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Motorcycles have long been the choice of many men and women when it comes to transportation. Owning one provides owners plenty of benefits. It is cost-efficient since it will help you save money on petrol, easier to repair that you can do the job yourself and there is less to maintain since it only has two wheels you have to take care of, not four.
Motorcycles are also hassle-free to park. They are compact, so even in the most crowded of places, there’s still some place left to park for your two-wheel ride. In addition, these motor vehicles are more adaptable in traffic, and lastly it provides the rider a cool, tough air.
However, if the biker does not know how to handle and care for his two-wheel ride, it can pose more dangers to the biker as compared to a car. Statistics show that bikers are 30x more prone to perish in a motor vehicle crash than regular car owners.
To avoid vehicular accidents from happening, this article will discuss the safety precautions needed in order to keep you (and your passenger) safe from harm’s reach. Avoiding factors like excessive speeds and driving while under the influence will greatly decrease your chances of getting involved in an accident.
There’s more below thus, read on before hitting the road.
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Look for a motorcycle that suits you
Appearance is a huge factor in picking a bike, so more often than not, men and women are often pulled in by a certain model’s aesthetic factor. It’s not a bad thing, but keep in mind that you are the one who will be riding the bike thus, you have to be comfortable in it.
Once you are seated on the bike’s seat, take note that your feet must rest evenly on the ground. The controls and the handlebars of the model must be accessible at all times. If it is too bulky for you, then follow your gut and look for another model; your ride should be something that’s easy for you to get on and off.
If you want to use your ride for everyday commutes, a 250-300 CC engine bike would suffice but if you are going to spend plenty of time on the highway, a 500-750 CC engine bike is a good idea.
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Special safety training
Making your bike stop is not the same as a regular car. The front and rear wheels of majority of motorbikes are equipped with individual brake controls. Any of these wheels can lock up at some point while braking, and it can get risky.
Antilock brakes can help you in maintaining control while steering during urgent stops and they can prove to be particularly indispensable during rainy or snowy weather when the roads are slippery. Majority of newer, high-end bike models now have this but you can also purchase the brakes individually.
Taking special lessons or instructions on handling your new motorbike will increase your safety while driving. By spending a few hours for safety training will make you a lot better biker! You’ll control your bike better by doing special driving figures, emergency stops and how to position yourself and how to behave on the road.
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Use that helmet ASAP
It can mess up your hair and make your face break into a ton of sweat, but proofs show that bikers who get on the road without a helmet are more prone to experience serious head injuries by a whopping 40% and 3x times more prone to experience brain damage. So, you have to ride your bike with a helmet on.
Today’s helmets are durable yet light and comfortable. They can also reduce exhaustion and wind noise. Change helmets every 5 years, or replace one if it’s broken.
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Adjust your bike’s mirrors before a ride
To do this, get on the seat and inspect the mirrors where you require them so you will be capable of seeing your surroundings as much as you can.
One of the safety thoughts is to make sure that others can see you but also make sure that you can see everybody around you!
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Check your bike’s chain, belt or shaft first
Before getting on that bike, remember to inspect certain parts of your ride first. A motorcycle operates 3 ways; it can get its power through the belt, chain or shaft. This is crucial since those parts mentioned are components which are responsible for making your bike move.
If you own a belt-driven bike, check that part by twisting the rear wheel then watch the way it moves. You don’t have anything to worry about if it still moves freely but if you notice cracks and rips on the belt, it’s time to change it. For safety measure avoid riding your bike until the belt was replaced.
The chain can be inspected the same way. If it looks damaged and does not move freely, then it’s time for a replacement. A dirty chain also means you have to clean it up first that’s why regular maintenance on your bike’s chain is always advised. Wait until those damaged chains were replaced until you can ride your bike again.
Lastly, look for oil leaks or any sort of liquid on your ride. Don’t forget to inspect the front forks too. If you see some leakage, better call a technician to correct the problem.
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Clothing and footwear matters too
If you plan on doing longer rides, better equip yourself with hardy motorcycle gear. Your denim jeans won’t protect you from a huge fall, so investing on a pair of Kevlar-fortified jeans is a good idea. There are plenty of leather and fortified-textile biking gear available in the market and they have a wide assortment of styles and sizes that you can choose from.
Even though it’s crazy-hot outside, wear extra, especially if you are going to cover plenty of miles. There are biker gear companies who manufacture excellent mesh jackets fit for even the doggiest days of the summer. It is strengthened with armor to keep vehicular risks at bay but it also has plenty of airflow to keep you comfortable.
Lastly, getting covered-up while riding keeps you from getting sunburned and dehydrated as well.
As for footwear, choose a pair with excellent traction. You can’t avoid wet weather conditions and automotive liquid leaks on the ground so a good pair of non-slip shoes will reduce your chances of dropping your ride.
With these tips, a rookie biker can be safe on the road. Keeping these pointers in mind will not only keep you safe but also other motorists. So always be a responsible biker, even if you’re still a rookie.
