| Any ride on a motorcycle is bound to be one of the | | | | hindered by a lever that is closer than half an inch to |
| greatest thrills you may ever experience. Very | | | | the grip. Conversely, there may be air in the brake |
| different from the sheltered environment of a regular | | | | fluid if the lever is able to move too far. Identifying |
| vehicle, a motorcycle allows you to feel the power | | | | the problem and taking care of it right away are very |
| of the engine directly below you and you can't get | | | | important. |
| much closer to the earth beneath you either. No | | | | 3. Do not allow distractions to steal your focus. Even |
| other experience can compare. | | | | something as seemingly insignificant as listening to the |
| But it is the type of experience that can also turn | | | | radio can become a safety hazard when driving in |
| life-threatening if extreme caution is not exercised | | | | conditions that require good focus, such as during |
| each step of the way. The following are four of the | | | | bad weather or in heavy traffic. |
| most important things to keep in mind regarding | | | | 4. For group riding it is best to maintain a reasonable |
| motorcycle riding, in order to ensure the safety of | | | | distance between your motorcycle and the one |
| yourself and others with whom you share the road. | | | | ahead of you; also, keep an eye on the lead bike at |
| 1. Tire pressure needs to be checked and maintained | | | | all times. Accidents can easily occur if you are too |
| on a regular basis. Follow the instructions for inflation | | | | close to another motorcycle or decide to try to |
| which are stamped on the tire; this will increase the | | | | "make your own path," instead of sticking with the |
| life of your tires and guarantee a smooth ride every | | | | established route. |
| time. Sometimes a range of tire pressure is provided; | | | | More could be said about motorcycle safety; here |
| always inflate on the higher side of this range. | | | | we have only scratched the surface of a few of the |
| Good tire pressure helps you to maintain control while | | | | most important factors. For first-time riders, taking a |
| operating your motorcycle. Underinflated tires are a | | | | class in motorcycle safety is always a good idea. |
| hazard; but the good news is that checking your tire | | | | However, some of the things mentioned above can |
| pressure on a regular basis will help you to recognize | | | | slip your mind if you haven't made it a habit to think |
| when your tires have naturally lost some pressure, | | | | about them when you ride. Follow these suggestions, |
| and you can increase the pressure to a safer degree. | | | | be mindful of the law, and keep yourself safe while |
| 2. Your brake lever needs to be functioning correctly | | | | riding. |
| at all times. Your ability to come to safe stop may be | | | | |