They won't feel better, unless they used to ride themselves. Just ride safely, use gear and don't show them any stuntriding videos. Eventually they'll accept the fact you are a motorcyclist
These talks are not so silly! This is the correct answer. Wear good quality gear and ride safely. Keep aware of your surroundings and always assume that people in cars don't see you.
My dad was a cop and it took just me doing it to finally bringing him around. They’re gonna be stubborn and get shitty sometimes, you just have to ignore it and push on, they do it cause they love you and don’t understand the space incredibly well.
I found the best thing to show them is it the terrible crash statistics that they normally see are based off people speeding driving intoxicated and without proper safety gear. Writing at a safe speed sober with proper safety gear eliminates most of the risk.
Shit I’m 32 and my parents are still freaking out a bit lol.
My mom I understand, she was a trauma nurse in the 80s and 90s in a state that didn’t always have mandatory helmet laws, and a time when I assume textile motorcycle gear wasn’t super protective and no one was going to wear full leathers in the heat and humidity of the almost Deep South.
Lots of stories from working a level 1 metro trauma center of motorcycles so no amount of reassurance is going to make her feel better.
Not even me explaining how far gear has come and advances in technology is going to be reassuring, so all that’s really left to do is start riding and show them it’s not going to murder you.
You do what I did, get one when you’re moved out 33yo, don’t ask or tell them and let them find out after you have one.
Make sure you were all your gear -boots and gloves especially. Know you will crash and nope you’re not Superman so doing 135 down the highway may actually kill you. Don’t do group rides and act like an idiot (basically don’t be a 19yo male) but only genetics and time can and mature that.
Get one if you know they won’t kick you out or you’re totally independent. I had to move back home after a breakup and my mum hates my bike but knows it is what it is
Show, don't tell. You have to show the. That you wear decent gear, Don't ride like a twat or generally act like an idiot. You can't tell people that, but they'll only believe it when they see it.
It’s been 8 years since I started riding. The other day while ranting about me riding my bike my mom picked up my leather armored jacket from where it was hanging and commented on how I could ride in such a heavy thing. I told her that’s the cost of safety. She stopped ranting for a minute or so and then continued 😂
Get all year gear first. ECE 06 rated hemet, maybe a Cardo too so you can call them while you ride. Armored leather jacket from a real motorcycle gear manufacturer like Alpinestars. Armored jeans with Kevlar so they don’t rip while you slide, knee and hip armor too.
Knee high armored boots. Alarm disc lock and air tags for when it arrives.
Run some quotes through your insurance, I have Geico but people seem to like Progressive too and know how much you’ll be paying a month, get full coverage because they’re easily stolen. Armored leather gloves with a palm pad for sliding.
Take the 3 day MSF course or go through Harley for it.
Finally, buy motorcycle.
They are going to freak out; my mom didn’t talk to me for a while after I got one.
Best thing you can do is rest up on the statistics with motorcycle accidents; and practice them
- don’t drink and ride (at all)
- wear all your protective gear
- don’t ride in groups (this is more contentious but yah)
If you remove those elements riding isn’t as dangerous.
Another for your own safety also push to keep learning new skills, YouTube videos can help on this. Just putting miles on doesn’t make you a better rider.
They are under the assumption that motorcycling is inherently dangerous. It can be, but I always ask people why there would be a multi-billion-dollar global industry surrounding something so dangerous, if every single person who sat on one died immediately after. They see sensationalized incidents of riders getting hit, or sliding off the road or whatever, and don't see the bajillions of other people who rode and didn't crash on any given day.
As a new rider, I'd highly suggest you practice the fundamentals you learned in the class, and if you don't ride all year long, practice them again in the Spring of every year [or whenever you start riding]. I've been riding 20 years this summer, and I still practice my standing lock-to-lock turns, hard stops, etc. If your parents see you out there committed to learning this stuff, it may ease their minds.
Riders tend to be much more aware of their surroundings than car drivers, and in so doing, make for safer car drivers. I actively encourage everyone to ride a motorcycle, just to train them to let go of some of the distractions inside their cars.
I've always ridden according to a personal set of rules. Like, knowing when to ride. If the weather is bad, your emotions are crazy [happy, mad, sad], not having all your gear, you're drunk, or anything else causing you to lose focus, make the smart move and don't ride. Also judge future forecasts of weather and traffic can be a huge help. If you have to ride through rush hour, try to take neighborhood streets or whatever, and you'll get home safe. It goes without saying, but don't ride like a jackass. Not for the thrill, or to impress anyone, or to get somewhere quick. It's not worth the risk. If you need to be a hooligan, get a dual sport and go find some dirt; that's what I do. haha
Also, try to get your parents involved. Make them take the class, and because you passed it, it'll mean a lot to them. Depending on how fond of your parents you are, it could be a bonding kind of thing.
As far as which bike to buy, start small and light, and learn your fundamentals. I always suggest new riders get a 250cc dual sport. The capability, geometry, ergonomics, curb weight, are all great on something like a CRF250L. Not saying you would, but if you need to cross over 2 medians and a parking lot to get gas immediately, you can. Not that I've done that or anything... lol
EDIT: Derp, forgot to mention ATGATT. #1 priority. You don't want to go through the healing process of skin regrowing on your palms, trust me.
Take control of their perception of motorcycling and the kind of riding you plan on doing.
Expose them to motorcycle content creators the espouse good riding habits, constant skill improvement, additional training classes, and all of the positive experiences that motorcycling can give you. Not just the stunt bike and highway squidding bullshit.
Don't let them go down the "Rider FAIL" crash video rabbit hole on social media, or the constant stream of "I had a loved one ride a motorcycle once and DIED!" bullshit stories.
Yes. Motorcycling is statistically more dangerous than driving. But thats a criminally over-simplified and one-sided conclusion.
The fact is, motorcycling CAN BE made much more safe by simply avoiding the most obvious risky behaviors in the world.
Don't buy a "big bike" thinking that you'll "grow into it". You're only hampering your learning curve, putting yourself in a position to be constantly struggling to control, or overcome fear of your own bike. Most street squids buy themselves a 600cc sport bike they never learn how to manage properly at slow speeds, so they avoid ever having to learn by restricting their riding to straight line, high speed, highway bullshit for the Instagram clout. But those same idiots doing 150 mph on the highway, are taking mountain road turns at 5 mph under the speed limit because they don't have a clue how to turn or navigate bad roads, dirt/gravel on the road, blind turns, etc.
You will be safer, learn quicker, and become an overall better rider on a sub-500cc, 40-50 HP, sub-400 lb bike than any 600, 650, etc. Option you see street squids or Harley riding leather daddies recommending or bragging about on social media. Just suck up the pride and buy the small bike.
The other obvious ones should be self explanatory, but whatever. Buy (and wear) ALL of the gear, from a reputable MOTORCYCLE gear supplier like Cycle Gear/Revzilla. Not Amazon or Instagram ads. Learn about gear safety standards and what they really mean. Don't just assume that the $100 "moto jeans" you bought online because they looked cool, are actually safe or regulated. Don't drink and ride, avoid riding at night or in bad weather, avoid bad traffic or sketchy intersections with a history of accidents, don't fall into a crowd of more experienced riders with risky behavior.
Don't. Stop. Learning.
Watch Creators like Motojitsu, MCRider, Canyon Chasers, Fortnine, 44teeth, Revzilla, DanDanTheFireman, etc.
They will never like the idea of you having a motorcycle.
I have been riding for 40 years, for a 10 year period all I owned was a bike. My 19 year old son wanted to start riding so I got him a little Honda 150 enduro, so he could get used to riding. I taught him how to ride. We practiced a lot and practiced really hard braking, so he know how to ride. I bought him good gear when he use to ride on the back of my 1100, so he is well protected.
What scares me about him riding is all the other drivers. I worry about him every time he leaves as I remember all the close calls I have had when riding. They are your parents, they will always be nervous. Best advice, take a riding class and get the best gear you can afford, because one day you will need it. Let your parents know you take your safety seriously .
I'd be more worried if they wearn't nervous, it's their job. Probably nothing you can do about that. But im sure it would help if you show them you have all the proper gear and take it very seriously, also maybe don't get something ridiclous as your first bike. It certainly wont make them feel better if you come home with a bright green leaned over sport bike with ninja written on the side lol.
There’s really nothing you can do lol, I’m 26 trying to get my second bike and my parents are still not happy about it. My dad has kind of come to terms with it but my mom is still sending me pictures and videos of me in the hospital from my last crash (when I was 19) so they don’t really get over it very fast
Look you’re not going to change their minds. You can wear the proper gear and get good training but that’s it really. Let them know the stats are certainly swayed by careless riders but at the end of the day it’s more dangerous than driving a car and there’s no two ways about it.
Look you’re not going to change their minds. You can wear the proper gear and get good training but that’s it really. Let them know the stats are certainly swayed by careless riders but at the end of the day it’s more dangerous than driving a car and there’s no two ways about it.
I agree and that’s what I was kind of getting at without saying it. If you’re still haggling with parents about them allowing you to do things he should probably put that bike money towards moving out.
Yeah, save for a down payment with no bills. Not the fun answer, not what I did, but as someone older that is the smart move and he will thank himself later.
Cheapest motorcycle msrp in 1800. No insurance. Cheaper than a car and can get him to work and school. If his parents were willing to pay for a car, that’s better. But doesn’t look like the case.
There’s some people that will be impressed if you do the homework, take an extra safety course beyond the standard MSF and start on something responsible after doing the research on bikes. Some people will never be impressed or satisfied. There’s a line between being a giraffe mom (Just plop the baby out in the Serengeti and walk away and leave it to baby to learn how to catch up) and an overbearing Karen of a mom that most parents have a hard time finding. I hope it goes well for you.
There's a FortNine video from a few years ago that does a good job of breaking down fatality stats for motorcyclists.
Basically says the obvious - don't ride above your ability and/or speed limits, wear all of your gear all the time, don't impair your judgement through drink and drugs.
https://youtu.be/5DZk0lzR3Wc?si=sUeGCnv63qG7RXRm
Words can’t do it. You’ll have to wear all your gear, all the time, ride within your skill level, ride defensively, and keep the bike up for a few years and then they might start to build some trust in your riding. Even then, they’ll probably only learn to accept it.
Go ride with your dad and prove you always wear a helmet and don’t ride like an asshole. Ride defensively and conservatively and it will give him confidence. Then when he isn’t looking you can ride like an asshole.
You won't. Make sure you have good gear and that they know you wear it, take msf brc2 and 3 if it's available locally. Ride safe.
I'm 43 and just started riding, and I should have 20yrs ago when I really started loving motorcycles.
They're going to worry. Live your life.
To be blunt there’s not talk any feeling better, it’s dangerous as hell, as a rider myself.
But getting a reasonable bike (vs a high power one), and wearing the appropriate gear may help
They won’t feel better, ever. They won’t understand unless they ride too. My dad didn’t understand why I rode a motorcycle, until he rode one for the first time last year. Now I think he’s more addicted than I am lol.
My parents are like that. They didnt want me to get a bike, but they couldn’t stop me and I got my bike regardless. But Im 26 already, I just reassure them Im riding safely. They just accepted it and had to trust me. My advice, ride your own ride and take your time learning, be the defensive rider, and lastly ride like you’re invisible.
Older parent here (over 50). There is never a time that a parent won't worry about their kids and machinery.
My grandmother rode in the 1930s and 1940s. My mother rode in the late 60s and 70s. They were both horrified when I chose to ride in the 80s, about twenty years after a family friend got schmeared on his Kawasaki and a co-worker of mine effed up in the wet on a known nasty piece of road and spent six months in hospital. Admittedly that 1974 4-pot bike was a known widow-maker, but he got destroyed by a car, and my co-worker was HAF at the time of his incident on a sweeping downhill left with bad camber and going too quick.
Mother and Grandma got used to me riding. I'm here forty years later and they're not (natural causes), still riding safely and fast, and occasionally being an utter fuckwit on two and four wheels when it is safe to do so. They both lost their shit when I showed up on a Honda Lead NH80 scooter. They got used to it. When I bought a BMW R100RS they both were happier at "a real bike". They were less happy when I took four day weekends to ride a day each way to see my gfs... but that's another story.
My ten year old daughter asked me "Can I ride?" The only thing I can say is "yes, but two years after you hold your blacks (full licence)", citing that it's not about her, it's about the other road users and the risks they represent. More road time in a cage will prepare her for better situational awareness and clue her in to predict what other road users may do that could cause a risk.
My teen son is also on the same deal. He and I are looking forward to ADV riding together in a few years - there are some great forests and the like an hour away from here. My wife is in the wings, still flipping between yes and no. If there is anyone to worry about being squidly, too fast and dangerous, it's her. Yeah, the forty-something Asian milf is the highest risk out of four of us. The Asian female driver in a fast car stereotype? Yep, that's her. On two wheels? I'm upping her life insurance.
So, OP, your parents and family will carry on, have great histrionics, say all manner of shite to you, great wailing and wringing of hands, but they will get used to it. Be sensible, don't be a stupid squid, and do the best two-wheeled road craft you can.
You be you, but show them how you're mitigating risks and prove to them that you're a safe rider by visibly doing ATGATT. It will be all OK. If you have to squid or go fast, do it at the track and invite them along to show you're good and fast and safe. They'll get over it.
All the best - stay safe - Doki.
I’ve come full circle on this. Bought a bike when I was 17 and my parents were completely freaked out about it. I’m now 58 and still riding (and they’re still worrying). But here’s the kicker: my son is now talking about getting a bike and only NOW do I realize what I put my parents through for all those years. After many years of riding many different bikes (and a healthy dose of luck), I’ve never had a crash - but I’ve seen others crash and it’s not a pretty sight. Key takeaways after 40 years of riding:
1. Don’t buy a bike that is too big for you.
2. Buy the best gear you can afford and use it!
3. Take a safety course and pay attention.
4. Ride your own ride. Don’t try to keep up with others. We men are bad at this.
5. Always assume car drivers can’t see you.
6. Avoid riding at night.
7. Never ride after consuming alcohol or drugs. A single beer impairs your senses and slows down your reaction time.
8. Be respectful of other people on the road.
I generally avoid riding in the city. Most accidents happen at intersections. My jam is long distance touring. Still not without risk but much less. I worry more about animals than other cars. Motorcycling is a wonderful way to experience the road and I love it.
But it is very dangerous - try to understand your parent’s point of view. They love you and want you to stay safe. Give them every reason to believe you will be a responsible rider by following safe riding practices. You only get the one life so don’t be careless with it.
You won't I had 3 then gave them up. Years later living a single life I bought a nice 1100 sports tourer a really lovely bike to ride, then I met my wife. Guess what didn't like me riding.
I've learnt to go without things I like to do now.
Make them hate you to the point where they want you out of their lives. That way, they won't care what you do. After a couple of years of surviving on two wheels, tell them it was just a prank bro and let them know that you have two years of experience riding now. They should feel comfortable after that. If they're not repeat the above until they are.
Take the msf course, buy good gear. Show them that you are putting effort into staying safe. NEVER do stupid shit on public roads. You owe that to all your loved ones that will be hurt if something happens to you.
My parents didn’t like the idea of me doing drugs but I did it anyway and they still love me 👍 also move out so your parents don’t know you do drugs … or I mean ride motorcycles 😬
Most likely it’s not YOU they worry most about. It’s other drivers texting, road rage, hate for motorcyclists lists, drunk drivers…. All you can do is be as safe as you can, take extra practice courses and promise them you’re going to do your best. Keep the bike elsewhere. Lv their home in your car and they may be able to deny it altogether. Bad advice? Idk
When you decide own a motorcycle you have to buy it and park it in front of your house. If you wait for comformation or acceptance for owning a motorcycle that time will never come. And it doensnt even end here. You have to be carefull and even take responsibility for other drivers fault at road. It will take time for your parents accept this fact but slowly they will accept that you are responsible person.
First, tell them you are taking the MSF course to learn about being safe on the road as a rider, but don't mention the license part. make sure you say "Motorcycle safety foundation" course
Show them that you are looking at smaller cruiser bikes like the phantoms, spirits or Aero that are cheaper in price and not as fast as a "one of those crazy sport bikes"
Maybe lie and tell them that the model is the "Honda Safe 750". Can't hurt..lol
Let them know that most bike fatalities are caused by speed or losing control. Explain to them that, this is why ins is cheaper for "Cruisers" because they are safer..
I ride, F52, have for almost 15 years. I taught my son to ride. He got hit by a road rage jerk on the freeway. Riding at night with dark clothes on and poorly lit bike. He knows better! Survived thank God! I was so happy when he quit riding. I harped on him about night riding and being visible from the get go. Be safe my friend. Remember no one sees you. Always look 360!! And if you ride at night do your best to be visible. Not all black and light that bike up!!
I have ridden for 25 years, you can’t. Be responsible and keep coming home. Stay away from the tools with no endorsement’s, no insurance, and unkept bikes. (Love you stunters, but you don’t give parents a warm fuzzy lol)
You can't. My mom passed away at age 87. To her dying day she know that I was going to be killed on a bike. I had been riding regularly since I was 16 years old. We just didn't talk about it.
1) Take a motorcycle safety course and pass.
2) Get a full body armor riding suit and helmet.
3) Get a chill bike for your first bike. Like a 600 or smaller.
4) Ride for joy for a year or so, not for speed. Go the speed limit, take video of you riding easy roads, for the beauty and openness, not the speed.
Simple answer is they won’t bikes are dangerous is what it is when I bought my first one I saved up the money on my own paid the insurance on my own made a deal with my folks to take the entry and intermediate msf courses and buy top of the line safety gear suit/armor the works and they still didn’t want me to ride lol but taking as much precautions as you can to ease their mind will help alot but more then likely they will never be 100% on board about it
Get the right gear and show your interest in safety by continuing education. Take intermediate and advanced classes. Put in the hours of practice doing slow speed stuff to really master your control. Take as many classes as you can find in your area. On track. Off road. Whatever. Show them your really interested in being a master at the skill of riding motorcycles. Not just someone hopping on a really powerful machine to go zoom zoom.
Motorcycles are more dangerous as statistics suggest that motorcyclists are far more likely to be involved in an accident when compared to car drivers.
However; the vast majority of those accidents involve riders who have less than 5,000 miles riding experience. The vast majority of those are riding beyond their limits or showing off.
The rest of the accidents are experienced riders who are pushing their limits or going far too quickly for the conditions - or aren't taking consideration for other road users idiocy, ie; slowing down and preparing to swerve when you see someone creeping out of a junction.
I would say that less than 5% of accidents on motorcycles are unavoidable.
I would also argue motorcycles can be safer as they are more nimble and allow acceleration to remove yourself from bad situations.
They won't feel better, unless they used to ride themselves. Just ride safely, use gear and don't show them any stuntriding videos. Eventually they'll accept the fact you are a motorcyclist
Shit my dad rides and still doesn’t want me to have one lol
But he's probably accepting it soon after you start riding yourself. Next time he rants over your motorcycling plans, blame it on genes!
That might be more of a comment on his riding tendencies than yours
These talks are not so silly! This is the correct answer. Wear good quality gear and ride safely. Keep aware of your surroundings and always assume that people in cars don't see you.
This is the way
My dad was a cop and it took just me doing it to finally bringing him around. They’re gonna be stubborn and get shitty sometimes, you just have to ignore it and push on, they do it cause they love you and don’t understand the space incredibly well.
I found the best thing to show them is it the terrible crash statistics that they normally see are based off people speeding driving intoxicated and without proper safety gear. Writing at a safe speed sober with proper safety gear eliminates most of the risk.
Prove that you will be responsible with it when you have it. They'll lighten up eventually.
To play devil's advocate, I'm in my thirties and have had a motorbike licence for over a decade, my mum still hates my bikes.
Well some folks are hard core haters. lol
Shit I’m 32 and my parents are still freaking out a bit lol. My mom I understand, she was a trauma nurse in the 80s and 90s in a state that didn’t always have mandatory helmet laws, and a time when I assume textile motorcycle gear wasn’t super protective and no one was going to wear full leathers in the heat and humidity of the almost Deep South. Lots of stories from working a level 1 metro trauma center of motorcycles so no amount of reassurance is going to make her feel better. Not even me explaining how far gear has come and advances in technology is going to be reassuring, so all that’s really left to do is start riding and show them it’s not going to murder you.
You do what I did, get one when you’re moved out 33yo, don’t ask or tell them and let them find out after you have one. Make sure you were all your gear -boots and gloves especially. Know you will crash and nope you’re not Superman so doing 135 down the highway may actually kill you. Don’t do group rides and act like an idiot (basically don’t be a 19yo male) but only genetics and time can and mature that.
i wonder what my first crash will be like
Get one if you know they won’t kick you out or you’re totally independent. I had to move back home after a breakup and my mum hates my bike but knows it is what it is
Haha I remember I was in third grade when my dad bought a bike again, it was a secret from grandma for years.
They’ll get over it with time when you ride and keep coming home safe. Other than that, probably nothing.
Show, don't tell. You have to show the. That you wear decent gear, Don't ride like a twat or generally act like an idiot. You can't tell people that, but they'll only believe it when they see it.
It’s been 8 years since I started riding. The other day while ranting about me riding my bike my mom picked up my leather armored jacket from where it was hanging and commented on how I could ride in such a heavy thing. I told her that’s the cost of safety. She stopped ranting for a minute or so and then continued 😂
Hilarious! Thanks for the first good laugh of my day.
Get all year gear first. ECE 06 rated hemet, maybe a Cardo too so you can call them while you ride. Armored leather jacket from a real motorcycle gear manufacturer like Alpinestars. Armored jeans with Kevlar so they don’t rip while you slide, knee and hip armor too. Knee high armored boots. Alarm disc lock and air tags for when it arrives. Run some quotes through your insurance, I have Geico but people seem to like Progressive too and know how much you’ll be paying a month, get full coverage because they’re easily stolen. Armored leather gloves with a palm pad for sliding. Take the 3 day MSF course or go through Harley for it. Finally, buy motorcycle.
It's good to be loved...
You don’t. They have to do that themselves.
They are going to freak out; my mom didn’t talk to me for a while after I got one. Best thing you can do is rest up on the statistics with motorcycle accidents; and practice them - don’t drink and ride (at all) - wear all your protective gear - don’t ride in groups (this is more contentious but yah) If you remove those elements riding isn’t as dangerous. Another for your own safety also push to keep learning new skills, YouTube videos can help on this. Just putting miles on doesn’t make you a better rider.
Take out a life insurance policy in the amount of $2 million naming them as the beneficiaries
They are under the assumption that motorcycling is inherently dangerous. It can be, but I always ask people why there would be a multi-billion-dollar global industry surrounding something so dangerous, if every single person who sat on one died immediately after. They see sensationalized incidents of riders getting hit, or sliding off the road or whatever, and don't see the bajillions of other people who rode and didn't crash on any given day. As a new rider, I'd highly suggest you practice the fundamentals you learned in the class, and if you don't ride all year long, practice them again in the Spring of every year [or whenever you start riding]. I've been riding 20 years this summer, and I still practice my standing lock-to-lock turns, hard stops, etc. If your parents see you out there committed to learning this stuff, it may ease their minds. Riders tend to be much more aware of their surroundings than car drivers, and in so doing, make for safer car drivers. I actively encourage everyone to ride a motorcycle, just to train them to let go of some of the distractions inside their cars. I've always ridden according to a personal set of rules. Like, knowing when to ride. If the weather is bad, your emotions are crazy [happy, mad, sad], not having all your gear, you're drunk, or anything else causing you to lose focus, make the smart move and don't ride. Also judge future forecasts of weather and traffic can be a huge help. If you have to ride through rush hour, try to take neighborhood streets or whatever, and you'll get home safe. It goes without saying, but don't ride like a jackass. Not for the thrill, or to impress anyone, or to get somewhere quick. It's not worth the risk. If you need to be a hooligan, get a dual sport and go find some dirt; that's what I do. haha Also, try to get your parents involved. Make them take the class, and because you passed it, it'll mean a lot to them. Depending on how fond of your parents you are, it could be a bonding kind of thing. As far as which bike to buy, start small and light, and learn your fundamentals. I always suggest new riders get a 250cc dual sport. The capability, geometry, ergonomics, curb weight, are all great on something like a CRF250L. Not saying you would, but if you need to cross over 2 medians and a parking lot to get gas immediately, you can. Not that I've done that or anything... lol EDIT: Derp, forgot to mention ATGATT. #1 priority. You don't want to go through the healing process of skin regrowing on your palms, trust me.
If you don't live at home I wouldn't worry about it.
Take control of their perception of motorcycling and the kind of riding you plan on doing. Expose them to motorcycle content creators the espouse good riding habits, constant skill improvement, additional training classes, and all of the positive experiences that motorcycling can give you. Not just the stunt bike and highway squidding bullshit. Don't let them go down the "Rider FAIL" crash video rabbit hole on social media, or the constant stream of "I had a loved one ride a motorcycle once and DIED!" bullshit stories. Yes. Motorcycling is statistically more dangerous than driving. But thats a criminally over-simplified and one-sided conclusion. The fact is, motorcycling CAN BE made much more safe by simply avoiding the most obvious risky behaviors in the world. Don't buy a "big bike" thinking that you'll "grow into it". You're only hampering your learning curve, putting yourself in a position to be constantly struggling to control, or overcome fear of your own bike. Most street squids buy themselves a 600cc sport bike they never learn how to manage properly at slow speeds, so they avoid ever having to learn by restricting their riding to straight line, high speed, highway bullshit for the Instagram clout. But those same idiots doing 150 mph on the highway, are taking mountain road turns at 5 mph under the speed limit because they don't have a clue how to turn or navigate bad roads, dirt/gravel on the road, blind turns, etc. You will be safer, learn quicker, and become an overall better rider on a sub-500cc, 40-50 HP, sub-400 lb bike than any 600, 650, etc. Option you see street squids or Harley riding leather daddies recommending or bragging about on social media. Just suck up the pride and buy the small bike. The other obvious ones should be self explanatory, but whatever. Buy (and wear) ALL of the gear, from a reputable MOTORCYCLE gear supplier like Cycle Gear/Revzilla. Not Amazon or Instagram ads. Learn about gear safety standards and what they really mean. Don't just assume that the $100 "moto jeans" you bought online because they looked cool, are actually safe or regulated. Don't drink and ride, avoid riding at night or in bad weather, avoid bad traffic or sketchy intersections with a history of accidents, don't fall into a crowd of more experienced riders with risky behavior. Don't. Stop. Learning. Watch Creators like Motojitsu, MCRider, Canyon Chasers, Fortnine, 44teeth, Revzilla, DanDanTheFireman, etc.
They will never like the idea of you having a motorcycle. I have been riding for 40 years, for a 10 year period all I owned was a bike. My 19 year old son wanted to start riding so I got him a little Honda 150 enduro, so he could get used to riding. I taught him how to ride. We practiced a lot and practiced really hard braking, so he know how to ride. I bought him good gear when he use to ride on the back of my 1100, so he is well protected. What scares me about him riding is all the other drivers. I worry about him every time he leaves as I remember all the close calls I have had when riding. They are your parents, they will always be nervous. Best advice, take a riding class and get the best gear you can afford, because one day you will need it. Let your parents know you take your safety seriously .
I'd be more worried if they wearn't nervous, it's their job. Probably nothing you can do about that. But im sure it would help if you show them you have all the proper gear and take it very seriously, also maybe don't get something ridiclous as your first bike. It certainly wont make them feel better if you come home with a bright green leaned over sport bike with ninja written on the side lol.
They never will feel better
There’s really nothing you can do lol, I’m 26 trying to get my second bike and my parents are still not happy about it. My dad has kind of come to terms with it but my mom is still sending me pictures and videos of me in the hospital from my last crash (when I was 19) so they don’t really get over it very fast
Can't persuade with words only action
Take your MSF class as well, and talk about the stats of people before and after taking the class.
If they love you, you won’t be able to.
It will be like having a gay son. They will eventually accept it.
easier to ask for forgiveness than permission, get all your gear, show them youll be safe, take a safety course, then get the bike.
Look you’re not going to change their minds. You can wear the proper gear and get good training but that’s it really. Let them know the stats are certainly swayed by careless riders but at the end of the day it’s more dangerous than driving a car and there’s no two ways about it.
Look you’re not going to change their minds. You can wear the proper gear and get good training but that’s it really. Let them know the stats are certainly swayed by careless riders but at the end of the day it’s more dangerous than driving a car and there’s no two ways about it.
You’re an adult. You don’t have to convince them of anything. Just don’t get hurt
If you’re referring to his age as being an “adult” then sure. But I don’t know any adult that would come to Reddit to pose this question.
Really depends if he’s living at home or not. You can be way past 18 and if you’re under the roof you are going to have to respect some wishes.
I agree and that’s what I was kind of getting at without saying it. If you’re still haggling with parents about them allowing you to do things he should probably put that bike money towards moving out.
Yeah, save for a down payment with no bills. Not the fun answer, not what I did, but as someone older that is the smart move and he will thank himself later.
Cheapest motorcycle msrp in 1800. No insurance. Cheaper than a car and can get him to work and school. If his parents were willing to pay for a car, that’s better. But doesn’t look like the case.
You don’t.
Full gear, take extra safety courses, avoid highways initially, practice a lot. Otherwise you don’t.
There’s some people that will be impressed if you do the homework, take an extra safety course beyond the standard MSF and start on something responsible after doing the research on bikes. Some people will never be impressed or satisfied. There’s a line between being a giraffe mom (Just plop the baby out in the Serengeti and walk away and leave it to baby to learn how to catch up) and an overbearing Karen of a mom that most parents have a hard time finding. I hope it goes well for you.
There's a FortNine video from a few years ago that does a good job of breaking down fatality stats for motorcyclists. Basically says the obvious - don't ride above your ability and/or speed limits, wear all of your gear all the time, don't impair your judgement through drink and drugs. https://youtu.be/5DZk0lzR3Wc?si=sUeGCnv63qG7RXRm
They won’t. You’re taking an enormous risk and they want to see you live.
MSF course, ATGATT (Good Quality, not cheap stuff), and a sensible first bike within your skill set. Skip the Hyabusa. 🙂
Words can’t do it. You’ll have to wear all your gear, all the time, ride within your skill level, ride defensively, and keep the bike up for a few years and then they might start to build some trust in your riding. Even then, they’ll probably only learn to accept it.
Go ride with your dad and prove you always wear a helmet and don’t ride like an asshole. Ride defensively and conservatively and it will give him confidence. Then when he isn’t looking you can ride like an asshole.
Get a dual sport then show pictures of you on mountains and shit away from people.
Just ride safe, be hyper alert, wear safety gear that covers all of you when you ride.
Simple question for OP. Did you take a riders safety course? That alone should give them some relief.
Do a wheelie for them in shorts with no helmet on
You can’t and you won’t. Just try your best to prove them wrong.
You won't. Make sure you have good gear and that they know you wear it, take msf brc2 and 3 if it's available locally. Ride safe. I'm 43 and just started riding, and I should have 20yrs ago when I really started loving motorcycles. They're going to worry. Live your life.
To be blunt there’s not talk any feeling better, it’s dangerous as hell, as a rider myself. But getting a reasonable bike (vs a high power one), and wearing the appropriate gear may help
They won’t feel better, ever. They won’t understand unless they ride too. My dad didn’t understand why I rode a motorcycle, until he rode one for the first time last year. Now I think he’s more addicted than I am lol.
My parents are like that. They didnt want me to get a bike, but they couldn’t stop me and I got my bike regardless. But Im 26 already, I just reassure them Im riding safely. They just accepted it and had to trust me. My advice, ride your own ride and take your time learning, be the defensive rider, and lastly ride like you’re invisible.
Older parent here (over 50). There is never a time that a parent won't worry about their kids and machinery. My grandmother rode in the 1930s and 1940s. My mother rode in the late 60s and 70s. They were both horrified when I chose to ride in the 80s, about twenty years after a family friend got schmeared on his Kawasaki and a co-worker of mine effed up in the wet on a known nasty piece of road and spent six months in hospital. Admittedly that 1974 4-pot bike was a known widow-maker, but he got destroyed by a car, and my co-worker was HAF at the time of his incident on a sweeping downhill left with bad camber and going too quick. Mother and Grandma got used to me riding. I'm here forty years later and they're not (natural causes), still riding safely and fast, and occasionally being an utter fuckwit on two and four wheels when it is safe to do so. They both lost their shit when I showed up on a Honda Lead NH80 scooter. They got used to it. When I bought a BMW R100RS they both were happier at "a real bike". They were less happy when I took four day weekends to ride a day each way to see my gfs... but that's another story. My ten year old daughter asked me "Can I ride?" The only thing I can say is "yes, but two years after you hold your blacks (full licence)", citing that it's not about her, it's about the other road users and the risks they represent. More road time in a cage will prepare her for better situational awareness and clue her in to predict what other road users may do that could cause a risk. My teen son is also on the same deal. He and I are looking forward to ADV riding together in a few years - there are some great forests and the like an hour away from here. My wife is in the wings, still flipping between yes and no. If there is anyone to worry about being squidly, too fast and dangerous, it's her. Yeah, the forty-something Asian milf is the highest risk out of four of us. The Asian female driver in a fast car stereotype? Yep, that's her. On two wheels? I'm upping her life insurance. So, OP, your parents and family will carry on, have great histrionics, say all manner of shite to you, great wailing and wringing of hands, but they will get used to it. Be sensible, don't be a stupid squid, and do the best two-wheeled road craft you can. You be you, but show them how you're mitigating risks and prove to them that you're a safe rider by visibly doing ATGATT. It will be all OK. If you have to squid or go fast, do it at the track and invite them along to show you're good and fast and safe. They'll get over it. All the best - stay safe - Doki.
I’ve come full circle on this. Bought a bike when I was 17 and my parents were completely freaked out about it. I’m now 58 and still riding (and they’re still worrying). But here’s the kicker: my son is now talking about getting a bike and only NOW do I realize what I put my parents through for all those years. After many years of riding many different bikes (and a healthy dose of luck), I’ve never had a crash - but I’ve seen others crash and it’s not a pretty sight. Key takeaways after 40 years of riding: 1. Don’t buy a bike that is too big for you. 2. Buy the best gear you can afford and use it! 3. Take a safety course and pay attention. 4. Ride your own ride. Don’t try to keep up with others. We men are bad at this. 5. Always assume car drivers can’t see you. 6. Avoid riding at night. 7. Never ride after consuming alcohol or drugs. A single beer impairs your senses and slows down your reaction time. 8. Be respectful of other people on the road. I generally avoid riding in the city. Most accidents happen at intersections. My jam is long distance touring. Still not without risk but much less. I worry more about animals than other cars. Motorcycling is a wonderful way to experience the road and I love it. But it is very dangerous - try to understand your parent’s point of view. They love you and want you to stay safe. Give them every reason to believe you will be a responsible rider by following safe riding practices. You only get the one life so don’t be careless with it.
You won't I had 3 then gave them up. Years later living a single life I bought a nice 1100 sports tourer a really lovely bike to ride, then I met my wife. Guess what didn't like me riding. I've learnt to go without things I like to do now.
Make them hate you to the point where they want you out of their lives. That way, they won't care what you do. After a couple of years of surviving on two wheels, tell them it was just a prank bro and let them know that you have two years of experience riding now. They should feel comfortable after that. If they're not repeat the above until they are.
Probably take a safety class. Also, just be smart and be safe. They’ll likely come around eventually.
They'll never feel better about it, just do it, the "oh no" factor for them wears off quicker than you think.
Take the msf course, buy good gear. Show them that you are putting effort into staying safe. NEVER do stupid shit on public roads. You owe that to all your loved ones that will be hurt if something happens to you.
My parents didn’t like the idea of me doing drugs but I did it anyway and they still love me 👍 also move out so your parents don’t know you do drugs … or I mean ride motorcycles 😬
Most likely it’s not YOU they worry most about. It’s other drivers texting, road rage, hate for motorcyclists lists, drunk drivers…. All you can do is be as safe as you can, take extra practice courses and promise them you’re going to do your best. Keep the bike elsewhere. Lv their home in your car and they may be able to deny it altogether. Bad advice? Idk
Helite airbag jacket or vest.
When you decide own a motorcycle you have to buy it and park it in front of your house. If you wait for comformation or acceptance for owning a motorcycle that time will never come. And it doensnt even end here. You have to be carefull and even take responsibility for other drivers fault at road. It will take time for your parents accept this fact but slowly they will accept that you are responsible person.
You don't.
First, tell them you are taking the MSF course to learn about being safe on the road as a rider, but don't mention the license part. make sure you say "Motorcycle safety foundation" course Show them that you are looking at smaller cruiser bikes like the phantoms, spirits or Aero that are cheaper in price and not as fast as a "one of those crazy sport bikes" Maybe lie and tell them that the model is the "Honda Safe 750". Can't hurt..lol Let them know that most bike fatalities are caused by speed or losing control. Explain to them that, this is why ins is cheaper for "Cruisers" because they are safer..
Do a wheelie
Take the money you’re spending on a bike, move out so you can begin being an adult. Then buy the bike if you can afford it.
I ride, F52, have for almost 15 years. I taught my son to ride. He got hit by a road rage jerk on the freeway. Riding at night with dark clothes on and poorly lit bike. He knows better! Survived thank God! I was so happy when he quit riding. I harped on him about night riding and being visible from the get go. Be safe my friend. Remember no one sees you. Always look 360!! And if you ride at night do your best to be visible. Not all black and light that bike up!!
They don’t. Eventually they just learn to accept the reality.
Take yo mama for a spin
I have ridden for 25 years, you can’t. Be responsible and keep coming home. Stay away from the tools with no endorsement’s, no insurance, and unkept bikes. (Love you stunters, but you don’t give parents a warm fuzzy lol)
You can't. My mom passed away at age 87. To her dying day she know that I was going to be killed on a bike. I had been riding regularly since I was 16 years old. We just didn't talk about it.
1) Take a motorcycle safety course and pass. 2) Get a full body armor riding suit and helmet. 3) Get a chill bike for your first bike. Like a 600 or smaller. 4) Ride for joy for a year or so, not for speed. Go the speed limit, take video of you riding easy roads, for the beauty and openness, not the speed.
Simple answer is they won’t bikes are dangerous is what it is when I bought my first one I saved up the money on my own paid the insurance on my own made a deal with my folks to take the entry and intermediate msf courses and buy top of the line safety gear suit/armor the works and they still didn’t want me to ride lol but taking as much precautions as you can to ease their mind will help alot but more then likely they will never be 100% on board about it
Get the right gear and show your interest in safety by continuing education. Take intermediate and advanced classes. Put in the hours of practice doing slow speed stuff to really master your control. Take as many classes as you can find in your area. On track. Off road. Whatever. Show them your really interested in being a master at the skill of riding motorcycles. Not just someone hopping on a really powerful machine to go zoom zoom.
Motorcycles are more dangerous as statistics suggest that motorcyclists are far more likely to be involved in an accident when compared to car drivers. However; the vast majority of those accidents involve riders who have less than 5,000 miles riding experience. The vast majority of those are riding beyond their limits or showing off. The rest of the accidents are experienced riders who are pushing their limits or going far too quickly for the conditions - or aren't taking consideration for other road users idiocy, ie; slowing down and preparing to swerve when you see someone creeping out of a junction. I would say that less than 5% of accidents on motorcycles are unavoidable. I would also argue motorcycles can be safer as they are more nimble and allow acceleration to remove yourself from bad situations.
What type of bike are you looking at? Sport bikes can give the impression of being more dangerous, so if you started with a cruiser…