In the world of motorcycles, a friendly parting comment often shared between riding enthusiasts is an affirmative “Rubber side down.” What may at first appear as an ironically self-evident remark dealt with an askance tongue-in-cheek tone, is actually a graven reminder to stay safe, and keep the rubber wheels on the pavement, lest one sustain property damage, or bodily harm. Riding motorcycles is an exhilarating pastime of which roughly 7 million riders in the United States partake yearly. As a much loved, and popularly enjoyed sport, we want to share an exploration of some of the factors that can help riders to avoid road rash, have fun, and keep it “rubber side down.”
Avoiding a motorcycle accident, like avoiding a car collision, is a function of complex factors. From a simplified standpoint, keeping in mind some basic safety notions is a good introduction to the complexities of motorcycle rider safety. Knowing your equipment, knowing the rules of the road and maximizing awareness are three golden rules to avoiding a motorcycle accident. Of these three, equipment knowledge can be obtained before one even gets near a bike. Picking the right machine can be the first step in setting a tone of safety. So, what things should one consider for two-wheeled pleasure, with an intention to avoid personal injury?
Motorcycle Research
Between the approximately 9 categories that comprise the varied assortment of motorcycles sold in the U.S., riders typically choose between bikes designed for the following:
- Street surface
- Dirt surface
- Dirt/street hybrid
Whether for recreation or commuting, or as way to be more ecologically friendly, most people will choose from one of the following types of motorcycles:
- Cruiser
- Touring
- Standard
- Off-Road
- Sport Touring
- On-Off Road
- Scooter
Of motorcycles ridden on the street, many of the conversations about what kind of bike to choose boil down to the experience, purpose, and interest of the rider. Cruisers and “crotch-rockets” aka sport bikes make a large majority of the bikes out there. Many bike enthusiasts are drawn to the sport via the mystique connected to bikes they see on the street, and the riders that own them. For the true bike enthusiast to be, one ride is all it takes for them to catch the bike “bug.” However, as many statistics and stories can attest, there is a considerable degree of risk involved in riding a motorcycle. Avoiding personal injury means having the right bike for your level of riding.
Conventional wisdom holds that for the beginner, it is not necessary to have the maximum horsepower to learn the ropes. What is important is to pick up the skills of handling the bike, and develop an awareness of the variables that can lead to collision, laying the bike down, or loss of control.
Anyone that has gotten road rash on a bicycle by taking a turn too quickly in loose pavement knows that proprioception, balance, hand-eye coordination, and foresight are necessary to be safe. The same principles hold true for motorcycles. In this case the bike is considerably heavier, and has speeds that dwarf that of a bicycle.
As a general rule of thumb, the more cc’s that a motorcycle has—the measure of cubic centimeters in the engine of a motorcycle–the more the bike will weigh. This general fact holds true for all bike classes. But what are the safety parameters of motorcycles? How can wisely choosing a motorcycle help prevent motorcycle accidents?
Heavy Motorcycles and Safety
Stopping Distance-Motorcycles generally considered on the heavier spectrum of bikes—standard bikes and cruisers—have an advantage of increased stability. Due to their increased weight, stopping distances are longer than bikes that have less weight. This is a general rule of physics.
Suspension-Differences in suspension are also a factor in the way a bike handles. Larger bikes, as one would expect, handle with less ease of maneuverability, though they are typically chosen for their increased comfort for longer trips. Avoiding road rash can be as simple as choosing a bike that is not too cumbersome. With horsepower monsters getting to 800 or more pounds dry weight, it is best to consider your height/weight/strength ratio.
Engine Loudness- One lesser discussed factor of larger motorcycles that pertains typically to cruiser and chopper style bikes is the loudness of the engine. One function of being on a two wheeled machine is a minimized visibility compared with trucks and cars. One benefit that stems from louder bikes—often bikes of increased engine volume—is the increase in the volume of an accelerating or revved engine. Other vehicles are alerted to the presence of a motorcycle. While some people have criticized the loudness of motorcycles, undoubtedly, it has saved lives and injury.
Stability- Riding a motorcycle in windy conditions can prove dangerous. Traveling on highways with other traffic can add to the danger of being blown off the road, or being blown into another vehicle. While heavy bikes have some disadvantages of maneuverability, one benefit that they can claim is added stability in windy conditions.
Light Motorcycles and Safety
Traction- It is known that wet conditions can reduce the lateral force that a tire can accommodate before sliding. Having more weight on a properly inflated tire lengthens what is called a contact patch. While lighter vehicles are more nimble and maneuverable, motorcyclists may want to consider the advantages of having a heavier bike with regards to traction.
Ergonomics and Ease of Handling- Much of motorcycle safety is the ability to be aware of road hazards and respond quickly respond to them by moving out of the path of danger. Lighter bikes have the increased benefit of offering a nimble handling ability for riders. Given the blind spots of cars and trucks, as well as the myriad objects that can clutter a street or highway, lighter bikes can give riders the advantage of being able to move out of the way quickly.
General Safety
There are a number of things to keep in mind when operating a motorcycle that should not be overlooked, regardless of the weight of a motorcycle.
- Helmets save lives. The Washington State Patrol agrees.
- Protective gear such as strong jackets and pants, gloves can protect from severe road rash
- Learning gradually, and respecting the dangers of speed preserves lives.
- Apprehending basic riding skills is essential to riding safely and avoiding accidents
- Observe speed limits. Speeding on motorcycles increases risk of vehicular accidents
- Make sure you can touch the ground while standing astride the vehicle
- Select a power of bike that is needed, not more. Riding what you can use safely is the best way to avoid personal injury.
- Use your bike for your intended purpose. Street bikes on trails, and other such ideas are dangerous
- Pay Attention!
Puget Sound Motorcycle Accident Lawyer
Riding a motorcycle is an activity to be considered with care. Proper gear, the benefit of experience, and a healthy respect for speed and life are all priceless assets. While there is no simple rule of thumb to help one decide whether a lighter or heavier bike is right for you, consider your own body type, and size. Knowing where and to what aims you will be riding is an important part of picking the safest fit. Traction, stopping distance, stability, suspension, and ergonomics are only a few of the complex factors that affect safety on a motorcycle. Above all else, an attitude of mindfulness and awareness are the most valuable factors in safe riding.
If you find yourself or a loved one has been injured in a motorcycle accident or serious bicycle accident then it is important that you find an experienced attorney that can represent you in the face of aggressive insurance companies and mounting medical bills. Call the Seattle motorcycle accident attorneys at Phillips Webster for a free consultation.
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