MAKE MOTORCYCLE RIDING SAFETY YOUR TOP PRIORITY!

Follow these RAVI’s expert advices for first-time and regular riders.

Motorcycles are fun and fuel efficient. They’re also way more dangerous than a car. The cold reality is that motorcyclists are 30 times more likely to die in a crash than people in a car. Below are some more tips to help you stay safe on two wheels.

• Always wear a helmet with a face shield or protective eye wear. Wearing a helmet is the best way to protect against severe head injuries. A motorcycle rider not wearing a helmet is five times more likely to sustain a critical head injury.
• Wear appropriate gear. Make sure to wear protective gear and clothing that will minimize the amount of injuries in case of an accident or a skid. 
• Follow traffic rules. Obey the speed limit; the faster you go the longer it will take you to stop.
• Ride Defensively. Don’t assume that a driver can see you, as nearly two-thirds of all motorcycle accidents are caused by a driver violating a rider’s right of way. Stay out of a driver’s blind spot; signal well in advance of any change in direction; and watch for turning vehicles.
• Keep your riding skills honed through education. Complete a formal riding education program, get licensed and take riding courses from time to time to develop riding techniques and to sharpen your street-riding strategies.
• Be awake and ride sober. Fatigue and drowsiness can impair your ability to react, so make sure that you are well rested when you hit the road.
• Preparing To Ride. Making sure that your motorcycle is fit for the road is just as important as practicing safe riding. 

Make sure that your motorcycle is in good working order, check the following:

• Tires: Check for any cracks or bulges, or signs of wear in the treads (low tire pressure or any defects could cause a blowout)
• Under the motorcycle: Look for signs of oil or petrol leaks
• Headlight, taillight and signals: Test for high and low beams (make sure that all lights are functioning)
• Hydraulic and Coolant fluids: Level should be checked weekly

Keep your motorcycle well-maintained. A breakdown while riding can lead to a crash.