Polar Bear Challenge

Bikers Who Vlog Below Freezing

Well, it is that time of year once again, and I wonder if I will take part in the PBC.  As you may recall, I went down last year and broke my leg pretty bad. All I managed to complete was one qualifying ride. Since then, I've been recovering, and it has gone frustratingly slow. The seven screws in my leg cause a lot of pain, but taking them out is a problem because of the expense it will require. . . . And so I limp my way back to "normal."

This year, I am feeling a lot better than last, and I am often times eager to get back in the mix of motovlogging.  However, this is made difficult by the better half, who remains adamant that I not ride anymore.  It's been a struggle. 

So why share any of this?  To let my experience serve as an example of what can happen if you become complacent or over-confident. If you are forty or older, there is an added warning for you: Recovery is slow and may not be complete. 

As you prepare to ride in the winter months, some of you riding on snow and ice, I urge you to carefully consider the consequences of not taking safety seriously. It could forever alter or even end your life. Do you have the time and money for such a possibility?  Does your family?

I am not saying you shouldn't ride.  Even after the past year of pain, heartache, and financial woes, I am still eager to make a few rides, danger and all.  What I AM saying is that you must remain ever vigilant about your safety, lest you suffer the consequences.

Enjoy yourselves, be safe, stay warm, and have a great Polar Bear Challenge this year!

Grrr-Wooof-Raaar!

-M7

Views: 96

Tags: navythomas8, suburbanryder, thesymrnacowboy

Comment by SuburbanRyder on November 27, 2011 at 8:52pm

I am so glad you came on before the start of the season with great words of advice Mike.

 

Comment by RC62 on November 27, 2011 at 11:37pm

Words of wisdom my friend... 

Ride safe.  :D

Comment by EverydayRiding on November 28, 2011 at 10:34am

words of wisdom indeed. you describe why I choose a sidecar over two-wheels for most of my winter riding. the risk is reduced, but the fun and excitement persists.

Comment by happyrider100 on November 28, 2011 at 4:31pm

Thank you for the side words. 

As a new rider, I will be staying off the roads unless they are in perfect shape.

Comment by Dennis O. Johnson on November 28, 2011 at 4:39pm
I am 65 yrs old, going on 23. I crashed two months ago but escaped life altering injury because I was wearing full gear. I usually don't have my legs protected & wear only jeans. The day of the crash it was cold so I put my son's riding pants on. Am I ever glad it was not a warm day!!! After I healed I promised myself I would never ride again without full gear. I am in Florida now for a few weeks and it is tough to keep that pledge when it is over 80 degrees, but so far I have. I don't want my riding to ever end...
Comment by EverydayRiding on November 28, 2011 at 4:49pm

@Dennis: get some mesh gear. it flows air much better than jeans with a lot more protection. I've worn mine up to 105F.

Comment by theSMYRNAcowboy on November 28, 2011 at 8:46pm

Fine words of wisdom my friend.  Lets be diligent in our riding awareness this season.  Have fun, ride safe and may the best person win.

Comment by Navythomas8 on November 29, 2011 at 8:27am

Winter riding is not for the begginer. With all the gear your movement is restricted alot.

Comment by Dennis O. Johnson on November 30, 2011 at 10:38pm

To EverydayRiding - I use Bohn riding gear and the mesh gear is on my Xmas list.  But since I will be back in Minn soon, I think the regular stuff will feel good and warm.  Rode the Everglades the other day in the mid 80's and I am actually looking forward to riding in cold weather and snow again.

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