Twice Bitten

[Sensha]

Two years ago I broke my leg in three places, a right upper tibia plateau fracture and shattered and compressed the knee joint. Two days after the accident I dislocated my own shoulder and a week after that I gave myself a concussion.
Fastforward to earlier this year when I finially confronted my deep desire to ride again and got back on two wheels. Six months of slow and steady moto-love I broke my 2nd, 3rd and 4th metatarsals (this time on the left side...just to even things out). As I complete my recovery I can't help but wonder what it's going to take for me to stop riding. I can't seem to rationalize straddling a bike again, but I'll be damned if I give up something I intrinsically love.
How do those who've had numerous severe accidents and injuries acknowledge their experiences and still have quality two-wheeled time?

 

[Junkie]

in the past few years I've broken bones on a bike 3 times. first time collarbone and C7 plus a concussion, second time 4 bones in right wrist/hand and lacerated spleen, third time left wrist badly enough that I got a plate and 10 screws plus a concussion. I don't know that there's much that would get me off the bike.

 

[EarlyApex]

Are you riding outside your skill level? How are these "accidents" occurring?

 

[RobertJ]

I don't want to sound like an ass here, but you should really consider giving up the hobby. It IS a hobby and nothing more, and none of us need to ride. It's not for everyone.

 

[carries an axe]

I don't want to sound like an ass here, but you should really consider giving up the hobby. It IS a hobby and nothing more, and none of us need to ride. It's not for everyone.

This is an assumption, riding means different things to different people.

That said, anytime someone has a number of serious injuries they should consider giving it up. I don't want to sound overly dramatic but consider your mortality.
I have no idea what the circumstances of your accidents were. The real question is has motorcycling brought more enjoyment to your life? Or has it contributed more hardship and pain? psychologically as well as physically.
Consider the other people in your life. The decision to ride influences them as
well.

Riding took a very heavy to toll on my life. But that said I regret nothing. I miss it every day more than I miss walking.; is that foolish? My brother and father say yes. Given the chance I would ride tomorrow.

Have you considered confining your riding to the track? At least until you feel comfortable enough? There are number of schools where professionals can instruct you on proper techniques and strategies.
Whatever you decide, I wish you well
:rideSafe
-Adam

 

[Papi]

How do those who've had numerous severe accidents and injuries acknowledge their experiences and still have quality two-wheeled time?

Wadding up you and a bike is no fun. But it will make you a better rider in the end.

Personally I have smashed more bikes than I care to remember.

 

[EastBayDave]

after a half-century of riding & more bails & broken bones than I can remember, I can't seem to even try to give it up. Even now w/major health problems (old age), I still plan on getting back aboard some day when I get the bike & my body sorted out. Both need major work! :laughing

It's been a lifelong love affair, & yes I've sacrificed some things in health & especially finances to keep riding when I could (should?) have given up many times. I just can't seem to give up, even when everyone says I should.

If you have that kind of draw to riding, don't consider quitting. It's just too much fun & I've met & become friends w/too many people along the way, many of them lifelong friends now.

Although I feel bad about some of the things riding has done to me (injuries= mostly from hit & runs), I can honestly say after riding since the 60's I will never consider myself done. I hope I can occasionally hop aboard a couple times every summer for at least the new few decades. :thumbup

I've just got this real strong magnet pulling me toward the bike, every day.

IMHO/FWIW

-ebd