agreed Gil, it's really down to the rider to be aware of everything and everyone around you when riding. You need to have total focus to stay safe, and even then you can get surprised as your friend did.
I don't ride much now; but have taken to cycling to work; which is probably more dangerous in Paris! I got knocked off last year, by a van on the wrongside of the road; He was overtaking a parked car transporter, I was already engaged but he actually drove directly at me so I moved right to leave enough room to pass; but he kept aiming for me as I slowed; he hit the pedal with the front wheelarch and started dragging the bike backwards. I jumped ship and he ran over the rear end of the bike; then drove off! I was OK; but well ****ed off! The bike was a mess. There was over 3.5 metres between the truck and my bike; plenty of room pass without getting nasty. I had witnesses but didn't get the licence plate.

Ovidio, the original Speed Triple is a lovely bike; it's only about 100hp, but nice smooth delivery and lovely sound of the triple. Comfortable for the passenger as well.
I need to get it running again; stopped using it when my daughter was born. So need a full service and all flluids etc.