Arrive Alive! The Motorcycle Safety Podcast

Kicking off riding season with a tribute to my cousin Luca Simonassi, a fellow rider we lost in Sicily, and whose humor and spirit I hope comes through in every word. Then we get straight into the mailbag with some great questions including garage sale helmets, riding with a group that is way too fast for you, and how to start your own bike night without getting sued. Dust off the bike. This one is for you.

We demystify the world of motorcycle insurance. and  why the "cheapest" online policy often leaves riders dangerously exposed. We dive into the critical importance of underinsured motorist coverage, the reality of insuring high-value accessories, and why your garage location matters more than you think. Don't hit the road this spring without downloading our exclusive Insurance Checklist PDF included in the show notes.

Spring is coming, but don't let the warm weather fool you. This season, complacency is the villain. In Episode 105, Len Bellello draws on Shakespeare's Richard III to frame why this spring could be the most dangerous riding season in recent memory — brutal roads, atrophied skills, and drivers who've forgotten motorcycles exist. Plus, five research-backed crash factors every rider needs to know: trees, speed, gear limits, which side of the road you fall on, and age. Ride smart. Ride alive.

cold winds, rain, gravel, ice, while not fun at all can be dealt with successfully with the right mindset and technique. Today, BMW MOA's Wes Fleming admits to riding hundreds of miles in  6°F weather and also tells us strategies for staying upright and warm and protected in rthe worst of conditions.  Whether you're commuting year-round or just want to be ready when the weather changes on you, these tips will make a real difference. Stay safe out there and arrive alive.

In Day 6 of the 12 Days of Motorcycle Safety, we welcome back returning guest John DelVecchio, a motorcycle training expert and author from Rochester, New York, for a critical discussion on visibility and being seen on the road. We dive deep into the "SMIDSY" phenomenon (Sorry Mate, I Didn't See You) and explore the science behind why drivers often miss motorcyclists—including eye movement blind spots called saccades, convergence invisibility, and windshield zoning. Listen and share with friends and family who ride.

Nobody wants to think about crashing, but if it happens, what you do in those first few minutes matters big time. In this episode, we're covering the essentials—from getting to safety and documenting the scene, to tracking down witnesses and camera footage before it disappears forever. We'll talk about what your insurance actually covers, why you should never apologize at the scene, and the reality of getting traffic camera footage from the city (spoiler: you've got maybe 48 hours before it's gone). Whether it's your first crash or you're just being smart and prepared, these are the basics and real world tips every rider needs to know.

Nobody wants to see blue lights in their mirror, but every rider will eventually get pulled over. When it happens, knowing what to do can make the difference between a warning and a ticket. In this episode, we cover everything motorcyclists need to know about traffic stops. This episode gives you practical, motorcycle-specific advice to help you navigate traffic stops safely, respectfully, and smartly. Knowing how to handle interactions with law enforcement can save you time and points on your license which means lower insurance and other fees.  Be Polite and respectful, but also know your rights.   

You don't need to spend a fortune to stay safe on two wheels. In this episode, we're sharing surprisingly smart strategies for buying quality safety gear on a budget – including places you might not have considered – plus a breakdown of the high-tech revolution happening in motorcycle safety. Airbag vests and suits that used to cost over $1,000 are now available under $300. Smart helmets with AI-powered collision warnings, crash detection systems that automatically call for help, and advanced armor materials that adapt on impact – it's all becoming more accessible. Whether you're shopping for your first set of gear or upgrading what you have, we'll show you how to maximize protection without maxing out your credit card, and which high-tech innovations are actually worth the investment.

There's something almost meditative about cleaning and maintaining your motorcycle. In this episode, we explore how maintenance and cleanliness go beyond the mechanical and connecting the physical benefits of catching problems early, the mental clarity of a well-maintained machine, and the spiritual connection you build caring for your ride. We discuss how these elements intertwine:  A well-cared-for motorcycle is safer and more fun to ride. 

Day 1 of 12 Days of Safety: Gift Ideas & Gear Upgrades Kicking off the 12 Days of Christmas with 12 safety episodes in 12 minutes or less. We look at what to get yourself or a loved one—and all the better with Christmas recently passing as deals are better! No partridge in a pear tree required, and these don't require knowing someone's size or bike model. These practical upgrades enhance both safety and riding enjoyment. Please subscribe and share with your friends who ride!

Ever wonder what it's like to guide motorcycle tours across 20 countries while dealing with Americans who scatter like five-year-olds the second you stop? Phil Freeman, founder of MotoQuest Motorcycle Tours, learned to ride on a beat-up Honda in Japan and now runs a fleet of 90+ BMW GSs—but here's the kicker: he doesn't actually own a personal motorcycle. From getting blown sideways on Patagonian gravel to discovering hidden gems in the Japanese countryside, Phil shares stories from 27 years of leading riders through everything from Himalayan tent camps to Portuguese spas.

¡Arrive Alive regresa con su inconfundible mezcla de consejos prácticos y auténtica camaradería motera! Este episodio aborda tus preguntas más importantes: ¿Cómo lidiar con el clima impredecible de Pensilvania? ¿Cuál es la guía de supervivencia para el caos de las obras y los conductores despistados en Ohio? ¿La IA hace que las motocicletas sean más seguras o solo vuelve perezosos a los motociclistas? ¿Listo para volver a subirte a dos ruedas con confianza? ¡Este es tu momento This episode dives into your burning questions: How do you handle Pennsylvania's schizophrenic weather? What's the survival guide for Ohio's construction chaos and oblivious drivers? Is AI making motorcycles safer or just making riders lazy?  Ready to get back on two wheels with confidence? This one's your green light.

German Santana, a Colombian rider based in Brooklyn,  recently returned from an epic 7,280-mile journey from New York to California and back. Fresh off the road, German shares vivid stories about the challenges, thrills, and lessons learned from his 19-day adventure. Whether you're an Iron Butt or want to be one,  you are sure to love this episode! 

I'm taking you back to September 15, 2019—the day a white SUV ran a red light and changed my life. This crash happened just 175 feet from my apartment and it's what inspired me to create this podcast. In this episode, I share what I've learned since that day about staying vigilant even when you have the right of way, and dealing with unpredictable urban traffic, making the most of autumn's shorter riding days, and why our Two-Wheel Tuesday meetups mean so much to me.

With China consistently ranking among our top five listener countries and nearly five million Chinese speakers in the United States and Canada, we wanted to ensure this critical safety content reaches as many riders as possible in their preferred language. This episode is dubbed using AI voice technology from an earlier show featuring Len discussing AI applications in motorcycle safety and answering listener email questions. While the voice is AI-generated, the safety expertise and message remain completely authentic and potentially life-saving. Please share this with any friends or family who speak Chinese and love riding. 

In this show, you'll hear about my great tour from New York City to Niagara Falls, Canada, and what went right and what could be improved on my 1000-mile round-trip adventure. Highlights include discovering great local eateries and connecting with fellow motorcyclists along the way. What a unique experience of riding alongside one of North America's most famous natural wonders, and why Niagara Falls should be on YOUR short list of touring destinations! 

Ryan Snelson, the creative force behind Motoveli, a unique monthly motorcycle zine that's breathing new life into print culture. From his Brooklyn base, Ryan shares how his passion project evolved from a 100-page magazine in 2018 to today's surprise-filled monthly publication that gives smiles to people like us who put on the miles! Please share this show with a friend who rides. 

Arrive Alive returns and back  with that signature mix of practical wisdom and genuine rider camaraderie. This episode dives into your burning questions: How do you handle Pennsylvania's schizophrenic weather? What's the survival guide for Ohio's construction chaos and oblivious drivers? Is AI making motorcycles safer or just making riders lazy? Plus, an honest look at riding in your 50s - because let's face it, your reflexes aren't what they were in your 20s, and Dallas traffic doesn't care! Ready to get back on two wheels with confidence? This one's your green light.

Brooklyn designer Karen Oh joins us to chat about staying safe on two wheels and the interesting stats behind why women tend to be safer riders than men. Karen shares her personal riding philosophy, and we talk about the safety tips from past female show guests. Quick, insightful convo for riders of all levels!

 Rob Fish from 8 Ball Tires shares maintenance mishaps and what it takes to keep riders rolling safely. You'll hear wild stories from his San Diego tire shop and drop knowledge from his 30+ years of riding experience.  Enjoy this entertaining and educational conversation about motorcycle life and staying safe on two wheels.

Mark Mendoza, the legendary bassist known for thunderous work with Twisted Sister, brings his decades of road experience to the Arrive Alive Motorcycle Safety podcast for an unforgettable episode.  Mark shares how the same awareness needed to navigate packed stadium parking lots applies to staying alert on the open road. In this special episode, Mendoza demonstrates that whether you're rocking out on stage or cruising down the highway, staying alive and enjoying the ride is the ultimate high.

div]:bg-bg-300 [&_.ignore-pre-bg>div]:bg-transparent [&_pre]:-mr-4 md:[&_pre]:-mr-9"> _*]:min-w-0"> We recap a challenging and cathartic year of motorcycle riding featuring growth statistics and updates on two serious accidents that affected the riding community.   

Eric Trama reflects on his father's groundbreaking work in motorcycle safety, recalling how he revolutionized rider education He shares personal anecdotes about his dad's passion for both motorcycles and teaching, which led to the development of comprehensive training programs still used today.

"Why We Ride" star, Alonzo Bodden is back with us to discuss his recent move to Vegas and his new bike and share more safe riding strategies! Len and Alonzo also do a lightning round talking about other stars and the bikes "they might ride"! 

 We pay tribute to Gasper Trama, one of the greatest motorcycle instructors of all time and a man who revolutionized the art of two-wheeled education. Through heartfelt stories and personal anecdotes, we will tell you how Gasper was a true friend, confidant, and inspiration to all who had the privilege of knowing him. 

Time again for us to answer your pressing questions about safety, guests, and getting the most pleasure from your motorcycle. Please remember to share the show with your friends who ride!!

Brianna Marriott is a pro-chef and skilled mechanic who loves riding mopeds and motorcycles. She leads an all-female moped group in NYC called the Road Clams! Together, they share fun and food and ride vintage mopeds from days gone by. Today, she shares important safety tips and talks about her passion for being a chef.

Flying off a Ninja at 110 MPH caused Guillermo to re-think sports bikes and create a trusted platform for riders to rent other people's motorcycles.  Today, Guillermo tells us about his business and shares his approach to being safe and enjoying every minute on a motorcycle.  

div]:bg-bg-300 [&_pre]:-mr-4 md:[&_pre]:-mr-9"> _*]:min-w-0"> Today, we discuss common causes of motorcycle crashes, from driver inattention to road hazards, and emphasize the importance of gathering evidence and documentation with John Haymond, CEO of The Haymond Law Firm.  His firm sponsors the show and NYC's Two Wheel Tuesdays, and they successfully represented me when a careless driver hit me.  CopyRetry

Join us as we explore the cutting-edge technology and engineering that go into creating Lightning's state-of-the-art electric motorcycles. Richard dives deep into his company, its present line-up, and what's in store for the future. We'll also get Richard's personal approach to riding safety and enjoyment. 

Ted Moyer traded a cushy corporate job to lead the BMW Motorcycle Owners of America, a non-profit organization for BMW motorcycle enthusiasts in the United States. The number of friendships he's facilitated is probably more than the miles he's ridden. Ted is joined by MOA member Michael, and together, they talk about camaraderie, safety, and pleasurable riding. 

Today, we share knowledge and confidence to navigate traffic, stay visible, avoid hazards in urban areas, and more! We also cover dealing with aggressive drivers, handling tight spaces, and staying safe in unpredictable conditions.

Newly ordained Harley-riding Minister and TV/Streaming Executive Jamie Rodriguez has put many miles on her motorcycle and traveled to the Tail of the Dragon and Nova Scotia. Today, she talks about her calling to be a minister and how she stays safe in the saddle! 

Join us for an exciting show featuring exclusive updates on upcoming guests and how you can take part in the show! And Len answers your email questions!  

VOOM is a new show sponsor. According to the MIC, most motorcycle riders travel less than 3,000 miles annually. VOOM's unique pay-pay-per-mile policy offers cost savings and transparency while still giving you the same coverage!  Tyler from VOOM will tell us about insurance and if VOOM is right for you. 

To bring motorcycle safety content to a wider audience, we used AI Software to translate Eder's January show from English to Spanish. The voices are of Len (your host) and our guest, Eder.  English episodes will resume with the next show. 

Melissa is a motorcycle and mindset coach with dual citizenship in the USA and Australia. She rides a dual-purpose motorcycle and uses her passion for motorcycling to help others. Today, she shares her safety strategies and talks about how motorcycling helped her through some mental health challenges after giving birth to her son. Melissa is a certified MSF instructor with a lot of knowledge to share. 

Born and raised in Russia, Alena was destined to ride her own path. That passion for self-determination led her to the USA, where she embraced new horizons in modeling, acting, and, motorcycling. She excelled in all three, fueled by an infectious energy and a genuine desire to share her knowledge with others. Like all of us, she is not immune to crashes; she had a bad one some years ago.   Alena, a true rider at heart, refused to be sidelined. She met the challenge head-on, emerging stronger and more determined. Now, she's ready to share her story – a testament to resilience, passion, and the exhilarating freedom of life on two wheels. So, buckle up and listen to Alena as she talks about life and motorcycles!

Eder Holguin was homeless for much of his teen years in Bogotá, Colombia. Hard work and dedication lead him to become a successful tech entrepreneur. Today, he talks about his book. forthcoming film and his advice for staying safe and enjoying riding. 

Happy 2024 I rode through Maryland and Delaware during fall to search for the Blair Witch and visit the school featured in the Dead Poet's Society. Along the way, I had some ups and downs and learned some valuable tips for planning a tour and riding in cold weather.

Ayleen was a mild mannered dentist who embarked on the ride of a lifetime! Today, she shares how her 34,000 mile, year-long trip gave her a new outlook on life and the people she met, and the lessons she learned.

Germán Santana was born in Colombia and worked in Poland and France--now that's quite the combination! He now calls NYC home and discovered the joy of riding motorcycles a bit later, than most.  He is truly passionate about riding and being safe (and looking good while doing so!) Today, Germán talks about how he stays safe in big cities and the countryside of upstate New York and offers tips for both new and experienced riders about the mental and physical facets of riding. 

We're back! Jamie Chiang talks about her first ride to the famed Americade Rally. Engineer, Ph.D., and former MSF Instructor share memories of our friend David and his strategies for staying upright in all riding conditions. Please share the show with friends and family who ride and follow us on Instagram @ArriveAlivePodcast

Queers on Gears members Brooke and Erika live and work in New York City and love each other and love to ride--in that order! Today they share their tips on safe and enjoyable riding and for buying motorcycles for anyone new to riding. 

Your host, Len B, talks about how you can learn from his seven crashes in 25+ years of riding.  Please share with your friends and family who ride. 

Bruce Dimon, a self-proclaimed computer geek, has ridden over 700,000 miles spanning 51 years, and he's still going strong. Today he talks about how riding safely makes everything more fun on a motorcycle. Remember to subscribe to the show and share it with your friends and family who ride. :) 

Harry's first bike was a 1941 Harley, which he purchased in 1955. Today Harry shares how he rode safely for four decades and tips for today's riders. 

Mark and Louanna were married 35 years ago and have been riding together ever since. Their anniversary is Feb 13th and the first song they danced to was Cindy Lauper's "Time After Time". They have ridden all over the earth and currently do most of their riding in Baja Mexico. Today they talk about their love for each other and how they stay safe while riding together.

Former BMW Motorrad and Eagle Rider Exec, Steve Sergi has decades of riding experience across several continents. Today, he shares what HE knows and how we can improve our riding skills mentally and physically. 

Len replies to listener emails and talks about the annual Isle of Manhattan Ride.  Tips on riding with your dog, choosing tires, and riding around Manhattan Island on New Years Day for the Isle of Manhattan Ride!