What simple thing can most motorcyclists do to reduce their collision chances by 24%? Answer: wear a white helmet. More info on this page of Jeff Dean’s web site.

If you go to his home page and scroll down a bit you will find other good safety related articles. I’m working my way through them. At the moment I’m mulling over Inattentional Blindness: Research on a phenomenon known as inattentional blindness suggests that unless we pay close attention, we can miss even the most conspicuous events. As it pertains to riding motorcycles I’m not sure whether it’s the case that we miss a particular event or condition or don’t recognize it as a possible danger or just don’t assign it the importance it deserves. Either way, the subject of inattention deserves some serious attention by the motorcyclist.

Take your pick. If you are not adverse to steam power, then Sylvester Howard Roper’s 1867 steam powered two wheeler is the world’s first motorcycle.

Otherwise Gotlieb Damiler gets the honor with his 1885 internal combustion engine powered vehicle—even though with outriggers it is not strictly two wheeled.

Frankly, I don’t care much either way. I’m just thankful we have advanced a bit beyond those early models. Hell, I’m glad as all get out that we are far beyond 1950’s technology which is when I was first wowed by motorcycles. Here are some links about the early pioneers: Motorcycle.com, uh.edu, Steve’s pages

In an earlier post I stated I was done futzing with the journal. I lied. Just added asides code for short snippets that don’t warrant a full post, such as this entry.

In my quest to update my list of beginner bike models I came across this bike.

It’s a sweet looking bike with 48hp, weighs in at 400 lbs dry, has a shaft drive and is fuel injected. All nice attributes for the new rider. In the words of one owner:

“I love mine. I’m 5′11″ and it seems to fit me fine. I did 400 miles plus a couple of weeks ago with no problems (other than a sligtly sore ass!).

It could really use more power though. Apparently PowerCommander will get you another 5hp, and maybe more free flowing pipes may get another 5-10hp. I’ll probably do that at some point.

It really is the easiest bike I’ve ever riden (not that I’ve ridden alot). It handles well and I think it looks great.”

Another rider had this to say about the Breva:

“Great choice. I took one for an aggressive demo ride at the Mid-Ohio Vintage Bike Days. Easy to ride, composed, neutral seating position, light, fun, forgiving, no handling surprises, and enough power to keep from being bored on the street. I currently own an ‘05 SV650s, and the Breva is definitely down on power comparatively, but it was a fun ride. I would definitely own one…especially if I was inseam-challenged.”

More info and specs on the Breva page of the Moto Guzzi website.

1 Comment | Trackback

I just completed revamping my Beginners Guide. Among other updates I added photos to the list of suitable beginner bikes. Now you can see what the bikes like as well as click on links to: the TotalMotorcycle.com buyer’s guide entry for the bike and reviews and road tests of the bike. If you are just getting started on the path to learning to ride, take a look at the guide. It has some good information for you.