Motorcycle Safety is extremely important to those people that are compelled to race at high speeds and feel the freedom that it brings. Riding can bring a rush of exhilaration as well as a sense of calm. It is both exciting and cathartic. It is no surprise then that so many people choose to purchase motorcycles and feel this freedom for themselves. Motorcycle safety is important whether you are a beginner or have been riding for fifty years, but here is some motorcycle safety advice for a new rider.
There is the obvious motorcycle safety advice that is almost too obvious to need mentioning, but for the clueless, I will indulge. WEAR A HELMET! Some cities, states, and countries have or do not have laws requiring the usage of helmets while riding your motorcycle. In New Hampshire, USA, the state motto is “Live Free or Die.” Ultimately, this means “If you die from not wearing a helmet, that is your right.” “It is also your right to get in an accident and end up paralyzed for the rest of your life.” Got it? Just wear a helmet. It is the most important aspect of motorcycle safety.
Why do so many bike riders wear a leather motorcycle jacket? Is it because they look so cool? Perhaps they all enjoy the smell? Well, these all could be true. However, leather will also offer some protection in a minor accident. Leather gloves, pants, and jackets will protect the skin from road rash in the event of a wipe out. Even the most experienced rider has the occasional fall thanks to unsteady roads, equipment malfunction, and even basic human error. When you think about motorcycle safety, think about what you are wearing and whether or not you will be protected in the event of an accident.
Have you ever been driving down the road and the sunny weather turns to rain? Look at the sides of the road and under the overpasses. Motorcycle safety includes not riding in the poor weather. Honestly, how many motorcycles do you see during the snow season? Rain and snow make the roads slippery and even the best rider cannot avoid the will of Mother Nature.
Here is another no brainer: take a course. Learn how to ride your new motorcycle from someone that knows how to teach you properly. In addition, they will teach you safety. Yes, this is an expense that you may balk at paying, but how much are you paying for that motorcycle, registration, and license? When you add it all up, the extra minimal expense of a class is paltry compared to the potential of making a life changing error when riding your new motorcycle. Learning motorcycle safety from an expert is the best way to go!
Motorcycle safety is important for every new rider. This is not an option unless you have a death wish. Motorcycles are fantastic, but they are dangerous. Remember that when the time comes to feel that freedom only a motorcycle ride can bring!