In 2021 a study funded by Harley Davidson Motor Company measured what actually happens in the brain during a motorcycle ride. This groundbreaking neurobiological study was conducted by researchers at the Semel Institute for Neuroscience and Human Behavior at UCLA.
The study found that a 20-minute ride reduces stress hormones, sharpens sensory focus, and induces a positive brain state similar to meditation or light exercise.
Here are some interesting takeaways from the research regarding the dynamic experience of riding:
- Decreased Stress: A 20-minute ride decreased hormonal biomarkers of stress, specifically cortisol, by 25% to 28%.
- Elevated Focus & Alertness: Participants exhibited enhanced sensory processing and visual attention. Brainwave activity changes indicated an increase in alertness comparable to drinking a cup of coffee.
- Physical Exertion: The ride increased heart rates by 11% and adrenaline levels by 27%, which is physiologically similar to light exercise.
- The “Flow” State: Unlike driving a car where the mind is easily distracted, on a motorcycle, riders enter a deep “flow” state. This state forces the brain to tune out everyday peripheral distractions and passively monitor changes in the road environment.
I would encourage you to read more about the research background in the scientific documentation published in https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/abs/pii/S0006899320305618
- Love Like Jesus
- Preach Like Paul
- Ride Like Jehu
