As I got dressed for a long ride, I went through my checklist. In the old days, one would check one’s leathers. Today, when one is riding in tropical weather, one tries to stay cool and safe. There are options with breathable mesh and armor at the critical spots, making traditional leathers a second choice. Helmets have multiple vents, letting one’s head stay a lot cooler than it would otherwise be. Even gloves and boots have evolved.
As I considered the difference between old and new, I realized that the one thing that had made the biggest difference in my safety was one that most did not notice – blue tooth communication with another ride. Four eyes and another mind on lookout fundamentally improved my ability to stay safe.
When I hear others talk about staying safe, at times I hear confidence that is bubbling beyond its limits. It seems as though the individual believes s/he can ride safely without the benefits of protection and the input from others. They take a promise made long ago totally out of context; “Evil can’t get close to you, harm can’t get through the door.” (Psalm 91.10) They ignore they responsibilities and the protection offered by others that opens the door to being and staying safe.
Checklist reminders for my riding include the following.
Always ride with your head in the game. Think of what you are doing. Be aware. Be smart. Anticipate, consider, and do not put yourself in a position where you are at unnecessary risk.
Ride with the right gear. Use the best helmet you can. Wear the right gloves, boots, jacket, and trousers – ideally all with armor.
Accept all the help that is offered. Ride as a group in the right way. Be aware of the signals from others. Most of all, listen to the voice in your helmet! Everything helps protect you.
Stay open to how things fit and the best way to use them to stay safe.
Warning; with all the improvements, the choice of riding safe is still a personal one we make.s
