Motorcycling is one of life's great pleasures - and dangers. Maybe that's what makes it so damned exciting. I've been riding for nearly fifty years and a serious 'bike accident with a friend after two weeks on the road has made me fairly cautious ever since. The freedom that a 'bike gives on the road even in these overcrowded isles is unsurpassable...so is the discomfort on a rain-lashed day with the prospect of a 250 mile ride ahead of you. The feeling of elation upon arrival at the end of a long journey is euphoric because you've been totally involved the whole way. In a car there is a degree in which you can 'turn off', but with a 'bike, it's very different, it's complete involvement. Sadly I don't have the facility to put into words the feeling of being at the edge of life that motorcycling brings...for that I recommend you read T.E. Lawrence's 'The Mint'.

As always-ride safe. And assume that every car driver is out to get you. Even then you may be unlucky.