This article came to my attention yesterday. I think you'll find it relevant to this thread. I find it particularly relevant because it happened 2 days ago, about 20 minutes from my apartment:
Worcester Telegram & Gazette - telegram.com - Motorcyclist beaten, stripped, robbed
It's certainly thought-provoking. While NO ONE can say for sure that being armed would have helped the rider (since none of us were there, and there are a lot of variables) there are a few questions that come to mind:
- Could the driver have sped off? Perhaps "split lanes" to get to the intersection, then done a "right turn on red" onto the shoulder, using it as a getaway lane? Remember, when there's danger, those lines are just there for guidance They aren't jersey barriers. (Ride OR shoot? Choice is to ride.)
- Had the driver been armed, perhaps he could have defended himself? My initial thought would be (upon seeing the first armed assailant) to hit the kill switch, drop the bike while dismounting, present firearm, and start shooting. This is assuming that riding off isn't an option for whatever reason. (Ride OR shoot? Choice is to shoot.)
- Or perhaps a better idea would have been to stay atop the bike, firing at the armed assailant? It leaves open the option of dismounting/dropping if you can't ride and have to run. It also leaves open the option of stuffing your firearm into your jacket and riding off once the traffic starts moving (which may happen quickly once shots are fired). This scenario could be described as "Shoot THEN ride."
I certainly don't have the answers. Again, one's action would have to depend on the situation. But it's certainly worth more thought and discussion.