Motorcycling, at what age is it time to give it away?

[jwm]

Just thought I might get some feedback/thoughts on this subject given the deaths of 4'mature' aged motorcyclists in the last couple of weeks that I am aware of. See forum thread: http://ozstoc.com/index.php?topic=5599.new;topicseen#new

I've often pondered this question myself and I'm not sure there is a definitive answer. I guess it is a very personal decision but on route to that decision, do you downsize your bike, ride less often, do shorter rides?

On the October long weekend I actually went for a ride with an old mate who is 87 years old. Alan has never been a big man, in height or weight, and he has downsized his bike and is now riding an older model 250. Riding behind him that day, he still pushes along at 100kph and rides beautiful lines through the corners, he still rides from Jervis Bay to Sydney but his problems start when he stops. He has trouble holding the bike up.

Just intersted in your thoughts ladies and gentlemen.

[Marcus]

Personally I don't think there is no set age. More what you feel comfortable with safely.

If your 87 year still feels safe for him and most importantly the community then more power to him.

I think alot of elderly people who still drive is a testament to them, however if it's when they become a risk to the traffic and community around them that is becomes an issue (even if THEY think they are fine)

[Old Steve]

With downsizing as I get older (I do find the ST1100 on the heavy side but have just bought an ezy2wheel to make handling it in the garage easier) I think my limit will either be eyesight or an inability to lift my leg over the seat.

[PaulH]

OK, so I am very close to 63 and recovering from cancer, so by the time I get back to the point at which I will be allowed to ride again (late March/Early April next year) I don't think I will be strong enough to handle a 1300 again. However this doesn't necessarily mean that I don't think I'll be able to handle a smaller machine, so I am starting to look at a Honda CTX-700 as a replacement to the wonderful old machine. It is lighter but looks similar, so it wouldn't be too bad I think...the only thing I really don't like is the chain, I seriously prefer a shaft drive. Anyone got any good ideas??

[winston66]

Why not trike the St
Cheers winston66

[beatup]

You have a great advantage when it comes to riding again, Whizz.
You won't be able to make an instant comparison with the ST.
Spoiled by the ride,comfort and lack of vibration means a bit of bias.
So far I've been on about a dozen on search of a replacement.
Best I can hope for will be a compromise.

[Skip]

If you don't mind a mild mannered cruiser to poke around on, I reckon the C50 Suzuki Boulevard (800 cc ) is a sweet bike to ride. It does everything well. Shaft drive. But as Ian said, anything after the ST will be a compromise.

[WendyL]

My dad has just started riding again at 76 after a break of a few years (since he had a fairly major heart attack 4 years ago).  He's bought himself a Virago 250 and is getting out and about on it quite a bit.  His driving scares me, haven't ridden with him yet since he got his bike after I was sidelined with my back injury.  I don't think he's too scary though

[Dick B "Yewie"]

You have a great advantage when it comes to riding again, Whizz.
You won't be able to make an instant comparison with the ST.
Spoiled by the ride,comfort and lack of vibration means a bit of bias.
So far I've been on about a dozen on search of a replacement.
Best I can hope for will be a compromise.

Still looking I see Ian. I thought you were sweet on the BMWF650.

[Tipsy]

  py
For me I guess it would have to be either I am dead or blind or physically unable to control any motor cycle.
AND  if I could not ride then I would rather be DEAD.
Tipsy

[Dick B "Yewie"]

I hit the big 70 next year and still think I have a few good years on the ST1300 yet although it does seem to have gotten a bit heavier lately. (Funny about that!). I have looked at the Deauville (not sure if this slightly larger 700cc engine version was ever released in Australia) a couple of times as a possible future downgrade although I am not ready for it yet! By all reports it is a bit sedate but it does have a shaft drive, good luggage capacity, Honda reliability and reasonable touring range (I believe around 400Km). The big plus, of course is that it is 60kg lighter than the ST1300. I have also checked out the three wheeled Can-Am Spyder but have decided I couldn't come at one of them.
Lets see what happens in a couple more years )
   

[Sicman]

When you realise its become a chore  and no longer your passion  it is time to give it away - That point in time is an individual thing and only you will know if that time has arrived. 
 

[Old Steve]

If you don't mind a mild mannered cruiser to poke around on, I reckon the C50 Suzuki Boulevard (800 cc ) is a sweet bike to ride. It does everything well. Shaft drive. But as Ian said, anything after the ST will be a compromise.

I'd recommend the Boulevard M50 rather than the C50, the M50 is more of a sports cruiser compared to the C50 which is just a mid-sized cruiser.  I had one in New Zealand, and it'll be the bike I downsize to.  Good handler, shaft drive, mag wheels, I put a pair of saddlebags on mine so made her a bit of a sports/cruiser/tourer.  Much lighter than the ST, so easier for an old codger to move around, lower seat so easier for an old codger to get his leg over, and looks OK.

I used to ride with a guy who had an ST1100, and when it came to going over the hills on the way home he just changed into superman and disappeared into the distance.  The ST is a great handler and that engine is sweet.  But I'll take the M50 as second best.