Tips On Motorbike Safety For Travelers
Whether you plan to take a short trip on a motorbike or you are planning an adventure to cover the backcountry solo, there are a few essential things to consider before you go. This will make your experience more enjoyable and ensure that you stay safe.
Here is a list of safety tips you need to know about before you hit the road:
#1 Take A Motorbike Safety Course
Before you can obtain a motorcycle license in most places, you will be required to complete a skills test. Many of the places will require that you also take a safety class. These classes will educate you about important traffic safety laws, the right way to respond to an emergency while riding a motorcycle, along with offering you the opportunity to test your skills within a controlled and safe environment. The instructors of these courses also provide useful tips on avoiding hazardous and unsafe situations and maintaining your motorcycle. Taking the time to complete a safety course will give you a lot more confidence and prepare you for your next adventure.
#2 Protective Gear
One of the most important safety items when you ride a motorcycle would be a reliable helmet. This is one of the legal requirements and a sensible decision for most riders since a helmet and other protective gear have proven to save many people's lives and significantly lower the risks of a serious injury. If you rent a bike, mostly you’ll get a helmet by the rental company itself.
#3 Plan Your Route
Without a well thought out plan, you may be setting yourself up for failure. While it may seem tempting to hit the road and go where ever the wind takes you, this is a really bad idea and even dangerous if you plan to travel alone. On a trip it is best to rent a motorbike, it will help you make choice from different bikes and easy to travel. Setting aside a bit of time to plan your route and decide where you plan to go will also mean you have an end goal to look forward to.
Planning may appear to be a timely and boring process, but similar to your budget, it is important to get things in order and to prepare you for what lies ahead. If you are faced with dangerous weather or road conditions along your journey, it helps to have a plan in place on what to bring along.
#4 Stay Alert
Another tip for motorcyclists that prefer to travel safely on the roads is to ensure that they are fully alert and aware of the road and their surroundings. Losing your concentration even momentarily could result in an accident in any type of vehicle but could end up as a tragedy on a bike. It is important to concentrate and remain focused from the moment you step foot on a motorcycle. This will ensure that you are always ready to react and respond to road users' actions around you.
#5 Avoid Distractions
Distractions often result in many injuries and accidents every year. In the era that we live in today, just about every adult owns a phone, making it very easy to allow yourself to get distracted, even just for a moment. While riding a motorcycle, it is more important than ever to avoid these distractions by ensuring you are always watching the road and keeping both hands on your handlebars.
#6 Take Breaks
When you travel on a motorcycle, it is vital to ensure you do not allow your focus to slip. If you have plans to make a cross-country journey or go on an extended road trip, it is important to include a few breaks into the schedule. Never continue to ride once you start feeling tired or when your concentration levels start to slip.
#7 Remain Calm
Road rage is one of those serious factors that often contribute to unnecessary accidents. It is common for many motorbike riders to become angry or frustrated due to other drivers' reckless or irresponsible actions. However, it is vital to stay calm and collected, even when other road users pull in front of you or swerve unexpectedly into the lane you are riding in.
#8 Be Mindful Of The Weather
Before you head out on your road trip, make sure you have checked on the latest weather forecasts for the day since ice, snow, wind, and rain will impact the journey's safety and comfort levels. Braving the rain or high winds will reduce your visibility while riding on icy or snowy roads increases the chances that your bike will skid or slip, which could result in a collision.
#9 Bike Inspections And Care
Before heading out on a long journey or road trip, it is important to make sure your bike is ready for the journey. Check the tires, brakes, mirrors, and headlights, and carry out any other maintenance requirements when necessary. It is also advisable to take your motorbike to a repair shop for a routine check-up, especially if you cannot conduct repairs independently.
Final Thoughts
Motorbikes are fun and enjoyable to ride, but you must be aware of the risks you are about to face when you hit the road and make sure you are always prepared to drive defensively. It is also important that you remain focused and keep your concentration levels at an all-time high. When you follow the tips mentioned above, you will increase your chances of keeping safe and enjoying your time on the road.
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