A Beginner’s Guide to Motorcycle Safety
Motorcycles offer the most freedom of just about any form of transportation you could imagine, but all that freedom comes with some serious safety considerations. Obviously, motorcycles don’t have seatbelts, airbags, or crumple zones like cars do, and even cars can be very dangerous in some circumstances. On a motorcycle, the stakes are simply higher. At Sky Powersports Sanford, we care about our customers’ riding safety. That’s why we’ve crafted this brief guide to act as a safety refresher for all riders.
Check the Weather
You’ll want to be prepared, no matter what the weather throws at you. Look at the weather report before leaving the house so you can plan around what weather patterns might be heading your way. There are few things more annoying than getting stuck in a torrential downpour or snowstorm with a soaked motorcycle and sloppy roads your only route home. If you’re riding in the summer, remember that you will lose water at a rapid rate, and it’s important to keep a water bottle so you don’t get dehydrated.
Get the Right Gear
No matter what length of trip you take, having the right riding gear will make it safer and more comfortable. The most crucial piece of gear to buy is a helmet. You’ll also want to choose a pair of sturdy shoes or boots that will allow you to place your feet firmly when you stop at stop signs. Many riders choose separate riding apparel to go over their normal clothes. These clothes are often made of leather or synthetic materials. Leather is a common material for jackets, and it helps prevent road rash. Synthetic outerwear can also be a good choice as it’s more breathable and flexible.
Inspect Your Bike
Once you’ve checked the weather and chosen the proper riding equipment, perform a quick visual inspection of your bike. Walk all the way around, looking at each component individually. Pay special attention to the tire pressure, and even check it with a pressure gauge. Look under the bike to see if there are any fluid leaks. Check your oil and top it off if it’s low. Try to find anything that could turn into a bigger problem when riding.
Stay Sober, Stay Safe
Besides the danger of other motorists, alcohol is one of the leading causes of motorcycle and car crashes. It’s also important to remember that prescription drugs can have major effects on one’s ability to operate a motorcycle. Consult your doctor about riding after starting a new medication.
Hopefully, this guide provided you with a good refresher on the best ways to stay safe while riding a motorcycle. If you’re still looking for the perfect ride, visit Sky Powersports Sanford to check out our selection of bikes. You’ll find us in Sanford, FL, and we welcome all those coming from Daytona Beach and Deltona.