I don't know anybody who hasn't been down, and I've been on the pavement, twice. We've always worn good gear, and that's what has probably kept us from stories like yours. I've also lost a couple friends on bikes.......but more in cars. We ride[fast and judiciously] in places more appropriate than in the urban areas. These things are faster, easier to store, and cheaper than the 4-wheeled monsters I own. They also don't break down. Close calls aren't something to worry about...collisions are. I have close calls in my daily cars, daily. If you are careful, wear gear, and understand what's going on around you, motorcycles are the best. Riding bikes, is something I'll continue to do as long as I'm physically able, and I won't relegate myself to a lawn chair in a parking lot or fairgrounds to sit in the sun, talking the same stuff, to the same people, in the same places.