Safety Tips for Used Motorcycles

Aug. 23 2018 Miscellaneous By ___

It's exciting when you get your first motorcycle. After you learn the basics and get your certification, you are dying to hit the road. But not so fast! You need more than to know how to ride - you need to know how to ride your used motorcycle safely. We created the following beginner's guide to safe riding. If you need any maintenance or parts for your used motorcycle, visit Road Track & Trail. We proudly serve those in Milwaukee, Wisconsin. 

The Right Gear

Your gear accomplishes a few goals. First, your gear helps you be seen by other motorists on the road. Those around you may not be paying strict attention to the road. They may be texting and driving, driving drowsy, and so on. Stand out on the road by wearing brightly colored outerwear.

Second, your gear keeps you protected from the hazards of the road. As you cruise around on your used motorcycle, you encounter debris, bugs, and the elements. Your normal clothes won't cut it. Throw on a riding jacket made of leather or other reinforced material. Wear riding gloves to maintain the proper grip of your handlebars. Use a well-fitting, crash-tested helmet.

Inspect Your Used Motorcycle

A used motorcycle will already have hundreds, if not thousands, of miles under its belt. This will naturally speed up the wear and tear on its various parts. Before you hit the road, make sure the crucial parts of your motorcycle are in good working condition. Do you have enough tread? Are your tires adjusted to the right pressure? When you test your brakes, are you free of any grinding or squeaking noises? Do you have enough fluids, such as brake fluid and gas? Make sure you can answer "yes" to every question before hitting the road. Otherwise, your used motorcycle could break down mid-ride (possibly on a high-speed highway!)

Check the Weather

A bike at its peak performance can't even handle all weather conditions. Used motorcycles are even more limited. Always check the weather before you ride and make sure your used motorcycle is capable of safe riding. Stay away from extreme conditions, such as intense heat, snow, or heavy rains.

Ride in Groups

Gather up your buddies to cruise around the city! Riding in a group is not only fun, but it helps keep you safer. If something goes wrong with your used motorcycle, they can help out. Someone in the group may know how to fix minor mechanical issues. If you experience a health issue, they can also assist with that. You'll be able to enjoy a ride knowing that you're surrounded by people who have your back, rather than having to solve issues on your own.

Take Frequent Breaks

Riding a used motorcycle is an athletic activity! You use your body and engage multiple muscle groups to turn, slow down, and so on. Your body can only take so much. Schedule frequent brakes on longer rides. It'll help limit the aching joints and sore muscles (and help you maintain better focus on the road). Pull off to a rest stop, hit a scenic viewpoint, or stop at a local restaurant for a quick pick me up. Short breaks will help you ride for longer and in better comfort!

For all your used motorcycle needs, visit Road Track & Trail. Our parts replacement and service department can get your used motorcycle running like new. If you are looking to buy, we offer a wide selection of new and used motorcycles. We proudly serve those in Milwaukee, Waukesha, Big Bend, and Kenosha, Wisconsin.