Motorcyclists are presented with lots of challenges on a daily basis. In order to have a safe experience on your motorcycle, you need to be aware of certain challenges you’re certain to face when on the roads.
1. CAR DRIVERS NOT LOOKING & UNSAFE LANE CHANGES
ALWAYS consider other drivers’ blind spots! If another driver is not looking out for a motorcyclist, you won’t be seen. Always be aware of your surroundings! When changing lanes, consider that your motorcycle may be in the car driver’s blind spot. Never change lanes unless you’re absolutely sure that it is safe.
2. WEARING THE WRONG CLOTHING OR BORROWED CLOTHING
Around 50 per cent of fatal motorcycle accidents involve a crash with another vehicle. The motorcyclist is far more likely to be seriously injured because of inadequate clothing protection. Ensure your helmet, jacket, trousers, gloves and boots are the best quality you can afford. For a wide range of quality clothing, head down to our showroom in Edgware, where we have XPF Motorcycle Accessories based in our showroom.
Don’t scrimp on motorcycle accessories – you are putting yourself in danger if your clothing is not suitable.
3. RUSHING TO YOUR DESTINATION
Rushing can lead to serious injury and risk to others if you are not concentrating or staying alert to your surroundings. Motorcyclists should take extra care on the roads as other vehicles are less likely to spot them. Stay alert!
4. RIDING THE WRONG BIKE
The size and style of a motorbike is part of what makes motorcycling so appealing to riders. However, driving the wrong bike for you can cause serious accidents so make sure your bike is suited to you, your age, skills, experience and driving qualifications.
5. TIREDNESS
Tiredness is a major cause of road accidents on a daily basis. Tiredness makes you less alert and affects your judgement. If you feel tired, you should take regular breaks throughout your journey, have a coffee and rest.
6. SPEEDING
Linked with point 3, speeding is a leading cause of all types of road accidents. Speeding reduces a rider’s chance of seeing and reacting to other drivers in time to prevent a collision. It stands to reason, that the higher the speed, the greater the impact and the more severe the consequences. You may love the thrill of speed, but please stick to the speed limits and be careful.
7. ROAD SURFACE AWARENESS
Inconsistent road surfaces can pose a huge problem for riders. Potholes, loose gravel and chipping in the road can lead to serious accidents. Other surface hazards include mud, oil and ice. When riding, be constantly aware of the changing road surface and avoid potholes at all costs!
8. SUDDEN OPENING OF CAR DOOR
Car drivers can often open their doors quickly without looking whilst a motorcycle is passing by. If a motorcycle were to hit the opening door, the impact would be extremely dangerous to the biker, but also to the car driver. Be aware of stationary cars when riding down busy streets – you never know what hazard could present itself.
There’s a lot to consider when riding on open roads. If you feel your riding could benefit from a refresher course, take a look at our range of courses. If you need some guidance, feel free to call us on 0208 952 9622. At North London Motorcycle Training, we are open Monday-Saturday, 9 am-5 pm.
9. HIGH FUEL CONSUMPTION
With fuel costs on the rise, riders should take every precaution to ensure they’re not using more fuel than needed. To avoid this from happening, make sure that you are riding your bike as much as possible at an average speed and properly shifting your gears. Also, make sure that you regularly change your oil as engine oil plays a big part in maintaining good fuel consumption.
10. CONTAMINATED FUEL
Although some people prefer to use their vehicles less often to keep the mileage low and to keep the bike in optimal condition, minimal driving or insufficient usage can actually cause some damage to the parts. The gas can become old and clog up which nobody wants!
11. ENGINE MECHANICAL PROBLEMS
Mechanical problems are something no bike rider wants to encounter. Whether it’s a snapped cam chain, or a piston sticking out the side of the engine, make sure you don’t take any shortcuts when it comes to repairs as it could lead you down a long road.
If your motorcycle is in need of a service, repairs or maintenance, check out our partner business Greater London Motorcycles