10 Motorcycle Safety Tips

Jupiterimages Motorcycles are cool and can be a lot of fun, but, let’s face it, they can be very dangerous. Motorcycles move as fast as cars but don’t have airbags or seatbelts. After my dad retired from the Army, he worked at a motorcycle dealership, so we always had bikes around.

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Motorcycles are cool and can be a lot of fun, but, let’s face it, they can be very dangerous. Motorcycles move as fast as cars but don’t have airbags or seatbelts. After my dad retired from the Army, he worked at a motorcycle dealership, so we always had bikes around.

Here are ten things that can help you be a little safer on your journey.

10: Take a Motorcycle Safety Course
Some states require this course but even if yours doesn’t, it’s a good idea to take one. Not only will you learn some helpful information, you will probably earn a discount on your motorcycle insurance.

9: Get the Right Gear
A little shiver runs down my spine when I see a girl on a bike in a bikini top and Daisy Dukes. Asphalt loves skin for breakfast. There’s a reason biker’s wear leather and it’s not just for the cool factor.

Leather might be a little warm in the summer but there are plenty of lightweight, but padded clothes out there specifically for motorcyclists.

8: Protect Your Feet
Open toed shoes can make it hard to shift gears. Flip Flops can slip off your foot. Look for shoes or boots made out of a study material with a low heel.

7: Ride Within Your Skills
Like any skill, riding a bike is something that is learned and improved upon over time. A quick ride around town is not the same as trying to control your bike on a wet, curvy road. Many dealerships offer advanced riding classes that allow you to practice advanced moves.

6: Avoid Distraction
Distracted driving is never a good idea, but it’s even more dangerous on a bike. You need to be very aware of your surroundings in case the driver of a car does not see you.

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5: Leave Enough Space
Bikes are smaller than cars and need less room to stop. Unfortunately, some bikers underestimate the amount of room they need to come to a stop, especially on a wet road. Practice stopping in a safe area before you get out on the road. Make sure you leave plenty of room.

4: Watch the Weather
Riding on wet roads is dangerous. Avoid it if you can, but if you can’t, be extremely cautious. Also, don’t ride right after the rain starts. When it starts raining, the oil on the road is very slick. Give the rain a chance to wash some of it away before you go out.

3: Educate Your Passengers
Whenever I ride with someone, I always warn them, “I’m a leaner.” What your passenger does affects your ability to control the bike. You need to know how to compensate for their actions.

2: Look Twice
Drivers need to pay more attention and watch for bikers, but bikers have to take responsibility, too. I see bikers weaving in and out of traffic and changing position so suddenly that even a careful driver doesn’t have a chance to see them. Never assume a driver sees you.

1: Wear a Helmet
Head injuries are the leading cause of death for motorcyclists. Yeah, it’s gives you helmet-hair, I get it, but having helmet-hair is better than being dead. And don’t just wear some cute little helmet that looks cool. Your helmet needs to be DOT approved. It needs to fit correctly and not obstruct your vision.

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