Yeah Wolf, i always leave plenty room in front now, prob about 2-3 secs usually, but double the braking distance you allkw in tbe wet or if carrying a passenger. I learned the hard way after one spill when i was following the guy ahead one wet day and getting frustrated at his slow speed. I ended up closer than usual trying to hurry him along then he braked, i paniced then braked too, the front wheel locked up and slid on the wet tarmac and i was left laying on the road like a dick while he drove off (probably laughing at me). I always leave space to brake or manouver past now. I also try use the rear brake slightly stronger than the front, my theory being i can control a rear wheel skid normally but a front wheel skid rarely.
Im sure my last count was 5 spills all in over the years, all my fault except one where i was rear ended by a car at a junction. Most where due to stupidity, inexperience, cheap tyres, pushing the bike/scoot too far, or riding in conditions i had no business riding in. Glad to say none have been real serious (touch wood), most only gave me bruising, swelling and sprains and strains. So far!. I learned something from every one of them and ride totally different to how i used to when i was younger and stupider, well usually, i still like to go a little stupid now and again for the thrills. I just do my dangerous riding a little more safely these days
Leather and Armour is my saviour. The jacket i still use now has slid along at least 2-3 roads with me on my back and is still fine, no tears, no rips or damage at all really. 1st time i crashed and got up i took off my nice new leather jacket almost in tears cks i had only had it a few weeks and i assumed it would be torn to shreds by the road, it wasnt tho, a good quality leather will last years and years. I wear mine every day, just the leather in summer, leather and a thin waterproof over it for showers or light wind, and leather under my M-65 Parka in heavy rain or wind or when its just damned cold
