Getting on a bike for the first time at 60

[Plus8]

Just read this thread and it fills me with joy. I am 72 and returned to Biking 2 years ago when I treated myself to a Royal Enfield Classic 350. I have previously owned a BMW GS1100 but had not ridden for about 10 years but decided that age was just a number as I am still reasonable fit and healthy. Riding a bike gives you a sense of freedom and joy which even a classic car struggles to compete, particularly on today’s crowded roads.
My respect to the 80 year old Gentleman still enjoying his BMW, I hope I’m still enjoying my bike in a few years time.

[OverSteery]

You are not too old.

Accept that you will probably learn more slowly than the teens and twenties.

Read the google reviews carefully and find a school that is patient and professional - there are still plenty of cowboys out there.

[Chlorothalonil]

G321 said:

Maybe start with doing your CBT? for £150 or thereabouts you can at least treat it as a motor bike experience day. And if you enjoy it, go for your full licence?

Exactly what I’m doing in a few weeks, albeit I’m quite a bit younger!

[TheInternet]

Why on earth wouldn’t you if you can afford to? One day you’ll be too old and you’ll know it. Start at the beginning like everyone else and just do what you enjoy.

[Pica-Pica]

When I first learnt, many years ago, an old-timer told me ‘ride your width’.
By that he meant, occupy as much of the road width as a car would.
Also make sure that you are always visible to car drivers - no hiding in blind spots, especially not with HGVs!

[Arrivalist]

Did my CBT and DAS at age 46. Am 61 now and, as has been said, just take your time (a lot easier at 61 with lower testosterone levels ) and it’s the most enjoyable way to get around.

[Shrugging for victory]

I've finally decided to explore 2 wheeled motoring at 46, as I didn't want to regret not having a go. I've got my CBT in 2 weeks, just to see if I actually like it.

[R TOY]

Pistom said:

So - is it a bad idea to try to get into bikes at 60 when the sum of your life experience regarding motorbikes is hiring a moped in Greece 30 years ago and riding it off the edge of a hill? (only minor injuries).

Where would you start and what's realistic to aim for?

That’s exactly what I did at 60 , for a challenge as much as anything. Cbt ,( that will tell you if you want to continue )and theory , then Mod 1 and mod 2 and ‘boom’ your on the road .
It’s a great feeling when you pass and a really useful brush up on driving skills weather you get a bike or not .
I’m now riding a Triumph street twin 900 (as recommended by my instructor) and loving it .
Go for it

[ttdan]

I started relatively late and did my DAS in 2019 at 58. I’d ridden as a kid without a licence, on the road, in the fields etc but the world was far less busy in those days, st happened none the less.. I’m so glad I did it and regret not doing it sooner. Had a lot of fun learning and enjoying the scene. Done a few trips with a pal to far ish flung bits of Europe, Picos, Black Forest. I even did a lap of the ring! Love a Saturday or Sunday ride out, alone or with a pal, not keen on groups tbh, it’s a real head cleanser though as you just enjoy the whole experience of managing all the variables and of being somewhat hyper alert. To me, riding a motorcycle puts you in a different plane to the other road users, it’s like having wings when everyone else is wearing lead boots. Add to that the feeling you get vs a car is incomparable, I’ve had (have) some fast cars but they don’t come close to the bike for an adrenaline pump when you need one. I would advocate getting past the 125 asap, they are too slow for most traffic situations. I feel much safer on my litre naked beemer.

[gsxrblue]

I'm back on 2 wheels again at 53 after 20 years off.

Must say its fantastic and Saturday mornings are now spent blasting round Bakewell instead of Mountain biking round Ladybower. I do need to work on getting this balance right due to too many bacon butties though .

The sense of freedom in a sea of SUV's is immense.

Its never too late

[Ecosseven]

Go for it. I returned to biking this year after 16 years away and loving it. I'm 48 and much more sensible now that I was in my 20's. As others have said book your CBT and see how you get on. Take your time and enjoy it.

[Wacky Racer]

gsxrblue said:

Must say its fantastic and Saturday mornings are now spent blasting round Bakewell instead of Mountain biking round Ladybower. I do need to work on getting this balance right due to too many bacon butties though .

Keep away from the tarts in Bakewell, you'll be OK.