It is March, and in many places of the United States and the northern hemisphere in general, the cusp of the riding season is here. Many put away their motorcycles for the winter months fully expecting to take the cover off, check the oil, put in some fresh fuel and hit the road when the weather is sufficiently nice. That may be a bit optimistic.
Over the weeks of months of not riding, one’s body tends to loose the feel of riding and the sharp edged reflexes for avoiding sticky situations. Here are some hints that may help you prepare for an enjoyable and safe riding season in 2010.
1- Find an abandoned parking lot and practice the basics. This helps reacquaint your body with controlling 400+ pounds of steel and aluminum and plastic.
2- Drink plenty of fluids (not beer or coffee) before riding. Your body is not used to the higher rate of water loss while riding.
3- Take it easy. Don’t hop on your motorcycle after not riding for three months, for a cross country trip. Take shorter rides of 25 miles or less; if possible, in situations where there is little traffic.
4- Pay attention to the brakes. Some of your muscle memory may have been lost over the winter months. That is only part of it; while resting, your bike’s brakes may have become sticky. Sticky brakes are no fun at all.
5- Dress warmly. Your body is not used to 50 MPH wind.
6- Be extra alert for drivers. After not needing to share the road with motorcycle riders for several months, drivers may not be generally be watching out for us.
Stay safe out there!
In what seems to be a surprising move, according to the Nevada News Bureau, the Nevada Helmet Law may be modified to allow a rider the choice of whether to wear a helmet or not. While most agree motorcycle helmets save lives, many argue on whether riders should be forced to wear a helmet or not. State senator Don Gustavson of Sparks who originated this bill, recently discovered it would likely pass the committee vote and be passed to the house for a vote. Read the above link for more details.