Motorcycles are not only fun but also fuel-efficient. However, they are not as safe as cars. They can travel as fast as cars but lack safety features as those of a car.
A motorcycle does not have an outer frame that can absorb crash forces. Instead, collision forces are taken in by the bike and its rider. But that does not stop enthusiasts from choosing motorcycles for their travel, be it long-distance or short. Millions of people around the world prefer to use bikes as a mode of transport, just for the thrill and adrenaline rush of it.
In fact, fellow motorcycle enthusiasts form communities (like BikersRights) to share their knowledge and form stronger ties with each other. This helps people in many ways, including enabling first-time bikers to choose the right motorcycle and understand the right riding practices. Such communities also emphasize the importance of safe riding to ensure that the fun remains, but the danger does not.
Therefore, bike riders ought to take certain precautions to ensure their safety.
- Sign up for a motorcycle safety course
Even if it is not a requirement of the law for you to get a license, it is important to take a safety course. During the course, you will train on the traffic safety motorcycle rules that apply to your state. You also learn how to respond to emergency situations. The instructor will also teach you basic maintenance tips and how to prevent unsafe circumstances.
- Do not buy a bike you cannot handle
If you are new to bikes or have been off bikes for a while, you might be surprised at the performance of modern bikes. Even the models that have smaller displacement engines are faster and stronger than they were about ten years ago. When upgrading your bike, or shopping around for a new one, the first consideration is one that fits you right. Your feet should be able to rest flat on the ground without having to rest on your toes. Get a model that you can easily get on and off. If you are planning to ride it on the highway, you ought to get one with an engine of about 600-cc.
- Watch out for road hazards
Bikes have less contact with the pavement than cars. Thus, wet leaves, sand, and pebbles can make a bike to slide suddenly. Potholes and bumps that are not easily detectable might pose a danger to bike riders while they would not have been much of a threat to cars. If you cannot avoid them, consider slowing down when you get close. Get the best tyres by considering Motorcycle Tyre Bargains.
- Always wear a helmet
The most important safety precaution of a motorcyclist is to wear a helmet at all times. By wearing a helmet, one is assured of protection against head injuries. Most deaths from bike accidents are due to head injuries. The helmet should be the right size; it should not be too loose or too tight. For stronger protection, consider using a full face helmet.
- Watch the weather
Considering that bikes are not as stable as cars, riding them in the rain is much riskier than driving a car. A motorcycle has only two wheels; thus has half the traction of a car. Also, bikes do not have windshield wipers. Thus the safety of the rider is compromised. Before hitting the road, ensure that the weather is appropriate. If the forecast predicts heavy ice, snow or rain, leave your motorbike at home. If you still have to, be extra cautious.
When motorcycles are involved in accidents, the passengers are likely to be hurt. In most cases, the accidents are severe and the victims pass on. The good news is that these accidents are preventable if only the motorcyclist exercises safety precautions. The above tips will come in handy.
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