Motorcycle Safety Tips
When you’re seeking the perfect way to enjoy the pure excitement that comes with being out on the open road, you’ll definitely benefit from the unlimited number of thrills that come with owning a motorcycle. Whether you’re a first-time owner or a seasoned veteran, safety should always be your first priority. After all, you can’t avoid the fact that motorcycles can be extremely dangerous if they’re not ridden safely and responsibly. That’s why Emerald City Harley-Davidson® is here with some important motorcycle safety tips.
If you’re in the market for a new bike, be sure to check out our inventory at our dealership in Lynnwood, WA. We also offer financing options, parts, service and more!
Perform an Inspection
Before each and every ride, you should perform an inspection of your bike. This might feel a bit repetitive, but it’s imperative that you confirm everything is functioning properly before you head out. This process can be made quick and easy by creating a checklist to run through before each ride. The list will include things like checking tire pressure and tread, checking the fuel, oil, and coolant, and verifying that the chains, brakes, clutch, and throttle are working. Don’t forget to check for any loose parts or leaks. If you notice any problems, address them before riding.
Check the Weather Forecast
You’ll want to get in the habit of checking the weather forecast before you hop on your motorcycle and hit the road. Your bike won’t offer you protection from the elements like a car would, so you need to be prepared. It may seem rather harmless to ride in warm weather but remember that extreme heat can lead to dehydration if you’re not careful. This leaves you at risk of dangerous side effects, such as dizziness, heatstroke, nausea, and blurred vision. It goes without saying that this is a recipe for disaster when operating a motorcycle. You should avoid riding in extreme conditions when possible.
Use the Right Gear
Another critical component of motorcycle safety is using the right gear. You should always be wearing a helmet. Pick one that fits comfortably and is crash-test certified. Your head is one of the most vulnerable body parts, so you need to ensure it has maximum protection. The ideal helmet will cover most (if not all) of your face, which includes the mouth and jaw. If your helmet doesn’t come with a built-in shield, add a pair of goggles to protect your eyes.
A pair of boots and gloves will be helpful as well. When you’re debating what riding clothes to wear, there are a couple of options. Your goal is to choose clothing that’ll hold up on the road and protect you in a spill or collision. Even when it’s warm out, you’ll need to dress appropriately and protect your body. One option is to wear layers that’ll protect you from the pavement.
Stay Focused
When you’re riding your motorcycle, it’s critical that you remain focused at all times. Be alert and aware of your surroundings, including other motorists around you. It’s important to be prepared for any sudden changes in traffic and possible road hazards. As we already mentioned, your bike doesn’t offer the same level of protection as a car does, so you need to be responsible for your motorcycle safety when riding. You shouldn’t ride when you’re tired or upset, as your fatigue and emotions will affect your focus. Additionally, never drink alcohol or use recreational drugs before a ride. If you take prescription medications or have a health condition that might affect your focus, talk to your doctor before riding your motorcycle.
If you’re a beginner who needs some help learning the ropes, check out our motorcycle riding courses at Emerald City Harley-Davidson in Lynnwood, WA. Our dealership is proud to serve Seattle and the entire state of Washington.