How to Prevent a Motorcycle Crash

As a motorcyclist, one of the issues that’s always at the forefront of your mind will be the potential for a crash to happen. Motorcycle riding is convenient, fuel-efficient and enjoyable, but it can also be dangerous if you are not vigilant and careful. 

Fortunately, there are things you can do as a rider that can help to protect you from a crash and reduce the risk that you’ll be involved in an accident. Gina's Motorsports of Monee is your Illinois motorcycle dealer, based south of Chicago. Here are our top tips for avoiding motorcycle crashes and accidents.

1. Remain Visible

As a motorcyclist, you aren’t nearly as visible as you would be in a big car or truck. This is especially true if you’re riding a dark-colored motorcycle with all-black gear! Do whatever you can to make yourself and your motorcycle visible in all lighting conditions. You can add reflective tape to your helmet, bike and jacket, add extra LED lights to your motorcycle and wear brightly colored neon vests or gear that will be easy to see against the pavement and sky.

2. Make Sure You Can See 

You also need to be able to see the way ahead so that you can anticipate traffic changes and stay aware of potential obstacles. Make sure that your motorcycle’s lights are sufficiently bright to illuminate your way; you can upgrade to LED lights if the factory-installed lights are too dim. If your motorcycle has a windshield, it needs to be installed at the right height so that your vision isn’t obscured. Your face shield and windshield both need to be cleaned regularly to remove debris, dirt, water spots and dead bugs, too.

3. Stay in Control of Your Bike

Keeping control of your motorcycle is also important when trying to avert disaster. Make sure that your motorcycle is set up for your specific height so that you aren’t straining to reach controls or cramped and uncomfortable. Wear riding gloves with good grip so that you can keep your hands on the controls at all times. Watch for areas of low traction on the road, such as black ice, steel plates and oil slicks so that you can avoid them and keep your balance.

4. Maintain Your Motorcycle

Finally, regular maintenance is a vital key to preventing motorcycle crashes. By staying on top of regular upkeep tasks like tire inflation, oil changes and burnt-out lights, you can help to keep your bike in great condition so that it’s less likely to fail you at a crucial moment. If you ever need some professional assistance with motorcycle maintenance, you can always contact the service department here at Gina’s Motorsports of Monee.

Looking to buy a new motorcycle? Visit our dealership in Monee, IL, today to take a look at our fine selection of new and used motorcycles for sale. Gina’s Motorsports of Monee proudly serves the greater Chicago metro area as well as all of Kankakee County, IL.