I only let a few ride my bikes. They have to fall under my rules. Rule 1 - I have to know what kind of rider they are and trust them to not try something stupid on it. Rule 2 - They have to have enough money to replace or repair my bike if they crash it. And Rule 3 - I have to know that they have the character and morals to replace or repair my bike if they damage it.
In 1981, I let someone ride my 3 month old bike around the block. I was 17 and it was my first brand new bike. It was my pride and joy. That is, until a car pulled out in front of him and he hit the car broadside. I'm sure the accident was avoidable.
My bike was written off and they gave me $2300 for what I had just paid $2800 for. i had to buy the salvage and rebuild the bike. Lesson learned. No one rides my bike anymore, unless they can afford to replace it with a brand new equivalent and agree to do so.
