Motorcycle riding will let you feel a combination of pleasure, relaxation, fear, and excitement that changes you forever. You feel the weather, smell everything, and hear every sound. It’s a decadent experience where all your senses are brought to life.
And every journey is filled with a thrill of adrenaline and terror. This feeling of terror is because you are more vulnerable and exposed than riding in a car, especially when you’re on the highway with traffic rushing all around you at different speeds.
The sea of cars and higher speeds may seem intimidating, but motorcycle riding on the highway does not have to be scary. For a little help, below are helpful tips for a safe ride on the highway.
Contents
Things To Do Before You Hit The Road
There is no denying that motorbikes are cool and fun. However, it is also true that motorcycle riding is far riskier than other forms of transportation. It’s essential to follow basic safety practices to ensure you stay on the safe side of riding.
The Right Gear Makes The Difference
Source: bankrate.com
Of course, looking cool and fashionable is not the top priority when riding your motorcycle. You may have seen riders wearing shorts, t-shirts, and even flip-flops. However, these are not the proper riding attire because they offer minimal protection against road rash, injury, heat, and more.
- Invest In A Great Helmet. A high-quality helmet will do more than protect your head. It will shield you from noise pollution, road debris, snow, rain, wind, earaches, and more. So, if there is one area that you shouldn’t compromise, that is your helmet. You need a helmet that’ll give you the protection and cover you need.
- A Quality Riding Jacket. This riding gear is the next important thing you should wear. A riding jacket must fit you well, be comfy, and be made from leather or durable synthetic materials. Also, the thicker the jacket, the better because it demonstrates the ability of the gear to withstand abrasion.
- The Right Pair of Pants. Your motorcycle riding pants have two jobs: withstand abrasion and keep you comfortable. Opt for something that offers enough ventilation and body armor.
- Riding Gloves. Note that your hands are very fragile. That’s why protection is the primary feature you want to look for in riding gloves. You will want riding gloves that have a leather palm and some armor padding on the knuckles.
- This motorcycle gear provides additional grip and ankle stability, offering protection and making it easier to control the motorcycle.
Are you looking to buy the right gear for a safe ride? Visit Cully’s Yamaha to see quality products for your motorcycle riding needs.
Ride Within Your Abilities
Your motorcycle should fit you, which means that, when you’re seated, your feet must rest flat on the ground. No tiptoes. It’s essential to get on and off your bike quickly. Plus, the controls and handlebars should be within reach.
When riding on the highway, always ride according to your comfort level. Don’t push yourself to keep up with the other vehicles.
Inspect Your Motorcycle
Source: filmdaily.co
Before hitting the road, inspect your bike. Give it a good look. Everything should check out well, such as the lights, mirrors, and tire pressure. See if there are any leaks or loose bolts you need to address.
Know The Weather Forecast
The dangers of icy or wet roads multiply when riding a motorcycle. Your ride has half the stability of a four-wheel vehicle, it lacks a windshield, and your body is exposed. With that said, be sure to know the forecast before you hit the road.
Stay Alert On The Road
Generally, you should be aware of other cars’ blind spots. A blind spot is an area that can’t be viewed in the vehicles’ mirrors, and the location and size of the blind spot depend on the vehicle. Motorists should always check their relevant blind spots before changing lanes to avoid crashing into another vehicle.
So, make sure to look behind, look to your right, and look to your left now and then. And always use your mirrors. Stay alert and be aware of your surroundings.
Keep Your Distance
When riding behind another vehicle, be sure to keep enough distance between you and the car in front of you. Doing so will give you enough stopping room should there be an emergency or unfavorable traffic conditions.
Don’t tailgate! Allow yourself enough room to stop. It will also give you enough time to react should the car in front of you come to a sudden stop or encounter hazardous road conditions.
Maintain Your Bike Properly
Source: careyandleisure.com
There are a few things you can do to help keep your motorcycle in good condition:
- Check the oil level and make sure it’s at the correct level.
- Check the air pressure in the tires and make sure they’re properly inflated.
- Keep an eye on the brakes, ensuring they work correctly and haven’t worn down.
- Make sure all bolts are tightened and that there is no damage to any of the components.
- Clean your bike regularly, especially the chain and sprockets.
- Keep it in a secure place when you’re not using it to ensure that there’s no damage done by the changing weather, animals, or other people.
- Lubricate the chain and other moving parts regularly.
By following these simple steps, you can help keep your motorcycle in good condition and avoid costly repairs. Maintaining your bike may seem like a lot of work, but it’s worth it in the long run.
Takeaway
Motorcycle riding is undoubtedly fun. However, you must follow safety precautions to prevent injuries and traffic accidents. Don’t be pressured to ride in ways that can risk your life and others, and don’t go on the highway aggressively. Try to avoid being sandwiched in between vehicles and let the bad-tempered drivers pass to avoid any commotion. At night, make sure to wear reflective or brightly colored clothing that makes you visible to other drivers.
