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Texas Sport Bike Riders is a blog dedicated to providing tips and tricks for staying safe on the road. From proper gear to motorcycle maintenance, we cover it all!
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Introduction
In 2014, the Texas Department of Transportation (TxDOT) reported that there were 516 motorcyclists killed in traffic crashes on Texas roadways. That is an increase of nearly 8 percent from 2013, and marks the sixth consecutive year that motorcycle fatalities have increased in our state.
As the number of riders has increased, so have the number of crashes and fatalities. In 2014, there were 11,774 motorcycle crashes reported to TxDOT, an increase of nearly 5 percent from 2013. While motorcycle riders only represented 3 percent of all vehicle traffic in 2014, they accounted for 14 percent of all traffic fatalities.
With numbers like these, it’s clear that motorcyclists are at a higher risk for being involved in a crash than other motorists. But there are things riders can do to stay safe on the road. TxDOT offers the following tips:
Wear proper safety gear – a DOT-compliant helmet is required by law in Texas, and for good reason. Helmets are estimated to be 37 percent effective in preventing motorcycle fatalities and 67 percent effective in preventing brain injuries.
Ride sober – alcohol use is a leading contributing factor in fatal motorcycle crashes. In 2014, 42 percent of fatally injured motorcycle riders were alcohol impaired.
Follow the rules of the road – obeying speed limits and traffic laws can help keep you safe on your motorbike.
Be aware of your surroundings – use your mirrors and turn signals to let other motorists know where you’re going, and be on the lookout for obstacles in the road.
Take a riding course – completing a rider training course can help you learn how to properly operate your motorcycle and improve your riding skills
Gear
The best gear for sport bike riders is gear that is comfortable and won’t restrict your movement. Many sportbike riders prefer one-piece suits because they provide the most protection and the least amount of wind resistance. Two-piece suits are also popular because they offer more flexibility and can be more comfortable in hot weather. jackets, gloves, boots, and helmets are all important gear for sportbike riders.
JACKETS
A good motorcycle jacket should be made of abrasion-resistant material like leather or Cordura. Thickness is important, but so is breathability. A mesh jacket with a thick liner is a good choice for hot weather riding. In cooler weather, a thicker leather or Cordura jacket will keep you warm. Look for features like reflective piping and built-in armor to help make you more visible to other motorists, and be sure your jacket fits snugly so it won’t come off in a crash.
GLOVES
Your hands are one of the first things to hit the pavement in a fall, so gloves are an important piece of gear for any rider. Look for gloves that fit snugly and offer good dexterity so you can operate the controls on your bike easily. Many gloves also feature built-in armor or padding to help protect your hands in a fall. In cooler weather, consider gloves with heating elements to keep your hands warm.
BOOTS
Sturdy, comfortable boots are a must for any rider. Look for boots that offer good support and ankle protection without being too bulky or heavy. Motorcycle-specific boots are often made of durable materials like leather or Cordura and feature reinforced toes and heels to help protect your feet in a fall. In cooler weather, consider boots with insulation or heated liners to keep your feet warm.
HELMETS
A good motorcycle helmet is critical to safety on the road. Helmets should fit snugly and be made of durable materials like Kevlar or composite fiber. Full-face helmets offer the most protection, but if you prefer the wind in your face, consider a ¾ helmet or an open-face helmet with an attached shield or visor
Lane Positioning
The best lane position for a sport bike rider is usually the left third of the lane. This gives you the best view of traffic and potential obstacles, and also provides a quick escape route if necessary. It’s also important to be aware of vehicles in your blind spot, and to signal well in advance when changing lanes.
Group Riding
Riding in a group can be a great experience. You can share the experience of the ride with others who love bikes as much as you do. But, it’s important to remember that there are some special considerations when riding in a group.
Here are some tips to help you stay safe on the road:
-Ride in formation. This will help you stay together as a group and make it easier for other drivers to see you.
-Use hand signals to communicate with other riders in your group. This is especially important when turning or stopping.
-Be aware of the rider behind you. If they tap your shoulder, it means they want to pass you. Move to the side to let them pass and then move back into formation when they are safely ahead of you.
-Ride at a speed that is comfortable for everyone in the group. This way, no one feels like they are being left behind or held back.
-If someone in the group has a mechanical issue, stop and help them fix it if you can. If not, call for help and wait with them until assistance arrives.
Group riding can be enjoyable and safe if everyone follows these simple tips!
Communicating with Other Drivers
One of the most important things you can do to stay safe on the road is to be a good communicator. Use your signals to let other drivers know what you’re doing, and don’t be afraid to use your horn if someone isn’t paying attention and could cause an accident. If you see a driver doing something dangerous, try to make eye contact so they know you’re there and then back off to give yourself some space in case they make a mistake.
It’s also important to be aware of the communication tools other drivers are using. In Texas, it’s illegal to use a handheld cell phone while driving, so if you see someone on their phone, they may not be paying attention to the road. Drivers who are angry or distracted can also be dangerous, so if you see someone driving erratically, it’s best to give them a wide berth.
Being Visible
Wear bright and/or reflective gear.
-Make sure your bike’s headlights are always on.
-Install aftermarket LED lights.
-Wear yellow, orange, or red.
-Avoid all black gear.
-Use reflective tape on your bike and gear.
-Ride in well-lit areas.
Riding in Bad Weather
Rules of the road still apply when riding in bad weather – use extra caution
Bad weather conditions can sneak up on you while riding and cause issues. Be aware of the forecast before heading out and always use caution while riding in these conditions. Here are some tips to stay safe while riding in bad weather:
-Check the forecast before heading out and know what the conditions will be like.
-If possible, avoid riding in bad weather altogether.
-If you must ride, take extra precautions and go slowly.
-Wet roads can be very slick, so use caution when braking, accelerating and cornering.
-Be extra cautious of hazards such as potholes, puddles, leaves and debris.
-Visibility can be decreased in bad weather, so make sure your headlight is on and that you are wearing bright clothing.
-Give yourself extra space between you and other vehicles.
-Allow for more time to stop and don’t tailgate.
-Inspect your bike before heading out to make sure everything is in working order.
Riding in bad weather can be dangerous, so always use caution and be prepared for the worst.
Avoiding Road Hazards
Riding a motorcycle is a thrilling experience, but it comes with its fair share of risks. In order to enjoy the open road, it’s important to be aware of the potential hazards that you may encounter. Here are some tips for avoiding common road hazards:
Potholes
Potholes are one of the most common hazards that motorcyclists face. They can cause serious damage to your bike, and can even throw you off balance if you hit them at high speeds. When riding, be on the lookout for potholes and avoid them if possible. If you can’t avoid them, slow down and ride over them carefully.
Gravel
Gravel can be a hazard for motorcycles because it can cause the bike to lose traction. When riding on gravel roads, take corners slowly and be extra careful of potential hazards.
Animals
You never know when an animal might dart into the road, so it’s important to be always be on the lookout. Pay attention to your surroundings and brake quickly if you see an animal in the road.
Weather conditions
inclement weather can make riding hazardous. Be sure to check the forecast before heading out and avoid riding in bad weather if possible. If you must ride in bad weather, take extra caution and go slowly.
Conclusion
In conclusion, following these Texas sport bike riders – tips for staying safe on the road can help you avoid accidents and injuries. Remember to always ride defensively, be aware of your surroundings, and never ride under the influence of drugs or alcohol. If you do ride in a group, make sure to ride in single file formation so that other drivers can see and predict your movements. And finally, always wear proper safety gear, including a DOT-approved helmet, protective clothing, and boots or shoes that cover the ankles. By following these tips, you can help ensure that you have a safe and enjoyable riding experience every time you hit the open road.
