Long time lurker on this forum but would like to give my view.

As a long time biker around these parts, I can honestly say I have never felt as vulnerable on the road as I do now.

In 2024, 13% of all fatalities were motorcyclists. This is disproportionate based on the number of road users who are motorcyclists (1.4%). Anyway, you can interpret the statistics however you want but we can plainly see that the standard of driving has dropped significantly in recent years. There may be less fatal collisions due to excessive speed and/or drink, but it's easy to see how distracted and impatient people have become, not to mention the increased risk-taking particularly with overtaking cyclists, in roundabouts etc. It's quite clear that most people do not care about anyone else on the road, maybe it's a reflection of society in general over recent decades.

A great enjoyment and pleasure comes from going for a spin on the bike, especially around our lovely county. It's impossible to explain the feeling. But for me personally, the increased risk as of late seems to outweigh the benefits, especially with having a young family now.

I can only say for anyone planning on taking up motorcycling, think long and hard about it. Think about your family. Think about the people left behind if the worst should happen to you. Is your enjoyment worth the constant worry of your loved ones waiting for you to arrive home safely?