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I've known two people killed in motorcycle accidents and one who suffered irreparable brain damage.  None of them were at fault in these accident, just other drivers not paying attention.
There are whole countries where motorcycles are the primary mode of transportation and outnumber cars… you get used to it. You don’t have to drive like an idiot or too fast. It’s a phenomenal way to get up and down rough terrain in mountainous areas. >

Pretty much what I was gonna say. Versatility, especially in a congested urban environment like mine, is a godsend. Really is a case of “the bad apples spoil the bunch” because there are millions and millions of people who drive their bike safely (without lane filtering) and don’t have loud pipes. >

lane filtering is unsafe? >

No it’s actually safer in most cases if done correctly.