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Motorcycle safetyMotorcycle has long been associated with adrenalin freaks and machos, who burn their rubber on the highways, turning quite a few heads and stopping some heartbeats! This zooming and swirling two wheeled wonder vehicle has always been the most preferred vehicle of the youth.It is estimated that there are over 4 million registered motorcycles in the United States, with new vehicles hitting the road, every moment. Bikes have become a fad, mainly because of its low cost attraction coupled with dashing designs and fuel efficiency. In addition to the ordinary travel bikes there are exclusive racing bikes and pleasure models for your varied and diverse needs.
However, the flip side is that it accounts for one of the highest fatalities on road. Approximately five percent of all motor accidents are caused by bikes, each year, even though they form only a miniscule 2% of all the vehicles registered in USA. Being an exposed vehicle with just two wheels, it is less stable and offers not much safety to the rider. Statistics show that while around 80 percent of reported motor- cycle crashes result in injury or death ; the corresponding figure for automobiles is only 20 percent.
If the riders follow some safety tips, quite a number of accidents could be avoided or at least the impact of the crash could be brought down thereby saving precious lives. Most of the accidents are caused as other motorists have trouble seeing motorcycles and reacting in time. The headlight should be in perfect working condition and should be regularly used. Affix reflective strips on your motorcycle to enhance visibility during night. Horns should be used to grab the attention of large vehicles, which might not pay attention to motorbikes. If you are not confident about your driving do not take risk. Always use all available protective measures while riding driving. Stick to the road rules and speed limits.
A good quality, covered helmet protects not just your head but also your eyes from dust and insects. Opt for long sleeved shirts and pants, over-the-ankle boots, and gloves. During bad weather conditions, study the road for any changing conditions and always keep distance from other vehicles to ensure sufficient time and space to react. Keep a close eye for any sharp turning vehicles in your front and make it a habit to put on the signal of your moves well in advance. Desist from jumping lanes and sudden breaking. Do not ride under the influence of alcohol or other drugs.
Make use of refresher courses to hone your riding skills, which would make you more confident in riding in heavy traffic and specific conditions such as wet or sandy roads, strong winds, and bumpy surfaces. Large bikes are heavy and more difficult to handle ; so, go for them only in case of absolute necessities such as long distance travel, which require enhanced speed and performance. Mull over the primary use of your bike before making your purchase. Some motorcycles are specially built for trail use, with special tires and suspension, whereas highway bikes come with more powerful braking systems and grip. If you require both, combination cycles would be ideal.
Remember, There is nothing to protect you but a whiff of air between you and the road, so trail these safety tips and be secure!
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