Motorcyclists’ Interpretations of Risk and Hazard

Abstract

Injury and death rates mark motorcycling as a hazardous activity. However, this article argues that such indicators of risk have little resonance for those who ride motorcycles. Central to motorcyclists’ understandings of their pursuit is the celebration of technique and a belief in the ability to control their riding experiences. The importance of the lived experience of riding encourages motorcyclists to marginalize expert systems of knowledge in favour of their own practical experience. Through these processes, the potential of injury and death are downplayed.