In support of the THINK! motorcycle safety campaign, John Reynolds gives some advice on how to get the best out of your motorcycling summer.
It’s that exhilarating time of year, when you’re starting to get your motorbike out of the garage and back on the roads. But don’t bank on being to the standard you were at the end of last summer, give yourself time to get used to your motorbike again. Below are a few tips to make sure your rides are as safe and comfortable as possible.
Take responsibility for keeping yourself safe.
You should check your motorbike before each trip out anyway, but make it extra thorough if it’s been parked up for a couple of months over the winter. The tyre pressures will need topping up, chains may need adjusting, ensure there’s oil in the engine and enough meat on the brake pads.
Make sure you’ve got the safest kit you can afford. When you’re buying kit, visiting a shop is essential so that you can try gloves on and get your helmet fitted by a professional. It’s vital that your leathers or textiles fit properly; if they’re too tight you won’t be able to ride properly and if they’re too loose they won’t offer you the protection you need if you crash.
Give your bike the skills it deserves.
An advanced rider training course will enhance your skills, plus the more you ride, the better you’ll become. You should feel comfortable on your motorbike, you’ll be able to adjust the position of the rear brake, clutch levers etc. to suit you. If you’re unsure, you could also book on a BikeSafe course, the Police don’t lecture you, they just give you great advice. It’s valuable having professionals to help and assist you – these guys ride all day everyday!
Save racing for the track.
When riders are out there on the track they have lots of things to keep them safe. There’s usually a hospital and an ambulance not more than half a mile away and the track is surrounded by very experienced marshals with warning flags. You don’t have those reassurances on the road! If you want to take your motorbike to a racetrack, you can book on a track day. It gives you the space and time to test your brakes and corner handling etc.
Ensuring your motorbike is well maintained, as well as having the safest and best fitting gear is essential, but also invest time in making sure you’re the best motorcyclist you can be. You’ll get more satisfaction and enjoyment out of it and be safer on the roads too!
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Think Motorcycle Academy
Visit the Think! Motorcycle Academy website for:
Practical advice on riding, equipment and safety from industry experts, training organisations and racers.
All the latest BSB race results, journey planner to each round of the BSB fantastic prizes as well as photos of your favourite BSB riders and shots from each of the BSB rounds.
www.dft.gov.uk/thinkmotorcycleacademy