Welcome to the forum. Taking the MSF basic course is never a bad idea and will let you know what your abilities are too. We have quite a few members in their 70's and several in their 80's.
Just a note to say hi to the group.
I am an older person I have not been on any bike in 40 years or so . I am in the process of completing the purchase of a Honda Rebel 250 . I don't know how much riding I will do at my age but I have kept my Motorcycle endorsement on my license for all those years. Looking forward to owning the new to me bike . With all the traffic in my area I think I will take the MSF course before I try my bike. I need to build some confidence and skill before going on my own bike . If I have a problem with my balance or handling the MSF bike I may have to give up on riding but will keep the bike maintained and covered in the garage and just sit on it and run it from time to time. I am hoping that I still have some of the old school muscle memory to ride again. Just an old has been with a dream.LOL. Stay safe guys and gals. I enjoy watching MCRider and his safety videos but doing those exercises is what I need to practice.
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Riders have always had to look out for their own safety, but with virtually everyone having a cell phone, and most thinking they can use it and still drive safely, the risks have increased. One helpful technique to increase a rider's visibility is the SMIDSY weave. It increases the odds that an inattentive driver looking to turn in front of you will see you, and also is useful at night so oncoming traffic doesn't mistakenly think a riders headlight is actually on the cage behind them. Avoiding the SMIDSY! | Honda Rebel 250 & 450 Forum (hondarebelforum.com)
Being as conspicuous as possible aids in rider safety. I wear conspicuous riding gear and replaced the stock horn with a louder set. The stock Rebel horn is very puny IMO. With today's better noise insulated cars and trucks, it can be important to be heard when needed!
Another helpful tip I found online deals with tailgaters. While looking back at the offender, extend the left arm down, palm to the rear, and slowly "wave" the vehicle back. Works for me about 80% of the time. If they back off, give them a thumbs up to thank them. If they don't back off, pull over and let them pass where it is safe to do so. Most drivers don't comprehend that what would be a fender bender for them is a trip to the hospital or morgue for a rider.
Another helpful tip I found online deals with tailgaters. While looking back at the offender, extend the left arm down, palm to the rear, and slowly "wave" the vehicle back. Works for me about 80% of the time. If they back off, give them a thumbs up to thank them. If they don't back off, pull over and let them pass where it is safe to do so. Most drivers don't comprehend that what would be a fender bender for them is a trip to the hospital or morgue for a rider.
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Honda Rebel 250 & 450 Forum
A forum community dedicated to the Classic Honda Rebel 250 & 450. Come join the discussion about performance, modifications, troubleshooting, maintenance, reviews, and more! Also visit our forum for 2017+ Honda Rebel 300, 500 & 1100 at hondarebel3forum.com
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