Riding a motorbike is an exhilarating mode of transport that many choose to embrace. Greater freedom and flexibility and the feeling of the wind in your hair are exciting prospects. However, UK motorcyclists are three times more likely to die in road accidents due to their exposure.
Make sure that you’re protecting yourself as best as possible when riding on the road by following these tips on how to stay safe when on a motorbike.
Consider the conditions
Before each journey, consider the conditions and make sure you’re properly prepared. This doesn’t just include clothing – although that’s important too. There are different strategies for riding in different weather, and you must know how to adjust your riding technique accordingly to help ensure your safety and avoid accidents.
When it’s raining, reduce your lean and go steady on the throttle to ensure a smoother ride. Take extra care in areas where cars have been waiting as there might be residue oil which is more slippery when combined with water.
Should you encounter sudden strong winds, reduce drag by keeping your head down and arms and legs in and choose a balanced speed to optimize stability. Avoid riding in open areas as the wind will be strongest here.
Use essential equipment
Weather will also dictate the essential equipment you need for each ride – to a degree. For example, you’ll need a visor that’s anti-fog to ensure excellent visibility in wet and cold conditions. Some visors even come with an electric defrosting function that will be your best friend on winter rides.
Whatever the weather, you need to be properly kitted out in safety gear. A helmet is most important, and not just because it is a legal requirement in the UK. Wearing a helmet reduces the risk of death by a third if you are in an accident.
You should also wear a riding jacket made out of a suitably sturdy material like leather or Kevlar, as well as gloves and boots. A high-vis vest is recommended, particularly on sunny days when the light can dazzle drivers, and earplugs to safeguard your ear health.
Regularly inspect your equipment to make sure it’s in perfect working order before you take your bike on the road.
Anticipate risky situations
Careless driving by another road user is one of the main reasons riders make motorbike accident claims to seek compensation. With this in mind, when you’re riding you must anticipate risky situations and act accordingly to avoid being injured while on the road.
Use defensive driving techniques to help keep yourself at a safe distance from other vehicles. This will help you to escape any dangerous situations caused by poor driver behavior. Use your mirrors to track the surrounding traffic and move over to allow cars that are too close to pass. Ensure you’re at a controlled speed at all times and don’t feel pressured to meet speed limits.
Consider the risks posed by the weather and the condition of the roads as well. For example, black ice and hidden potholes could throw you off your balance and cause you to career into neighboring cars. If in doubt, go slow and stay in line with other vehicles on the road.
Safety equipment, such as coats, boots, gloves, and helmets, is made to lessen the severity of injuries sustained in an accident.