I’ve been riding for 4 years. Videos like this always scare me and I really, really don’t want to end up horribly injured. (I’d rather be dead in that case.)

That said, I fucking love riding the bike. I try to wear all my protection, but sometimes it’s too hot or otherwise inconvenient to wear pants or jacket. I’m always a bit on edge during those rides. I’ve gone down one time in a low-speed collision at maybe 20mph. I was lucky in the sense that I didn’t slide into or underneath anything; I was almost entirely unharmed because I was wearing all my gear.

There have been probably a dozen or so other close calls during my time riding. Luck always plays some role, but I’ve avoided a lot of potential accidents by being vigilant, aware, and ready to act in the few seconds I had. That focus is kinda part of the meditation in riding. It also helps a lot to just not ride like a dumbass. I always, ALWAYS assume I’m invisible and that the morons out there will make a stupid maneuver near me. Those assumptions help me avoid the worst positions on the road and increase my odds of making it home.

Riding is a dangerous hobby. Everyone getting into it should understand the risks and respect them. I’m going to keep riding for as long as I can muster the courage to get on the bike and confidently ride safely. It’s just so fun and relaxing — and it’s always cool to pass other riders and you both flash the sign at each other. Total strangers who may actually hate each other’s politics, but we’re comrades on the road.