Human beings are “tricky”!
Countless times we praise our attitude of friendship and mutual assistance when we come across other motorcyclists around the world. And that feels so good! It seems that, wherever we are, we are never alone… And it’s true, in case of a mishap, someone always appears to help.
But if that’s our way of being, when we’re on the bike, why the hell don’t we also have it off the bike, particularly when we’re on foot?
If we stop on the side of the road when we see another motorcyclist stopped and ask if everything is ok or if he needs help, why don’t we do the same when we come across someone in difficulty on the street?
One day, I was crossing the 25 de Abril bridge, in Lisbon, in my Pan European, when a Yamaha YZF 600 overtook me. However, as the traffic was chaotic, its exhaust was scratching from behind to the front, a poor FIAT PUNTO that was ahead of me. He saw it, but continued, and inside the car, the two people gestured frantically.
I was “overwhelmed” by that scenario, and decided to try to catch him, since it was difficult to pass, and he couldn’t go very fast. It went well and, after the bridge deck, on the avenue, I managed to make him stop.
I stopped in front and, after taking off my helmet and both of us dismounting, I asked if he hadn’t seen what he had done. I never got an answer.
Meanwhile, the car stops and two people come out, mother and daughter, the latter driving, with no experience and “white as lime”. The mother comes straight to us and the first thing she says is:
– These motorcycle guys are indecent, a shame!
I interrupted her and said:
– Well, I’m on my motorcycle, I stopped him and I’m willing to help you resolve this issue, but if you continue to insult me, I’m leaving!
The lady then realized what she had said and apologized, but she was very nervous and said what she shouldn’t have.
Of course, it was normal. Amid all this, I found it strange that the young Yamaha driver never took off his helmet. As I was in a hurry to get to my destination, I left my details with the lady, in case she needed it, and left.
About two weeks later, the lady called me and thanked me for my availability, as the boy on the other motorbike didn’t have insurance, but his mother worked at an insurance company and they wanted my details, but she didn’t give them, “as I was her witness and not theirs.” She finally got the car repaired and everything was sorted.
When saying goodbye, she told me that her image of motorcyclists had completely changed since that episode, and she would never forget it.
Those words filled my soul, as not only had I done what I consider to be my duty as a citizen, but it also helped someone who has no connection to the motorcycling world to have a positive image of us.
How many times have you come across those motorists who have a crucifix hanging from their rear-view mirror, supposedly synonymous with their conduct in accordance with the values that their faith professes, but then they insult everyone, honk their horn madly and if necessary, even get out of the car to attack?
You know, it’s not just the appearance. You must be that too!
Enjoy your ride.
