In my over 40 years of riding one thing remains constant-riders have no trouble adapting to the power controlled by their right wrist, but have never quite learned how to control that power when stopping by using that right lever. A simple thing you would think, but obviously not. When I started riding, BMW's had a double leading shoe front brake, neat except when stopped on a hill, for when applied the bike would roll backwards-not so neat. Then Honda showed the world in the early 70's how everyone could and should have a front disc brake, and then we all learned to stop faster-we had to with those 70hp superbikes. And then the double front disc appeared, and today we have radial disc brakes, allowing even the nerdiest rider to do stoppies, or to stop when needed in an emergency much better, quicker, and safer.
But they haven't improved the rider, as I still see too many cruiser types only using the rear brake. And having stopped for accidents, and having them admit "yes I was ok until I overreacted and hit the rear brake, then I skidded," only proves my point. And the last Harley rider I told this got upset, and even more upset as a guy almost went down in front of us, you guessed it, sliding sideways, rear brake locked.
Engineering wise, cars have 70% of their brakes proportioned to the front, so should motorcycles. And if rear brakes are so important, why don't we see dual rear disc brakes? Maybe some do, obscured by all those bags, lights, and chrome goodies. But the point is, to stop, and stop correctly take some changing in your riding style, a change that might just save your life, and your buddy seat sitter!
The Corinthians 2000 years ago were much like the contemporary church of today, sad to say. Yes they were saved, but still fought the old problems from their past. They still engaged in the same old sexual sins, drinking, and other life styles that aren't part of a Christians life. So Paul, in 2 Corinthians, actually his fourth letter to them, the middle two aren't in the Bible, tells them to stop! Not stop or you'll die, just stop! For what they didn't realize, the joys that they were missing, as these sins kept them from enjoying all God's blessings. But more importantly, as we are all called to be a witness of Jesus-ambassadors he calls us, if we say we are saved, and act no different, you friend at work may think he is too. They do the same things you do, drink, smoke, tell dirty jokes, even attend church on holidays. But because of your example, they think that if they do the things you do it is ok, but they are not saved. You have given your life to the Lord, and are-they haven't and are fooled into thinking they will go to heaven when they die-and don't! Do you love your neighbor as yourself? The main love command Jesus gave. If you love God, love your neighbor. And get right with God. When he sees the change in you, he may stop too! Hopefully. And get saved!
Stopping a motorcycle takes a firm grip just like stopping in sin. But you must know what you are doing, and then apply it. You may be living on borrowed time if you don't, isn't it a good thing God is patient? The Buick driver coming from the bar at the next intersection may not be!
Work out your salvation daily, the Lord instructs. And when we practice what we preach, in an emergency situation we will do what is practiced-those things in our heart.
I can't find any stats of accidents caused by going over the handlebars, but rear skid accidents happen all the time. Complete your riding skills by stopping correctly, it is even fun! And walk with Jesus-the life He saves may be your own family's! Put all your power in His hands, and just stop!
Now, did you know revving your bike at a light may sound cool, but racers hold that throttle open and steady...... a good way to go through life! In Jesus!
love with compassion,
Mike
matthew25biker.blogspot.com
