Originally posted on September 1, 2019 @ 11:23 pm
Summer is beginning to wind down, and the perfect time for a joyride on your motorcycle is near. Fall gives way to some of the most enjoyable moments when you’re a motorcycle enthusiast, and the United States is riddled with breathtaking views and routes to explore.
Before you begin your next sightseeing adventure on the open roads, brush up on your biking safety knowledge. Make this year’s journey safe and exhilarating, and remember these crucial safety tips as you prepare and ride.
Check your bike before every ride
You can do a lot on your own to avoid a higher likelihood of an accident. Being involved in a motorcycle accident means that you’re very likely to be injured.
The chances of injury in a motorcycle accident are 99 percent, so it’s important that you make sure your vehicle is in proper working order. Check all the major components of your ride before ever hitting the road, and you’ll increase your odds of safety.
Make certain you wear appropriate gear
When you’re riding a motorcycle, your body is fully exposed to the elements involved in an accident. Your body is exposed to impact, to road burn, and several other painful possibilities. The best way to protect your body as you ride is to invest in high quality safety gear.
You need a good helmet. Do some research on the specs of a helmet before spending your money on it. Always protect your skin as you ride. Invest in arm pads, and wear jeans or leather on your legs to protect from cuts and road rash if you wreck.
Pack for the occasion
Packing properly can also contribute to your safety on your next motorcycle road trip. Pack lightly, but make sure you have some essential tools for roadside service. You may need to tighten up a few things or make a quick repair on your journey.
Keep a watchful eye out for others
Motorcyclists are too often the victims of other drivers’ failure to look. If you’re the one driving the bike, drive defensively. Keep your eyes on the road and all of the other drivers around you. Don’t assume a driver sees you, and don’t try to zoom in, out, and through traffic.
Be mindful of the weather conditions
When it’s raining, you don’t have the best traction on the roadways. Understand how to adjust to the changes, or pull your bike over until the rain lets up. If it’s super windy outside, understand how a strong gust of wind could affect the balance of your bike.
Follow the laws of the land
Even the most experienced riders make mistakes due to their lack of respect for the law of the land. Follow the traffic and riding rules set by authorities, and you’ll be a little safer for it.