5 Tips for Safe Motorcycle Travel

The road is not safe. Accidents are just waiting to happen. Danger may just be on the corner. This is why we must always take extra caution when driving, especially if you are a motorcycle rider. It’s riskier than driving a four-wheeled vehicle. Hence, it requires more safety measures and caution. 

Riding a motorcycle is fun, but it can also be risky. Ride not only to have fun and adventure but to live another day. Ride safe. We cannot entirely prevent an accident, but we can do things to reduce its occurrence. A lot of accidents are pretty avoidable. Hence, it’s always wise to keep these tips for safe motorcycle travel:

Before anything else, make sure that you have a motorcycle license. You can’t hit the road without a license. Pass a motorcycle written test, take a road test, and acquire a license. 

1. Choose and ride the right bike.

As a rule of thumb, select a bike that you’re comfortable riding. The right bike depends on several factors: what it is for, where you are planning to ride it, your personal preference. It all boils down to comfort. Choose a bike that’s easier for you to maneuver. Consider everything before deciding: the weight, the length, and height of the bike, the engine power, its type, and so on.

2. Wear a helmet and protective gear.

No, wearing a helmet and gear won’t make you overdressed, and they’re not solely for appearances’ sake. They’re designed to protect. Even if you’re a careful rider, you never know what you’ll encounter on the road. So gear up. Basic gears include a full-face helmet, gloves, long pants, riding jacket, and boots.

3. Check the weather and plan your route.

Plan ahead before hitting the road. Check the weather and know your route. Spontaneous rides are fun but not necessarily safe. Never compromise your safety. It’s important to check the weather so that you can make the proper adjustments: what gear to wear, which road to take, whether you need to re-route, and the like. Anticipate what could happen during your ride. Ride prepared.

4. Perform an inspection on your bike.

Many accidents happen due to poor bike condition. Your brake may not be properly working. Your tire may need replacement. Some parts may need repair or replacement. To ensure a safe ride, make sure that your bike is in great shape. Check the brake, the tire, the engine, the clutch, the suspension, and others. 

5. Ride defensively.

Just because you are wearing a helmet and protective gear and your motorcycle is perfect, don’t mean that you are invisible. Remember that you are at the mercy of others when you’re on the road. Other riders and drivers may not be as careful as you. Don’t assume that they’re riding safely. The best thing you can do to avoid accidents is to ride defensively. That way, you are quick to avert any potential danger. 

Be alert, focused, and cautious. Again, ride safe.