Not Wearing Enough Gear
[True Story] Its mid-day and someone just called you to see if you could make a baseball game in 40 minutes. I had just woken up and was drooling all over myself. I had 5 minutes to get ready, shower, check the weather, and put clothes on. I naturally put on a long pair of jeans, a flannel, and my moto jacket just incase we were there late at night. This baseball game turned out to be a 19 inning game, the longest of the season a total of 5+ hours and a brisk 65 degrees when we left. If i had not warn warm enough gear i would have been in a problem riding back.
When you ride if you do not keep your body warm you become a count down to an error that will cost you your life. Remember when you are too cold your body becomes slow to react and given the right conditions hypothermia is a real concern, always protect your body.
Shiny Things
Something to invest in early is a tinted visor for your helmet. While riding on the freeway there is no traffic, you are docile and enjoying the the freedom of speed and wind. Without a tinted visor something shiny can cause a glare across your eyes long enough to distract you from anything around you. Now imagine that you are lane splitting in heavy traffic at 35 mph and a glare happens right in front of your eyes... Bam its over.
Shadowing A More Experienced Rider
This one is a pure judgement call. The reasoning behind this is very simple the other rider has more skill at stopping, leaning in a turn, downshifting in a turn and making all around better decisions and maneuvers. Always ride within your limits
Everything Is Your Fault
This one is rough but necessary. Here are some things riders should take accountability for.
- Reckless drivers
- Unpaved or trash roads
- Freshly painted lines
- Car not stopping fast enough behind you
- Car in front stopping too quickly
- Taking a corner too fast and you sway into another lane
While you have no control over most of these events you have the control to maneuver out of them. If you crash it is because you were not fully prepared and if someone crashes into you again you were not prepared to ride.
Ignore Angry Drivers
Don't take the time to flip the bird or yell at another car for driving recklessly. Just move on and remember that your vehicle is much smaller.
Accept The Consequences Of Racing
Yes racing is fun and yes you will destroy most cars. When you race you are taking your entire life and holding it in your hands. The percentile also increases of you dying because of the extra risk you are taking. While i will not say don't race i will say get some experience riding first before you race.
Passenger Riding
Just dont do it. Wait until you have at least a years riding worth of experience.
Alcohol
This is simple. just dont drink, dont use the two beer rule because you are on two wheels not four. Any lenience you have with car does not exist with a motorcycle.
Beginning 2 Ride was a side project that became a passion once i started. I made these to show people how easy and dangerous riding can be. Just like everything if you use your brain and are mature about it nothing is hard.
Always Ride Safe! & GOD bless
-Daniel
Part 1: Prep Before You Ride
Part 2: Riding Safely
Part 3: Time For A Motorcycle
Part 4: Safety Inspection
Part 5: Things To Avoid
