The euphoria you get from riding your bike can be addictive. But beyond the fun, there are several things to worry about, like motor crashes. The United States reports over three hundred thousand motorcycle accidents each year. The best way to avoid becoming another statistic is to ride safely. Here are some motorcycle tips every rider should know.
Gear Up
As a biker, always remember that you have half a car’s stability. So, while a car is safe to drive in a t-shirt, bikers must have their full gear on at all times, whether riding a Piaggio electric scooter or a Harley. Choose leather pants, boots, and jackets over jeans and casual wear. Glasses, helmets, and gloves are also essentials you must have on at all times.
Choose Comfort Always
Riding comes with a list of must-dos and must-haves. Not following them can put you out of your comfort zone, exposing you to many dangers. When it comes to riding, every little thing matters, from buying a bike that fits your stature. The best way to check for compatibility when buying your bike is to place your fleet on the ground while sitting on the bike.
If your foot stays on the ground, then it means the bike is the right fit. Choosing comfort also applies when choosing routes for your trips. Only do routes your bike’s capacity and your riding abilities can handle, even if you’re among pro riders.
Maintain Your Ride
Motorbikes, just like cars, require consistent maintenance. The worst thing a biker can do is to hop on a bike bound for the road without checking on your bike’s health. It pays for riders to be diligent with bike maintenance. When any part of your bike needs fixing, you should fix it immediately or park until it’s fixed. Some maintenance activities can be done periodically.
You can talk of oil changes, adjusting chain and suspension, tightening breaks, etc. But your tire pressure, mirrors, lights, and other essentials need daily attention.
Don’t Over-rely On Your Mirror
One thing which is non-negotiable for all road users is to watch the road, whether you’re a passenger or a vehicle user. This instruction applies more to riders since they may sometimes have to turn in anticipation of oncoming vehicles. Relying on bike mirrors alone can limit your awareness on the road, which is dangerous. Expert riders recommend checking your back, ensuring you’re safe before switching lanes.
Be Mindful Of Your Mood
Responsible riding should be the topmost priority for all motorbike riders. Riding with the wrong state of mind can cause you to make reckless decisions leading to an injury or worse. That’s why security agencies advise riders to rest when tired. Riding is not advisable if you have a lot of your distracting you from the road. Also, stay away from hard liquor and drugs when riding.
Be Well Informed
Know your road signs, understand what they mean and interpret them for safe riding. Apart from road signs, always have a fair idea of the day’s weather conditions before hitting the road. A heavy downpour can impair your visibility, making riding a hellish experience.
Generally, motorcycle riding should be fun but not at the expense of your safety. These tips can be a handy guide whether you’re a new rider or a pro.
To read more on topics like this, check out the Traveling category
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