bratling

Different people have different risk tolerances. I have two kids. My spouse cares that I wear proper protective gear (and so do I!) but otherwise doesn’t try to restrict me. That said I have rather less time with kids than I did before we had 'em. :)

Well, that sucks. But I’m not going to tell you to pick a hobby over the woman you love. There are plenty of other things you can do that won’t scare the pants off her. :)

Motorcycling. You’re old enough to not do the stupid shit that gets young riders killed.

Take the MSF’s beginner course (or your country’s equivalent), spend more on your helmet, jacket and gloves than you do your first bike, and have fun. Spend as much on your helmet as you think your brain is worth.

Remember, you’ll drop your bike, so start with a cheap used one. After a year (or less) with it you’ll have a better idea of what kind of riding you like, and that will inform your choice of second bike.

You’ll drop that one too, by the way. Don’t sweat it. Maybe buy spare brake and clutch levers.

Find a local moto community. Maybe get an intro to the Denizens of Doom. Heck, even a Facebook group can do the trick. You’ll meet new people and make new friends, while learning from people who’ve been riding for decades.

If you survive your first year (you will), you’ll also have become a far better car driver. Riding without a safety cage around you does wonders for situational awareness and risk awareness.

Last note: the car drivers are trying to kill you. They may not realize this, but you should. You’re invisible to them. Ride with a healthy dose of paranoia. But smile. You’re having fun.