From the article: Why Ride a Motorcycle?
Some parents are at peace letting their children ride motorcycles, while others shy away from exposing their kids to the risks of the two-wheeled world. How about you? Sound off!
whole family rides
- It started with my daughter who loved bikes. My husband and I rode before we had kids but didn't once we had a family. My daughter got lessons because I thought it more responsible for her to ride her own bike and knowing she was gonna do it right than have her get on the back with inexperienced and smitten boy. We both bought bikes and for the first summer she was only allowed to ride when I could go as well. We had a lot of fun rides that summer and she's the better driver for it.
- —Guest itsmehere
Naturally
- All three sons and both sons in law ride, and several of the grandsons. I started my kids when they were about 6 years old on a Honda minibike. They have now graduated to street and sport touring Hondas, Yamahas and Suzukis. We all wear helmets, but I'm still in favor of free choice.
- —Ronhunter
nothing like it
- got my first bike when i was 7 in 1952 and fell in love.in 1980 i learned life begins at 170.today i understand live free or die
- —Guest finisher
Yes...Ride.
- My Dad did not ride. But he did go to bat for me when I was 10 and against my Mother's wishes purchased a new 1972 Honda SL 70 for Christmas in 1971. I've been riding since and also taught my son how to ride when he was 9. I have doubled both my children on various motorcycles. My son got the bug. My daughter didn't. Encourage safety being the most important thing to practice when riding. Don't force your kids to ride. Let them make the decision for themselves. Best advice I can think right now to share with you. Oh and by the way, congratulations on becoming a Father. Your hardest days lie ahead. Trust me.
- —Guest Dr Love
It runs in the family
- My dad rode, I ride, my 2 sons ride, and now my 2 grandsons ride (mini-bikes). No encouragement needed, but support is always there.
- —Guest motorcyclenut
No Encouragement
- I did take my sons for rides, but did not encourage them to ride as I believe they have to have that inner calling to participate in this form of transportation knowing that it is also dangerous and you have to be alert at all times.
- —Guest OldGuy47
When the time comes...
- Minimizing risks on a motorcycle is all about making wise choices, but it's still completely understandable to me why some parents are reluctant to let their kids anywhere near bikes. After all, my parents were far from thrilled about my decision to ride. That said, when my son is ready I'd like to start him in the dirt, where the cars are absent and the landings are (relatively) soft. There's a time I hope to eventually be able share street riding with him, as long as I feel he's ready for it... in the meantime, I can't wait to take the lil' tyke dirtbiking.
- —Basem_Wasef
