Riding Tips For Motorcyclists of All Experience Levels

For many years, motorcycles have provided a fast and convenient way to allow people to travel from one place to another. For this reason, these two-wheeled vehicles have operated in delivery, law enforcement, and emergency medical services for many years. However, they come with risks affecting road safety, similar to any other vehicle.

Riding a motorcycle can be an adventurous and exciting experience. However, the truth is that motorcycle riding can be dangerous if proper safeguards are not followed, so it makes sense to take safety seriously each time you’re riding a motorcycle.

One of the most common and best ways to remain safe during motorcycle rides involves knowing the risks you come across while on the road. The following are ten of the most common motorcycle safety risks to be aware of:

1. Road conditions– Debris on the road surface can become a safety hazard for motorcyclists. Potholes, uneven pavements, or fresh oil spills can cause a decrease in traction on the road.
2. Lowered visibility– Motorcycles are much smaller and more difficult to see than 4-wheeled vehicles, which increases their risk of being involved in collisions. Other drivers overlook them on the road, especially when changing lanes.
3. Carelessness– carelessness from other drivers causes a threat to the safety of the motorcyclists near them. Collisions are more likely to occur when drivers change lanes suddenly, run red lights, or take away their right-of-way.
4. Impairment – Drivers who are under the influence of alcohol, drugs, or even medications are more likely to get involved in collisions. These conditions reduce the time for a reaction, and their coordination, and reduce their judgment.
5. No protective gear– Failure to use the correct protective equipment, such as helmets, pants, gloves, and boots, will cause riders to become susceptible to head injuries, fractures, and multiple abrasions.
6. Distracted driving– Most drivers who text, talk on the phone, or use in-vehicle technology are less likely to notice motorcycles and more likely to be involved in collisions. Failing to be aware of the driving environment is one of the leading causes of motorcycle-related collisions. 
7. Intersection collisions– Intersections are common locations for collisions involving motorcycles. The common issue is that drivers may misjudge the distance motorcycles are from them or their speed when turning left in front of them or when crossing an intersection in front of them. 
8. Weather and road conditions– Adverse weather conditions, including rain, winds, fog, or snow, open motorcyclists to additional hazards. Reduced visibility and poor traction can affect the safety of riders, especially if they aren’t adjusting to these conditions.
9. Inexperience– Inexperienced motorcycle riders are more susceptible to safety hazards due to poor judgment, improper control, and lack of knowledge about safe riding practices.
10. Speeding– It’s no secret that speeding increases the risk of collisions for motorcycle riders. The faster the vehicle goes, the less time motorcycle riders have to react to critical road hazards.

Now that most of the common hazards in motorcycle safety have been identified, here are five motorcycle safety tips you should follow:

1. Wear protective gear

Wearing protective gear is the most effective way to protect yourself on the road. Wearing an approved helmet, gloves, jacket, pants, and boots will reduce the impact you would take during any falls and collisions on your body and protect you from possible head injuries, fractures, and abrasions.

Ensure you choose the protective gear that meets the safety standards and fits you correctly.

2. Regular maintenance and inspections

Regular inspections and maintenance help to keep your motorcycle in good condition, ensure everything is safe to use, and reduce the risk of possible mechanical failures that can result in avoidable collisions. 

Before every ride, be sure to check the brakes, tires, lights, and other critical components. There is no need to cut corners with inspections. Riders can use a digital vehicle inspection checklist while inspecting these parts to ensure that no item has been overlooked.

3. Ride within your limits

It’s important to know what your riding capabilities are and stay within those limits. For example, if you’re uncomfortable at highway speeds, ride on roadways with lower speed limits. Self-awareness is crucial for motorcycle safety on the road. 

If you’re a beginner motorcyclist, avoid taking unnecessary risks or trying maneuvers beyond your skill level. Gradually advance your limits as you gain more experience.

4. Follow traffic laws

Following traffic laws and regulations is another way to be safe on the roads. Pay close attention to the speed limit, use your turn signals, and observe traffic lights as you travel through your community. Following these guidelines is not only for your safety but also for the safety of other road users.

5. Ride defensively

Defensive riding skills are important for any motorcycle rider, regardless of their experience level. It helps the rider anticipate and avoid any potential hazards on the road. Not only does it lower the chances of possible collisions, but it also reduces maintenance and repair costs resulting from these incidents. 

A few tips to help you enhance this skill include:

• Be aware of your immediate and future surroundings.
• Beware of pedestrians on the road or approaching the edge of the road.
• Remain focused on the road at all times.
• Always check your blind spots before changing lanes or making turns.
• Anticipate the possible actions of other drivers and road users.
• Maintain a safe distance from other vehicles and increase it in poor weather.
• Use turn signals early enough to alert other drivers and road users of your movement.

Motorcyclists will face more risks on the road than those in passenger vehicles. Since motorcycles have fewer safety features than 4-wheel vehicles, they become more exposed to serious hazards on the road.

Remaining safe on your motorcycle is all about being aware of the risks around you on the road. While most serious motorcycle collisions may be the fault of other drivers and not you, you can still take positive steps to help protect yourself from those near you.