Added on July 24, 2019  The News Wheel   , , ,
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How to Prepare Yourself and Your Motorcycle for Longer Trips

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Motorcycle and Passenger
Photo: Pexels

Riding a motorcycle is best enjoyed when it’s sunny and you’re by the ocean or the mountains. It’s a one-of-a-kind experience you can’t always get from driving a car.

But riding a motorcycle is also much more dangerous than driving a car. No matter how skilled a rider you are, you are still at risk of getting injured on the road. However, there are some things you can do to increase your safety. Here’s what to look out for before you hit the road.

1. Get your bike checked

The most important thing to maintaining the integrity of your motorcycle is to check it for any issues that could hamper its performance. Issues such as broken indicator lights and problems with your brakes are critical, so you will need to resolve them right away or at least a week before. You might want to give the bike a test ride to see if it’s purring nicely like it’s supposed to.

2. Invest in better lights

Is your headlamp getting dimmer? Does it have scratches on the surface of the glass? At any rate, you may want to either repair it or replace it altogether. Headlamps are what can draw the lines between life and death, especially during a night ride where visibility is an important issue you will have to deal with. Make sure to purchase and install headlamps that are bright enough to help you light up your way but not so bright as to blind other motorists.

3. Keep a directory of contacts

You never know if you’ll be involved in a collision while you’re on a long journey. So aside from keeping your bike in good condition, it’s a good idea to keep a list of names you can contact in case of an emergency. Of course, you will need the phone numbers of fire and police departments in areas where you’re traveling. You can also keep the contact information of your insurance provider. For a law firm that specializes in motorcycle injuries, check out one that might have the right solutions for you.

4. Invest in the right gear

You will need to bring along extra accessories that will help make the trip easier and safer for you. Start by shopping for a sturdy carbon fiber helmet that should fit comfortably around your head. You might also want gloves that provide extra grip so you won’t risk your fingers slipping as you make sharp turns.

Riding a motorcycle has its benefits. It makes you feel alive and it’s also a great way to be one with the open road. But the experience shouldn’t lead to debilitating injuries in the long run. You just have to learn how to prepare for the long trip ahead.

This is a collaborative article.