Essential Do’s and Don’ts Every Motorcycle Rider Should Know

For some people, a motorcycle is just a machine to help them get from Point A to Point B. Not so true enthusiasts. For them, riding a motorcycle is a lifestyle.

Whichever group you belong to, one thing is certain: riding a motorcycle comes with risks. Unlike cars, there’s little or no room for error. The smallest mistake can be deadly. In the USA alone, motorcycle crashes accounted for more than 15% of all traffic fatalities in 2023, despite making up only 3% of all registered vehicles in the country.

The message cannot be clearer: as a motorcyclist, safety is non-negotiable, and you need to know what to do and what not to do when riding to ensure a safe and enjoyable journey. 

Whether you’re just a beginner taking motorcycle lessons or you’ve had your rider’s license for years, here are some essential dos and don’ts to keep in mind.

Dos for Motorcycle Riders

Let’s start with the dos, common sense riding etiquette you should observe for a safe ride.

Select the Right Motorcycle

It starts with your motorcycle. Too many first-time riders make the mistake of buying the biggest, fanciest, and fastest machine they can afford, with little or no thought for whether they can handle it. When they hit the road, it’s like they’re struggling with a wild horse.

Even if you’re buying your tenth motorcycle, it’s always best to go for something that matches your size, strength, and riding ability. If what works for you is a scooter or a 125cc, don’t go for an adventure motorcycle or a superbike. Think control and comfort over bragging rights.

Be Properly Trained

These days, almost everybody learns new things by watching videos on YouTube. While this approach is fine for learning how to make easy chicken quesadillas, it’s definitely not fine for learning how to ride a motorcycle.

According to New York’s Governor’s Traffic Safety Committee, 90% of riders who were involved in accidents had no formal motorcycle training. This figure highlights just how important investing in proper training is.

Proper, formal motorcycle training will teach you riding techniques you’ll never forget, including defensive skills that’ll keep you safe on the road. This training will also help you pass your licensing test without sweating.

Always Do a Pre-Ride Check

Now that you have the right bike and proper training, you may think you’re ready to hit the road. But don’t rev your bike just yet. Have you done a pre-ride check? 

Before you roll out, make sure you check all the basics of your motorcycle to be sure that everything is in good order. 

Check the tires, lights, brakes, mirrors, fuel, oil, and so on. This pre-ride check is no less important than the pilot’s pre-flight check, but unlike that, it will take you all of five minutes to do. You can then ensure your ride with the peace of mind that everything is in good working order.

Always Wear the Right Gear

One of the most important things you should know as a motorcycle owner and rider is to always wear the right type of gear before hitting the road. And unlike what you see in some movies, this one has nothing to do with looking cool; it’s about keeping your bones intact and your life safe.

Typical protective gear for motorcyclists is pretty straightforward: a full-face helmet, padded jackets, gloves, and boots, all of which should be reinforced in the right places. 

These items can make a huge difference should you be in an accident. Helmets, in particular, are estimated to prevent up to 37% of fatal injuries to motorcycle operators and more than that number in passengers.

Obey Traffic Rules

It can be tempting to want to push the speed limit, weave in between cars, take your hands off the handlebars, or tailgate a vehicle in front of you, but here’s the thing: rules exist for a reason, and for road traffic rules, the primary reason is to protect you and fellow road users.

It’s therefore vital that you stick to these rules, no matter how boring you think they are.

Do Regular Maintenance Checks

No true biker will neglect maintenance. That’s akin to neglecting your health. Regular oil changes, checking the brakes and tires, checking the chains, and even lights and horns, all these should be part of your regular routine. 

You should also take note of your bike manufacturer’s recommendation for oil, tire, and brake pad changes.

Be Prepared for the Unexpected

Even when you do everything right, such as getting proper training, wearing a helmet, and following traffic rules, accidents can still happen. Motorcycle riders, according to TorHoerman Law, face heightened risks on roads due to reduced visibility and a lack of protective barriers compared to enclosed vehicles.

Sometimes, it’s not even your fault. Maybe the other driver was texting while driving, or the road was poorly maintained. Whatever the case, when injuries are involved, the aftermath can be chaotic, but talking with an auto accident lawyer can help you figure out your options so that you can focus on recovery.

Motorcycle Riding Dont’s

Now that you know what to do for a safe and smooth riding experience, let’s discuss what you should absolutely not do as a motorcycle owner.

Don’t Overlook Weather Conditions

Riding a bike in poor weather, on rainy or snow-slick roads, or even at night, is not the same as driving in a car. The risks are more. Tires grip differently, braking distance is longer, and you’re very exposed to the elements. 

So, if the weather looks rough or the conditions are not perfect, it’s better to wait or take another form of transportation. No ride is worth gambling with your life.

Don’t Ride Under the Influence

Riding a motorcycle under the influence of any substance that impairs is definitely a huge ‘don’t’. It doesn’t matter if it’s alcohol, drugs, or certain prescription meds; it’ll affect your decision-making, slow your reflexes, and you’re putting your life and that of other road users at risk.

In 2023 alone, 6,335 motorcycle operators were killed in crashes. It was discovered that 26% of those riders were drunk. Don’t let yourself become a part of that statistic.

Don’t Overload Your Bike

Many riders don’t know this, but every bike has weight limits. This is how much total weight your bike can carry, including you, your passenger, and any luggage or gear you’re carrying. 

When you overload your motorcycle, you mess up with its balance, handling, and even braking, putting you and other road users at risk.  So, overloading is a definite no-no.

Wrapping Up

Motorcycle riding is one of life’s greatest joys. It’s hard to explain the adrenaline, the freedom, and the power that come with riding on a motorcycle.  

But as we all know, with power comes responsibilities, both for yourself and other road users.  By observing the dos and don’ts discussed in this article, you’ll be creating a safer experience for everyone on the road.