Born-again bikers: Why I've never got on a motorbike, and why so many men my age suddenly are

A new Road Safety Authority report in Ireland highlights an age shift in serious motorcycle deaths and injuries, with riders aged 46 to 55 representing the biggest fatality group. The article’s author says he has never ridden a motorbike, citing a preference for doors, roofs and predictable safety, as well as lack of coordination. Still, he observes “born-again” bikers—men who returned to riding in midlife after stepping away for family and careers. The RSA data cited covers 2021-2025: 117 riders were killed and 954 were seriously injured, with 2025 the worst year since 2007 at 30 deaths. Riders 46-55 made up 22% of fatalities, followed by the 16-25 group at 21%. The piece notes that getting back on a bike in 2026 involves more than simply putting on a helmet.