No matter what time of year you ride, it’s important that you know what you can do to be safe on a motorcycle. Anyone riding a motorcycle deserves to be safe on the road, which is why taking some time to go over tips for better safety is important.
Here are a few tips for riders going out during each season of the year. Weather can change quickly, so keep these in mind the next time you’re riding.
Winter
Winter is typically cool or cold, so there is a risk of ice and snow. Even if it doesn’t get cold enough for snow or ice, the wind chill can make it dangerous to ride without the right safety gear. Wear layers to stay warm, and double-check your tires to make sure they have enough grip before you go out.
Spring
It starts to warm up in spring, but there is still a risk of hypothermia. Continue to wear layers, especially when riding in the morning or night. The Motorcycle Safety Foundation states that the most slippery time during a rainstorm is the first few minutes as rain falls, so keep that in mind as rainier weather becomes more common in spring.
Summer
Summer is one of the safest months for motorcyclists, but hot temperatures can lead to heat exhaustion and heat stroke. Take precautions to avoid dehydration and sunburns, and make sure you know the maximum temperatures that are comfortable for you to ride in.
Fall
Fall has chillier temperatures and falling leaves, both of which can again cause problems for a motorcyclist. Prepare for slick roads due to fallen leaves, fog and dew in the morning and cold nights where you may need to layer your gear.
Keeping the weather in mind is important as you ride. The weather affects you as a well as other drivers, so remember to stay focused on the road and to watch out for others who might slide on wet roads or cause a car crash because they weren’t prepared for a change in the weather. If you are hit, you’ll be able to make a claim, but prevention is still the best option.
