It's been six days now and I've been hesitant to post this long but all too familiar refrain. Finally I decided that we can't be reminded too often how very dangerous this grand, enjoyable addiction we suffer from is. The story: a 35 year old "kid" whom I've known all his life (I'm 65) lost his father to cancer a month ago. His dad had a beautiful 03 E-glide classic anniversary edition in mint condition. Joe decided to get his motorcycle permit and ride his dad's bike. He has experience with dirt bikes and ATVs only. I saw him pull into the local service station/convenience store last Thursday and went over to admire the bike and chat. He commented that it sure was different riding a big bike and it felt very heavy to him. I also noticed that he fumbled a little with the controls and wasn't completely familiar with them as he left. Less than two hours later in a very mild curve on a 4-lane going into a small town to return the bike to its garage, he lost control of the bike and was slammed into the guard rail. Speed is not thought to be a factor, nor alcohol. About $4K damage to the bike but my friend suffered massive chest injuries with a fractured sternum, multiple broken ribs and other bones, liver lacerations, and lung contusions. No head injury that I'm aware of but his heart arrested for 5-10 minutes. EMS was on the scene but could not compress the chest due to the trauma. They could only shock him and on their last try got a rhythm back. He was airlifted to a Level 1 trauma center. So far he has hung in but when allowed to come up from sedation does not speak and becomes very agitated so he is taken back down. He is still very critical but may pull through. Strangely enough his physicians don't believe there is any brain damage. Mind you, I'm getting this info second hand from his brother, mother, and other close relatives, none of whom are medical people so I'm not certain of the actual truth. I just wanted to ask for some thoughts and prayers for Joe.
If there was ever a case for a safety course and maybe some refresher rides on a small bike, this is it. This has shaken me to the point I haven't been on my own bike for a week now. At my age I don't think I could survive a crash of any magnitude. How does one know when to say when? I know all the pros and cons of riding regardless of one's age but this has certainly made me stop and take stock. My own fears are irrevelent at this point. I just want my friend to return to some semblence of normalcy. Thanks for listening and please be careful out there.
Ishmael
If there was ever a case for a safety course and maybe some refresher rides on a small bike, this is it. This has shaken me to the point I haven't been on my own bike for a week now. At my age I don't think I could survive a crash of any magnitude. How does one know when to say when? I know all the pros and cons of riding regardless of one's age but this has certainly made me stop and take stock. My own fears are irrevelent at this point. I just want my friend to return to some semblence of normalcy. Thanks for listening and please be careful out there.
Ishmael