Motorbike Riding Safety Tips
You learn to be hyper-aware when you're riding the motorcycle. This is beneficial, as studies have shown that it can improve your cognitive function.
You can also smell things in a way that you cannot in a car. The mossy scent of the roadbank when you drive down a river can last for miles.
Safety First
It is essential to understand and practice safety basics, whether you are a veteran motorcycle rider or are just beginning your journey. The more you are aware the more prepared you'll be to avoid accidents that could turn a minor annoyance into a massive catastrophe in a matter of minutes.
A motorcycle safety course will teach you the skills required to stay safe on the road. These courses will teach you techniques that aren't learned from books or videos. They also give you an opportunity to practice your new techniques in a controlled environment.
After you've completed a safety course the most important thing to do is remain focused on the road and to be visible to other motorists. Many motorcycle accidents result from drivers not seeing the rider. Keep your headlights on, stay away from the blindspot of the driver, signal in advance and be aware of other vehicles turning, changing lanes, or turning.
Another cause of accidents is driving too fast for conditions. Even if you're well-versed in the terrain, it's a good idea to follow speed limits and be extra cautious in adverse weather.
Every motorcyclist has to deal with road dangers. You'll need to learn how to avoid a crash when you encounter road hazards like train tracks, gravel, wet pavements, leaves, or diesel spills. It's beneficial to have strategies for braking and turning when these scenarios arise, so you can avoid grave consequences.
It is crucial to select the appropriate bike based on your body type and level. A bike that's too small or too powerful, or too heavy can be difficult to control and cause an accident. In addition it's a good idea to wear protective gear such as a helmet and eyewear. The right equipment will help you avoid injuries in the event of an accident and will increase your confidence when driving. Also, it's best to have a passenger with you. They will help you become more aware of the surroundings, and they will help you in the event that you slip or get into an accident.
Gears
Motorbike drivers must be able to shift gears without losing their focus on the road ahead of them. To accomplish this, new riders need to learn how to shift correctly and feel the motorcycle as they do so. This might sound like an overwhelming task at first but it will become more natural as you get used to it and can lead to more comfortable riding.
To shift gears a rider must close the throttle, and then push down the lever using his left foot. They should then place their feet under the shift peg and then move it up. Based on the speed of the engine and where it is within its RPM range at the moment, one bump can bring you into second gear. Two bumps will take you to third. Some riders may also make use of an occasional application of throttle (called blipping) when changing gears to prevent the engine from lurching or stressing.
When a rider reaches the speed that is appropriate to the gear they are in, they may release their clutch and accelerate. A good rule of thumb is to shift into a higher gear before the engine begins to reach what's called red-line. This is when it's no longer producing power effectively and will cause premature wear and tear on the clutch plates.
The reverse gear is designed to provide a low, controlled acceleration when the bike is moving in the direction it's facing, which is helpful when making tight turns or merging into traffic. It is recommended not to shift to this gear unless it is essential, as it could damage the transmission or cause the rear wheel to slip and pose danger for the driver.
It's crucial that new riders check the oil in their motorcycle prior to riding and also conduct regular maintenance and inspections. It is also essential to wear the appropriate safety gear while riding on a motorbike, including glasses, a helmet and gloves. Proper footwear is also essential as they can increase the comfort and stability of your feet, as well as provide protection from the elements.
Turning Around
You're riding along when you spot a turn ahead. You're able to navigate through the tight and crooked area. It's time to test your abilities. You're not sure how to handle a situation, but you're aware that it's your responsibility. The bike will react to your riding style, and if a wrong turn is made it could send you flying into the air.
The first step is to be able to see the entire turn. If you're moving at a slow pace, it's common to look at the direction you want to travel, and then turn your handlebars. If redirected here slowing to a halt it requires more practice and ability to keep your eyes on the road as you look up to see the direction you're turning. You need to be able look down, to the left or right of your bike, without getting distracted and losing your balance.
When you're at a slow speed and ready to go, you need to balance the bike. If you don't counterweight your bike with your own weight, it will easily slide over. Your bike is heavy and carries lots of gravitational pulling. This is done by applying pressure to the inside leg of your pants or boot. This keeps your leg from sliding off the pedal and allows you to stay in control when you turn.
Then, you must take the throttle. Maintaining an even, steady speed allows the motorcycle to stay balanced while you're taking the turn, then accelerate out of it. This is an essential part of learning how to maneuver your motorcycle through tight areas.
There are many other tips to master regarding motorcycle riding, but these are the basic rules that every new rider should start with. You'll notice that it becomes easier and more enjoyable as you refine your technique. You'll soon be gliding through traffic like a pro.
Stopping
The ability to stop your bike swiftly and effectively is a critical ability to have when riding a motorbike. This skill takes practice, and you shouldn't be taking it for to be taken for granted.
When a rider is learning to stop, he or she should be in a location where they can practice their skills without worrying about other cars and pedestrians. The first thing to keep in mind is that stopping at higher speeds requires a different method than stopping at lower speeds. It is obvious that stopping at 25 mph takes less time and less distance than stopping from 60 mph. However, the bike's balance and reaction will be different.
It is essential to know how to use brakes. The best way to stop your bike is to use both brakes. The front brake should be used using a firm and smooth press, and the rear brake should be used to modulate the pressure applied. This reduces the risk of rear tire skid which could be dangerous on a motorcycle.
The body's position and foot placement are also crucial when it comes to stopping on a motorcycle. A rider should have their feet planted on the foot pegs with their feet pointed upwards to prevent them from catching on the ground. When riding a motorbike it is essential not to drag your feet. This could impact the rider’s balance and result in them losing control.
The state of a motorbike's tires and brakes is another factor that could affect stopping ability. To ensure optimal stopping it is recommended to have brake pads and discs, fluid pipes and brake pads examined as often as is necessary. Properly inflated and rated tires are also essential to ensure safety as is a well-maintained vehicle that is in good condition.
The final piece in the stopping the bike is the rider's preparation as well as training. A experienced rider has a plan for stopping their bike and is prepared to do it with precision. Making stopping on a regular basis will make them easier to do in the event of an emergency situation, and it's this ability that will prevent an accident on the road from turning into an emergency.