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While the thrill of riding your motorcycle out on the open road is unmatched, bikes are simply not as safe as cars. That’s why you should always put safety first.
The way motorcycles have been designed does not allow for the advanced safety features found in cars. Because bikes do not have an exterior frame, the force of a collision is directly on the bike and its rider. Motorcycles also do not have seat belts, so there is a greater risk that the rider will be thrown off the vehicle during an accident.
Here are three vital safety tips to minimize the chances of serious injury while you’re riding your motorbike.
1. Always Wear a Helmet
Not only is wearing a helmet mandatory for all bikers in 18 states, but it’s also the most crucial factor in motorbike safety. The leading causes of death among bikers are head injuries.
When choosing a helmet, don’t buy one just because it looks good – you need to make sure it will protect you from head injuries in the event of an accident. A bluetooth motorcycle helmet is also a good choice because it will allow you to answer calls safely and even speak to other bikers if you’re riding in a group.
Make sure your safety helmet fits snugly, doesn’t obstruct your vision, and covers most of your head. For even more protection, choose a helmet with full-face protection that wraps around your head and protects your chin.
2. Educate Your Passengers
One of the more fun aspects of owning a bike is taking a passenger with you, but your passengers need to know the dos and don’ts when riding on the back of a bike. Anyone who sits on the back of your motorcycle should wear all the appropriate protective gear, as well as sturdy clothes and shoes.
Bikers should practice riding with a passenger in a safe place before attempting to go out onto the road – this will help them get used to the way the bike feels with the added weight. Passengers will also better understand how they should lean during maneuvers. Passengers on the backs of motorbikes should also know not to distract the driver.
When carrying a young child as a passenger, double-check your state laws. Many states require motorcycle passengers to be over a certain age before they are allowed to ride on the back of a motorcycle.
3. Keep an Eye on the Weather
Riding a motorcycle in inclement weather is much riskier than driving a car because bikes are not as heavy or stable. The bike’s two wheels also mean that bikers have half the traction of car drivers. Bikes don’t have windscreen wipers, so driving in the rain can compromise the biker’s visibility.
Before setting out on a ride, check the weather. If heavy rain, snow, ice, or strong winds are expected, rather leave the motorbike at home. If riding in the rain is unavoidable, don’t set out immediately after a storm starts.
When heavy rain hits roads, it tends to bring up oil and other residues – making roads slick and slippery. Waiting until some rain has already fallen and has washed the residue off the streets will minimize the chances of skidding on your bike.
Remember to be extra cautious during rain, snow, ice, and wind by driving slowly and leaving plenty of space around you. If the weather worsens, it’s better to stop somewhere and wait it out.
