[dhgeyer]

Originally Posted by Easy Rider

Riding in inclement weather is at least 10X more dangerous than when it is clear and dry and warm......even somewhat more if it is clear and dry and COLD.

Statistics don't support this claim. To date, the best and most comprehensive study of motorcycle accidents/safety is "The Hurt Report" (AKA "Motorcycle Accident Cause Factors and Identification of Countermeasures"). The report itself is fairly long, but what is easily digestible is the summary of 55 findings. I think everyone who rides ought to be familiar with these. It's published all over the Internet, and googleing "Hurt Report" will get you all the copies you want. There is one located at http://www.clarity.net/~adam/hurt-report.html.

Finding number 11 states: "Weather is not a factor in 98% of motorcycle accidents."

I would tend to agree that relying totally on a motorcycle is not the most desirable state of affairs, but if that's all you can afford, you have to make the best of it. When I had just graduated from college, the only vehicle I had was a Ducati 250. Now that I think of it, that was also the case the Spring of my Senior year. I've known several people who went through various periods of their lives with only a motorcycle or a scooter. As far as I know, they are all still with us.

I would counsel strongly against riding if the roads are not clear. Other than that, if you're prepared with the proper gear, a lot of caution, and some experience, it's not that bad.