Even though motorbikes are enjoyable to ride, they are considered more susceptible to accidents as compared to cars. This is the main reason as to why all rider need to be carefully and cautious before they even start riding their motorbikes. The following smart tips are meant to guide riders on how to stay safe at all times;
1. Obtaining a Permit
This is one of the most important factors that should be taken into consideration by every motorcyclist. Before getting a permit, every rider is expected to take a simple written test based on his state's motorbike handbook outlining a number of specific state laws and requirements. For more information on how to obtain a riding permit, riders should visit their local motor vehicle departments.
2. Taking Riding Courses
In many developed countries around the world, it is a requirement for riders to take riding courses before obtaining motorbike licence. There are numerous state institutions and non-profit organisations committed to offering training to both novice and professional riders.
Training plays a major role in bridging the gap between beginners and professional riders. Vital rider courses cover theory of riding as well practical lessons for beginners on the basics of how to handle motorbikes, ride in different weather conditions, understand road signs, and how to dress for riding trips. Apart from learning motorbike safety, riders also have the advantage of getting the much-needed discounts on insurance policies.
3. Gear
Due to the fact that riders cannot control what other drivers or riders do on the road, it is very advisable for them to always have the right motorbike safety gear from top to toe. Some of the most necessary safely equipment include:
Helmets: Helmets are not only designed to protect the rider's head and brain from injury in case of a bad fall, but also offer shelter from wind turbulence and noise. While choosing a helmet, riders should make sure that it is of the right size and colour and made of strong material.
Jackets: Apart from offering protection against cold, spinal cord injury, and reducing abrasion injuries, jackets also allow the rider to look cool and fashionable. Most jackets are made of ballistic nylon, leather, Kevlar, or cordura. Some of them are designed with special padding on shoulders and elbows and fitted with advanced airbag systems to protect the rider against impact.
Gloves: Gloves are meant to allow the rider maintain a perfect grip on the handlebars and brake levers and to protect the hands in case of a fall.
Goggles and visors: These are for protecting the eyes from insects, dirt, rain, and wind.
Earplugs: Ear plugs are designed to protect the ears from the effects of wind noise, especially at high speeds.
Boots: They are meant to keep the rider's firm on the foot pegs and protect the legs.
Chest Guards: These devices are made of lightweight materials and are for protecting the chest area against impact and abrasion.
4. Proper Motorbike Maintenance
Motorbikes require proper and regular maintenance. They should be washed before storage, have properly inflated tyres, have oiled chains, and stored in a cool and dry place.
James works in SEO for a prestigious company in the UK. With years of experience in copywriting he enjoys writing about travel, insurance, finance and health.
