So this weekend I am taking the MSF (Motorcycle Safety Course). It’s a two-day class, 8 a.m.-5:30 p.m. (that will be two long freakin days!!). Obviously, I know that motorcycles are extremely dangerous. However, I’ve wanted one for way too long now so.. it’s time!!

Ninja 250

I plan to get the ideal beginner bike: a Ninja 250. I feel KIND of like a wuss because it’s the smallest sport bike made, but COME ON! I’m not only a beginner but I’m a chick, and I’m not that big so I need something small and easy to handle.

“Motorcycle rider fatalities have increased for the seventh year in a row. Since 1997, fatalities have increased an alarming 89 percent, from 2,116 in 1997 to 4,008 in 2004.”

That’s pretty scary.. not gonna lie. But I mean, people die in car wrecks every day and that sure as hell doesn’t stop people from stepping in their vehicle each day.

Fatal Motorcycle Crash Info from 2006

http://www.motorcycle-accidents.com/pages/stats.html

Total chick bike.

www.kawasakininja250r.net/browse/index.htm

The Kawasaki website has a lot of details on the 250′s if you’re interested (that particular link is actually to the 250r which is just a little different than a regular 250, just a little more powerful).

Anywho.. back to the scary stuff!

Most fatal accidents involved alcohol (over half). Obviously, everyone knows NOT to drink and drive, including motorcycles. I can’t believe someone would even contemplate getting on a bike after drinking. On a motorcycle you have to be WAY more alert than in a car. In a bike, you may see people but they are likely to NOT see you.

“The best defense is a good offense. In motorcycle terms, that means you need to keep your skills polished by practicing, keep your eyes focused on the road and play nice with other vehicles.”

Be safe, people. Pay attention to bikers out there!! It’s dangerous enough being on a motorcycle, the last thing we need are a bunch of dumb drivers out there not paying attention to us!