What age do most people stop riding motorcycles?

According to the American Motorcyclist Association, the average age of an American motorcyclist is 48, with many continuing to ride well into their 60s and beyond. So, what age do most people stop riding motorcycles, and what factors determine the decision to retire from the road?

Quick Summary

Most people do not stop riding motorcycles at a specific age, but rather due to a combination of physical limitations, health concerns, and changes in lifestyle. While some riders may stop in their 60s or 70s, many continue to ride safely for decades by adapting their techniques and prioritizing safety measures.

Key Points

• Age is not a hard limit: There is no specific age where most people stop riding motorcycles; it's a personal decision based on individual factors, not a universal milestone.

• Physical changes are a key factor: Decline in strength, balance, vision, and mobility are the most common reasons riders decide to quit, making heavier bikes harder to manage.

• Health and medications play a major role: Chronic health conditions and certain medications with side effects like dizziness can significantly increase the risk of riding and necessitate retirement.

• Adaptations can extend riding years: Riders can continue safely by switching to lighter bikes, focusing on core fitness, using advanced safety gear, and leveraging modern motorcycle technology like ABS.

• Prioritizing safety is crucial for older riders: Being proactive with health management, seeking professional refresher courses, and meticulously maintaining equipment are vital strategies for aging enthusiasts.

• Lifestyle changes influence decisions: Factors like family priorities, finances, and a growing aversion to risk often contribute to the choice to retire from motorcycling.

No Single Age Defines the End of a Rider's Journey

There is no single age that dictates when a person must stop riding a motorcycle. The decision is highly personal, influenced by individual health, fitness levels, and personal circumstances. While stereotypes might suggest that motorcycle riding is a young person's game, the reality is that the riding community is filled with enthusiasts across all age groups. The transition away from riding is less of a milestone age and more of a gradual process driven by a variety of factors.

Factors Influencing the Decision to Stop Riding

For many, a combination of physical, mental, and situational factors eventually leads them to hang up their helmet. Understanding these influences can help older riders plan ahead and potentially extend their riding years.

Physical Decline:

• Strength and Endurance: A motorcycle's weight can be challenging to manage, especially at low speeds. As muscle mass and core strength diminish with age, handling a heavy bike can become difficult and risky. Fatigue can also set in more quickly, affecting reaction times and stamina.
• Balance and Coordination: A rider's sense of balance is crucial for a stable ride. Age-related changes in the inner ear or nervous system can impact balance, making it harder to control the motorcycle. This is especially noticeable when stopping and starting.
• Vision and Hearing: Impaired vision, including changes in depth perception and night vision, can significantly affect a rider's ability to spot road hazards. Diminished hearing can also compromise safety by making it harder to hear other vehicles or approaching emergency sirens.
• Joint Pain and Mobility: Chronic conditions like arthritis can make riding uncomfortable, especially during long trips. The physical strain of holding a bike upright, shifting gears, and braking can be taxing on aging joints.

Health Concerns:

• Medical Conditions: Health issues such as heart conditions, a recent stroke, or other ailments can make riding unsafe. A doctor's advice is paramount in these situations.
• Medication Side Effects: Certain medications can cause drowsiness, dizziness, or slow reaction times, all of which are dangerous for a motorcyclist.

Lifestyle Changes:

• Family Obligations: Starting a family or focusing on grandchildren might shift a person's priorities away from a high-risk hobby like motorcycling.
• Financial Considerations: The cost of maintaining a motorcycle, insurance, and riding gear can become a factor, especially for those entering retirement on a fixed income.
• Risk Aversion: Some individuals may become more cautious with age, reassessing the risks associated with riding and deciding the potential for injury is no longer worth it.

Adapting to Stay on Two Wheels

For older riders who aren't ready to quit, there are many ways to adapt and continue enjoying the road safely. These strategies can make the difference between retiring and embracing a new phase of riding.

1. Switch to a Lighter Bike: Consider downsizing to a lighter, more manageable motorcycle. Bikes with lower centers of gravity or those with features like reverse assist can reduce the physical strain. Some riders transition to a three-wheeled vehicle (trike) for increased stability.
2. Focus on Health and Fitness: Regular exercise, particularly activities that improve strength, balance, and flexibility, can counteract many of the physical declines associated with aging. Core exercises and leg stretches are especially beneficial for riders.
3. Prioritize Safety Gear: Upgrading to the latest safety technology is a smart investment. This includes helmets with better visibility, jackets with integrated airbags, and protective armor. Maintaining a high level of situational awareness is also more critical than ever.
4. Embrace New Technology: Modern motorcycles offer features like anti-lock brakes (ABS), traction control, and electronic suspension. These advancements can compensate for slower reflexes and provide a safety net for aging riders.
5. Seek Professional Training: Taking refresher courses can help sharpen skills and build confidence. Organizations like the Motorcycle Safety Foundation offer courses for experienced riders, focusing on advanced techniques and accident avoidance.

Comparison of Conventional vs. Adapted Riding

To illustrate the difference in approach, consider the following comparison of a conventional approach to riding versus one adapted for an aging rider.

Feature	Conventional Riding (e.g., younger rider)	Adapted Riding (e.g., older rider)
Bike Type	Heavy, high-performance bikes; sportbikes.	Lighter bikes, cruisers, or trikes for stability.
Riding Style	Aggressive, fast-paced; long, demanding tours.	Slower, more leisurely pace; shorter, planned routes.
Preparation	Minimal warm-up; relies on natural agility.	Pre-ride stretching; focuses on core and balance.
Gear	Standard gear; focused on style.	High-visibility gear; technology-enhanced protection.
Safety Approach	Assumes quick reflexes and physical stamina.	Proactive safety measures; compensates for slower reflexes.
Maintenance	Routine checks; may push service intervals.	Meticulous bike upkeep; pre-ride safety inspections.

The Importance of Lifelong Learning

For riders of all ages, the journey of improving skills should never end. As we age, our priorities and physical capabilities change, but our passion for the open road doesn't have to wane. Continuing education, like enrolling in safety courses or seeking tips from experienced riders, can be the key to staying safe and confident.

A great resource for riders looking to enhance their skills is the Motorcycle Safety Foundation (MSF). Their advanced riding courses can help you refine techniques, improve cornering, and sharpen your defensive riding skills. Their training is designed for riders who have already completed a basic course and want to take their abilities to the next level.

Visit the Motorcycle Safety Foundation website for advanced rider courses.

Conclusion

Ultimately, there is no magic number for when to stop riding motorcycles. The decision is a deeply personal one, driven by a rider's unique physical state, health, and risk tolerance. While some may decide to stop in their 60s, others, like the grandmother who took up riding later in life, demonstrate that age is just a number. The key to a long and safe riding career is honest self-assessment, a commitment to safety, and a willingness to adapt. For many, riding isn't just a hobby; it's a way of life that can be enjoyed for decades with the right approach to healthy aging and safety.

Frequently Asked Questions

Are there laws that prevent older people from riding motorcycles?

Generally, there are no laws in the United States that prohibit older individuals from riding motorcycles. The decision is typically left to the individual and their physician, provided they can still operate the vehicle safely and legally.

What kind of motorcycle is best for older riders?

Many older riders prefer lighter, more stable motorcycles. Cruisers and touring bikes with lower centers of gravity and comfortable seating are popular choices. Some riders also transition to three-wheeled motorcycles or trikes for increased stability.

How can an older rider improve their safety on the road?

To improve safety, older riders should focus on maintaining core strength and balance, investing in advanced protective gear (like helmets with high visibility), and taking refresher courses to keep their skills sharp. They should also be mindful of medication side effects and ride during optimal visibility hours.

Do health conditions like arthritis mean I have to stop riding?

Not necessarily. While conditions like arthritis can cause discomfort, many riders find ways to adapt. This could include modifying the motorcycle for a more comfortable riding position, riding for shorter periods, or managing symptoms with medical advice and physical therapy. It's best to consult a doctor.

How does reduced vision affect motorcycle riding for seniors?

Reduced vision, including a loss of night vision or changes in depth perception, makes it harder to see road hazards and react in time. Older riders with these issues should avoid riding at night or in low-light conditions and ensure their helmet visor and windshield are always clean.

Should I consider a trike instead of a two-wheeled motorcycle?

A trike is an excellent option for riders who are concerned about balance and weight management. They offer a stable platform and can extend a rider's career by providing a safer, more comfortable riding experience without giving up the thrill of the open road.

Is it true that most riders stop in their 60s?

While it's common for some riders to scale back or stop in their 60s due to health or lifestyle changes, it's not a universal rule. Many ride well into their 70s, 80s, and even 90s, demonstrating that the passion for riding often outweighs age limitations.