Why Age is Not a Barrier to Riding
Starting a new hobby in your 60s is a fantastic way to stay engaged and active. Motorcycle riding, in particular, offers immense mental and physical benefits. The idea that this is only for the young is a myth. For many older adults, a more mature mindset actually translates to a safer, more focused approach to riding. Your years of life experience, patience, and reduced impulse control are significant assets on the road.
The Advantages of Learning Later
- Wisdom and Maturity: Mature learners often possess greater self-awareness and patience. They are less likely to take unnecessary risks and more likely to follow safety protocols. This careful, methodical approach is a major advantage for mastering a new skill.
- Financial Stability: For many, the financial freedom of being in their 60s allows them to invest in quality gear and a brand-new, reliable bike. Younger riders might be forced to cut corners on safety, but older riders can prioritize the best protective equipment and a bike with modern safety features.
- Dedication and Focus: The decision to learn a complex skill like motorcycle riding later in life often comes from a deep, personal desire. This level of intrinsic motivation can lead to a more dedicated and consistent learning process, helping you master the skills necessary for a lifetime of riding.
Important Considerations for Older Riders
While age is not a barrier, it's wise to be mindful of certain factors to ensure the safest possible experience. These considerations are about compensating for potential changes and setting yourself up for success.
- Physical Fitness and Health: Maintaining core strength, balance, and flexibility is crucial for motorcycle handling. Regular light exercise, like yoga or tai chi, can significantly improve your riding ability. Talk to your doctor about your health before beginning, and don't push your limits.
- Eye and Ear Protection: Your vision and hearing may not be what they once were. Invest in high-quality gear, like a full-face helmet with a good visor and potentially earplugs to reduce wind noise, ensuring you can concentrate and protect yourself.
- Bike Selection: Choosing the right motorcycle is perhaps the most important decision. A smaller, lighter bike with a lower seat height can be much more manageable for a new rider than a heavy touring bike. Prioritize comfort and control over raw power.
Choosing the Right First Motorcycle
- Weight: Lighter, more nimble bikes are easier to manage at low speeds and easier to pick up if dropped. Look at models known for being beginner-friendly.
- Power: A less powerful engine is more forgiving. You have plenty of time to build confidence before moving to a bigger bike. The goal is to learn control, not speed.
- Ergonomics: Test out bikes to ensure a comfortable riding position. Make sure your feet can reach the ground easily and the handlebars aren't a stretch. Comfort directly impacts safety and enjoyment.
- Used vs. New: A used bike can be a great way to start, as you won't be as concerned about cosmetic damage while you're learning. However, a new bike may come with better safety features and less maintenance hassle.
The Learning Process at 60+
The key to success is proper, professional training. Self-teaching is never recommended, especially for older riders who may have less experience with risk assessment. A structured course will provide you with the foundational skills and confidence needed to ride safely.
A great place to start is with a course from the Motorcycle Safety Foundation.
Taking the MSF Course
- Classroom Instruction: Covers basic mechanics, rules of the road, and the mental aspects of riding.
- Hands-on Practice: You'll learn essential maneuvers like starting, stopping, turning, and shifting in a controlled, low-speed environment.
- Use of Training Bikes: The course typically provides small, lightweight motorcycles perfect for learning. This means you don't need to own a bike to begin.
- Expert Guidance: Certified instructors will be there to guide you, answer questions, and provide immediate feedback.
Staying Safe on the Road
Safety is a lifelong practice for any rider, regardless of age. For those starting later, a strong safety mindset is an invaluable tool.
Essential Safety Gear Checklist
- Helmet: A full-face helmet that is DOT and Snell certified provides maximum protection.
- Jacket: A textile or leather jacket with armor will protect your torso and elbows.
- Gloves: Proper riding gloves protect your hands in a slide.
- Pants: Armored riding pants offer significantly more protection than regular jeans.
- Boots: Ankle-covering boots with stiff soles are a must.
Comparison: Learning at 20 vs. Learning at 60
| Aspect | Learning at 20 | Learning at 60 |
|---|---|---|
| Motivation | Often driven by peer influence or adrenaline. | Driven by personal desire for adventure and new experiences. |
| Risk Tolerance | Higher, sometimes leading to impulsive decisions. | Lower, prioritizing safety and control over speed. |
| Physical Fitness | Generally higher baseline, but less mindful of limits. | May require more focus on maintaining balance and strength. |
| Financials | Often on a tight budget, may opt for cheaper gear. | More stable, allowing for investment in high-quality gear and training. |
| Patience | Can be lower, potentially rushing the learning process. | Higher, leading to a more methodical, safer learning curve. |
Conclusion: The Adventure Awaits
To the question, is 60 too old to learn to ride a motorcycle?, the answer is a definitive no. In fact, many aspects of being an older adult—maturity, patience, and financial stability—create the ideal conditions for a responsible and rewarding riding experience. With the right training, gear, and mindset, the open road awaits, offering freedom and excitement at any age.
