For fans of motorcycles, these iconic machines offer unparalleled joy. Nothing will ever replace the sense of peace from being one with the road.
An afternoon of motoring bliss can flip from gearhead nirvana to tragedy in a split second. Avoiding a wreck requires strict observation of commonsense guidelines that too many ignore.
Mistake #1: Refusing to wear proper gear
Helmets and leather jackets are expensive, yet they cost less than surgery. Some decry the lack of mobility they impose or find them uncomfortable in hot weather. Heat discomfort and a drain on the wallet will always be more bearable than road rash from hitting the pavement at top speed without protection.
Mistake #2: Neglecting practice
Brushing up on fundamentals is essential. Over time, riding skills diminish without conscious sharpening. In combination with overconfidence from years of experience, rustiness can be deadly. Making a habit of running through vital cycling techniques such as tail braking and line selection might save a life.
Mistake #3: Shifting into neutral at intersections
When coming to stoplights, lazy motorcyclists go into neutral. If the car behind them is tooling down the road too fast, lackadaisical hog riders cannot escape. The wisest protocol is to keep the bike in gear, keep checking the mirrors and have a plan to zoom away.
Motorcycle riding is an endless love affair between man and machinery. Nonetheless, a lack of respect for the inherent danger sometimes leads to disaster. Every two-wheeled enthusiast should exercise active mindfulness when it comes to riding safety.