What can affect riding safely, besides alcohol and drugs?

Riding safely is influenced by a variety of factors beyond substance use, and one significant set of factors includes distractions, fatigue, emotions, and aging. Distractions can come from a variety of sources, such as mobile devices, street signs, or even passengers, which can take your attention away from the road. Fatigue impairs reaction times, decision-making abilities, and overall awareness, making it crucial for riders to be well-rested before operating a motorcycle. Emotions, such as stress or anger, can also affect concentration and judgment, leading to risky riding behaviors. Additionally, aging can impact physical abilities, such as coordination and strength, which are vital for safe riding.

Speed of the motorcycle does play a role in safety, but it's not as encompassing as the broader range of factors mentioned in the correct answer. Type of motorcycle can also influence handling and performance characteristics, but it doesn’t address the human factors that are critical to safe riding. Similarly, while wearing a quality helmet is essential for safety, it primarily focuses on protection rather than addressing the cognitive and emotional aspects of riding, which can profoundly impact a rider's ability to manage complex situations on the road.