Essential Do’s and Don’ts for Motorcyclists
A few years back, a friend of mine, Mark, learned the hard way why these dos and don’ts matter. He was a seasoned rider, confident and experienced. One sunny afternoon, he decided to skip wearing his riding jacket because, well, it was hot, and he was just taking a short ride to grab coffee. A mile into his trip, a car suddenly swerved before him. Mark reacted quickly but lost control and skidded off his bike.
Thankfully, he survived with a few scrapes and bruises, but his arms were badly injured because he wasn’t wearing proper gear. The thing is, Mark knew better—he just thought a quick trip wouldn’t hurt. It was a classic mistake: thinking that the rules don’t apply when you’re close to home or when conditions seem perfect.
Then there’s Emma, a new rider who always practiced the do’s like a pro. She always checked her mirrors, kept her distance from other vehicles, and wore reflective clothing. One rainy evening, she slowed down well before a traffic light, allowing extra room between her bike and the car ahead. Suddenly, the car in front hydroplaned, but because Emma had kept a safe distance, she managed to stop in time and avoid a pile-up.
These scenarios aren’t rare. They happen every day. Mark’s story shows how a simple lapse in judgment can lead to injury, while Emma’s experience highlights the power of sticking to the do’s—even when it feels unnecessary. Following these guidelines isn’t just about avoiding trouble; it’s about giving yourself the best shot at enjoying your ride without incident.
By sticking to these tried-and-true practices, you’re not only reducing your risk but also setting yourself up for a better, safer ride. After all, it’s not just the big, dramatic moments that matter—it’s the small, everyday choices that keep you safe and let you enjoy the ride to its fullest.
10 Do’s Every Motorcyclist Should Follow, Especially Beginners
1. Do Wear Your Helmet—Every Single Time
A helmet is your best friend on the road. It’s not just a legal requirement; it’s a lifesaver. Studies show helmets reduce the risk of head injury by a whopping 69%. So, don’t just toss it on like a fashion accessory—strap it on snugly. And yes, even if you’re just going around the block!
2. Do Gear Up for Safety
Think of riding gear as your superhero suit. Jackets, gloves, boots, and pants aren’t just for style points—they protect you from road rash, cuts, and burns. The right gear can distinguish between walking away from a fall or ending up in the ER. Opt for gear with reflective materials to stay visible, especially in low light. Remember, there’s no such thing as being “too prepared” on two wheels.
3. Do Check Your Motorcycle Before Every Ride
Before you even think about hitting the road, give your bike a quick once-over. Check the tires for pressure and tread, test the brakes, ensure the lights are working, and glance at the fuel level. This five-minute ritual could save you from a breakdown—or worse. It’s like brushing your teeth; a little maintenance now prevents big problems later.
4. Do Use Your Mirrors—They’re There for a Reason
Mirrors aren’t just for admiring your helmet hair. Use them to keep an eye on what’s happening around you. Make it a habit to check them frequently and before changing lanes. A quick glance can help you avoid a surprise from a vehicle sneaking up in your blind spot.
5. Do Ride Defensively, Not Aggressively
Think of yourself as the tortoise, not the hare. Be cautious, anticipate other drivers’ moves, and never assume they see you. Maintain a safe distance, slow down at intersections, and use your signals early. Remember, it’s better to be safe than sorry—nobody gets a medal for risky maneuvers.
6. Do Follow the Speed Limit
Speed limits aren’t suggestions; they’re there to keep you safe. Riding too fast reduces your reaction time and makes it harder to avoid obstacles. Stick to the speed limit, especially in areas with heavy traffic, pedestrian crossings, or sharp turns. Enjoy the journey rather than racing to the destination.
7. Do Stay Visible to Others
Make sure other drivers can see you. Use your headlights, even during the day, and wear bright or reflective gear. Avoid riding in other vehicles’ blind spots. Think of yourself as a lighthouse—always shining bright to avoid getting lost in the traffic sea.
8. Do Learn to Brake Properly
Braking isn’t just about squeezing the levers and hoping for the best. Practice using both the front and rear brakes smoothly to avoid skidding or flipping. Find an empty parking lot and practice emergency stops. The better you know your bike’s braking response, the safer you’ll be on the road.
9. Do Take Regular Breaks on Long Rides
Riding for hours can be exhausting, both mentally and physically. Fatigue is a silent enemy that creeps up on you. Take regular breaks, stretch your legs, and hydrate. A tired rider is a distracted rider, and a distracted rider is a danger to themselves and others.
10. Do Keep Your Cool in Traffic
Getting stuck in traffic is frustrating, but don’t let it get to you. Stay calm, avoid weaving through cars, and don’t engage with aggressive drivers. Patience is key—you’re on a motorcycle, which means you’ll be the first to enjoy that open road feeling again when the road clears.
Following these dos isn’t just about checking off a list; it’s about building habits that keep you safe and make every ride a joy. Remember, smart riders are the ones who ride another day.
10 Don’ts Every Motorcyclist Should Follow, Especially Beginners
1. Don’t Skip the Helmet—Ever
Leaving your helmet at home is like going into battle without a shield. It doesn’t matter how short the trip is or how perfect your hair looks; wearing a helmet is non-negotiable. Too many riders think, “It won’t happen to me,” but accidents don’t send out invitations. So, don’t play roulette with your life—wear that helmet every time.
2. Don’t Ride Beyond Your Skill Level
We get it—it’s tempting to impress your buddies or test your limits. But pushing beyond your abilities can lead to serious trouble. Don’t try advanced maneuvers or tackle difficult terrain if you’re uncomfortable. You’re better off riding within your skills than becoming a cautionary tale at the next meetup.
3. Don’t Tailgate Other Vehicles
Riding too close to the car in front is like flirting with disaster. You need enough space to react if they slam on the brakes or make a sudden turn. Keep a safe distance so you have plenty of time to stop or swerve if needed. After all, you don’t want your first lesson in physics to be when you’re flying over a car’s hood!
4. Don’t Forget to Signal Your Turns
Not signaling is like speaking in code—other drivers won’t know what you’re planning. Use your turn signals to communicate with those around you, and do it early. Surprise parties are great; surprise lane changes? Not so much. Always let others know your next move.
5. Don’t Ride Under the Influence
This one’s a no-brainer but worth repeating: don’t drink or use drugs before riding. Even a small amount of alcohol or drugs can impair your judgment and reaction time. Keep your mind sharp and focus clear—save the celebratory drink after the ride.
6. Don’t Ride in Blind Spots
Staying in a car’s blind spot is like hiding in a game of hide-and-seek—except this time; you don’t want to be found by a sudden lane change. Position yourself where other drivers can see you, especially near large trucks or buses. Make it a habit to stay visible and out of those sneaky blind spots.
7. Don’t Neglect Weather Conditions
Riding in bad weather without proper precautions is like wearing flip-flops on a hike—it’s just asking for trouble. Rain, fog, or strong winds can make roads slippery and reduce visibility. If the weather looks iffy, reconsider your ride or take extra precautions, like slowing down and increasing your following distance.
8. Don’t Get Distracted While Riding
Checking your phone, adjusting your music, or fiddling with your gear while riding is a recipe for disaster. Keep your eyes on the road and hands on the handlebars. Distractions are like potholes—they can seem small but cause a lot of damage if you’re not paying attention.
9. Don’t Ignore Your Gut Instinct
Don’t ignore if something feels off—a strange noise from your bike, an uneasy feeling about the weather, or a bad vibe about a certain route. Trusting your gut could prevent an accident. Riding with confidence doesn’t mean riding blindly; it means being aware and alert.
10. Don’t Forget to Enjoy the Ride
Lastly, don’t forget why you started riding in the first place: for the sheer joy of it. Don’t let fear, frustration, or impatience get in the way of a great ride. Keep a positive attitude, respect the road, and enjoy every moment. Remember, the journey is the reward!
By avoiding these don’ts, you set yourself up for safer and more enjoyable rides. It’s all about building smart habits that keep you safe and your wheels turning.
Common Mistakes Motorcyclists Make and How to Avoid Them: Situational Awareness Tips
1. Mistake: Failing to Look Far Ahead on the Road
Riding with your eyes locked on the pavement just ahead of you is like reading a book with your nose against the page. You miss the big picture. Many riders get so focused on the immediate road that they miss crucial cues—like a car suddenly braking up ahead or debris in the lane.
How to Avoid It: Keep your head up and scan the road at least 12 seconds ahead. This gives you time to react and adjust to any potential hazards. It’s like playing chess—you always need to think a few moves ahead.
2. Mistake: Ignoring the Blind Spots
Riding in a vehicle’s blind spot is asking for trouble. Many riders forget that drivers may not see them, especially around larger vehicles. It’s like hiding in plain sight, and that’s not where you want to be.
How to Avoid It: Always position yourself where drivers can see you. Avoid lingering in blind spots, especially around trucks and buses. When overtaking, do it quickly and get back into a visible lane position.
3. Mistake: Misjudging Corners and Curves
Many motorcyclists approach curves too fast or take the wrong line, causing them to drift into the opposite lane or even off the road. Corners can be tricky—like navigating a maze with no exit if you’re unprepared.
How to Avoid It: Slow down before entering a curve and look through the turn to where you want to go. Always enter wide and exit tight—like drawing a perfect arc. Don’t accelerate until you see the clear path out of the corner.
4. Mistake: Not Watching for Road Surface Changes
Loose gravel, oil spills, wet leaves—these are like banana peels waiting to take you down. Many riders don’t pay enough attention to road surface changes, leading to slips and skids.
How to Avoid It: Stay alert for patches of different textures or colors. Adjust your speed and avoid sudden braking or sharp turns when you see potential hazards. It’s all about staying light on the controls and being cool.
5. Mistake: Overconfidence in Heavy Traffic
Feeling invincible in heavy traffic is a quick way to find yourself in a bad situation. Some riders zigzag between cars or speed past vehicles, assuming they’re agile enough to handle any situation.
How to Avoid It: Keep your cool and ride predictably. Don’t weave in and out of lanes or try to squeeze through tight gaps. Remember, patience pays off in heavy traffic—like slow-cooking a great meal.
6. Mistake: Neglecting to Check Mirrors Regularly
Ignoring your mirrors is like driving with blinders on. Many riders focus only on what’s ahead, forgetting to check what’s happening behind them.
How to Avoid It: Make it a habit to check your mirrors every few seconds, especially before changing lanes or making a turn. Think of it as a quick “over-the-shoulder glance” to keep you aware of your surroundings.
7. Mistake: Forgetting to Signal
Some riders skip signaling, thinking it’s unnecessary or they’re in too much of a hurry. But failing to communicate your intentions is like expecting everyone to read your mind.
How to Avoid It: Always use your indicators, even if the road looks empty. It’s a small habit that makes a big difference in avoiding accidents.
8. Mistake: Riding While Distracted
Multitasking might work at the office, but on a bike, it’s a no-go. Whether adjusting your helmet strap, checking your phone, or fiddling with the GPS, distractions can lead to disaster in a split second.
How to Avoid It: Keep your focus sharp. If you need to make adjustments or check something, pull over safely and handle it. It’s not worth the risk to do it on the move.
9. Mistake: Underestimating the Importance of Gear
Many beginners think gear is optional or just for “serious” riders. But riding without proper gear is like going into battle without armor.
How to Avoid It: Always wear a helmet, gloves, jacket, and boots—no exceptions. Gear is designed to protect, so don’t skimp on it.
10. Mistake: Not Adjusting to Different Riding Conditions
Whether it’s rain, fog, or nighttime, riding conditions can change fast, and failing to adjust can be dangerous. It’s like wearing sunglasses in a dark room—you’re bound to stumble.
How to Avoid It: Slow down, increase following distance, and use your headlights when needed. Ride with extra caution and be ready to adapt at a moment’s notice.
Staying aware of these common mistakes and knowing how to avoid them can make a world of difference in your riding experience. Keep these tips in mind, and ride smart, stay safe, and enjoy every mile.
