Many people consider motorcycling to be a tonic for the soul. It’s usually a scenic, two-wheeled journey that leads to greater freedom and independence. It can also be a way to meet new people, make new friends, and enjoy the company of those you love.
While the allure of the open road is captivating, there are many considerations that have to be made before hitting the road. From vehicle safety to maintenance to weather and park restrictions, there are numerous things that you need to think about.
Vehicle Safety
For those who love to travel by bike, safety is of paramount importance. Just as you would never consider taking a risky flight, you shouldn’t put yourself in any danger on your bike. Fortunately, a number of precautions can be taken to avoid accidents and injuries. The most effective safety measure is proper training and education. Make sure that you are familiar with safety tips and best practices for motorcyclists. Be sure to obtain a license and insurance before hitting the road. If you are new to biking, you might also consider taking a crash course with a professional bike mechanic – this way you can be sure that your vehicle is in good condition and that you’ll know how to fix it if it happens to get damaged in an accident.
Maintenance
Keeping your bike in good condition is essential if you want to continue using it safely and comfortably on the road. This includes regular oil changes, tire rotations, and brake pads and lines replacement. These are all relatively inexpensive things that can be done at a bike repair shop. However, it is also important to do some maintenance yourself if you want to be able to continue riding safely. It is, of course, important to learn how to change a flat tire and how to rotate your tires on a regular basis. Make sure to take your bike in for service every month, as this will make it cheaper to fix up when it breaks down. Learning how to change your own flat tire can be quite difficult, but with some practice, you’ll become an expert. Proper maintenance will also help increase your bike’s lifespan, so it’s an investment in keeping your vehicle safe on the road.
Weather
Biking during the summer is usually pleasant enough, but it can become extremely hot and uncomfortable if you aren’t careful. While there is usually plenty of shade and air-conditioning on the road, it’s still likely that you’ll overhear many people complaining about the heat. Never underestimate the heat! If you are planning on biking during the summer, make sure that you have some experience and that you’re prepared for the heat. Wearing protective clothing, such as wide-brimmed hats and long-sleeved shirts, can dramatically reduce the risk of heat-related injuries. Additionally, most vehicles come with air-conditioning, which can make the ride more comfortable for everyone involved. If you are going to be biking during the summer, make sure to check the weather reports before you set out so that you don’t end up in a heat emergency. A good rule of thumb would be, if you’ve been getting overheated while biking, it’s either too hot or too humid. Find a place with more air flowing and less people nearby so that you can take a decent breath.
Parking
One of the main concerns for bikers is parking. Many cities and towns have restrictions on where you can park your vehicle, especially if you have a trailer or bike rack attached. Make sure to check the rules and regulations before you set out so that you don’t get a $20 parking ticket. If you are planning on biking in a town, find a location that is legal and easy to find a spot in. If you are looking for a scenic route, consider parking at a scenic overlook or at a park. If you are in a large city, find a garage or lot that is bike friendly or that has spaces already reserved for bike parking.
Once you have your bike safely packed and stored, it’s time to hit the road. Make sure to enjoy your journey and keep your safety and that of others in mind at all times. If you take these factors into consideration, it’s very unlikely that you’ll have a bad experience while biking. Always wear a helmet, which is mandatory in most places. If you do end up in an accident, make sure to get to a hospital as soon as possible so that you can be treated for your injuries. Once you are recovered, you can think about what happened and whether you need to report the incident to the police or not. Hopefully, this article will help make your next biking experience an enjoyable one.