men on motorcycles...

I know of two men who have had really  bad wrecks on great big honking Harley bikes recently. You would think that guys who are old enough to be able to afford the payments for motorcycles that expensive would have a little sense about them. But they got in situations where the Harleys were completely wrecked, and fortunate to have survived the accidents.

One was a guy who went with the group that makes the annual tour of 48 states as a fun trip, fund raiser for the Medical Center's Pediatric unit, supporting the Miracle Network. These guys, in various configurations and numbers, have been making the ride for several years. They agree to find sponsors to pledge money towards the purchase of equipment to provide care for children - all the funds they raise stays here in town. And they pay all their travel expenses... which can  really add up, when you are living in motels across the US for several weeks, eating out three meals a day. One of the guys on the trip last spring had a wreck (possibly going to sleep on the road, at a considerable speed, with nothing but a helmet between him and impact) and broke a leg, and arm, and probably totaled his bike. I understand he is back at work, so apparently mostly recovered from the accident that I think happened up in the Dakotas - a long way from family, and comforts of home.

Another guy, someone I know casually, was traveling recently, alone, on his big honking Harley and got tossed. I saw him, with his family, shopping yesterday. He broke both arms, a wrist and possibly a shoulder. And totaled  his Harley - as there is nothing there to lessen the impact before you hit pavement.  Honestly - lucky guy. Wife said the story would have had a different ending if he had not been wearing a full face helmet.

I driven scooters, ridden on the back of motorcycles a lot in my crazy youth. And would probably get on one again if someone stopped on corner and said: 'hop on'. But, Oh-my-goodness they are risky. So if I do hop on, and you happen to see me wave as we go screaming down the street, please do not tell the man who sits at home and looks for more things to worry about.