I seem to have noticed over the past year of riding that because I am a young guy, people assume that Im reckless and ride dangerously.
It's almost weekly someone seems to say something about how dangerous motorcycles are and how accident prone I become.
I usually just tell people it's my decision and I know the risks that I take when I hit the road, and if they don't like motorcycles then don't get one.
But it just gets on my nerves because of the stereotype that seems to form from all these dumbasses who ride their crotch rockets at 100mph down the town road.

Any of you experienced guys out there have some advice in dealing with people such as these? And really just any overall advice for a someone who's basically just a kid?

 

My brother used to give me crap about how dangerous it was to ride. He slipped on wet grass on the golf course and shattered his ankle. A year later his wife slipped on the same golf course and screwed up her knee requiring surgery.

Just tell them thanks for their concern and keep on riding.
One small lecture though - don't drink and ride. Seen bad things happen that way.

 

"This is who and what I am. If you don't like it why are you here".Works for me.
Seems the way you are handling it is appropriate.

Ask yourself why is it that they get on your nerves. Are they not acting the way YOU think they should? They don't have to. The only person in the world you can control is you. Don't worry about what people say. It just isn't worth your time. Thank them for sharing and then move on.

JMHO

 

Tell em half of accidents occur drinking and riding and you don't do that. (And then actually don't do it. haha)

Then tell em what I tell folks: I tried to stop riding once and it made me miserable. So I'm not stopping. But thanks for caring.

 

I am 72 and have over 1.8 million accident free miles. I started riding in 1956. No one lectures me. I lecture them.

 

Use a condom............

 

In one ear and out the other. That's how I deal with it.

 

Tell them "If I wanted any lip from you I would rattle my zipper"

 

Listen politely and then just say "thank you." Then move on. Don't take it so personal. Generally it is only people who know you just casually that say the most or anything at all. People who you really work with or hang out with on a daily basis don't usually bother you about it. Quoting statistics and justifying your decision to ride does not help. Just remember the old saying "If I have to explain it...you wouldn't understand" and don't waste your breath.

 

Tell em: "If I want any sh*t from you, I'll squeeze your head."