Motorcycle Safety and Riding Basics
The spring, summer and fall are the perfect time to explore the open road on a motorcycle. Whether you’re looking to cruise for a thrill or just commuting to work, a motorcycle makes every trip more memorable. The majority of multi-vehicle motorcycle crashes happen because drivers didn’t see the rider, so it’s important to stay visible by wearing bright clothing and using reflective materials when riding a motorcycle. It’s also essential to know your local traffic laws, obeying the speed limit, signaling when changing lanes and driving defensively.
With the advent of new technology and safety features, motorcycles have exploded in popularity. More people are getting their licenses, and more women than ever before are riding and owning motorcycles. This means that it’s important to have a thorough pre-ride checklist so you can ensure the bike is in good working order.
A motorcycle is a two or three-wheeled motor vehicle steered by a handlebar from a saddle-style seat. Power is provided by a gasoline engine that converts reciprocating piston motion into rotary motion to turn the back wheel and propel the vehicle forward. A transmission system transfers the engine’s power from the rear to the front wheels. A steering wheel is connected to a pair of fork tubes on either side of the front wheel that house hydraulic shocks that cushion impacts. The bike’s body is attached to the chassis via a frame, often made of aluminum or steel.
Motorcycles are light and accelerate faster than cars, making them popular as a way to get around town. But they’re not as safe as cars, because riders don’t have a protective chassis surrounding them in case of an accident. This can lead to serious injuries for untrained riders.
