There is nothing more invigorating that riding on the open road on the back of a motorcycle. However, this relaxing hobby can often hold dangerous consequences. Did you know that on average, 166,000 Americans are hospitalized ever year as a result of motorcycle accidents? Almost 5,000 of those victims will die from the injuries suffered from motorcycle accidents. Motorcycle safety has never been more important.
Whether you have been riding for years or are just learning, you will soon discover you always need to be aware of everything around you. Safety is your biggest concern. Sure motorcycles have a bad reputation for being dangerous, but they are actually quite safe and very fun to ride as long as you always keep your safety in mind. When you want to ride your motorcycle safely, here are a few tips you should always keep in mind:
Always wear a helmet
No other safety tip is as important as this one. It shouldn't matter if helmets are mandatory or not; a rider should always wear one. According to a leading Denver Motorcycle Lawyer, a helmet can prevent a huge number of injuries both small and large. If you ever find yourself in an accident involving a motorcycle, helmets reduce the seriousness of damage to the head and brain.
Make sure your helmet has a DOT label. This means it was inspected and certified to meet federal regulations. Any passenger who rides on your motorcycle with you should also wear a helmet. If they don't, you can be held liable from any injuries suffered. Would you rather ride on the open road or sit in the office of a motorcycle accident lawyer explaining your side of the accident?
Keep awake and stay sober
Ask any Motorcycle Injury Lawyer and they can attest that drowsiness and fatigue seriously impair the reflexes and ability to react for even the most experienced bikers. Never go out riding when you are fatigued and try to take intermittent breaks from driving on longer trips. It should go without saying that alcohol and drugs should be strictly avoided when riding a motorcycle.
Wear brightly-colored, protective clothing
A motorcyclist should make a point of always wearing the correct protective gear and to be clearly visible to other motorists. Cars and trucks are much larger than motorcycles and accidents involving them can be pretty dreadful. Riders are ejected and can skid along the road and such. Without protective leather clothes or boots, objects like rocks and glass can pierce and embed the flesh.
Tuesday 22 December 2009
6 new year`s resolutions every motorbike fan should keep
Here are just a few tips designed to ensure 2010 is not only the year of the Tiger, it's also the Year of the Biker:
Make the most of your motorcycle
There's no point in having a powerful, preened machine if you only use it once a year. Real bikers enjoy the freedom of the open road every week - and biking to work doesn't count!
Stop leaving your bike unlocked
It's a common crime for riders. But come on guys, there are plenty of good quality disk and cable locks around. They don't always come cheap but paying out for one is better than having some grubby chav nick off with your ride while you were picking up the fish and chips.
Get involved with a biking group
They're sometimes quite hard to find and the occasional biking clan can be a bit clique-y but having a group of like-minded mates to ride alongside can make the difference between a dreary trudge down a miserable lane to a roaring group event full of friendly banter. Plus riding with a group is a great excuse to head off down the pub afterwards.
Lose it once you've used it
Remember that bump you had last summer? Well if your helmet was knocked or dented its ability to protect you in a crash will have been completely compromised. Helmets are only designed to put up with one impact - after that their internal structure is damaged, meaning they won't cushion your head properly in a crash. Use it as an excuse for an upgrade.
Be more ambitious
Planning new routes is easy. Sites like Google Maps let you put in multiple destinations and plot the best roads to use. You can print off quick directions. So go to Scotland, get out to Ireland, tour the coast.
Tell me about it
After you've been on a great ride you will want to let the world know and one of the easiest ways to record and share your adventures is on a blog. You can set up your own at Blogger.com or WordPress.com very easily and use it like a diary, adding an entry each time you've been out with the wind in your hair. You can even add the inevitable embarrassing photographs of you in your leathers!
Okay, you're not going to change the world with these resolutions - but you can always join the gym and organise your filing next year - 2010 is dedicated to having some serious fun.
Make the most of your motorcycle
There's no point in having a powerful, preened machine if you only use it once a year. Real bikers enjoy the freedom of the open road every week - and biking to work doesn't count!
Stop leaving your bike unlocked
It's a common crime for riders. But come on guys, there are plenty of good quality disk and cable locks around. They don't always come cheap but paying out for one is better than having some grubby chav nick off with your ride while you were picking up the fish and chips.
Get involved with a biking group
They're sometimes quite hard to find and the occasional biking clan can be a bit clique-y but having a group of like-minded mates to ride alongside can make the difference between a dreary trudge down a miserable lane to a roaring group event full of friendly banter. Plus riding with a group is a great excuse to head off down the pub afterwards.
Lose it once you've used it
Remember that bump you had last summer? Well if your helmet was knocked or dented its ability to protect you in a crash will have been completely compromised. Helmets are only designed to put up with one impact - after that their internal structure is damaged, meaning they won't cushion your head properly in a crash. Use it as an excuse for an upgrade.
Be more ambitious
Planning new routes is easy. Sites like Google Maps let you put in multiple destinations and plot the best roads to use. You can print off quick directions. So go to Scotland, get out to Ireland, tour the coast.
Tell me about it
After you've been on a great ride you will want to let the world know and one of the easiest ways to record and share your adventures is on a blog. You can set up your own at Blogger.com or WordPress.com very easily and use it like a diary, adding an entry each time you've been out with the wind in your hair. You can even add the inevitable embarrassing photographs of you in your leathers!
Okay, you're not going to change the world with these resolutions - but you can always join the gym and organise your filing next year - 2010 is dedicated to having some serious fun.
Motorcycles hard saddlebags
Motor cycle saddlebags are now available in a variety of brands, models and qualities. They are used to carry the luggage or important things safely by a motorcycle. The trend of hard saddlebags is increasing due to the diverse and commercial usage of motor cycles. Even for the privately owned motor bikes, individuals are looking for stylish and modern saddlebags. The guys who travel long ways via motor cycles defiantly need to find a set of hard and durable saddlebag so they may travel fearlessly with their possessions about the miles.
But when it comes to purchase something, the numerous brands and models available in the market generate a feeling of confusion. In such a situation you might have thought several times that what is the best option to be bought? That's understandable as when you will plan to buy hard saddlebag for your bike, you will find numerous options in this regard. The decision of yours would highly depend upon the purpose for which you use your bike. Like for a motor cyclist who is interested in touring needs a different hard saddlebag as compare to one needed by a bike used by McDonalds free home delivery service. But definitely both types of bikes need hard saddlebags not the leather made bags.
Many saddlebag producers are now competing to provide with the most stylish and impressive saddle bags. The designs are more practical and durable to meet the needs of the bike owner. These rigid bags made by the combination of soft and plastic materials. On the outer side of saddle soft material is used while the internal part is made of hard plastic and metal. The designs are stylish and attractive. The prices are in fact affordable for all. The manufacturers are now focusing on the production of good quality, waterproof and lockable saddlebags.
But when it comes to purchase something, the numerous brands and models available in the market generate a feeling of confusion. In such a situation you might have thought several times that what is the best option to be bought? That's understandable as when you will plan to buy hard saddlebag for your bike, you will find numerous options in this regard. The decision of yours would highly depend upon the purpose for which you use your bike. Like for a motor cyclist who is interested in touring needs a different hard saddlebag as compare to one needed by a bike used by McDonalds free home delivery service. But definitely both types of bikes need hard saddlebags not the leather made bags.
Many saddlebag producers are now competing to provide with the most stylish and impressive saddle bags. The designs are more practical and durable to meet the needs of the bike owner. These rigid bags made by the combination of soft and plastic materials. On the outer side of saddle soft material is used while the internal part is made of hard plastic and metal. The designs are stylish and attractive. The prices are in fact affordable for all. The manufacturers are now focusing on the production of good quality, waterproof and lockable saddlebags.
Buying tehe right motocross helmet
If you have your own motocross vehicle, then getting motocross accessories are very important. There are various motocross accessories available on the market. Among all the accessories available, one of the most important is the motocross helmet. These are essential as they offer protection and safety.
Motocross helmets are made for racing and off road adventures. These are usually full faced without a face shield. When you go out to buy helmets, you may be confused as there are many helmets available.
Things to consider when buying motocross helmets
It is necessary that you buy good quality as it will protect you from any danger. How will you know which is a good helmet? When it fits properly on your head, you will know that it is meant for you. Do not buy ones that are over sized or very small. Make sure that these motocross accessories fit perfectly, making you feel comfortable.
You should buy a motocross helmet which has a removable lining. After a rough ride, there are possibilities that dirt, dust and mud may get stuck in your helmet. At such times, you can pull the lining out so that you can clean your helmet. Maintaining your helmet properly and regularly will make these accessories last longer and protect you for many years to come.
Motocross helmets are made for racing and off road adventures. These are usually full faced without a face shield. When you go out to buy helmets, you may be confused as there are many helmets available.
Things to consider when buying motocross helmets
It is necessary that you buy good quality as it will protect you from any danger. How will you know which is a good helmet? When it fits properly on your head, you will know that it is meant for you. Do not buy ones that are over sized or very small. Make sure that these motocross accessories fit perfectly, making you feel comfortable.
You should buy a motocross helmet which has a removable lining. After a rough ride, there are possibilities that dirt, dust and mud may get stuck in your helmet. At such times, you can pull the lining out so that you can clean your helmet. Maintaining your helmet properly and regularly will make these accessories last longer and protect you for many years to come.
Motorcycles boots
Motorcycle boots may be fashionable, but first and foremost they are protective gear just like helmets. They help protect your feet and ankles from exhaust pipes, flying gravel and other road debris, as well as from abrasions and impact should you fall.
There are both ankle length boots and full length boots. Full length boots are also called tour boots or tall boots, and the shorter ones are also known as shorty boots. Full length boot are around 9 inches tall and higher and offer more protection. There are lots of well known and respected brands to choose from, including Redwing, Sidi, Harley-Davidson, and more. There are specially designed boots for sport and dirt bike, including by Thor, Alpinestar, and Fox.
It is important you get real motorcycle boots if you ride, instead of ones just made for fashion. The protection of your feet depends on it.
Real boots have short heels which provide ankle support but let you move your feet easily and rest them on motorcycle pegs. Soles will get lots of wear and need to sturdy. They are often made of oil resistant rubber and have good traction. Often soles are both glued and stitched on. Boots with ventilation are also great in warm climates and long rides. Waterproof boots sort of work; they are a good idea but if you get caught in a big downpour you will get soaked.
Remember that motorcycle boots are safety gear first and foremost And yes, lots of them look great too.
There are both ankle length boots and full length boots. Full length boots are also called tour boots or tall boots, and the shorter ones are also known as shorty boots. Full length boot are around 9 inches tall and higher and offer more protection. There are lots of well known and respected brands to choose from, including Redwing, Sidi, Harley-Davidson, and more. There are specially designed boots for sport and dirt bike, including by Thor, Alpinestar, and Fox.
It is important you get real motorcycle boots if you ride, instead of ones just made for fashion. The protection of your feet depends on it.
Real boots have short heels which provide ankle support but let you move your feet easily and rest them on motorcycle pegs. Soles will get lots of wear and need to sturdy. They are often made of oil resistant rubber and have good traction. Often soles are both glued and stitched on. Boots with ventilation are also great in warm climates and long rides. Waterproof boots sort of work; they are a good idea but if you get caught in a big downpour you will get soaked.
Remember that motorcycle boots are safety gear first and foremost And yes, lots of them look great too.
Motorcycle Safety
However, motorcyclists will never hesitate to speak of the dangers that come with riding. Riding a motorcycle is just as dangerous as it is exhilarating. At speeds approaching 50, 60, and 70 miles per hour, there is little room for error.
Safe riding can be the difference between arriving at your destination in a leather jacket and waking up in the emergency room in a hospital gown. The following tips will not only help you get from point A to point B safely, but they could be the difference between life and death:
• Use the buddy system: Many motorcycle crashes will cause the bike and the rider to slide off the road and out of sight. Riding with a friend nearby will guarantee that someone is there to alert emergency services in the event of an accident. The buddy system will also give you an extra set of eyes, which virtually will double awareness on the open road.
• Leather jackets are more than just a look: Leather jackets are designed to withstand damage. In the event of a crash, leather will protect your skin and bones better than other fabrics.
• Know the role of the brakes: Brakes are not designed to bring a motorcycle to a halt. Instead, brakes are meant to slow a bike down. Riders should always remember to keep a safe distance from the vehicle in from of them and never rely on brakes to prevent a crash.
Perhaps the most important part of operating a motorcycle is to practice defense driving. Often times, it's other drivers that cause accidents with motorcycles. Motorcyclists should never let their guard down and always be aware of their surroundings, including other motorists around them.
Safe riding can be the difference between arriving at your destination in a leather jacket and waking up in the emergency room in a hospital gown. The following tips will not only help you get from point A to point B safely, but they could be the difference between life and death:
• Use the buddy system: Many motorcycle crashes will cause the bike and the rider to slide off the road and out of sight. Riding with a friend nearby will guarantee that someone is there to alert emergency services in the event of an accident. The buddy system will also give you an extra set of eyes, which virtually will double awareness on the open road.
• Leather jackets are more than just a look: Leather jackets are designed to withstand damage. In the event of a crash, leather will protect your skin and bones better than other fabrics.
• Know the role of the brakes: Brakes are not designed to bring a motorcycle to a halt. Instead, brakes are meant to slow a bike down. Riders should always remember to keep a safe distance from the vehicle in from of them and never rely on brakes to prevent a crash.
Perhaps the most important part of operating a motorcycle is to practice defense driving. Often times, it's other drivers that cause accidents with motorcycles. Motorcyclists should never let their guard down and always be aware of their surroundings, including other motorists around them.
Ful Face Motorcycle Helmets-Protect Your Head
Full face motorcycle helmets offer the most protection of all the motorcycle helmet styles. The motorcycle helmet is the most important piece of gear that you own if you are a motorcycle rider. Most states require that you wear a helmet while riding a motorcycle, but some do not.
In those states where motorcycle helmets are not required there are often injuries when accidents occur involving a motorcycle. Quite often the injuries could have been avoided if the rider had been wearing a helmet.
There are many different types of helmets in terms of style, flip up, full face, off-road, open face, and shorty helmets. You should check and ensure that whatever helmet you buy meets DOT standards and that it has a Snell rating. A Snell rating means the helmet offers the highest level of production available.
Choosing a helmet is a personal choice; however a full face helmet is the best choice for a couple of reasons. A full face motorcycle helmet gives the protection of a chin bar and a tinted face shield which can also customize the look of the helmet.
The ventilation system is what makes or breaks a motorcycle helmet. Helmets that are high quality have close fitting shields and snug padding around the bottom of the helmet to cut back on the noise of the wind. The trade off with that is that it promotes fogging. Manufacturers try to avoid the fogging by installing breath deflectors at the top of the chin bar.
The best ventilation systems have air ducts in the styrofoam safety line to suck hot air away from the scalp of the rider. Manufacturers try to avoid the fogging by breath deflectors at the top of the chin bar. Try to get a field system that has a handy design that is tool free. You will find that many mid to high range helmets have this feature.
A full face helmet should feel natural so that you will forget that you are wearing one. Below is a list of the benefits and features of a full face motorcycle helmet:
- Lightweight
- Aerodynamic
- ISO Headfoam
- Poly Alloy Shell
- Flow Ventilation
A lightweight helmet will normally cut back on neck and shoulder strain and will offer an aerodynamic and ISO headform. Aerodynamic helmets are standard for all quality full face gear. Full face helmets are constructed to offer less resistance at top air speeds. The advantage is in the ability to ride longer and faster without damage to the rider's neck and shoulders.
Due to the ISO technology, a form fitting secure interior is created by the helmet. An important feature of your helmet is its shell as it prevents flying rocks and debris from damaging your head. Most importantly, if you are involved in an accident the shell of your helmet could save your life. The ideal helmet make is an outer shell designed out of thermoplastic poly alloy.
The one feature that sets the quality standard for a helmet is the ventilation system. A cool flow of air keeps you from becoming too hot on warm days and reduces wind noise. Quality airflow features are vents in the front and side vortex, exhaust vents in the lower back of the helmet, and built-in neck roll exhaust vents.
When purchasing a full face motorcycle helmet, try it on a number of times to find possible problem areas. Make sure the helmet rests just above your brow, use a mirror to see how the helmet fits your head. Test the fit by trying to get your thumb between the helmet and your forehead, the helmet should rest tightly on your forehead with no room left for your thumb. Always check for red marks after taking the helmet off.
If your motorcycle helmet is not DOT approved and Snell certified your insurance may be affected. The best thing to do is contact your insurance company about the helmet you are using to find out if it is approved.
Avoid noisy helmets as they distract the bike rider and can cause extra fatigue. Lower quality ventilation systems are the major cause of noise in helmets. The more aerodynamic your helmet is and the better the vents, the less noise there will be. Cheaper helmets are are most often noisier helmets.
In those states where motorcycle helmets are not required there are often injuries when accidents occur involving a motorcycle. Quite often the injuries could have been avoided if the rider had been wearing a helmet.
There are many different types of helmets in terms of style, flip up, full face, off-road, open face, and shorty helmets. You should check and ensure that whatever helmet you buy meets DOT standards and that it has a Snell rating. A Snell rating means the helmet offers the highest level of production available.
Choosing a helmet is a personal choice; however a full face helmet is the best choice for a couple of reasons. A full face motorcycle helmet gives the protection of a chin bar and a tinted face shield which can also customize the look of the helmet.
The ventilation system is what makes or breaks a motorcycle helmet. Helmets that are high quality have close fitting shields and snug padding around the bottom of the helmet to cut back on the noise of the wind. The trade off with that is that it promotes fogging. Manufacturers try to avoid the fogging by installing breath deflectors at the top of the chin bar.
The best ventilation systems have air ducts in the styrofoam safety line to suck hot air away from the scalp of the rider. Manufacturers try to avoid the fogging by breath deflectors at the top of the chin bar. Try to get a field system that has a handy design that is tool free. You will find that many mid to high range helmets have this feature.
A full face helmet should feel natural so that you will forget that you are wearing one. Below is a list of the benefits and features of a full face motorcycle helmet:
- Lightweight
- Aerodynamic
- ISO Headfoam
- Poly Alloy Shell
- Flow Ventilation
A lightweight helmet will normally cut back on neck and shoulder strain and will offer an aerodynamic and ISO headform. Aerodynamic helmets are standard for all quality full face gear. Full face helmets are constructed to offer less resistance at top air speeds. The advantage is in the ability to ride longer and faster without damage to the rider's neck and shoulders.
Due to the ISO technology, a form fitting secure interior is created by the helmet. An important feature of your helmet is its shell as it prevents flying rocks and debris from damaging your head. Most importantly, if you are involved in an accident the shell of your helmet could save your life. The ideal helmet make is an outer shell designed out of thermoplastic poly alloy.
The one feature that sets the quality standard for a helmet is the ventilation system. A cool flow of air keeps you from becoming too hot on warm days and reduces wind noise. Quality airflow features are vents in the front and side vortex, exhaust vents in the lower back of the helmet, and built-in neck roll exhaust vents.
When purchasing a full face motorcycle helmet, try it on a number of times to find possible problem areas. Make sure the helmet rests just above your brow, use a mirror to see how the helmet fits your head. Test the fit by trying to get your thumb between the helmet and your forehead, the helmet should rest tightly on your forehead with no room left for your thumb. Always check for red marks after taking the helmet off.
If your motorcycle helmet is not DOT approved and Snell certified your insurance may be affected. The best thing to do is contact your insurance company about the helmet you are using to find out if it is approved.
Avoid noisy helmets as they distract the bike rider and can cause extra fatigue. Lower quality ventilation systems are the major cause of noise in helmets. The more aerodynamic your helmet is and the better the vents, the less noise there will be. Cheaper helmets are are most often noisier helmets.
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