still have the Kawi??? My Buell has such a strong place in my heart that if I decide not to ride, it may just become a permanent garage decoration...or at least for now. Thanks again everyone... Jason | ||
| Cyclonemick |
I once read a quote that I enjoyed. "I refuse to tip toe through life only to arrive safely at deaths doorstep" I say ride and enjoy every minute you can on your ride. | ||
| Kyrocket |
It sounds like we're rowing in the same boat. My girls just turned 6, 4, and 1 this April, and although I don't ride the X1 nearly as much as I used to, I do, still ride. My story is this: I usually ride with a group of friends and last year a friend of a friend in the group was renting a trailer in the country, had just got a sweet Roadking, wasn't even a year old, an ex-girlfriend wanted to scare him because he had a new flame so she fired a single shot into the trailer. Well as things go she shot him in the head killing him instantly. As people say, when it's your time to go, it's your time to go. He rode his bike hard like he stole it but that never gave him a scratch. Believe me I know about not wanting to leave the kids fatherless but I also want to give my girls the thrill and memories of riding on the scoot with their father. Like my shirt says; Fatherhood, the toughest job you'll ever love. And a tough job it is (There are four females in my house and all their birthdays are in April, I'm broke as a joke right now) but I wouldn't trade places with anyone. But this is information only, the decision brother is strictly yours. If you decide to ride cover your bases. Have a will, carry life insurance and know who will be taking care of your children just in case. You will sleep alot better knowing those things are taken care of, believe me. | ||
| Djkaplan |
I wouldn't ride on the streets if I was raising kids... that's a promise I made to my (future) kids. The dirt... well, that's a different story. | ||
| Moxnix |
With an 8 and a 2 year old in the house and a Buell I have not ridden in three years in the garage, I never give advice on whether or not to ride or hang it up. Having owned almost 70 motorcycles, my sense of perspective got skewie along the way. I had to learn that: One is not one's motorcycle (though H-D makes a lot of money selling their $10,000 motorcycles for $20,000 because they come with an obvious ten grand surcharge for "the lifestyle"). If you keep riding, one might want to consider both a substantial life insurance policy and a reliable disability policy. To keep the wife and kids fed and sheltered, just in case. | ||
| Wardan123 |
Selling your bike is just a decision... if it turns out to be the wrong decision- decide to buy another bike. I know this overly simplistic but it rings true. I too have children (2 girls- 3 yrs and 1yr) and I am always concerned for their future as I ride, so I ride as smart as I can. Safety gear and helmets are not a must, but rather an ALWAYS! Andrew | ||
| Ryker77 |
Do you exercise and eat right? Don't drink, use drugs or smoke? But I do understand. Having had a very bad wreck and very lucky that I was not at fault- and the other ladys insurance was a nice chunk of change-- Had it been an illegal that I hit - my life would have been screwed UP. If you do ride- Carry lots of insurance. Wear a good helmet, nice leathers, bright colors, if at all possible just ride in large groups. (not on a Buell) Tried to ride in a big rally type ride -- 35mph on a 55mph curve is just too damn slow for a Buell! | ||
| Brokeneck |
If you are uncomfortable -- stop riding on the street -- I work as a Paramedic and see first hand every week what can happen -- I went through the same phase about 15 years ago, but luckily chose not to sell my Norton Dunstall. When the kids turned 7 or 8 we bought some beater dirt bikes and had some of the best days of our lives riding and wrenching-- it was comforting to come home when they were teenagers and find them in the workshop with their friends where I knew what they were up to and were safe. Last year I decided we were in a financial position and 2 of the 3 boys are now off at college -- so I bought the S3 I had been longing for for years -- I know I am a safer rider -- I believe to be safe on the street you need to be offensive not defensive -- when i was in my doubting phase I was riding too timidly -- If you can swing it keep the Buell -- buy a battery tender and keep it in running condition -- share the wrenching and the passion with your kids -- time flies by and before you know it you'll be riding again -- | ||
| Buellfighter |
Riding is who I am, my wife and 8 yr old daughter understand that. Not riding! Not an option! | ||
| Bomber |
Ess -- it's a question every parent faces at least once, I believe -- I never stopped riding, and, like other posters, my family understtod that it is part of who "Dad" is . . . . that said, my somewhat laissez faire attitude toward gear tightened up a great deal after my daughter arrived, and my shenanigans on the street certainly lessened greatly -- it's a decision we all make on our own, but i think it's good to hear what others decided . . . . either way, enjoy Dadhood -- it's a great gig! | ||
| Mwellm |
I certainly understand your feelings and other opinions on this topic. I have a three year old son who is very attached to me and a one year old daughter who is not far behind. It does make me think sometimes. I study/practice safe riding techniques, and always wear the right protective gear. The sport can be very safe if done correctly, but everything has it's risks. I've considered going back to dirt riding, I would have a hards time giving up bikes all together; I have loved them since I was my sons age. | ||
| Essthreetee |
I always practice safe riding. I never push myself harder than I am comfortable. I always watch out for the other guy. But still I have decided that it is time to get out of motorcycling...at least for a little while. For the little bit I ride (9 miles one way to work), the fact that my wife no longer has any interest in riding, and I want to spend more time with my little ones and less time off on my own riding by myself...it is time. So if you are looking for a good, well taken care of, low mileage (11,000) S3T with software, Corbin seat, PM wheels, V & H, race PCM, etc...I am asking $4000. I will put it up in the for sale, ...just thought I owed it to everyone to let you know my decision. Thanks for all of your input... Jason | ||
| Bluesboy |
I believe its better to "be shot out of a cannon,than squirt from a tube" | ||
| Not_purple_s2 |
Shouldn't be too hard to sell that bike for that price. As it was stated before, you can always get another one if/when you change your mind. When the kids get older you can ride again guilt free. | ||
| Rotzaruck |
Jason I can't say for sure (or can anybody) that you made the right, or wrong, decision. Making any major decision based purely on thoughts and concerns for others, while disregarding one's owns pleasures and desires has got to qualify as a noble decision. I think that puts you in the great Dad category. I believe most everyone can appreciate your thinking, whether they agree or not. Like Warden said, you can always change your mind, bikes will still be around. If you weren't on the other side of the dadburned world, I'd think about jumping on that S3T, and ride around wondering if I was doing the right thing. Oh yeah, I still have my old Z1, it's sat so long it's seized up. I'll get around to it one day. Ed | ||
| Sanchez |
> I GOTTA RIDE MAN!!!!! I'm with you, Ed. I'm just counting down the days till I can walk again ... so that I can ride again.  | ||
| Rotzaruck |
I'm counting too!! I just hope these crutches don't kill us both before we can get back on a safer mode of transportation. | ||
| Eshardball |
My wife in a moment of clarity told the nurse treating my grand daughters broken arm(Flipped her quad when she was 6) That it was not up to the Nurse to try to disuade our grandchild from riding again. My wife explained to the nurse that she was horrified when I carried my grand daughter into the house with her elbow 2" out of place. It could have happened just as easily on her bicycle. Her quote was "YOU CAN'T SPEND YOUR WHOLE LIFE LIVING IN THE CLOSET HOPING THAT NOTHING BAD IS GOING TO HAPPEN TO YOU." Very profound for a women with 3 herniated disks from car accidents. Hope you find the comparison relevant. | ||
| Sanchez |
Sounds like you found a keeper for sure. | ||
| Bluem2 |
This may be slightly off-topic, but has anyone thought about whether track days or amateur racing is any safer than street riding? It seems a lot safer given the gear, the rules, the obvious lack of cars going the opposite way, etc. Everyone will have an opinion, but does anyone have statistics? I did my first track day a few weeks ago after 18 years of street riding, and I think I could easily enjoy a track day once a month or so in lieu of street riding, at least for a while. The ability to push the M2's and my limits (far lower than the bike's) without police, cagers, and gravel was really eye-opening. Is track riding a safer alternative for someone who feels that the street is simply too risky? -Jack | ||
| Sportyeric |
My wife-at-the-time used to complain about the dangers of motorcycles and I responded to her that she had been to the hospital three times from bicycle accidents. Then we had a period of a couple of years when she was in a wheelchair or on crutches from a car accident. During that time, I slowed down 10% since we couldn't have both of us immobilized at the same time. But the bike stayed. Everyone needs to have their "away time." Also, I find that its hard financially to get back into those things that I've given up. I parted with a cheap sailboat ($1000) years ago. Not so much because I needed the money but didn't have the space. Now its hard to put a replacement day-sailor on the top of the spending list. Ditto with my golf clubs. Its easier to store toys than to sell and then replace them. You can look on your toy stash as your "investment portfolio." | ||
| Essthreetee |
UPDATE...not that any of you should care...but I have decided to KEEP my Buell. I didn't ride it for a little over 3 weeks...kept having strange thoughts...told a few people that it was for sale...then on Friday I decided to ride it to work...well that was it. I figured out that I don't ride it to save money, and I don't ride it foolishly, so why should I not ride it. i love my wife and kids VERY MUCH, and I do not want to leave them fatherless or husbandless...but I also found out that if I kept not doing the thing that I love , riding, then what they had wouldn't be very good anyhow. I need to take care of my mental well being so that I may be as good a father/husband as I can...so, thanks to all that gave me advice. Thanks to all for letting me ramble...and Thanks to Erik Buell for building a machine that still drives me crazy!!! | ||
| Sanchez |
> Is track riding a safer alternative for someone who feels that the street is simply too risky? Definitely. Wide lanes, no opposing traffic, no debris, generally good run off areas, and an ambulance standing by. Beats the hell out of trying to ride fast on the street. | ||
| Ratbuell |
Don't forget the theory that all your companion riders "should" know what they're doing before they get on the track...unlike most cagers and their GDMF cell phones. I can't wait for my first track day...hopefully at Homecoming! | ||
| Wardan123 |
UPDATE...not that any of you should care...but I have decided to KEEP my Buell. Good for you and good for us... | ||
| Buellzebub |
ride hard, be free... that's what insurance policies are for! seriously i can understand not wanting to leave the critters without a dad... but you gotta live too! life is way too short for coulda, shoulda, or woulda | ||
| Onahog |
Quote: Jimmy  Hendrix: IM GONNA LIVE TODAY,MAYBE 2MORO,I JUST CAN'T SAY!...... | ||
| Buellboiler |
Ess, With the concerns you have voiced, you 'may' want to consider enrolling in a biker safety course. Perhaps an advanced rider course. It will refresh your safety skills and give you a little more confidence that you are better prepared for what challenges await you. Boiler | ||
| M2statz |
Ditto to what Boiler said... and thats exactly what I did. After being off a bike for more than 10 years I took a Riders Edge class and realized what you as a rider can do to make your riding safer and much more fun. My 4yr old twin boys ALWAYS make sure I do not leave home with out my helmet. Plus the insurance company gave me a 15% discount for taking the class! Happy Buelling!! |
