as a fellow motorcycle rider, in new york city nonetheless, i am sorry for the loss of your friend. it is a terrible thing.
safety safety safety, i cannot stress that enough. i have been in 2 accidents, one where i lost the tip of my pinky (but got it snapped back on) and it was at only about 20 mph.
if you ride, the first rule is "EVERYONE is out to kill me" gotta have all eyes everywhere at all times. and people need to remember, hen you are driving recklessly, you are putting your life and many others at risk, and that is just not cool, period.
again, i am sorry for the loss of your friend, my condolences to you and his family.