Five Ways to Ride Your Motorcycle Safely in the City
Motorcycles have become increasingly popular in cities due to their ability to beat traffic and their lower fuel consumption. As a rider, it's important to note that riding a motorcycle on urban roads differs from suburban and less-traveled roads. This is because cities are plagued by massive traffic, making it challenging. This should not discourage you from venturing into the city with your bike. All you need is to pay extra attention and be much more alert while riding in city traffic as outlined in these five tips below.
If you need more information about your motorcycle or want to upgrade your gear, visit us at Interstate Cycles in Lake City, Florida, serving our neighbors in Jacksonville and Gainesville.
1. Always Scan Your Surroundings
As a city rider, you should be alert and aware of your environment. There are many distractions in cities, from flashy advertisements on billboards to pedestrians and other motorists. You should always focus on riding your motorcycle in order to be able to respond quickly to any incident on the road and to avoid accidents.
2. Ensure Your Visibility
It is crucial that you ensure you always stay visible while riding a motorcycle in city traffic so that drivers can see you clearly. You can remain visible when you are riding your motorcycle during the night with the appropriate lights switched on.
Wearing reflective gear can also ensure that other motorists on the road see you clearly. It's also important, as a rider, to avoid riding in cars' blind spots so that drivers can see you before they make a lane change or other traffic maneuvers.
3. Have an Escape Lane Planned
Unfortunately, some people drive erratically, and it is essential that you have an escape lane planned. That way, if a driver makes a sudden move and blocks you, you can change lanes to avoid a collision. This is also a reason to keep your distance around cars in order to increase your reaction time. Minor collisions can have a massive impact on motorcycle riders.
4. Be Careful With Turns
Turns, especially left turns, can be very dangerous for motorcycle riders. As such, you need to alert other motorists behind you of your intention to turn by using your indicators. In some situations, you may want to honk or wave to get other motorists' attention.
5. Prepare for Unsafe Road Conditions
It is important to be aware of the road conditions ahead. Always note that city roads sometimes have potholes, cracks, and slippery sections. Inclement weather can also affect your connection with the road.
Enjoy a safe and exciting ride, and get your motorcycle serviced, upgrade its parts or switch to another model when you visit us at Interstate Cycles in Lake City, Florida, proudly serving the residents of Jacksonville and Gainesville.