I had an off back in April. New bike (29er) and monged up the end of Yoghurt Pots - sliced my arm open on a sharp rock so ended up in A+E. Knocked the confidence a bit (as it was such a 'simple' off) but a session with Mr. Jedi properly sorted the confidence. That and learning to ride a clown bike.
Having a kid did it for me. I'm definitely more cautious as a rider, especially when on new, unknown trails.
Have offset that by getting better as well though. So I'd say I'm more refined as a rider and less of muppet.
Only ever really before I go on holiday on the last couple of rides I do. 42 now and still ride as quick downhill as I did just the downhills aren't as big. Only one big crash thankfully hitting a sheep and getting knocked out in my late 20's whilst heli-biking. Going self employed toned it down for a while but then I thought what's the point cutting back on my weekend warrior action? Back up to speed though I have noticed a lot more people are faster than me these days.
I got married June last year aged 40. But 5 months prior I came off on some wet cobbles heading to a trail, was a stupid and needless accident. It was downhill about 25 miles an hour and I went straight into a wooden post at the side. My chest took the impact but it was nearly my face... Almost passed out and ended up in a&e after my vision went. Thankfully it was just a bit of shock and stuff. I did start feeling better when this guy came in the hospital with his finger hanging off saying 'there was a bit of paper jammed in my printer...' laughter was the best medicine and made me feel less of a numpty.
But definately slowed down after. I'm back up to speed but still keep a bit in reserve. I really should do a session with dirt school or something though.
46, type 1 diabetic, 3 kids (2 teenagers), office job, but still manage to bomb it down and sprint up the hills on nightrides and weekends. Lost 2 stone since the beginning of the year (was 13 now 11). Getting faster up the hills than I ever have done in the past. Kids are now looking to come out with me - which is awesome. They are into their BMX/Scooters. Worst incident - 2 broken ribs on a mad downhill in the dark with a flat - when I was 40.
in my case: when i accepted that i'm a talentless moron with all the skill, balance, grace and athleticism of john prescott.
really, what's the point of even trying? - who was i ever trying to impress?