POLOKWANE – The skills required to safely ride a motorcycle are greater than for a car, and in general, any rider over 40 years is considered an “older motorcyclist”, but these days, people well into their 60s and even 70s are still biking.
This is according to Sapa Yopa Motorcycle Club president, Sarel Nong.
“Riding a motorbike is something that can be enjoyed at any age. Just like driving a car, there are things bikers must consider to ensure they buy the right motorcycle for themselves. I recommend that bikers from the age of 40 years consider buying a cruiser bike,” Nong advises.
He says as with any vehicle, riding a motorcycle safely depends on the speed in which a biker can react to any emergency situation.
We may not want to accept it, but the fact is when you get older your reactions are not as fast as they were when you were in your 20s.
This is what makes a cruiser bike ideal for older bikers, as although it can still reach decent speeds, a slower response time will still be sufficient to control the motorcycle, he explains, adding there is no substitute for experience.
“An experienced biker will know what to do in a specific situation and this is something that only time can teach.”
Nong gives older bikers some safety precautions:
• Obtain a copy of the current road rules and check your knowledge. Update yourself as necessary.
• There are several handbooks available, specifically written with older drivers in mind; try to get a copy and read it.
• Check with your doctor that any medication you are on can be used safely while riding or driving.
• Actively work to improve your health and well-being. Increased physical and mental exercise can provide significant improvements in your ability as a rider.
• Adjust your riding to avoid situations where you are uncomfortable or feel unsafe.
Nong further says there are some common issues older drivers often have, which include night riding, complex right-hand turns and rush-hour traffic.
Here is his advice on how to deal with these issues:
• Night riding – many older people find riding at night difficult due to the lights, and night blindness is often a factor. If you are uncomfortable with night riding, try to avoid it.
• Complex right-hand turns – one of the most common causes of accidents for older riders is when making right-hand turns across traffic. It is well worth considering taking a longer route that will avoid right-hand turns at busy intersections where possible.
• Peak-hour traffic – the peak traffic periods are between 08:00 to 09:00 and between 16:00 and 18:00. These are also the times accidents usually occur and riders should avoid riding during these times if they can.
