If you’re looking to buy a motorcycle for leisure or everyday use, you must first learn all you can about responsible motorcycle ownership. Apart from making sure that you take proper care of your vehicle and you have all the necessary warranties, insurance coverage, and Powersports Extended Service Contracts to protect you against financial loss, you also have to make sure that you know everything there is to know about being a responsible motorcycle owner on the road.
On that note, here are a few things to keep in mind when riding your Powersports vehicle on the road:
1. Wear appropriate safety gear
Responsible motorcycle owners know that they should not get on their bike and drive on the road without a helmet. Safety is the top priority and wearing a helmet is not optional. But there’s more to motorcycle safety than simply using a helmet; you have to have the right road safety helmet. This means the helmet has to be made from sturdy materials and must have passed all quality and safety standards. You also shouldn’t simply wear it over your head; it needs to be securely buckled to prevent slipping.
You should likewise wear eye protection like goggles, as well as knee pads, elbow pads, and chest protection if you’re off-roading with your Powersports vehicle.
Take your time looking for the right safety gear. Make sure everything fits you perfectly.
Note: Wear your helmet at all times even if you’re riding only a short distance.
2. Make sure head and back lights are working properly
Once it gets dark, other vehicles, especially four-wheeled vehicles, will have an even harder time seeing you. Make sure your headlights and backlights are working properly. You should also consider installing reflectors on your motorcycle.
3. Signal properly
Never assume that everyone on the road can see you, especially on the vehicles’ blind spots. Before making a left or right turn, passing a vehicle, or changing directions, make sure to use turn or hand signals. A responsible and seasoned motorcycle rider knows to ride defensively on the road not only for their safety but for the safety of others on the road as well.
4. Always check the condition of your bike before riding
Before you get on your bike, you have to make sure that it’s safe to ride on the road. This means checking that all components of your power vehicle are working properly. Check your tires (especially air and tread), oil and gas (especially signs of leakage), lights, and most especially, brakes. Also check your horn, as you will need this to call the attention of other riders and vehicles or even pedestrians.
Last but not the least, bring your motorcycle to a professional mechanic for service and maintenance when you’ve reached 5,000 miles. For your peace of mind, you can have your bike serviced at regular 5,000-mile intervals.
