If you have just bought yourself a motorbike and you are getting ready to take to the road, then there is a lot that you need to keep in mind. You may know how to ride well, you may have gotten your license, you may even have one of the best quality bikes on the market. But it is extremely important that you take extra special care of yourself and your bike, especially because you are still a beginner. From knowing your way around your own bike to how you need to protect yourself, there is a lot that you need to know. Here are just a few tips to point you in the right direction.
Wear Protective Gear and Clothing
One thing many riders fail to do is wear the right clothing and gear. You obviously need a good helmet and high quality motorbike gloves that are specifically designed for your riding demands. What many people do not realize is that you also have to wear clothing that can protect you if you do take a spill. Denim, for example, is not protective. Those iconic jackets and leather pants you see bikers wearing in the movies are not just for looking cool, they are actually more protective than your everyday clothing. It is also advisable to dress in layers, even if it’s a hot day, because at high speeds, the wind can be vicious. Additionally, you should get a pair of good shoes with traction. There are boots made for bikers, so it is best to choose those over even non-slip shoes.
Ride Defensively
You may be an excellent bike rider, taking care to follow all the road rules and being especially vigilant. However, no matter how skillful and carefully you ride, a significant number of drivers, riders, and pedestrians are not as law-abiding or alert as you may be. On a bike, you are at more risk for severe and even fatal injury in the event of an accident. This is why it is vital to make sure you do not get too comfortable or become complacent with your riding. Always abide by the rules, and pay attention to your surroundings whether you are on the move or even a standstill, not just on the road, but also in parking lots, petrol stations, and anywhere a vehicle can enter or leave moving traffic. You don’t need amazing reflexes if you can take this level of care with your riding.
Keep Up Regular Maintenance
Although you may regularly wash and wax your bike, you should also add to the routine a bit of a check-up. Check your oil, tyre pressure, chain drive, and even your lights. Those few extra minutes you spend on giving your bike a little once-over will help you identify potential trouble spots early on, as well as alert you to any need for repair. If you don’t, unexpected problems can do some serious damage to your bike and possibly get you injured. This kind of maintenance will enable you to markedly lengthen the lifespan of your bike.
These are only a couple of the tips you should know when you start cruising the streets on your new bike. Make sure you learn as much as you can in addition to these, so you can be as safe and as mindful as possible.
Leave a Reply