Summer is one of the best times of the year for motorcycle riders. The days are longer, the weather is warmer and there are plenty of opportunities to get out on the road. Whether you’re taking a quick ride after work or heading out for a weekend trip, summer offers some of the best riding conditions of the year.
However, summer riding also comes with risks. High temperatures, heavy traffic, road construction, sun glare and sudden storms can all create dangerous situations for motorcyclists. Before heading out this summer, keep these important riding tips in mind.
Wear the Right Gear
When temperatures rise, some riders may be tempted to wear less protective gear to stay cool. While riding in a T-shirt and shorts may feel comfortable, it leaves you extremely vulnerable if a crash happens.
Instead, choose motorcycle gear designed for warm weather. Lightweight jackets, ventilated gloves, riding pants and moisture-wicking layers can help keep you cooler while still giving you protection.
Stay Hydrated
Riding in the summer heat can cause dehydration faster than many riders realize. Dehydration can lead to fatigue, dizziness, slower reaction times and poor decision-making, all of which are dangerous on a motorcycle.
Drink plenty of water before and during your ride. If you are planning a longer trip, carry water with you and take breaks throughout the day. If you start feeling lightheaded or overly tired, pull over somewhere safe and cool down.
Watch for Sun Glare and Storms
Summer sunshine can make riding enjoyable, but it can also make it harder for drivers to see motorcyclists. Sun glare is especially dangerous in the morning and evening when the sun is lower in the sky.
Use a helmet visor or sunglasses designed for riding, keep your headlights on and avoid riding in blind spots. Remember, just because you can see a car does not mean the driver can see you.
Summer weather can also change quickly. A sunny afternoon can turn into a heavy rainstorm with little warning. Check the forecast before riding and slow down if you get caught in wet conditions. Roads are often most slippery when rain first begins because oil and debris rise to the surface.
Be Careful Around Construction and Traffic
Summer is also road construction season. Construction zones can be especially hazardous for motorcyclists because of loose gravel, uneven pavement, lane shifts and sudden traffic backups.
Slow down in construction areas, watch for changing road surfaces and give yourself extra space. Drivers may be distracted by cones, signs and lane changes, so assume they may not be watching for motorcycles.
Summer also means more traffic, including vacationers, campers, trailers and distracted drivers. Ride defensively, avoid lingering in blind spots and be extra cautious at intersections where drivers may turn in front of you.
Check Your Bike Before Riding
Hot pavement and long rides can be tough on your motorcycle. Before heading out, check your tires, brakes, lights, fluids and controls. Make sure your tires have proper pressure and enough tread, as worn or underinflated tires can affect handling and increase the risk of a crash.
A quick inspection before each ride can help prevent problems and keep you safer on the road.
Summer is a great time to ride, but motorcyclists still need to stay aware of the hazards that come with the season. By remaining prepared, wearing the right gear, staying hydrated, checking your motorcycle and riding defensively, you can help make every summer ride safer.
Hupy and Abraham has supported motorcyclists for decades through the firm’s “Watch for Motorcycles” awareness campaign, along with ongoing efforts to promote motorcycle safety and participate in motorcycle events across the country. For more great articles tailored to motorcyclists, visit the Rider Resources page at hupy.com.
If you’ve been injured in a motorcycle accident, we’re here for you. Call us 24/7/365 at 800-800-5678 or chat with us at hupy.com so we can start fighting for you.
