With increasing popularity of motorcycles, the road is now shared among riders and cars alike. Although rider gear has become increasingly more and more safe, motorcycle accidents are on the rise. It is estimated that about 5% of all road accidents involve a motorcycle. These accidents also pose a larger risk to the rider as there are no airbags or a secure metal cage to absorb the impact. With this being said, there are ways a rider can prevent accidents, and it starts by wearing the right gear.
A helmet, although not required in some states, should be a no brainer. Protecting your head can greatly increase your chances of survival in the case of a collision. A good leather jacket or vest will protect the vital organs. It is recommended that the leather is about 1.1 mm cowhide (or equivalent leather) to be safe. Recently, the textile jacket has offered better airflow and can be a little easier on the bank account, and proves to be as safe as the leather counterpart. Leather chaps can be a bold fashion statement, but can also protect the skin on your legs from road rash or even hot tail pipes. Instructors will also suggest a good set of leather gloves to protect your palms in the case of a bail out. These articles of clothing protect your skin from what bikers call road rash, and you will find most bikers wear their leathers with pride.
A few riding tips to keep you safe also include:
-First and foremost, lets be clear that drinking and driving is against the law and extremely hazardous. It can be even more dangerous if you decide to get on a bike.
– Do not ride between slow moving vehicles.
– Use signals whenever necessary.
– Be courteous and aware of other drivers on the road.
– Avoid riding in another driver’s blind spot.
– Be cautious when approaching intersections.
– Remember that a bike can stop at a much faster rate than a car. Avoid stopping quickly with traffic behind you.
– Always maintain control of the bike, making sure you can brake if you need to.
By being alert and keeping an eye on your surroundings, you can be sure of a safer ride. Anticipating problems before they happen is something most riders have to learn, but as long as you keep yourself aware and not let yourself get distracted, the better off you will be. We unfortunately don’t have a VIP lane for riders, so we have to share the road. Respect for other drivers will keep you alive and riding for years to come.
Nomads Leathers 