Motorcycle Safety

When you hop aboard a motorcycle, you accept a certain amount of risk. But there are plenty of ways you can prevent (or at least, minimize) some of the risks. We gathered up the top strategies for staying safe on the road below. It doesn't matter what type of motorcycle you ride or how long you have been riding - these tips apply to everyone. If you have any questions, feel free to ask the friendly staff at Escondido Cycle. We proudly serve those in San Diego, California.

Pre-Ride Inspections

Even the best quality motorcycles will eventually start experiencing mechanical issues. You'll want to catch these issues in the safety of your own driveway, rather than on the road going full-speed on the highway. That's where a pre-ride inspection comes into play. You try to catch these issues so you can get them addressed as soon as posible.

Start with checking your tires. Are they inflated to the proper level? Do they have the right amount of tread? Your owner's manual will provide the levels you should be aiming for.

Then you will want to check the fluid levels (such as the brake fluids, oil, and coolant). If anything is low, top it off. Aim to ride with a full tank of gas. You never know what unexpected detours you could encounter and you'll be glad to have gas to spare.

Finally, go on a quick test run. Are all your lights working well and clearly visible? Do your brakes work smoothly? Is your clutch working well? If anything isn't working right, take your motorcycle to get a service.

The Weather

Your motorcycle isn't capable of riding in certain types of weather conditions. Intense storms, hail, and extreme heat are all good reasons to stay home. The road conditions will be too poor (plus it will be miserable facing those conditions).

Be cautious about riding in the rain as well. The rain will compromise road conditions, causing you to more easily slip about. It'll be harder to maintain traction for safe braking, turning, lane changing, and accelerating. If you have to ride in the rain (such as getting caught halfway to work), take things slow and cautious.

If it's going to be chillingly cold, you'll want to wear more layers to stay warm. If there is any rain or snow, your traction will be compromised. Stay on the lookout for black ice and puddles (as they can cause hydroplaning). 

If it's going to be brutally hot, you'll want to be proactive about dehydration. The heat (combined with how athletic riding a motorcycle is) will result in lots of sweat and losing moisture. Take plenty of breaks and drink plenty of wáter.

Defensive Driving

You can be a great driver, but you still are at risk of an accident (because of how other motorists drive). Inattentive drivers can tailgate you, slam on their brakes unexpectedly, veer into your lane, and so on. You'll want to stay alert and leave plenty of space between you and other motorists to compensate (and keep you safe).

For all your motorcycle needs, visit Escondido Cycle Center. We offer a range of new and used motorcycles for sale if you are looking to buy. If you uncovered an issue during your pre-ride inspection, bring your bike on in. Our parts replacement and service options can get it running like new in no time. We also offer a range of apparel and accessories to suit your motorcycle lifestyle. We proudly serve those in San Diego, Escondido, Temecula, Oceanside, and VIsta, California. Come stop by and visit today!