• 1. Older Motorcyclists
• 2. Coming soon

RIGHTGEAR London BLOG - Gareth Tuffrey

Gareth Tuffery is a motorcyclist of 33 years. Currently Gareth sits on the National Motorcycle Council and the Government’s Motorcycle Strategy on behalf of Road Safety Great Britian.

1. The older motorcyclist clearly deserves specific attention

Normally November finds me in the garage preparing my bike and bike gear for the onslaught of salty roads and regular soakings. Winter gloves and riding boots are located from the bottom of wardrobes and long lost friendships with neck warmers and scarves are re-kindled.

But if you look closely, yes, very closely, you will see a light summer motorcycle jacket with open air vents accompanied by breathable leather trousers and gloves. The balmy hot weather at the start of October has confused nature and indeed the poor old motorcyclist.

Motorcyclist’s are used to the unexpected, from emerging cars, diesel spills and slippery man hole covers, but a new danger lurks for the older motorcyclists. Recent DfT figures indicate a rise in deaths and casualties for riders whose age is accelerating over 60. Further reading reveals that the over 60’s are represented in 1-4 of all road deaths.

The one constant in riding a motorcycle is your vulnerability; whether you are 16 or 60 riding a motorcycle remains a risky business. However I am firmly of the belief the pleasure derived from riding a motorcycle out weighs any of the risks mentioned. Risk can be managed, wearing the “Right Gear”, completing a Bikesafe-London course, followed by further training tops-ups will help to ensure you stay firmly upright.

Well my battery is finally charged including the one on the motorcycle, and with first gear selected, clutch out, and increased revs. I am well on my way  heading towards the next 29° balmy day!