Safe Motorcycle Riding Tips
Safe Riding on A Motorcycle
It’s important that all motorcyclists observe safe riding practices. Whether you’re a veteran rider or a beginner, it’s crucial that you’re aware of motorcycle safety on the road. Luckily, there are a few simple steps you can take to ensure you’re being a safe rider for yourself and others around you. At GN Gonzales, we care about the safety of our customers so we’ve put together a list of useful tips to get you started. Visit us in Baton Rouge, LA today to learn more!
Consider the Weather
From the moment you get your motorcycle, you should develop a habit of checking the weather before hitting the road. Remember that riding a bike isn’t the same as driving a car because you don’t have the same protection from the elements. It may seem fairly simple to ride in warm weather but don’t forget that extreme heat can easily lead to dehydration, which has dangerous side effects. No one wants to suffer from nausea, heat stroke, blurred vision, and dizziness while trying to operate a motorcycle. Be sure to drink plenty of water and avoid riding at the hottest times of the day.
When it comes to riding your motorcycle in the rain, your body temperature can drop rather quickly as you’re blasting down the road through the wind and freezing rain. In addition to your body temperature dropping, it’s also quite difficult to navigate a motorcycle on wet or icy roads. When you check the weather prior to riding, it’ll help you decide if the conditions are safe enough to brave on your bike.
Riding Gear
Another factor you should consider before you head out for a day of riding is your gear. The most important piece of gear will be your helmet, which should always be a top priority. You’ll want to invest in a helmet that fits snug and has been crash tested. Your helmet should not wiggle when you move your head from side to side or up and down. Choose a helmet that covers as much of your face as possible, including your jaw and mouth. If you go with a helmet that doesn’t have a face shield, consider investing in goggles to protect your eyes from the elements and any debris on the road.
You’ll also want to get a pair of durable gloves and riding boots. When you choose your riding clothes, there are several available options. What matters most is that you choose heavy-duty clothes that’ll offer you maximum protection. When it’s warm out, you’ll still want to wear your gear so your entire body is protected. In the event that you take a fall, your riding clothes are the one thing protecting your body from the road. You can wear layers for even further protection.
Inspect Your Bike
Before each and every ride, you should make it a point to inspect your motorcycle. You’ll want to check the tire pressure and treads, fuel, oil, and coolant levels, chains, brakes, clutch, throttle, and for any leaks or loose parts. While it might seem a bit redundant, pre-ride inspection is critical to safe riding. It’s during these checks that you might discover a potential problem that needs attention. Be sure to get your bike serviced if you notice something isn’t right. You should never attempt to ride your back after stumbling upon an issue during an inspection.
It might seem overwhelming at first but once you’ve gotten the hang of motorcycle safety, it’ll become a habit. Always take the time to freshen up on your safety awareness every now and then. If you’re interested in more rider education or you’d like to invest in some gear to go with your bike, stop by GN Gonzales in Baton Rouge, LA today!
Contact GN Gonzales
Let us help you find the latest and best in powersports products. Please feel free to contact us at (225) 387-5328 or stop in today!