Motorcycles have a reputation for being a dangerous mode of transport, and it is true that you are in a very vulnerable position when you are riding one of these vehicles. So, you want to do everything that you possibly can to stay safe.
If you are a first-time rider or you simply want to brush up on some safety tips, this is the article for you.
Buy A Bike You Can Handle
The first safety tip comes before you actually buy the bike – you need to make sure that you get one which you can handle safely.
You should be able to rest both feet on the ground comfortably and handlebars need to be within easy reach. If it feels like it is too heavy, the truth is that it probably is. Smaller models with a 250- to 300-cc engine can act as a great starter bike so that you can learn the ropes.
Make sure that your bike has been properly serviced, investing in parts as needed. It is a good idea to let an experienced rider look over your bike before you hit the open road.
Wear The Right Gear
Next up, you need to ensure that you are always wearing the right gear and motorcycle clothing. A helmet is your obvious starting point. Never ride without one as it can really save lives.
Other useful clothing items include a reinforced jacket, gloves, leather trousers, and over-the-ankle footwear. A helmet visor or goggles are also useful in protecting your eyes.
Be Defensive
Even if a car is at fault for a collision, it is the motorbike rider who is going to come off worse more often than not. This means that you need to be extra alert while driving defensively, particularly when it is likely that the driver’s attention will be diverted by their mobile phone.
Watch out for cars pulling out of side streets and avoid tailgating to give yourself plenty of time to brake.
Avoid Bad Weather When Possible
Wet and slippery road conditions will reduce your margin for error, and rain also significantly reduces your visibility, so avoid riding your motorcycle when possible. If you do find yourself out in wet conditions, avoid making sudden maneuvers, making sure that you are particularly gentle with the brakes, throttle and steering.
In windy conditions, anticipate that you may be blown to one side by moving across to the other side of the lane or a different lane entirely to give yourself some room.
Look Ahead For Hazards
Road hazards like bumps and potholes may not be such a big problem for cars, but they can be problematic for motorbikes, so you need to be especially vigilant when scanning the road in front of you. If you find that you cannot avoid them entirely, make sure to slow down as much as possible.
So, these are just a few of the basics which can keep you safe when you are out on the roads on your motorcycle.
Thanks for stopping by!
Magda
xoxo