Quite a significant number of people today prefer motorcycles to cars since they are cheap, fun, and fuel-efficient. Riding a motorbike, however, is far riskier than driving a car. Research findings have established that accidents that involve motorcycles can be thirty times more dangerous than car accidents.
Dedicated riders can navigate the streets and have fun with their bikes without any incidents. Still, their success depends on the following safety practices.
Gear Up
Contrary to popular belief that you need to look fashionable when riding a motorcycle, the most important thing is to have essential riding gear. Even if it is a hot day, you should avoid putting on shorts, sandals, jeans and T-shirts while riding a motorcycle. Instead, wear appropriate gear such as reinforced trousers, boots, and jackets for added protection.
It would be best if you also put on some goggles or glasses when using an open-faced helmet. Another aspect of gearing up also involves investing in a windscreen. If possible, you can also have a tint film applied on the windscreen, for added safety on the roads. Tinted windscreens offer a clear view of the road, thus enhancing your decision-making abilities.
Inspect Your Ride
Before hitting the road, it is vital first to give your bike a once-over. Always check on things such as your mirrors, lights, braking system, chain, and tyre pressure. And in case you identify anything that isn’t up to speed, make sure it’s fixed before embarking on your journey. It’s also essential to check for leaks, loose bolts, and other latent mechanical hazards.
Watch the Road
It’s imperative to have your eyes on the road as a motorist. Be vigilant for any gravel or any other unstable road conditions. Also, be cautious when crossing white lines at traffic lights and when crossing any tracks on the railway since the paint on them is extraordinarily slippery most of the time.
Know Your Strengths
Never at any one point in time choose a motorcycle or a route that you can’t handle. Make sure that your bike suits you. This means that you should be in a position to lay your feet on the ground flat when seated and not on your tiptoes. You should also be familiar with your route for you to focus on your safety at all times.
Always ride with care, awareness and courtesy. Don’t let an itch to retaliate against an insensitive driver or prove a point endanger your safety. It is practically impossible to change the environment. Still, you can always change the way you react to the circumstances on the road. Just gear up, stick to your comfort zone and still keep your eyes on the road. Safety begins with you!