Motorcycle safety is something you should always consider, whether you are an experienced rider or an amateur learning his way through the streets. Since you will be spending many hours on your motorcycle for transport, it is vital for you to have a solid foundation in protecting yourself and your vehicle. Keeping safety as a priority, especially this winter season, will help you experience the fun in riding your motorcycle for years to come.
While it’s alright to ride around during fair weather, motorcycling during the winter is a “no-no” to many people, especially in Michigan (since we’re way too close to the North Pole). However, if your motorcycle is your only means of transport and something urgent comes up during this season, it is important that you are able to drive properly. The truth is, motorcycle riding during the winter can be done safely, and all it takes is a great regard for one’s protection. Here are some motorcycle safety tips for winter riding:
- Before you go and drive your vehicle, make sure it’s in top condition. You know how bad it is to ride on a motorcycle with worn-out tires. That a big no during winter. Make sure you’ve checked your motorcycle entirely and everything is working fine.
- Wear the right clothing. Dress in layers; the breeze may feel nice during summer but the drafty air during the snow season is something you should avoid. Wear insulated clothing instead of your regular street clothes, add a wool sweater and make sure you have your full-face helmet on. Wear good boots that doesn’t slip, and put on your gloves. Your outerwear should be wind-proof and tightly woven.
- As you go down that road, make sure you do it carefully. Be on your guard. Snow can be blamed for lower visibility and accidents are on a high. Keep your speed down and ride with precision. Pay attention to the pavement—rubber wheels does not have the right traction with the snow and it is possible to slip if you’re not careful.
- If there’s a patch of snow on the road, do not panic. Instead of rapidly braking, keep your motorcycle slow and steady. Do not accelerate, but don’t reduce the speed either. Keep riding steadily, and don’t lean on your weight.
- Be at peace while driving. Pay attention to your physical and mental condition. If you feel cold, pull in for warmth. Your body’s lowering temperature can affect your judgment as well as your reaction time.