Things You Should Know Before Riding a Motorcycle
Motorcycles are a popular form of transport for those who don’t need or want to use a car. They are more affordable than cars, and they can be used in more weather conditions than other vehicles. They are also easy to maneuver and offer a unique way of getting around town. But, like any mode of transportation, they come with their own risks. Here are a few things you should know before riding one.
The earliest motorcycles were basically engine-equipped bicycles. Gottlieb Daimler attached a gasoline internal combustion engine to a wooden-framed velocipede in 1885, and the first motorcycle was born. It could reach speeds of 12 mph.
Fast-forward to today, and motorbikes are more advanced than ever before. New technologies make them safer, and more affordable to own. For example, adaptive headlights adjust automatically to provide the best lighting for your surroundings, while computerized throttles prevent stalling. And, helmet communication systems such as the Cardo PACKTALK SLIM allow riders to talk to each other even when they’re separated by a distance.
While these technological advancements are great, the most important safety feature is the rider’s brain. It is critical to always keep your eyes and ears open for other road users, obey traffic laws, and drive defensively. Most multi-vehicle crashes involving motorcycles are caused when drivers don’t see the bike or misjudged its speed.
Fortunately, more people are now choosing to get on two wheels than ever before. Discounted tolls, free parking in non-car spaces and the surge of adult-sized small-displacement bikes have given perspective riders more options than ever.