First Post Based on Mountain Bike Accident

Greetings from north central Wisconsin (Minocqua). I've always been curious about bents. Looking at the depth of this forum I bet my story is not unique. While I like DF bikes - road and mountain - I've never been a flexible person, so even my Specialized Roubaix takes come getting used to every spring. Two weeks ago I went over the handlebars of my MB on mellow terrain. Caught me completely off guard. Landed on top of my head and fractured my C1 vertebrae. Everyone i know who knows anything medical tells me I'm very lucky to not be paralyzed and/or dead. Ended up with a concussion (even with a helmet) and 6 to 12 weeks in a stiff neck brace. So, now looking at making the jump to a bent for comfort and safety reasons. Even found a used late model Vision R40 locally that I might buy even though I would be an idiot to ride it for a couple more months; neck has to heal. Glad to find the RR forum.

 

I had 3 neck vertebrae fused some years ago so am fairly familiar with the human neck/spine layout. You are correct about even being here, much less sending a posting, after breaking C1 & head injuries. Yes, too bad your switch to a safer alternative came one step too late, but it's never really too late. An endo on a 'bent is almost unheard of, as I was telling a customer at our LBS who had related his story of doing one recently on a MB trail & landing crossways on a rock.

Many helmet companies will replace a damaged helmet for free if you send them the damaged one. A good deal esp. since one should never use one that has been in an accident anyway.

 

Ditto.

 

Welcome, glad you injury wasn't more serious. A used Vision should be a pretty inexpensive way to get into bent riding. Just remember, there is a learning curve. Find a nice flat smooth empty parking lot to play in.