6 Keys To Motorcycle Safety
Best Practices That Can Keep You Safe During the Summer Riding Season
Riding a motorcycle allows us to experience the sights and sounds of the open road in a thrilling way that traditional automobiles can’t match, but it comes with its fair share of risks. To maintain the spirit of adventure without compromising safety, practice and prioritize responsible riding habits.
Whether you’re a seasoned rider or just starting out, following these best practices can help minimize your risk and keep you out of harm’s way. Here's an essential guide to motorcycle safety, covering riding gear, road etiquette, and more.
Gear Up For Safe Motorcycle Operation
Because of the level of bodily exposure that motorcycle riding entails, invest in protective equipment that provides head-to-toe coverage. You can find products like these at a motorcycle shop near you or online at a motorcycle dealership website.
- Helmets: Always wear a helmet that meets safety standards, such as DOT or ECE. A fully enclosed helmet with a face shield offers the most comprehensive protection.
- Protective clothing: Riding gear is another safety must-have. Leather or reinforced jackets, riding gloves, full pants, and over-the-ankle footwear protect you from the elements, road rash, and injuries during a fall. Ideally, you want every square inch of skin covered.
- High-visibility gear: To help ensure other drivers can see you, wear high-visibility clothing or add reflective elements to your gear, especially if you plan on riding in low-light conditions.
Maintain Your Motorcycle
Before each ride, perform a quick check of your motorcycle. Ensure your lights, horn, and directional signals are working properly. Check the tire pressure, tread depth, and look for any signs of oil or gas leaks.
Always stick to a regular maintenance schedule in accordance with your motorcycle’s owner manual. Professional checks can prevent accidents caused by mechanical failures.
Ride Your Motorcycle Defensively
Because motorcycle riders are fully exposed to the vehicles and conditions surrounding them, it’s critical to adopt a defensive riding style.
- Stay alert: Always assume that other drivers do not see you. Keep your distance and be ready to react to the traffic around you.
- Avoid blind spots: Stay out of blind spots of cars and trucks. If you can't see a driver's face in their sideview or rearview mirror, they likely can't see you either.
- Signal your intentions: Always use your turn signals and make sure to give enough notice before you make a move. Never assume the vehicles around you know what you’re about to do.
Handle Your Motorcycle With Care
Motorcycles are highly agile vehicles capable of cutting through traffic like butter, but an unpredictable and reckless riding style can throw other drivers off. To reduce the risk of an accident, riders should ride with intention.
- Smooth operations: Use the throttle, brakes, and steering smoothly. Jerky movements can make your motorcycle seem unstable to the drivers around you.
- Cornering: Slow down before you enter a curve; motorcycles are less stable when turning. Look through the curve and aim your bike along the path you want to take.
- Braking: Practice braking firmly and progressively. Understand the limits of both your front and rear brakes so you’re prepared for stops.
- Comfort zone: Never ride a bike you’re not ready for. If you don’t feel comfortable on a high-performance Suzuki motorcycle or similar sport bike, stick to the type and size that works for you. If you’re new to riding and searching for a motorcycle for sale, select a bike that’s within your comfort zone. Work with a motorcycle shop near you that can help with the selection process.
For beginning riders, motorcycle training courses are a great way to learn the basics of safe riding. They are typically offered through community colleges and select motorcycle dealerships. Completing a riding course can also lead to a discount with certain insurance carriers.
Only Ride When Sober and Rested
Never ride under the influence of alcohol or drugs, as these substances impair your reaction time, coordination, and judgment. Lack of sleep can be just as dangerous. Make sure you are well-rested before a ride. Take breaks on long journeys to avoid fatigue.
Check the Weather
Always check the weather before you head out. Avoid riding in extreme conditions such as heavy rain, strong winds, or ice, as this greatly reduces your risk of losing control of your bike.
If you’re caught in bad weather, reduce your speed and maintain a larger following distance behind other vehicles. Use your lights to remain visible to other drivers. If the weather is too severe to safely ride, pull over at a rest stop or underpass to wait for conditions to improve.
Safe Motorcycle Riding Practices Make For More Enjoyable Rides
Motorcycle riding is the most fun a person can have on two wheels, but safety should always be your top priority. By following these tips and best practices, you can enjoy thrilling rides while minimizing your risk. Remember, the best riders are those who can anticipate and react to any situation on the road.
Stay safe out there, and happy riding!