The open road – 6 safety tips for motorcycle riders
When it comes to exhilaration, excitement and speed, there’s very little that compares to the thrill of riding a motorbike. These machines are powerful and strong, and it takes an experienced and confident rider to be able to handle them safely and effectively.
Learning to ride a motorcycle takes years of practice, but most motorcycle riders would agree that their education never stops. Statistics involving motorbike crashes and fatalities are always shocking, and it’s crashes involving cars and other road users that seem to be the issue. Whether it’s a
motorcycle rider not applying common sense, or a car driver who isn’t being vigilant enough – click here if you’re looking for a firm that handles motorcycle accident cases – motorcycle crashes appear to be heartbreakingly common.
While you may not be able to control how other drivers behave on the roads, there are ways you can ensure your own safety whilst you ride your motorcycle. A mixture of common sense, education and these following safety tips will help.
Always wear a helmet
Riding a motorbike without a helmet? Possibly one of the most idiotic and dangerous things any bike rider could do. When you’re riding a bike at speed your helmet may be the only thing between your head and the hard concrete, so wearing one will help reduce your chance of a catastrophic head injury. Your helmet should be fitted properly, and you should also have appropriate eye cover.
Wear appropriate clothing
Leathers, boots and gloves are the best way to protect your body should you leave your bike and end up skidding across the tarmac at speed. Reflective clothing is also a good idea so other road users can see you in poor visibility conditions.
Obey the speed limit
The speed limit is there for a reason. If you decide to go over the speed limit it will take you longer to stop and you won’t be able to react in time, potentially crashing your own vehicle and damaging someone else’s.
Keep up to date with your training
You may have passed your test recently, or been legally riding for some time, either way, consider keeping your training and riding proficiency up to date by partaking in riding courses. This will help sharpen your riding technique and keep you in touch with others who share your passion for safe motorcycle riding.
Make sure your bike is roadworthy
Of course, most motorcycle riders are passionate about their bikes and their condition. But before any journey, you should ensure that your bike is roadworthy and safe to ride. Check the tyres for wear and tear, cracks or bulges, look underneath your motorcycle for oil leaks and damage, ensure
that your lights and signals are working correctly. Ensure all your engine fluids are topped up and regularly.
Always drive when you’re awake
Getting behind the wheel of any vehicle when you’re tired is dangerous, so make sure you’re well-rested before you hit the road.
