Testimonies the Dangers of Motorcycling
There seems to be a lot of talk about the dangers of riding a motorcycle these days. Is it dangerous? Of course it is! But so is driving a car or flying a plane or mowing the lawn. Just as with anything that one does, there are certain things that a motorcyclist can do in order to minimize their exposure to risk.
1. Know your motorcycle. This is of the utmost importance especially for beginner riders. You must acquire at least a basic understanding of how the motorcycle operates and how to perform basic maintenance procedures. Not only will this allow you to keep your motorcycle functioning properly but you will begin to be able to spot potential problems early on before they become a danger. An informed rider will also be able to perform basic roadside repairs if necessary potentially keeping one from being stranded. This also applies to more seasoned riders that may find themselves riding a different bike than the one they are used to. There is a big difference between a cruiser and a sport bike for example.
2. Buy proper safety gear. This is a somewhat controversial subject as there are different ideas as to what proper safety gear entails. Some will say that a DOT approved helmet is a must while others prefer to wear no helmet at all. There are pros and cons to both so it really becomes a matter of personal preference unless it is required by law in your area. Other safety gear is less controversial. Most bikers would agree that a heavy jacket (usually leather), proper pants (leather or denim), flat soled shoes, gloves and eye protection are basics.
3. Know your skill level. Confidence is a must when riding but overconfidence in either your skills as a rider or the abilities of your bike can get you hurt, or worse. Always ride within your skill set. Please note that a rider has different skill levels in different conditions. An accomplished highway rider may find that a sudden transition to a dirt road will greatly reduce their skill level.
4. Ride defensively. This is a big one. Never assume that the other drivers on the road can see you. Always know where you are in respect to other drivers. Never ride in another vehicles blind spot. When you find yourself next to or behind a car, always look at that cars rear view mirror. Can you see that drivers face. If so, then that driver should be able to see you. Try to make eye contact with that driver through the mirror to better assure yourself that they know you're there.
5. Ride intelligently. Try not to ride your motorcycle as you might drive your car. Let's face it, most people have become so comfortable driving their cars that they often times take risks based on probability. Tailgating comes to mind as does not fully stopping at a stop sign. On a motorcycle these seemingly minor offences become a great deal riskier. Tailgating in a car might result in a fender-bender. Tailgating on a motorcycle could result in tragedy.
6. Expect the expected. What? Don't be nervous, just be aware that much of what happens out on the road can be expected and you should be prepared for it. For example, say you're riding your motorcycle beside a long line of parked cars. Is it conceivable that someone may still be inside one of those cars just about to exit it? Sure it is and you should expect that it will happen so that you are prepared if it does. Don't confuse this with something that you couldn't expect to happen like being caught in a flash flood. Unavoidable circumstances will happen in all aspects of life and you must deal with those as they present themselves.
Don't let the dangers of motorcycling influence your decision to ride. If you let it control you here then it's likely to prevent you from doing much else in life too. There really is no feeling quite like riding a motorcycle. Being on the open road with a full tank of gas makes you feel like the whole world is in reach. So get one, get out and get living.
