Riders who love motorsports know that it is the ultimate freedom. When you head out on your bike, the road is yours for the taking—you can plot your way on a GPS or let destiny be your guide. Before you set out, be sure to take the time to learn what you need to keep the rubber on the road and stay safe out there. According to the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety, motorcyclists are now more than 30 times more likely to die in a crash than someone in a car. Whether you take your motorcycle on grand adventures, or you take advantage of the great gas mileage and easy parking to simplify your commute, here are some tips to staying safe when you ride:
Gear Up: Every ride should include safety gear. Reinforced jackets are now available with breathable mesh for comfort in the heat and specially-designed body armor to protect you from debris, bugs, and road rash. While helmets are not required in every state, they are still your best chance at avoiding serious injury in a crash. Invest in a new helmet every five years, and look for the sticker that denotes approval by the Department of Transportation (DOT). Choose safety gear in bright colors to make you are visible to motorists, as most drivers who hit motorcycle riders reported never seeing them.
Ride Defensively: A recent survey conducted by the Center for Urban Transportation Research found that in 60% of the collisions involving motorcycles and cars, the driver of the car was at fault. More than ever, drivers are distracted by cell phones and texting, so you have to be proactive when you ride. Look for cars changing lanes or pulling out from side streets, be vigilant, and stay safe.
Watch the Road: Keeping an eye on motorists and riding defensively is important, but don’t forget to pay attention to road conditions and hazards like wet leaves, pebbles, and debris. Motorcycles maintain less contact with the pavement, so hitting a bump or road trash can send you sliding. If you can’t ride around the hazard, slow down as much as possible and keep steering to a minimum. Railroad tracks should be approached with as much of a right angle as possible to lessen the chances of skidding.
At Gasket King, we understand your love for motorcycling, because we love it, too. Our family-owned business was founded on a passion for the sport, and a desire to keep the classics alive and running by providing high-quality replacement gaskets at a great price. Our gaskets are made in the U.S.A. from American materials, and they all carry the Gasket King guarantee. When you need quality replacement gaskets for your vintage bike, call Gasket King at 817.562.8178, shop online today or complete the online contact form to send us a question or learn more.
