Safe Riding Tips for Motorcyclists

Riding a motorcycle is a great way to run errands, commute to work and meet friends for dinner. However, riding in the city presents some unique challenges compared to the open road. You have a lot more stop-and-go traffic, for one thing, and a higher volume of vehicles in general to contend with. So how can you stay safe as a motorcyclist riding in busy downtown areas?

Crystal Harley-Davidson in Homosassa Springs is your Florida Harley-Davidson® motorcycle dealer, serving Citrus County. Keep reading to learn more about city-riding safety.

1. Make Yourself Visible

As a motorcycle rider, you might think that the roar of your engine and the flash of chrome is enough to turn heads on city streets. However, drivers of trucks and cars can be distracted in traffic and you may also blend into your surroundings if you’re wearing dark colors and your bike is also black or grey.

So make sure that everyone can see you by opting for brightly-colored riding gear. You can also put reflective tape on your helmet and jacket and even your bike to increase the chances you’re seen. Even throwing on an orange safety vest will help you to stand out. At night, use your lights to make sure that you can see and be seen.

2. Watch the Road Ahead

You’ll need to be prepared to react to whatever is coming when riding in busy narrow streets so always scan the path ahead of you to check for stopped traffic, obstacles, pedestrians, bicyclists, animals, steel plates, rough road or anything else that could cause you to lose traction or crash. You also have to watch what other motorists do, since you never know who might slide into your lane without using a turn signal.

3. Have an Escape Plan

You can move more quickly in busy cities on a motorcycle than you can in a car, which can give you an advantage. Watch for places you can veer into to avoid hitting another car or being hit. Some options include alleys or side streets, grass medians or parking lots.

4. Avoid Aggression

While it might be tempting to give into road rage after the third driver who carelessly pulls out in front of you, don’t do it! Try to maintain respect for everyone around you, use your hand signals and turn signals, exercise caution and stay calm.

Come by our Homosassa Springs, FL, dealership today to check out our fine selection of new and used motorcycles for sale. We can also provide you with financing options. And if you’re new to riding, ask about our learn to ride assistance! Crystal Harley-Davidson welcomes all of our Citrus County, FL, customers to pay us a visit.