10 Tips For Riding a Motorcycle Safely

Riding a motorcycle can be fun, but it can also be dangerous, pitting man against steel. To make the most out of the experience of riding a motorcycle, follow these tips for riding a motorcycle to ensure proper safety along with maximum enjoyment.

Riding on a Highway

1. Gap between you and cars.
When riding, or even driving, it is imperative to keep a safe distance between you and any other vehicles, especially when riding at high speeds on a highway. Employ the rule of “1 second per 10 mph,” meaning that for every additional 10 mph in speed, give enough separation between you and the vehicle in front so that it gives you one additional second to reach the same spot that the vehicle had just passed. So for 30 mph, it should take you three seconds to reach the exact spot as the vehicle before. This is important to allow ample time to brake, if necessary; higher speeds require more time to come to a complete stop.

2. Look ahead and scan beyond.
Just like on a regular business or residential road, always look ahead and scan beyond. Keeping a watchful eye on the surrounding environment will minimize accidents. Particularly with a high-speed road such as a highway, keeping an eye out for potential dangers ahead of time will give you time to react in a safe manner, possibly avoiding the hazard.

Riding With a Passenger

3. No “hot rodding” or showing off.
Don’t show off! Doing so can be dangerous, especially when there is another passenger, as he or she may not anticipate the “trick” you are trying to pull off and can end up severely injured. It is best to avoid any creativity.

4. Take into consideration the extra weight.
Controlling a motorcycle can become second nature, but riding with a passenger can be a different experience than that of riding solo. Any differing weight can alter the balance. Make sure to adjust accordingly.

Riding in the Rain, Wind and Cold

5. Relax.
This may seem like a counter intuitive tip, but it’s actually beneficial, and it does not mean to forego any other safety tips ever taught and practiced concerning driving and riding. Remember to keep an eye out for any potential dangers at all times, but do so while relaxed, if possible. Staying relaxed will keep your muscles from being tense and help you react faster with a clearer mind.

6. Dress for the occasion.
Of course, dress accordingly. If it is raining, don’t forget to wear protective clothing from the elements, such as a raincoat. Staying dry will help you feel more comfortable as you are riding, keeping you more relaxed while on the road. As always, wear a helmet. Not only will it protect your head, but it will also help with your vision, enabling you to navigate safer.

7. Assume it is slippery.
Tires on a slick road can be especially hazardous. To minimize the dangers of the roads in inclement weather, assume that it is slippery, and act accordingly. By preparing for the worst, it will keep you safer as you navigate the roads.

Riding in Traffic

8. Assume people don’t see you.
Exercising extreme caution will help you to make better decisions that will ensure your safety. Making gestures and movements as if people can’t see you, such as exaggerated hand signals, wider turns and longer braking will get you noticed and get the other drivers to proceed with caution as well.

9. Pay attention.
No matter the condition of the road or how many other vehicles are in the vicinity, always pay attention to the road. Watching the road for possible dangers can give you precious time to react in the best way to avoid any collisions or potential dangers. It only takes a matter of seconds for an accident to occur, but a lifetime to pay the price.

Riding With Additional Equipment

10. Use a Crampbuster.
So, of course, this is one of our favorite tips for riding a motorcycle. For long trips, adding the use of a Crampbuster will make the riding experience more enjoyable by reducing wrist fatigue with a more comfortable throttle control.