Table of Contents
Riding a motorcycle looks cool. However, as cool as it may seem, it is much riskier than driving a car, with the NHTSA data showing that a motorcyclist is 29 times more likely to die in an accident than a car driver.
But some riders have been riding for years without getting into an accident. That means you, too, can enjoy your newfound hobby without getting in an accident. However, it starts with knowing the dos and don’ts of riding a motorcycle to ensure safety on the road, including whether or not it is easy to find pay-as-you-go temporary bike insurance.
1. Get the Safest Motorcycle
All motorcycles are inherently dangerous. However, the risk associated with motorcycles can vary depending on the motorcycle and the rider’s experience.
So, when you go shopping for a motorcycle, you must consider your experience and only go for one best suited for your level. If you are not sure about the type of bike that fits you best, this guide can come in handy when selecting the safest type of motorcycle to match your experience level.
2. Always Wear a Helmet
Most motorbike accident fatalities result from head injuries, making it very important to protect your head every time you are on a bike.
Depending on local state laws, wearing a helmet could be mandatory. But even where it is not, wearing one can significantly increase your chances of coming out of an accident alive.
However, the type and the size of the helmet you wear matter a lot, with DOT-approved helmets being the best choice.
Also, you must ensure that the helmet is the right size, not too loose or tight. For maximum protection, go for a full-face helmet. While full-face helmets may be slightly expensive, they offer better protection in an accident.
3. Gear Up
The helmet is not the only gear you need before getting on your motorcycle. While the idea of a T-shirt blowing in the wind may look cool, it is not the best choice. Your clothes are the only protection for your body in case of an accident, so you may want to dress up right for the ride.
Your denim jeans can’t offer much protection in an accident that sends you skidding on a rough road surface. You will need to go for leather or denim attire specifically designed for motorcycle riding.
If you are wearing an open-face helmet, you may also need to wear goggles to protect your eyes from flying insects when riding. Having an insect get in your eye at a relatively high speed can result in much pain, causing you to lose control of the motorcycle and even crash. Furthermore, consider installing Honda CRF 250R graphics kits to enhance aesthetics and increase visibility on the road. Adding unique graphics to your bike allows you to stand out while ensuring others can easily spot you, promoting safety during your rides.
4. Stay In Your Comfort Zone
It is important to know your abilities and choose your riding route based on them. If you are relatively new to motorcycles, you will be better off riding on roads that you are most familiar with because you will focus more on riding than worrying about missing your turn.
Your comfort zone also comes into play when choosing your type of bike. For example, a right height motorcycle should be one where you can have both legs flat on the road when sitting on it. Also, if it feels too heavy for you, you may want to go for a lighter one.
5. Follow Traffic Rules
While a motorbike could be smaller than a car, it is still a vehicle like any other, and riders must abide by traffic rules. Some states have rider-specific rules, so you may want to familiarize yourself with your state’s motorcycle riding rules to ensure compliance.
If you are unsure about your motorcycle riding skills, you may need to take a motorcycle driving course. Some states require that every driver take and pass a motorcycle driving exam to get a motorcycle driving endorsement on their licenses. Even when it is not a legal requirement, consider getting training if you are unsure of your abilities.
Image source: Pexels