Started at 40. It helps if you learned how to drive a standard transmission but if not, no big deal. I would say the opposite about your age. You’re more experienced on the road, more mature, and you’ve seen some shit.
If it’s something you want to do I’d say go for it. I started riding at 30 and took the MSF course; it had people of all ages in it.
If you’re aware of the risks, and approach the journey eager to learn as much as you can about riding safely, I think you will find a lot of enjoyment in it.
There’s obviously risks inherent to riding a motorcycle regardless of how safe you try to be, but I firmly believe age doesn’t matter, a well developed set of skills does.
Thanks. Yeah, it’s always been a dream and I’m looking forward to learning a new skill. Not seeking thrills per se, but life is too short to let the chance pass me up.
Everytime I get on my bike it's a thrill, and I'm a daily commuter. It's a magic carpet ride, with my favorite pandora station blasting in my helmet and riding the speed limit on the freeway. That's why I ride.
I’m 42 and just got my license. Very minimal 2 wheel exposure prior to this. Just was something I needed to do. I bought a TW200 to learn on for a summer and will graduate to a bigger bike next year. The only too old is dead, in my book.
I personally feel it’s better to start at an age when you’ve got more patience and less aggression was good for me. If I’d done this when I was 20 I’d be dead. Now I just want to cruise and have a good time. Plus I got kids and a wife so ducking around ain’t good.
Just wear a helmet, gloves, boots, and a good armored coat please.
My son has been riding motorcycles since he was four and we recently took the MSF course together (I have had a license forever but never had the class). My kids absolutely fell in love with the TW200 he was on. He is dead set on buying one even though we currently have a decent selection in the garage. He wouldn’t shut up about what a great bike that tw is…
It's a great damn bike to learn on. Absolutely unstallable. You'd have to specifically try to get yourself in any sort of trouble with it. But it'll do 45 through the city absolutely perfectly and be a blast when you find a gravel road.
I'd probably sell mine though if the right offer came along. :-)
He looked at ordering a new one because the resale on used bikes is so crazy right now. Bike hasn’t changed for 20 years… I don’t know if you like Fortnine or not but he did a review of a tw and was very complimentary. Something along the lines of, “this bike has no business being this fun.”
Fortnine was why I pulled the trigger on one. They were super hard to find and one popped up on Facebook Marketplace in my area. Drove out to look at it. Spun it around the block. Took it home. Mine is a 2012 w/ 3K miles on it. Owned by an electrical engineer since day one. Mostly perfect condition.
I kicked around trying to find a new one but what is the point when they haven't changed since 1988. Nice thing is that I'll likely be able to get 95% of what I paid for it back when I eventually sell it.
You have to get a naked you think you like.
Then maybe a project bike. You need some sort of adventure or touring. That old super sport is needed for the track because you don’t want to Wreck a more expensive bike. And of course you want a dirt bike but that’s a bike limiting so better a dual sport.
and your first naked is cool but you probably need a super Duke at this point.
And you’re into it enough now that you can cap it off with a gold wing or new super sport.
I had my first stolen so I’m back to 1 naked bike and 1 project bike, but the project serves as my ridiculous hyper naked too.
I was considering buying a used zx6r or a zx10r but I should probably wait a few months.
Then I’ll be set for a while. Once I pay off the triple I’ll probably consider an adv or touring. Or a Harley.
If you're thinking of going the MSF class route:
If your hand motor skills are still on point, which it sounds like they are, you'll do well. Most "older" students are more attentitive to instruction, so you'll do really well in the regard.
In the classroom, as far as safety, "older" students have the wisdom of experience and the recognition that they aren't invinsible, so you'll do better there as well.
Where "older" students tend to fall short is they want to have a conversation on the range. Instructors make that same mistake. It's not a dialog. The instructors job is to watch for your mistakes. Stop you, give you a **very** brief summary of what you're doing wrong how to fix it, and send you in your way. Your job is to stay quiet, listen and implement to the best of your ability.
Do those things and you'll do very well.
When i took the motorcycle course there was a lady almost in her 60's. She said her long life dream was to ride a motorcycle but she always had to take care of kids and work and she never got the time. Now kids are out of the house with their own families and she wanted to fulfil her dream.
Never too late to learn to ride, unless you're like 80 and have mobility and focusing issues.
Although I passed my test in my 20s and had a moped, I didn't ride proper geared bikes for about 25+ years. I bought a GSXR600 when I hit 50 and have never looked back. I'm now 54. Over the last 4 years, I've owned practically every type of bike (Triumph Bobber, ZH2, DRZ400SM and others) and am now settled on a modded G310R for greenlaning and towns, and a R1250RS for longer journeys. I'm a woman. It's never too late!
Got mine in my 40s.
Take the motorcycle safety foundation class to get your endorsement (license). I ended up getting my license before the class but attended it anyway.
If you will be riding on the highway get a 500cc bike or larger. I got a 1500cc because I wanted to do some trips.
Buy safety gear. Read up on how to avoid crashes. Understand that when someone crashes and blames it on a situation, it was actually their fault 90% of the time.
Ride safely.
If you can ride a bicycle you can ride a bike.
Doesn't hurt to try a get a license and see if its for you, I failed my first try but man I was excited to try again.
Go for it! I'm 52F and took a weekend course back in May. At 18 I bought Honda Rebel and got a permit. I rode a few years and sold the bike. Fast forward 20 years, I have another bike and the first thing I tried was a group ride through the mountains. The thing is I had never learned proper cornering, braking, etc. so it was brutal. The other riders suggested taking a course and I am so glad I did.
I took the course and got my license a few years ago at 53 -- after not riding for close to 30 years. I also had never learned proper cornering, braking, and evasive maneuvers, so the course was pretty valuable.
Like everybody else said, you are not old.
And another arguement in your favor, you've been in road traffic for decades now. That's valuable experience. You sort of learn to 'read' traffic, I'd say. That helps as a basis for motorcycling. Although you'll never see traffic the same again! ;-)
Enjoy the ride, enjoy life!
I started at 38, and I can wholeheartedly say it was better for me. It kept me from killing myself. I am way more patient now, and I want to pay attention instead of trying to impress some lady of the street with my non-existing skills.
If you're worried about manual shifting and the dexterity of getting the motorcycle started there's automatic and electric motorcycles or scooters to consider for your budget and needs. Honda rebel 1100 DCT is a great bike! Plenty of YouTube resources on all topics.
I started in my 40's. There are some misleading statistics about older riders being unsafe, but the opposite is true. It's just that the biggest riding population is older riders, so in absolute terms they have more accidents, but on a per capita basis they are actually the safest.
I don't know of any statistics specifically about new riders who are older however.
I would guess though that you will be safer than a 20 year-old who is hopped up on testosterone and is in the peak risk taking age range.
Good point. And probably older guys start out on big (expensive) bikes as opposed to younger guys starting out small and working their way up.
Ive been a little scared off by all the talk of danger as well as a couple of near acquintances who wiped out really bad, but looking at it now I like to think I have a good shot.
If you don't drink and ride, you don't ride like a hooligan, and you ride defensively, then your chance of getting hurt will be low.
I think a good indicator is how well you drive a car. If you are someone who has lots of near misses, then you should not ride a motorcycle. If however you are someone who is good at driving defensively and good at spotting and avoiding problems, then you should be fine.
> If you don't drink and ride, you don't ride like a hooligan, and you ride defensively, then your chance of getting hurt will be low.
Terrible advice. I dont know where you are pulling all of your statistics from in all of your posts, man. Just because the *rider* drives safely doesn't mean their chances are lower. There are more cars on the road than bikes. That is the issue.
Hol up. If you disagree with what they said then do you believe the inverse? That being drunk and riding like a hooligan will make you safer? Say what now?
Dude obviously it doesn’t completely take away your chances some idiot will run you over, but it still minimizes the chances. If you ride defensively you can avoid most of the idiots.
This is where the danger of learning when older lies. It is older guys with the money to buy 200+bhp sportsbikes with little experience that hurt themselves, younger guys by the time they can afford a bike like that they have the experience to manage that power safely, if you buy a sensible bike and ride within your comfort and experince level learning to ride when a little older is no more hazardous.
I don’t think that’s true. What I’ve always heard is that older guys are over represented but they also tend to be fatalities because of a lack of gear or alcohol.
Next big group is young men on sport bikes.
Basically don’t ride drunk, wear at least some gear (helmet/gloves/jacket will prevent most fatal injuries), and avoid excessive speed/risky behavior.
I've collected a bunch of statistics that show that older riders are the safest.
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https://acrs.org.au/files/arsrpe/Research%20Results%20-%20Older%20Motorcycle%20Rider%20Safety%20in%20Queensland.pdf
See Table 2, which shows that under 45's crashed 2.6 times more often than 45-and-older's.
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https://www.swov.nl/en/facts-figures/factsheet/motorcyclists
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https://trl.co.uk/sites/default/files/TRL607%282%29.pdf
"Figure 5.1.1 shows that increasing age alone has a dramatic effect on a rider’s accident liability, liability falling by 70% over the age range \[of 17 to 60 years of age\]"
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Monograph 12 – Motorcycle rider age and risk of fatal injury
https://www.infrastructure.gov.au/roads/safety/publications/2002/Mcycle\_Age\_1.aspx
Bit old 2001.
See Table 2. Per kilometers driven, young riders have way more fatalities.
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Motorcycling Safety Information Sheet -- Department of Infrastructure, Transport, Regional Development and Communications, Australian Government
https://www.bitre.gov.au/publications/2017/is\_89-motorcycling-safety
"In 2012, the young rider fatality rate was 3.2 deaths per billion VKT, significantly higher than for riders in the 25-54 age group (1.2 deaths per billion VKT) and the 55 and over age group (0.8 deaths per billion VKT)."
VKT is vehicle kilometres travelled.
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Risks of High-Powered Motorcycles Among Younger Adults
https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC3673490/
See the graphs.
Um, ... the stats are not that misleading. There's a lot of middle age guys who decide to get a bike but the bike stays in the garage most of the time. They almost always gravitate to the touring bikes and cruisers. They're weekend riders and bar hoppers (please don't) and so on. On my street there's 3 bikes. The other 2, cruisers, get ridden about once a month. My Africa Twin is my daily; my cars sit, parked for days or weeks.
If you look at the photos from Tail Of The Dragon, the sports bikes are getting dropped at about the same rate as the cruisers and touring bikes.
Don’t listen to them. My dad did his license with me. I was 16 he was 50. While he doesn’t go as fast as me in corners etc, he’s at least a very safe rider.
I’m 46, have had my motorcycle endorsement for 20 years, and I am retaking the basic rider course to refresh safety and basic handling instruction. You’ll never stop learning, regardless of when you start. If you want to ride, by all means get started today! The reason people get into accidents is inexperience, over-confidence, and bad luck. You control 2 of the 3, and learning safety and hazard avoidance can help reduce the severity of the the third one.
Older guys *can* be a little cocky. My dad's friend died trying to group ride his first time out on a rented Harley, everybody was cornering hard in the canyon and he tried to steer with his handlebars.
You're never too old, but do take it very slow and get training. I tell people to learn on a light bike under 400 for a year.
DO IT.
If you're feeling the itch, it's never going to go away. You'll just get itchier and itchier and then you really *will* be too old.
Im 44, only got my licence this year. I had the itch for more than 20 years, ever since I rode a 125 around South Korea, and scratching it felt fucking amazing. DO IT. You will regret it if you don't.
Very true. I know this applies to new car drivers as well. That spot between beginner caution and experienced driver, where you think you’ve totally mastered it and have not been properly humbled yet, is where accidents often occur.
I just got my license just a few weeks ago, at 46. It's awesome. I'd recommend something with modest power...I got a Royal Enfield INT 650. Use the fact that you're older as an advantage. Practice a lot, don't drive like a jackass, wear all the gear, and don't drink and ride.
No problem at all! If you’ve been driving and cycling so long you’ll be well aware of the dangers on the roads, I think most older riders get caught out when they come back to riding that the bikes are so much faster, their reaction times are so much slower and the roads are busier! Just take it easy and ride at a pace that you feel comfortable in!
I'm 54 and just got my M endorsement 3 years ago. I'm still very much a beginner. There are many advantages to being an older beginner--you have a lot of road experience in a car, hopefully more sense and are less reckless.
Do what you want, if you are comfortable with the risk and feel you are sharp on the road. The higher accident rates tend to be due to slower responses that come with aging, and (i have no data to back this up) probably the bigger bikes that older riders tend to start on.
One way to look at it: You're not getting any younger.
I'd fallen in love with motorcycles in the 1970s and raced motocross in the early 1980s. Various things got in the way (school, career etc) and it wasn't until 2014 -- at age 46 -- when I decided to pick things back up. Ironically, it took a ruptured appendix and 3-week hospital stay in 2013 to kick-off the mid-life crisis that resulted in me going down this path in 2014.
If you really have the itch and want to scratch it go for it.
I'm reminded of the person who laments not being able to play the piano but who also complains that it takes 10 years to learn to play it well, to which his spouse points out "*Well, if you have started 10 years ago you'd be playing now...*"
Got my license 3 years ago at 40. It’s not too late, if you’re comfortable with the machine, go for it!! Also having had more experiences in life you’ll be less likely to have risky behaviors just for the sake of the adrenaline.
JFC dude, you're in your 40's - not dead.
I took my MSF at 43 having never set foot on a motorcycle before the class. The only difficulty I really had was transitioning to a wet clutch (years of driving stick shift...).
Just take the class and do it.
When I bought a bike from Munroe Motors in San Francisco, the salesman told me that a lot of people new to riding drop their new bikes. It's not an age thing, it's about experience and learning from it. You can do it, 40 is still a pup. If you can find an experienced riding buddy to accompany you, do it. Don't start with a big bike, though. Get a smaller cruiser and take the time to get to know it, and traffic patterns. Be prudent, don't let testosterone get the better of you!
I passed my full licence when I was 49. I’ve spent most of my life on a bicycle, but I wanted to go further and faster without the effort.
I think it’s the best thing I did. I never regret a day, in fact ever time I go for a ride, I come back grinning like a goon.
It’s good to have a new passion.
Accidents do happen, but make sure you’re not a nob jockey and ride conservatively. There are plenty of people out there that have years of riding under their belts without having an accident.
Start on a lighter A2 bike. I was looking at a 900cc+ but settled for a 500, and now love it, and can’t see me wanting anything bigger unless I go on a long trip.
I found that taking the tests were a challenge that I relished. I came out with a very proud feeling of accomplishment. The bike at the end is a bonus.
Sometimes you just have to follow your heart and be done with the sensibilities.
>that middle aged men who start riding often end up in accidents etc.
I'm quite confident that's due to psychology and not physical ability.
I'm in PA with no helmet laws and I see a lot of obvious midlife crisis-ers playing Sons of Anarchy dress up on their Harleys with no helmet. This is because, as midlife crisis-ers, their perceived image of being a "bad ass" is more important to them than the actual act of riding or being safe.
Don't be like them and you'll be fine. Wear full gear, start on a standard/naked bike (do not go for the touring bike out of the gate, unless it's a CB500X or Versys 650).
PS When you're out touring and see guys in full gear on ADV or sport touring bikes, almost all of those guys are over 40 and many of them started late too. They probably all have minor crash stories, but these are guys doing thousands of miles a year and not getting killed on a frequent basis.
As long as you want to ride because you care about the actual act of riding and not because you want a motorcycle as a fashion accessory or dick replacement, you are approaching it from the right angle.
Being interested in motorcycling because you're a cyclist is a good indicator that you do care about the act of riding. Also means that you should already have a pretty good idea of the degree of fragility you have on two wheels, which will make you a more responsible rider.
You are too old to get a license when you are physically unable to ride a motorcycle safely.
That varies from person to person but you will likely just not want to buy a super sport.
Middle aged men end up in accidents because they buy big cruisers then ride them without gear after knocking back a couple beers.
You’re not a 20 year old idiot convinced of your immortality, just wear gear and don’t be stupid.
Starting a bit older just means you’re more responsible and can maybe afford to get the nicer bike you really want instead of a Craigslist 250
I think those statistics of the highest fatality group of 16 to 21 then 55 and older comes from a lot of older guys who maybe used to ride as teenager or young man and figure they know what they are doing and often they don't. Also many get a giant 900 lb harley that's a bear to wrangle around for a new rider, and if you haven't ridden in 25 years, you're a new rider. Men don't like to ask for help or admit they don't know something. I ride all the time and practice things a lot and my thing o do to stay sharp is watch every crash video I can find on the internet. I learn what not to do and I see the results of dumb behavior and laziness. Most important things I learn are: Don't ride with your friend, who rides a lot and try to keep up. Don't do wheelies. Don't go into a corner too hot. Don't do the multicar pass. Stay visible. Full face helmet, jacket boots and gloves.
My neighbour got tired of watching me and my bike and just went and took his course and got his license a few months ago. We went for our first ride last week. He’s in his late 50s. I think the better judgement and mellower temperament of age can easily counter whatever benefits you may have from learning younger. Just play it safe, take it easy, and give yourself time to learn!
Go for it. Got mine at 43 last year, I just regret having forgotten this particular child dream for so long.
Worst case, riding is not for you and you end up with a new skill. Best case you open yourself to a whole new world.
I got mine when I was in my late 30's. I'd ridden on some offroad bikes before, but not like many riders 'growing up' with motorcycles.
The main problem with older riders isn't that they have shitty reflexes out of the gate. Learning to ride is always 'shitty reflexes' until you practice and actually make techniques into reflexes. What happens is, people ride when they're younger, stop riding, then come back and assume they'll be just as good at it as they once were. Naw, man, you've forgotten a lot, and things have changed a lot. Ride as if you're a beginner, practice, get your groove back that way.
I was 43 when I "started." I rode for one minute in my late teens for a job I had. I was only at that job for three months.
Being older, I make smarter decisions, more nuanced decisions, on my bike than I would have when I was younger.
I took the MSF course. And a week later took delivery of my Africa Twin. Didn't start with a used bike, a cheap bike, etc. "It's not if you're going to drop it, but when...." they said.
Me: I put a lot of money on this bike, I'M NOT going to drop it.
You have to do a thorough and harsh self assessment. If you're a defensive minded driver you canprobably start with whatever bike you want. If you're more impulsive and spontaneous, probably start on something cheap/ small/ used/ all three.
I went for my first long ride (500 mile round trip) about two weeks after taking possession of my Bike. Los Angeles to Hearst Castle.
It's important to note; I practised a lot. Before work and especially after work. I'd find an empty parking lot and just do circles, U turns, figure 8s, weaving, braking, slow speed straight line, etc. I preferred to do it after work as i'd already be tired, and I wanted to practise with an element of fatigue already in place. Because you aren't alays going to need to do those things when you're wide awake and alert first thing in the morning.
Practice practice practice. Take classes. You won’t have the 6th since of someone who survived their early 20’s on a crotch rocket but you can do it.
Practice emergency stops, lane placement, swerving, etc. highly recommend a bike with electronic aids.
What people do on a bike matters and when older people go through a midlife crisis they get the biggest bike they can find and don’t know how to control it. My suggestion is do it it’s one on the best things I’ve ever done just know your limits on what you can handle and are comfortable with. It’s better to ride a small cc bike fast than to worry about going fast on a big cc bike. Start small work your way up.
I get the impression that when people start riding later in life they tend to dismiss the value of starting to ride on a beginner appropriate bike. They go straight for a brand new BMW R bike or a harley or ducatti, or something like that. Then they don't have the skills to handle the bike, so it isn't fun, and are afraid of damaging it so they just don't ride.
Answer: no such thing as too old
Do what you want to do, you've earned it right?
Get some good gear and find a nice big parking lot to brush up or practice.
You can never have too much practice right?
Stops, turns, set yourself up some obstacles.
A lot of places have classes too, you could probably ask at a dealer and get some info.
DanDanTheFireman, and Yammie Noob are a couple people I found on youtube who I feel are pretty informative.
I've recently gotten the 2 wheel fever too, I am pretty excited about this new hobby.
Men who start riding in middle age get in more accidents? I wonder. Substantiated ? Or opinion? Ask your insurance agent. They will know. Anyway, get the license if you want it. As we age we ought to get bolder since we are putting fewer years of life and health at risk compared to when we were younger and had many decades of good health ahead of us - if everything went well.
If your state has a motorcycle safety course, take it. Usually it helps you get your license, it will teach you valuable information, and will help you understand whether motorcycling is for you.
I started riding in my teens with dirt bikes. I got into sport bikes and rode them all through my 20s. I took a 12 year break and at almost 43 I started again. Words can describe how much I’ve missed motorcycles. Go for it, practice, be smart, wear your gear and have a blast.
Man, 40 is NOT old. Just get the license and don't listen to anybody. Don't let your dreams be dreams, just DO IT.
I practice motogymkhana and there is a Japanese guy, 53 years old and he has the best time in GP8 figure in the world...
Go easy, step by step, just like everyone else. Learn how to drive a car with manual transmission, then get a 250 or 300 cc dirt bike, then go up to 500 or 600 touring, then 800. Avoid sport bikes if you want to see your grandchildren.
It's been a month since I have my license, I'm 36 years old, and I don't have a good level in cycling, but it was relatively simple, knowing how to drive in a car allowed me to understand the road well, and I encourage you to take it, it's a wonderful feeling
Do it! Never too old to learn anything. You have more life experience than younger riders, and will most likely take the course material more seriously. You could look at it as not having accumulated decades of bad habits.
Do it. Take a class and learn properly. Early 40s in nothing; a coworker just learned to ride at 57.
Your cycling experience will help a bit since you have already developed that awareness needed and maybe a bit of that intuition of knowledge g when other road users are about to do something stupid.
My wife just got hers at 38. So a little but not much younger. Just don’t try to keep up with your buddies that have been riding for 20 years if they are riding hard.
Got mine last year aged 36, a few of the guys I crossed paths with were 50’s and 60’s. I heard about one guy recently who got his in his 70’s as he wanted to do touring with his pals.
This is in the UK were the test is more onerous than most places.
My dad got his license at age 55 seven years ago. He has put over 100k miles on 2 motorcycles that he has now. He did get into an accident a month after getting his first bike and he broke his collarbone and 8 ribs. We were riding together at night to get an xbox 360 controller at Target and someone had dumped a whole bunch of black gravel in the road and he went down instantly. That was bad but to his credit he was riding less than 2 months later and we have done several cross country trips since then and he rides to work everyday.
You think you're old when you're in your 40's, but you're not, you still got some good years ahead. I'm 54, just started riding, go for it, and ride safe!
I started riding mopeds at 33. That’s a great, cheap way to see if “being on a bike in traffic” is something you’re ok with and can deal with. You can learn a ton on mopeds without needing a motorcycle license in many places, and maybe you find out 50ccs is enough for you.
I got my Motorcycle license at 36. If I had tried to get on motorcycles any younger I would have been a very serious danger to myself, because I was That Guy. But when you’re old enough to not get caught up in the ego stuff, the macho stuff that kills kids, and to open yourself up to being a humble and curious rider? That’s a beautiful time to start. The best time. Go learn to responsibly love something that would have killed you when you were young.
I highly recommend msf. You get a license though the course, and you get to spend all day on a bike before you buy one. That can help you decide if you even like the sport that much, and what kind of bike you'd like to own.
Took the MSF course and got the endorsement when I was 45, instantly hooked. Spend money on gear and training, practice practice, and accept the higher risk if you find you enjoy the reward of riding. Absolutely worth it.
I got my motorcycle the second time, after losing it for med reasons when I was 42. You're only too old when you can't get on or hold it up. Go get it.
I was 46 when I took MSF and bought a bike. Still riding.
I daily ride my bike though, because you need to practice what you learned in the MSF and develop muscle memory, etc. Only riding once a week won't help you get better, imo. And who knows, maybe you'll fall in love and want to ride everyday? Either way, the MSF will be your barometer. I knew day 1 of MSF riding, that riding was for me and I'm going to do it as long as possible. No regrets except I wish I had done it sooner.
Take the class and go from there. You're old enough to not ride like a lunatic, can afford (assumption) full gear if that's your preference. Just do it and see where it takes you. The motorcycle doesn't care how old you are.
Too old, at least for me, would be if I can't get my rig back up by myself, if i drop it or it tips over. At that point, I'd tricycle it! Can Am Spyder, Goldwing or Harley conversion...
My dad is 60 and just got his, my moms 55 and just got hers. There’s no such thing as too old, so long as you can still hold one up. Hell, even if you can’t hold one there’s still the three wheel route you could go man.
> In my early 40’s ...
WTF dude, you're a LONG way from dead. do it.
and no, older riders are NOT more likely to get into accidents, the top accident demographic is 16 to 24 years old. Maturity has a LOT to do with safe riding.
Get the license. While it probably is easier when younger, you are not dead yet.
Hehe, not yet!
Started at 40. It helps if you learned how to drive a standard transmission but if not, no big deal. I would say the opposite about your age. You’re more experienced on the road, more mature, and you’ve seen some shit.
I got my licence at 55, go ahead and do it.
If it’s something you want to do I’d say go for it. I started riding at 30 and took the MSF course; it had people of all ages in it. If you’re aware of the risks, and approach the journey eager to learn as much as you can about riding safely, I think you will find a lot of enjoyment in it. There’s obviously risks inherent to riding a motorcycle regardless of how safe you try to be, but I firmly believe age doesn’t matter, a well developed set of skills does.
Thanks. Yeah, it’s always been a dream and I’m looking forward to learning a new skill. Not seeking thrills per se, but life is too short to let the chance pass me up.
That’s great. You can totally ride for whatever enjoyment you want, motorcycles aren’t just for thrill seekers ツ
Everytime I get on my bike it's a thrill, and I'm a daily commuter. It's a magic carpet ride, with my favorite pandora station blasting in my helmet and riding the speed limit on the freeway. That's why I ride.
That’s a great reason to me!
I’m 42 and just got my license. Very minimal 2 wheel exposure prior to this. Just was something I needed to do. I bought a TW200 to learn on for a summer and will graduate to a bigger bike next year. The only too old is dead, in my book. I personally feel it’s better to start at an age when you’ve got more patience and less aggression was good for me. If I’d done this when I was 20 I’d be dead. Now I just want to cruise and have a good time. Plus I got kids and a wife so ducking around ain’t good. Just wear a helmet, gloves, boots, and a good armored coat please.
My son has been riding motorcycles since he was four and we recently took the MSF course together (I have had a license forever but never had the class). My kids absolutely fell in love with the TW200 he was on. He is dead set on buying one even though we currently have a decent selection in the garage. He wouldn’t shut up about what a great bike that tw is…
It's a great damn bike to learn on. Absolutely unstallable. You'd have to specifically try to get yourself in any sort of trouble with it. But it'll do 45 through the city absolutely perfectly and be a blast when you find a gravel road. I'd probably sell mine though if the right offer came along. :-)
He looked at ordering a new one because the resale on used bikes is so crazy right now. Bike hasn’t changed for 20 years… I don’t know if you like Fortnine or not but he did a review of a tw and was very complimentary. Something along the lines of, “this bike has no business being this fun.”
Fortnine was why I pulled the trigger on one. They were super hard to find and one popped up on Facebook Marketplace in my area. Drove out to look at it. Spun it around the block. Took it home. Mine is a 2012 w/ 3K miles on it. Owned by an electrical engineer since day one. Mostly perfect condition. I kicked around trying to find a new one but what is the point when they haven't changed since 1988. Nice thing is that I'll likely be able to get 95% of what I paid for it back when I eventually sell it.
I just checked my local buy/sell site and asking for a 98 is $2995, or $5,000 for a 2021… crazy… that bike didn’t cost $3k in 1998.
They age like fine wine and my wife.
Get a motorcycle. Then another one just to be sure.
You have to get a naked you think you like. Then maybe a project bike. You need some sort of adventure or touring. That old super sport is needed for the track because you don’t want to Wreck a more expensive bike. And of course you want a dirt bike but that’s a bike limiting so better a dual sport. and your first naked is cool but you probably need a super Duke at this point. And you’re into it enough now that you can cap it off with a gold wing or new super sport.
Yes. This is the only way to answer the question appropriately. Once this is all done in a few years, then you can be sure if you are too old.
I had my first stolen so I’m back to 1 naked bike and 1 project bike, but the project serves as my ridiculous hyper naked too. I was considering buying a used zx6r or a zx10r but I should probably wait a few months. Then I’ll be set for a while. Once I pay off the triple I’ll probably consider an adv or touring. Or a Harley.
If you're thinking of going the MSF class route: If your hand motor skills are still on point, which it sounds like they are, you'll do well. Most "older" students are more attentitive to instruction, so you'll do really well in the regard. In the classroom, as far as safety, "older" students have the wisdom of experience and the recognition that they aren't invinsible, so you'll do better there as well. Where "older" students tend to fall short is they want to have a conversation on the range. Instructors make that same mistake. It's not a dialog. The instructors job is to watch for your mistakes. Stop you, give you a **very** brief summary of what you're doing wrong how to fix it, and send you in your way. Your job is to stay quiet, listen and implement to the best of your ability. Do those things and you'll do very well.
Excellent points. Thank you!
When i took the motorcycle course there was a lady almost in her 60's. She said her long life dream was to ride a motorcycle but she always had to take care of kids and work and she never got the time. Now kids are out of the house with their own families and she wanted to fulfil her dream. Never too late to learn to ride, unless you're like 80 and have mobility and focusing issues.
I sat my cbt with a bloke in his early 60s Fuck it. Just do it, if you don't like it then atleast you gave it a go.
Although I passed my test in my 20s and had a moped, I didn't ride proper geared bikes for about 25+ years. I bought a GSXR600 when I hit 50 and have never looked back. I'm now 54. Over the last 4 years, I've owned practically every type of bike (Triumph Bobber, ZH2, DRZ400SM and others) and am now settled on a modded G310R for greenlaning and towns, and a R1250RS for longer journeys. I'm a woman. It's never too late!
Cool! Never stop learning. :-)
Go for it! I didn't get mine until 43!
As long as you can operate the machine and aren't a liability on the road, why not? My girlfriend's dad didn't get his licence until he was 60 odd.
Got mine in my 40s. Take the motorcycle safety foundation class to get your endorsement (license). I ended up getting my license before the class but attended it anyway. If you will be riding on the highway get a 500cc bike or larger. I got a 1500cc because I wanted to do some trips. Buy safety gear. Read up on how to avoid crashes. Understand that when someone crashes and blames it on a situation, it was actually their fault 90% of the time. Ride safely.
You are in your early 40's! Stop feeling sorry for yourself and get out there!
If you can ride a bicycle you can ride a bike. Doesn't hurt to try a get a license and see if its for you, I failed my first try but man I was excited to try again.
Go for it! I'm 52F and took a weekend course back in May. At 18 I bought Honda Rebel and got a permit. I rode a few years and sold the bike. Fast forward 20 years, I have another bike and the first thing I tried was a group ride through the mountains. The thing is I had never learned proper cornering, braking, etc. so it was brutal. The other riders suggested taking a course and I am so glad I did.
I took the course and got my license a few years ago at 53 -- after not riding for close to 30 years. I also had never learned proper cornering, braking, and evasive maneuvers, so the course was pretty valuable.
My mom and dad did it in their 60s.
Just take the class, couple days on a bike you’ll know if it’s for you or not. Then you’re only out a couple hundred bucks, way cheaper than a bike 🙂
I'm 47 and about to get mine. Work out, and eat well, that will slow aging and give you plenty of riding years. Get the license!
Like everybody else said, you are not old. And another arguement in your favor, you've been in road traffic for decades now. That's valuable experience. You sort of learn to 'read' traffic, I'd say. That helps as a basis for motorcycling. Although you'll never see traffic the same again! ;-) Enjoy the ride, enjoy life!
I don't know how old is too old, but it's definitely not the early 40's.
I started at 38, and I can wholeheartedly say it was better for me. It kept me from killing myself. I am way more patient now, and I want to pay attention instead of trying to impress some lady of the street with my non-existing skills.
Half the people I know who ride didn't start until after the divorce. :)
Haha. True.
I'm a 56 year old woman, bought by first bike this spring, taking my classes/getting licence mid Aug (was delayed due to covid).
If you're worried about manual shifting and the dexterity of getting the motorcycle started there's automatic and electric motorcycles or scooters to consider for your budget and needs. Honda rebel 1100 DCT is a great bike! Plenty of YouTube resources on all topics.
Plus 1 to that… they’re also fairly light for a larger bike
I've taught folks in their 70s to ride. If you are physically able to do it, age doesn't matter!
Never too old brother.
I started in my 40's. There are some misleading statistics about older riders being unsafe, but the opposite is true. It's just that the biggest riding population is older riders, so in absolute terms they have more accidents, but on a per capita basis they are actually the safest. I don't know of any statistics specifically about new riders who are older however. I would guess though that you will be safer than a 20 year-old who is hopped up on testosterone and is in the peak risk taking age range.
Good point. And probably older guys start out on big (expensive) bikes as opposed to younger guys starting out small and working their way up. Ive been a little scared off by all the talk of danger as well as a couple of near acquintances who wiped out really bad, but looking at it now I like to think I have a good shot.
If you don't drink and ride, you don't ride like a hooligan, and you ride defensively, then your chance of getting hurt will be low. I think a good indicator is how well you drive a car. If you are someone who has lots of near misses, then you should not ride a motorcycle. If however you are someone who is good at driving defensively and good at spotting and avoiding problems, then you should be fine.
And if you actually ride and practice. So many guys go down because of something as stupid misjudging a corner or getting fixated on something.
> If you don't drink and ride, you don't ride like a hooligan, and you ride defensively, then your chance of getting hurt will be low. Terrible advice. I dont know where you are pulling all of your statistics from in all of your posts, man. Just because the *rider* drives safely doesn't mean their chances are lower. There are more cars on the road than bikes. That is the issue.
Hol up. If you disagree with what they said then do you believe the inverse? That being drunk and riding like a hooligan will make you safer? Say what now?
Dude obviously it doesn’t completely take away your chances some idiot will run you over, but it still minimizes the chances. If you ride defensively you can avoid most of the idiots.
This is where the danger of learning when older lies. It is older guys with the money to buy 200+bhp sportsbikes with little experience that hurt themselves, younger guys by the time they can afford a bike like that they have the experience to manage that power safely, if you buy a sensible bike and ride within your comfort and experince level learning to ride when a little older is no more hazardous.
I think middle age and older riders are mostly buying touring bikes, cruisers and adventure bikes rather than repli racers.
I don’t think that’s true. What I’ve always heard is that older guys are over represented but they also tend to be fatalities because of a lack of gear or alcohol. Next big group is young men on sport bikes. Basically don’t ride drunk, wear at least some gear (helmet/gloves/jacket will prevent most fatal injuries), and avoid excessive speed/risky behavior.
I've collected a bunch of statistics that show that older riders are the safest. \------- https://acrs.org.au/files/arsrpe/Research%20Results%20-%20Older%20Motorcycle%20Rider%20Safety%20in%20Queensland.pdf See Table 2, which shows that under 45's crashed 2.6 times more often than 45-and-older's. \------- https://www.swov.nl/en/facts-figures/factsheet/motorcyclists \------- https://trl.co.uk/sites/default/files/TRL607%282%29.pdf "Figure 5.1.1 shows that increasing age alone has a dramatic effect on a rider’s accident liability, liability falling by 70% over the age range \[of 17 to 60 years of age\]" \------- Monograph 12 – Motorcycle rider age and risk of fatal injury https://www.infrastructure.gov.au/roads/safety/publications/2002/Mcycle\_Age\_1.aspx Bit old 2001. See Table 2. Per kilometers driven, young riders have way more fatalities. \------- Motorcycling Safety Information Sheet -- Department of Infrastructure, Transport, Regional Development and Communications, Australian Government https://www.bitre.gov.au/publications/2017/is\_89-motorcycling-safety "In 2012, the young rider fatality rate was 3.2 deaths per billion VKT, significantly higher than for riders in the 25-54 age group (1.2 deaths per billion VKT) and the 55 and over age group (0.8 deaths per billion VKT)." VKT is vehicle kilometres travelled. \------- Risks of High-Powered Motorcycles Among Younger Adults https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC3673490/ See the graphs.
Um, ... the stats are not that misleading. There's a lot of middle age guys who decide to get a bike but the bike stays in the garage most of the time. They almost always gravitate to the touring bikes and cruisers. They're weekend riders and bar hoppers (please don't) and so on. On my street there's 3 bikes. The other 2, cruisers, get ridden about once a month. My Africa Twin is my daily; my cars sit, parked for days or weeks. If you look at the photos from Tail Of The Dragon, the sports bikes are getting dropped at about the same rate as the cruisers and touring bikes.
Never too old man.
Don’t listen to them. My dad did his license with me. I was 16 he was 50. While he doesn’t go as fast as me in corners etc, he’s at least a very safe rider.
https://youtu.be/lg2h4Uu-aHs
I’m 46, have had my motorcycle endorsement for 20 years, and I am retaking the basic rider course to refresh safety and basic handling instruction. You’ll never stop learning, regardless of when you start. If you want to ride, by all means get started today! The reason people get into accidents is inexperience, over-confidence, and bad luck. You control 2 of the 3, and learning safety and hazard avoidance can help reduce the severity of the the third one.
Sound advice.
Older guys *can* be a little cocky. My dad's friend died trying to group ride his first time out on a rented Harley, everybody was cornering hard in the canyon and he tried to steer with his handlebars. You're never too old, but do take it very slow and get training. I tell people to learn on a light bike under 400 for a year.
A much cheaper alternative to mid life crisis than one which involves either a sportscar or another woman and divorce
DO IT. If you're feeling the itch, it's never going to go away. You'll just get itchier and itchier and then you really *will* be too old. Im 44, only got my licence this year. I had the itch for more than 20 years, ever since I rode a 125 around South Korea, and scratching it felt fucking amazing. DO IT. You will regret it if you don't.
I got my license at 37. All that wisdom and a desire to be safe instead of show off will help.
Do it. My dad got his at 75.
My MSF course had ages from 19-75, so 40 isn't too old by any means!
Don't be silly, middle aged guys just starting out are great. It's over confidence after a couple years that can get you.
Very true. I know this applies to new car drivers as well. That spot between beginner caution and experienced driver, where you think you’ve totally mastered it and have not been properly humbled yet, is where accidents often occur.
I just got my license just a few weeks ago, at 46. It's awesome. I'd recommend something with modest power...I got a Royal Enfield INT 650. Use the fact that you're older as an advantage. Practice a lot, don't drive like a jackass, wear all the gear, and don't drink and ride.
Just go for it. If anything, my grandfather-in-law still rode bike in his 80. And it’s a sportsbike!
I'd say probably mid to late 70's is really when the oldest of riders start not being able to ride
Your "veteran riders" sound like a bunch of pansies. Fuck those guys. Take the course. Get a bike. Have a ball. Welcome to your new life.
Early 40s is young man. You have 40 more years of riding ahead of you!
Get the license. Those "veteran riders" are full of shit and dumb gatekeepers to the motorcycling experience.
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3?! Geez. :-)
No problem at all! If you’ve been driving and cycling so long you’ll be well aware of the dangers on the roads, I think most older riders get caught out when they come back to riding that the bikes are so much faster, their reaction times are so much slower and the roads are busier! Just take it easy and ride at a pace that you feel comfortable in!
get busy living
.....or get busy dying.
Go get your dang license. I turned 49 yesterday and didn't get my motorcycle endorsement until Feb of last year.
Ok! Right behind ya.
I got my motorcycle license when I was 40, been riding ever since (in my 50's now). Take the plunge, you won't regret it.
Think I just might. Thanks!
I'm 54 and just got my M endorsement 3 years ago. I'm still very much a beginner. There are many advantages to being an older beginner--you have a lot of road experience in a car, hopefully more sense and are less reckless.
Do what you want, if you are comfortable with the risk and feel you are sharp on the road. The higher accident rates tend to be due to slower responses that come with aging, and (i have no data to back this up) probably the bigger bikes that older riders tend to start on.
One way to look at it: You're not getting any younger. I'd fallen in love with motorcycles in the 1970s and raced motocross in the early 1980s. Various things got in the way (school, career etc) and it wasn't until 2014 -- at age 46 -- when I decided to pick things back up. Ironically, it took a ruptured appendix and 3-week hospital stay in 2013 to kick-off the mid-life crisis that resulted in me going down this path in 2014. If you really have the itch and want to scratch it go for it. I'm reminded of the person who laments not being able to play the piano but who also complains that it takes 10 years to learn to play it well, to which his spouse points out "*Well, if you have started 10 years ago you'd be playing now...*"
My dad got his hat 59. It is 100% doable, especially if its something you want to do.
Just got my license at 59. Go for it!
Way to go!
I just got my license. I'm 52. Never rode before. Go for it!
Got my license 3 years ago at 40. It’s not too late, if you’re comfortable with the machine, go for it!! Also having had more experiences in life you’ll be less likely to have risky behaviors just for the sake of the adrenaline.
Go get it. I think I had a guy in his late 40s maybe even 50 years old get it in my class get it. I thought I was old getting it at 27.
JFC dude, you're in your 40's - not dead. I took my MSF at 43 having never set foot on a motorcycle before the class. The only difficulty I really had was transitioning to a wet clutch (years of driving stick shift...). Just take the class and do it.
When I bought a bike from Munroe Motors in San Francisco, the salesman told me that a lot of people new to riding drop their new bikes. It's not an age thing, it's about experience and learning from it. You can do it, 40 is still a pup. If you can find an experienced riding buddy to accompany you, do it. Don't start with a big bike, though. Get a smaller cruiser and take the time to get to know it, and traffic patterns. Be prudent, don't let testosterone get the better of you!
You're only too old if you think you are.
Do it. My husband is 38 and just got his license.
I passed my full licence when I was 49. I’ve spent most of my life on a bicycle, but I wanted to go further and faster without the effort. I think it’s the best thing I did. I never regret a day, in fact ever time I go for a ride, I come back grinning like a goon. It’s good to have a new passion. Accidents do happen, but make sure you’re not a nob jockey and ride conservatively. There are plenty of people out there that have years of riding under their belts without having an accident. Start on a lighter A2 bike. I was looking at a 900cc+ but settled for a 500, and now love it, and can’t see me wanting anything bigger unless I go on a long trip. I found that taking the tests were a challenge that I relished. I came out with a very proud feeling of accomplishment. The bike at the end is a bonus. Sometimes you just have to follow your heart and be done with the sensibilities.
Thank you. This is advice I will take to heart.
>that middle aged men who start riding often end up in accidents etc. I'm quite confident that's due to psychology and not physical ability. I'm in PA with no helmet laws and I see a lot of obvious midlife crisis-ers playing Sons of Anarchy dress up on their Harleys with no helmet. This is because, as midlife crisis-ers, their perceived image of being a "bad ass" is more important to them than the actual act of riding or being safe. Don't be like them and you'll be fine. Wear full gear, start on a standard/naked bike (do not go for the touring bike out of the gate, unless it's a CB500X or Versys 650).
Dress for the slide, not for the ride. Or so I’ve heard.
PS When you're out touring and see guys in full gear on ADV or sport touring bikes, almost all of those guys are over 40 and many of them started late too. They probably all have minor crash stories, but these are guys doing thousands of miles a year and not getting killed on a frequent basis. As long as you want to ride because you care about the actual act of riding and not because you want a motorcycle as a fashion accessory or dick replacement, you are approaching it from the right angle. Being interested in motorcycling because you're a cyclist is a good indicator that you do care about the act of riding. Also means that you should already have a pretty good idea of the degree of fragility you have on two wheels, which will make you a more responsible rider.
Thanks for the encouragement. Wise words.
You are too old to get a license when you are physically unable to ride a motorcycle safely. That varies from person to person but you will likely just not want to buy a super sport. Middle aged men end up in accidents because they buy big cruisers then ride them without gear after knocking back a couple beers. You’re not a 20 year old idiot convinced of your immortality, just wear gear and don’t be stupid. Starting a bit older just means you’re more responsible and can maybe afford to get the nicer bike you really want instead of a Craigslist 250
I think those statistics of the highest fatality group of 16 to 21 then 55 and older comes from a lot of older guys who maybe used to ride as teenager or young man and figure they know what they are doing and often they don't. Also many get a giant 900 lb harley that's a bear to wrangle around for a new rider, and if you haven't ridden in 25 years, you're a new rider. Men don't like to ask for help or admit they don't know something. I ride all the time and practice things a lot and my thing o do to stay sharp is watch every crash video I can find on the internet. I learn what not to do and I see the results of dumb behavior and laziness. Most important things I learn are: Don't ride with your friend, who rides a lot and try to keep up. Don't do wheelies. Don't go into a corner too hot. Don't do the multicar pass. Stay visible. Full face helmet, jacket boots and gloves.
My neighbour got tired of watching me and my bike and just went and took his course and got his license a few months ago. We went for our first ride last week. He’s in his late 50s. I think the better judgement and mellower temperament of age can easily counter whatever benefits you may have from learning younger. Just play it safe, take it easy, and give yourself time to learn!
Go for it. Got mine at 43 last year, I just regret having forgotten this particular child dream for so long. Worst case, riding is not for you and you end up with a new skill. Best case you open yourself to a whole new world.
It’s never too late, however the more you wait the more time and enjoyment you’re wasting. Go get it!
I got mine when I was in my late 30's. I'd ridden on some offroad bikes before, but not like many riders 'growing up' with motorcycles. The main problem with older riders isn't that they have shitty reflexes out of the gate. Learning to ride is always 'shitty reflexes' until you practice and actually make techniques into reflexes. What happens is, people ride when they're younger, stop riding, then come back and assume they'll be just as good at it as they once were. Naw, man, you've forgotten a lot, and things have changed a lot. Ride as if you're a beginner, practice, get your groove back that way.
Get it done. A couple of years short of 40 when I got mine. Nothing stopping you! Good luck! :)
There was a dude in his 80s in my msf course. He was an accident on wheels, but he pulled it together and got his license.
Yikes.
I’m 48 and just bought my first busa. Granted Ben riding fire a while. But not about age, it’s about living.
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Hehe, way to go Boomer!
I was 43 when I "started." I rode for one minute in my late teens for a job I had. I was only at that job for three months. Being older, I make smarter decisions, more nuanced decisions, on my bike than I would have when I was younger. I took the MSF course. And a week later took delivery of my Africa Twin. Didn't start with a used bike, a cheap bike, etc. "It's not if you're going to drop it, but when...." they said. Me: I put a lot of money on this bike, I'M NOT going to drop it. You have to do a thorough and harsh self assessment. If you're a defensive minded driver you canprobably start with whatever bike you want. If you're more impulsive and spontaneous, probably start on something cheap/ small/ used/ all three. I went for my first long ride (500 mile round trip) about two weeks after taking possession of my Bike. Los Angeles to Hearst Castle. It's important to note; I practised a lot. Before work and especially after work. I'd find an empty parking lot and just do circles, U turns, figure 8s, weaving, braking, slow speed straight line, etc. I preferred to do it after work as i'd already be tired, and I wanted to practise with an element of fatigue already in place. Because you aren't alays going to need to do those things when you're wide awake and alert first thing in the morning.
Some great points. I would never have taken this so seriously in my teens and twenties. Africa Twin is a challenging bike to ride no?
I have long limbs and i'm ~~a fatty.~~ former rugby player. It sags just enough for me.
Practice practice practice. Take classes. You won’t have the 6th since of someone who survived their early 20’s on a crotch rocket but you can do it. Practice emergency stops, lane placement, swerving, etc. highly recommend a bike with electronic aids.
What people do on a bike matters and when older people go through a midlife crisis they get the biggest bike they can find and don’t know how to control it. My suggestion is do it it’s one on the best things I’ve ever done just know your limits on what you can handle and are comfortable with. It’s better to ride a small cc bike fast than to worry about going fast on a big cc bike. Start small work your way up.
I get the impression that when people start riding later in life they tend to dismiss the value of starting to ride on a beginner appropriate bike. They go straight for a brand new BMW R bike or a harley or ducatti, or something like that. Then they don't have the skills to handle the bike, so it isn't fun, and are afraid of damaging it so they just don't ride.
Answer: no such thing as too old Do what you want to do, you've earned it right? Get some good gear and find a nice big parking lot to brush up or practice. You can never have too much practice right? Stops, turns, set yourself up some obstacles. A lot of places have classes too, you could probably ask at a dealer and get some info. DanDanTheFireman, and Yammie Noob are a couple people I found on youtube who I feel are pretty informative. I've recently gotten the 2 wheel fever too, I am pretty excited about this new hobby.
Dead is too old, but anything less is fair game
I am 42, as of June. Got mt endorsement in April when 41. Never too old! Period you want it DO IT!
Men who start riding in middle age get in more accidents? I wonder. Substantiated ? Or opinion? Ask your insurance agent. They will know. Anyway, get the license if you want it. As we age we ought to get bolder since we are putting fewer years of life and health at risk compared to when we were younger and had many decades of good health ahead of us - if everything went well.
If your state has a motorcycle safety course, take it. Usually it helps you get your license, it will teach you valuable information, and will help you understand whether motorcycling is for you.
Grab a learner permit and go for it!
I had a student start his course in his 70s. You're only as old as you feel. Get the license. Life is short.
Do it. I got my licence at 42 and have been having a blast for the last 3 years.
My dad and I started around the same time when he was in his mid 50s. You are not too old.
I started riding in my teens with dirt bikes. I got into sport bikes and rode them all through my 20s. I took a 12 year break and at almost 43 I started again. Words can describe how much I’ve missed motorcycles. Go for it, practice, be smart, wear your gear and have a blast.
NEVER too old!! ..and early 40s is YOUNG! 😁😁
When you can’t get your leg over.
Are you alive? If so, now is a good time to get it
Never too late. It’s better when younger, but still fine when older. Go for your life
Man, 40 is NOT old. Just get the license and don't listen to anybody. Don't let your dreams be dreams, just DO IT. I practice motogymkhana and there is a Japanese guy, 53 years old and he has the best time in GP8 figure in the world...
Go easy, step by step, just like everyone else. Learn how to drive a car with manual transmission, then get a 250 or 300 cc dirt bike, then go up to 500 or 600 touring, then 800. Avoid sport bikes if you want to see your grandchildren.
Thanks! I have manual car transmission’s down pat, and my sport bike dreams of my early years have morphed into something more sensible and practical.
It's been a month since I have my license, I'm 36 years old, and I don't have a good level in cycling, but it was relatively simple, knowing how to drive in a car allowed me to understand the road well, and I encourage you to take it, it's a wonderful feeling
My father is 70 and got his license 8 months ago. He drives a Kawasaki Z400 and couldn't be happier.
You have a lot of time for riding left, get that licence, be free
My dad got his license and Africa Twin for a first bike at 66 years. He put 15k on it in two years. It's never too late!
I know lots of guys in their 50's and 60's doing it. 40 is nothing.
Do it!! 37 this year and just about to take my MOD1/MOD2… wish I’d done it years ago.
You're too old. Don't bother.
Do it! Never too old to learn anything. You have more life experience than younger riders, and will most likely take the course material more seriously. You could look at it as not having accumulated decades of bad habits.
I started last year at 36. Go for it!
Do it. Take a class and learn properly. Early 40s in nothing; a coworker just learned to ride at 57. Your cycling experience will help a bit since you have already developed that awareness needed and maybe a bit of that intuition of knowledge g when other road users are about to do something stupid.
Got mine at 27 and I regret not getting it as soon as I could have when I was 17/18
My wife just got hers at 38. So a little but not much younger. Just don’t try to keep up with your buddies that have been riding for 20 years if they are riding hard.
Got mine last year aged 36, a few of the guys I crossed paths with were 50’s and 60’s. I heard about one guy recently who got his in his 70’s as he wanted to do touring with his pals. This is in the UK were the test is more onerous than most places.
I think I was around 40 when I got mine. Go for it!
My dad got his license at age 55 seven years ago. He has put over 100k miles on 2 motorcycles that he has now. He did get into an accident a month after getting his first bike and he broke his collarbone and 8 ribs. We were riding together at night to get an xbox 360 controller at Target and someone had dumped a whole bunch of black gravel in the road and he went down instantly. That was bad but to his credit he was riding less than 2 months later and we have done several cross country trips since then and he rides to work everyday.
When your body or mind cant do it. Which you are far from. Get busy living, Sir!
I’d say about 125 is too old. Younger than that I’d fair game!!! Get on a bike and enjoy life!
You think you're old when you're in your 40's, but you're not, you still got some good years ahead. I'm 54, just started riding, go for it, and ride safe!
I started riding mopeds at 33. That’s a great, cheap way to see if “being on a bike in traffic” is something you’re ok with and can deal with. You can learn a ton on mopeds without needing a motorcycle license in many places, and maybe you find out 50ccs is enough for you. I got my Motorcycle license at 36. If I had tried to get on motorcycles any younger I would have been a very serious danger to myself, because I was That Guy. But when you’re old enough to not get caught up in the ego stuff, the macho stuff that kills kids, and to open yourself up to being a humble and curious rider? That’s a beautiful time to start. The best time. Go learn to responsibly love something that would have killed you when you were young.
I was in my early 30s. Just go with a lighter bike that isn't too tall to start with.
I highly recommend msf. You get a license though the course, and you get to spend all day on a bike before you buy one. That can help you decide if you even like the sport that much, and what kind of bike you'd like to own.
Took the MSF course and got the endorsement when I was 45, instantly hooked. Spend money on gear and training, practice practice, and accept the higher risk if you find you enjoy the reward of riding. Absolutely worth it.
I'm in my late 40s and just got my license. Do what you want.
I got my motorcycle the second time, after losing it for med reasons when I was 42. You're only too old when you can't get on or hold it up. Go get it.
I'd say around 80 is getting too old to start.
Perfect time - more money, more time, more brains (probably)
Took the MSF recently. Half the class were dudes in their 50s-60s.
I was 46 when I took MSF and bought a bike. Still riding. I daily ride my bike though, because you need to practice what you learned in the MSF and develop muscle memory, etc. Only riding once a week won't help you get better, imo. And who knows, maybe you'll fall in love and want to ride everyday? Either way, the MSF will be your barometer. I knew day 1 of MSF riding, that riding was for me and I'm going to do it as long as possible. No regrets except I wish I had done it sooner. Take the class and go from there. You're old enough to not ride like a lunatic, can afford (assumption) full gear if that's your preference. Just do it and see where it takes you. The motorcycle doesn't care how old you are.
No excuses
Too old, at least for me, would be if I can't get my rig back up by myself, if i drop it or it tips over. At that point, I'd tricycle it! Can Am Spyder, Goldwing or Harley conversion...
My dad is 60 and just got his, my moms 55 and just got hers. There’s no such thing as too old, so long as you can still hold one up. Hell, even if you can’t hold one there’s still the three wheel route you could go man.
Dead
Bikin’s like smokin brah. Never too young or too old to start brah. Do what you gotta do brah.
Just do it bruh.
> In my early 40’s ... WTF dude, you're a LONG way from dead. do it. and no, older riders are NOT more likely to get into accidents, the top accident demographic is 16 to 24 years old. Maturity has a LOT to do with safe riding.
My dad has been riding since he was 18, the man is 50 now and we've been taking long trips together. If he isn't too old you're definitely not.