Motorcycle Safety

Whether you’re a novice or a veteran motorcycle rider, safety should rank high on your list of priorities. The truth of the matter is, motorcycles can be very dangerous. You don’t want to add to the danger factor by being an irresponsible rider. Fortunately, there are some simple steps you can take each time you ride to ensure a safe experience for yourself and those around you. We’ve put together a brief list of motorcycle safety tips to get you started.

For more information or if you’d like to browse our selection of Harley-Davidson® motorcycles for sale, visit your local Harley® dealer, Willamette Valley Harley-Davidson®! We’re located near Corvallis, Portland, Medford, and Salem, Oregon.

Consider the Weather

You should get into the habit of checking the weather forecast before you ride your motorcycle. Unlike cars, your bike doesn’t offer adequate protection from the elements. And while riding in warm weather might seem like a piece of cake, extreme heat can lead to dehydration, which has dangerous side effects like dizziness, nausea, heat stroke, and blurred vision.

A little rain might seem harmless, too, but don’t forget how quickly your body temperature can drop when you’re riding at high speeds through the wind in a freezing downpour. Plus, it can be quite difficult to navigate a bike on wet, slick, or icy roads. You should always check the forecast prior to riding so you can decide if the conditions are safe for you and your Harley® motorcycle.

Use the Right Gear

Another important factor you’ll want to consider is your gear. A helmet should always be seen as mandatory. Make sure you choose one that fits comfortable and is crash test certified. After all, your head is the most vulnerable part of your body, so you want the best of the best when choosing a helmet. The ideal choice will cover as much of your face as possible, including your mouth and jaw. If you go with one that doesn’t have a shield, be sure you get a pair of goggles.

In addition to your helmet, you’ll also want a durable pair of riding gloves and a solid pair of riding boots. When you pick out your riding clothes, there are a variety of options. The key is choosing riding clothes that are heavy-duty and will offer maximum protection. Even when it’s warm outside, you’ll want to dress appropriately and protect your entire body. Remember, if you take a spill, your riding clothes are the only thing protecting you from the unforgiving pavement. Layers can also be effective in providing you with protection from the road.

Inspect Your Motorcycle

You should inspect your Harley® motorcycle before every ride. It might seem redundant, but it’s essential in ensuring everything is in working order before you hit the road. You can make this easier by creating a checklist to go through each time. You should be checking the tire pressure and treads, looking for leaks or loose parts, checking the fuel, oil, and coolant levels, and verifying that the chains, brakes, clutch, and throttle are all working. If you come across an issue you’ll be thankful that you can fix it before your ride and not on the side of the road.

Stay Focused

Finally, once you’re on the road, it’s critical that you stay completely focused while being aware of your surroundings. As we mentioned earlier, motorcycles don’t offer the same type of protection as cars, so it’s up to you to drive defensively and responsibly. When you’re paying attention to the road, keep an eye on the cars around you, too. You should be prepared for any traffic changes that might occur and be ready to pull over if necessary.

Ready to score an awesome new Harley-Davidson® motorcycle? Be sure to stop by your local Harley® dealer today! Willamette Valley Harley-Davidson® is conveniently located near Corvallis, Portland, Medford, and Salem, Oregon.