The Hustler's Digest StaffAbout 5,579 motorcyclists died on the road in the span of a single year. Meanwhile, 83,000 people sustained injuries. Knowing how to ride a motorcycle safely is key to preventing an accident.
Read on to learn to ride a motorcycle safely. With these tips, you can get on your bike with caution and confidence.
Become a safer motorcyclist today.
Grab Your Gear
Before hitting the open road, make sure you’re wearing the appropriate motorcycle safety gear. The proper gear can protect you and help you remain a defensive driver. Otherwise, debris or the elements might distract you or cause injury while you’re on your bike.
Before you begin riding, make sure you have:
- Riding goggles
- A leather jacket
- Non-slip gloves
- Over-the-ankle boots
- Chaps or leather pants
Invest in a good helmet, too. If your helmet sustains damage at any point, replace it right away.
Wearing a helmet is 37% effective (for riders) and 41% effective (for passengers) at preventing deaths. It could reduce your risk of sustaining a head injury during an accident by 69%. Make sure your helmet fits properly and meets official safety standards.
Consider wearing earplugs to protect your hearing each time you ride as well.
When choosing your gear, make sure it’s designed for motorcycle riding. The proper gear can provide impact protection and abrasion resistance during an accident.
Don’t skimp on quality when purchasing your gear. Prioritize your comfort and safety. If you’re worried about the heat, look for perforated jackets.
Having the proper gear on could save your life.
Choose the Right Bike
If you haven’t purchased a motorcycle yet, take the time to consider what type suits your needs. Before buying one, look into used bikes available locally. Many riders damage or drop their bikes when learning how to ride a motorcycle.
Not all motorcycles are ideal for first-time riders, either. During your search, consider your skill level, size, and riding style. Try to find a bike that’s:
- Reliable
- Easy to handle
- Light-weight
- Affordable
Choose a bike that has anti-lock brakes (ABS) to further prioritize your safety. Don’t forget to invest in quality tires as well.
Inspect Your Bike
To prioritize motorcycle safety when on the road, always complete an inspection of your bike before a ride. Check the:
- Fuel
- Chain
- Oil
- Brakes
- Lights
- Tire pressure
- Mirrors
Always follow the manufacturer’s regular maintenance and service regulations. Consider carrying a small tool kit with you to make minor repairs on the road.
Keep your bike in the best possible condition to prevent mechanical failures.
Take a Course
Before getting on the road for the first time, take a motorcycle safety class. Learn from a Class 1 Police motorcyclist to master the basics. Courses can help you develop your riding skills, including:
- Braking
- Shifting
- Steering
- Maintaining balance
- Turning
Classes also teach the rules of the road. Always follow traffic rules while on the road to reduce the risk of a motorcycle accident. Here’s a great post to read about motorcycle accidents (and proving liability to help you fight for compensation).
Ask questions about handling emergencies or avoiding hazards during your classes.
Completing these classes can help you get your license and insurance.
Practice
After mastering the basics, put your skills to the test. Keep your skills sharp by practicing. Ride in different situations (such as traffic scenarios, weather conditions, or road conditions) to improve your reaction times.
In time, you’ll learn how to turn corners confidently, brake effectively, and shift gears smoothly. You can also practice swerving or completing a quick stop during an emergency.
You can also test your skills on an off-road course.
While learning, you’ll likely drop your bike a few times. Don’t worry; this isn’t an indication that you’re a bad rider. Don’t give up!
Instead, learn how to avoid your mistakes in the future. Consider investing in frame sliders or crash bars while you’re learning to minimize damage to the bike.
Remain Defensive
As you practice and sharpen your skills as a motorcyclist, remember to remain alert. An alert driver is a defensive driver.
Riding a motorcycle will expose you to risks every time you’re on the road. Motorcycles are less stable and less visible than cars. Therefore, they’re more vulnerable on the road.
Become a defensive driver by remaining aware of your surroundings at all times. Try anticipating potential hazards and learn how to maneuver around them.
When riding, keep a safe distance from other vehicles. Always use your horn or signals when necessary. Avoid road rage, chaotic drivers, or driving in anyone’s blind spot.
Learn how to adjust your position and speed as needed based on different conditions and situations.
Check the Weather
Make sure to check the weather before a ride. If you’re new to riding, avoid going out in harsh weather conditions. Try to practice during a light drizzle to adapt to different weather conditions slowly.
Remember, you’re at a higher risk of a motorcycle accident than vehicle drivers. Your bike has less traction and visibility is lower when you’re riding. Prioritize your safety by learning at your own pace.
Learn to Ride a Motorcycle Safely
Safety is key! Learn to ride a motorcycle using these tips to avoid a potential motorcycle accident. Knowing how to ride safely could save your life one day.
Stay safe and have fun the next time you’re on the road.
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