Motorcycle Safety

Riding your motorcycle can be an exilerating experience but you need to be safe and be smart! Motorcycle safety will help keep you healthy and alive if you follow these basic rules.


1. Mechanical conditionOne of the most important things to riding safely is too have a bike that is in good mechanical condition. Be sure to check your tire pressure and fluid levels as well as look for any fluid leaks.


2 LightsMake sure your headlight works. Check the daylight running light to make sure it is on during the day. Check both the high and low beams to make sure they are working and make sure it is lined up for proper night riding. You also need to check the signal lights to insure they are working.


3 Reflective StripsUse reflective strips or decals on your clothing,your motorcycle, and on your helmet. Reflective strips make you more visible to other drivers. You can buy reflective strips or decals at your local bike shop.


4..Watch your blind spotsAlways be aware of your blind spots. The bigger the vehicle the larger the blind spot. Cars and trucks have a blind spot too so do not ride too close to the back as they cannot see you.


5..Brake flashFlash your brake light when stopping or slowing down. This helps warn the drivers behind you. It also grabs his attention so he can see you better and know what you are doing


6..The hornIf a motorist does not see you, don't be afraid to use your horn to warn them. Do not get carried away and honk your horn all the time especially in traffic jams as this will only annoy some drivers.


7..Your helmetAlways wear an approved helmet and eye protection. If your helmet has a face shield make sure it is clean. If the visor is scratched buy a new one as a scratched shield reduces your vision. You can also buy tinted shields which are great for cutting glare.


8..ClothingBe sure to wear bright clothing and a light colored helmet. The bright cloth makes you more visible. Remember no matter how large your bike is, it is small in comparison to cars and trucks.





9..BlowIf you are being passed by transport truck or other large vehicles be prepare for the amount of air they displace as you could be blown around in your lane


10.. Outer gearYou should wear leather or one of the newer style jackets as they have ballistic materials to help protect you in case of a fall. You should also wear approved riding pants as they have skid proof materials in them. Don't forget a good pair of boots and aproved gloves. Remember the only thing between you and the road is your protective gear.


11. ConditionsConstantly search the road for changing conditions. Be aware of the traffic around you always have an escape plan to get out of trouble. If it should occur.


12..TimeGive other motorist time and space to respond to you as well give your self time and space to respond to the other motorists. Be aware of vehicles changing lanes as some people will not see you no matter what you wear.


13..Lane PositioningUse lane positioning to be seen. Ride in the part of the lane where you are most visible. Be sure to watch for turning vehicles and signal well in advance so other drivers know your next move.


14..WeavingYes weaving between lanes might be fun but you need to advoid doing this because it's not safe! You should also not weave in and out of traffic. On city streets watch for doors opening in front of you. .


15..Be alertNever ride when you are tired or under the influence of alcohol or drugs. This slows down your reaction time, and makes handling your bike more difficult. You could also be arrested and left with a criminal record, or worse yet cause an accident.


16..Know the rules of the roadIt s a good idea to reread your motorcycle handbook that you got when you took you license. Refreshing can keep you smart and help you drive safely.


17. SpeedThe urge to speed on a motorcycle is sometimes overpowering. With all that horsepower and freedom, who wouldn't want to put the petal to the metal. But remember speed kills! So when the urge hits take a deep breath and don't do it. Always follow posted speed limits.


18. Drive defensivelyAlways drive defensively. Watch what other drivers are doing and assume they don't see you. Better yet assume they are idiots and always try to second guess what they may or may not do.


That's it! You're armed with many tips to help keep you safe as you travel the roads on your motorcycle. Enjoy your new found freedom and stay safe!

About The Author:
Kristopher is the Editor and Publisher of Article Click. For more FREE articles for your ezine and websites visit - http://www.articleclick.com