Not many recognized the name Harry Hurt. To those who do not know Harry Hurt was the author of the motorcycle safety study now referred to as the ‘HURT REPORT’.Hurt, who was 81 died of a heart attack on Nov. 29 2009.

The ‘Hurt Report’ is considered by many as the most comprehensive study ever carried out on motorcycling safety. His study though first released in 1981 is still referred to by many with regards to motorcycle handling, motorcycle safety, motorcycle crash analysis and also on helmet safety and performance.

Hurt’s study was accepted by many and his findings were incorporated into products and regulations that has eventually prevented crashes and save lives.

Hurt was born in 1927, he grew up and began riding as a kid in Texas.  His first motorcycle was a worn-out Cushman scooter that he brought back to life.

Hurt graduated from university in 1950, and became a US navy pilot during the Korean War.  After the Korean War, Hurt rode his1947 Harley-Davidson to California to enrolled for a master's degree in aeronautical engineering.

In the 70’s, increased motorcycle sales led to an increased crashes, and the US Highway Traffic Safety Administration issued a contract to study motorcycle accidents.  The USC Traffic Safety Center where Hurt was the professor got the job.

Objectives of the study were

1. Determine the causes of motorcycle crashes.

2. Analyze the effectiveness of protective gear like helmets

3. Determine ways to prevent crashes and reduce injuries.

Hurt's team, all of whom were experienced motorcyclists, went to motorcycle accident scenes, day or night, for over two years.  The team collected exhaustive data on more than 900 motorcycle accidents, and interviewed 2,310passing motorcyclists and studied 3,600 police reports from the same area.  Numerous recommendations flowed from the study regarding protective apparel, riding practices and rider training.

When asked to sum up his report Hurt said "There is no magic bullet other than getting smart."