Safety Tips for Riding Your Motorcycle in the City

Motorcycles are commonplace on the streets and highways across the country. But that doesn’t mean it isn’t dangerous to ride your bike in certain areas. When riding through a busy and crowded city, you’ll need to take a few extra precautions to stay safe. Read on to learn more, and give us a call at Biggs Harley-Davidson in San Marcos, California if you want to buy a new motorcycle. We are proud to serve San Diego and Oceanside too!

Be Visible

One of the most important things you can do to stay safe while riding your bike through the city is to be visible. Although a black leather jacket is cool, it’s not high-visibility, which is what you need when riding a motorcycle in the city. Being visible is especially important during dim or dark conditions. This includes during heavy fog and during the nighttime. Bright colors, such as neon orange, are the most visible colors you can wear besides white.

Stay Out in the Open

You should try your best to stay out in the open when on your bike. Don’t crowd in with fellow bikers or ride on the tails of a car. Stay in the open with plenty of space around yourself when riding through the city to stay safe!

Scan Ahead

Another important safety tip for riding your motorcycle in a city is to watch the road ahead. You should stay vigilant and scan ahead and to the lanes on either side of you. Always signal your maneuvers in advance and use your mirrors and check blind spots. Pay special attention to your left side since this is the more dangerous side of the road. You’ll want to be aware of any sudden changes that other motorists may make in the city. Don’t forget to watch for obstacles like animals or pedestrians.

Find a Way Out

Your bike gives you the ability to move quicker than a car. Use this to your advantage! While riding through the city, watch for any opportunities to escape in the event a car suddenly pulls out or traffic comes to a halting stop. Hard braking on your motorcycle can be extremely dangerous and throw you from your machine. In order to stay safe, weave in and out of these risky situations.

Be Aware of Surface Conditions

One more safety tip for riding in the city is to be aware of surface conditions. Pay attention to inclement weather such as rain. Slow down in bad weather and try to steer as straight as possible. Lookout for loose gravel or puddles of oil.

We hope this safety advice helps you stay safe in the city! If you have any questions or you want to view motorcycles for sale, contact Biggs Harley-Davidson today. We are located in San Marcos, California and proudly serve San Diego and Oceanside. We look forward to helping you find the perfect bike for your lifestyle!