10 QUICK TIPS FOR SAFE MOTORCYCLING

Whether you are an expert rider or just starting out I think there is always something to be learned about any sport. These are a few tips that I live by to be safe while motorcycling. 

1. Check your bike on a regular basis. Walk around it, look for drips, leaks, low tires, check the chain, sprockets, oil and coolant levels. When was the last time these were changed? Ever change your fork oil? How is the tread on your tires?
2. Are you packing gear for a longer ride? Travel as light as possible. Make sure everything is properly secured and strapped down so it won't rattle loose or fall off. If you have panniers or side cases make sure you pack the heaviest items as low as possible to keep the center of gravity low. If you use a top case the general rule I follow is to never have more than 7-10 pounds total in it and make sure that nothing inside the top case can move inside. Do not exceed the total carrying capacity of the bike.
3. Take time to read and understand your owners manual for the bike that you are traveling on. It is amazing how much useful knowledge is in here!
4. Are you traveling alone or with a passenger? When a passenger is on the back ride with extra caution. Stop ahead of time, accelerate slower, make sure the passenger knows not to make sudden movements that may compromise the riders ability to properly handle the motorcycle. 
5. Wear proper gear for traveling on a motorcycle. Not only the rider but the passenger as well. This includes, helmet, proper riding boots, long pants, long sleeve shirt and gloves at a minimum. I ride in full touring gear at all times, riding pants, riding jacket, helmet, riding boots and gloves. I see so many people, "idiots", that ride with no helmet, shorts and sometimes even flip flops. Your body is your most valuable asset, protect it! 
6. Be "situationally aware" at all times! You have to look out for yourself first and foremost while on a motorcycle. With all of the technology plaguing the safely of our roads today drivers are constantly distracted are not paying attention. Ride with the mentality that cars are out to get you. Know your surroundings and be alert and aware at all times. 
7. Slow down...Take a back road or alternate route. All to often we are in such a hurry to get everywhere. Take some time to enjoy riding down a different road or area that you normally wouldn't go. I promise you'll enjoy it.
8. Make sure you have ID and any other pertinent medical information readily available and accessible in case of an accident. I always carry a post card sized paper in a zip lock bag with personal emergency contacts and medical information on it. 
9.  Always stay hydrated! It is amazing how much the body will perspire while riding and without staying hydrated fatigue will set in much faster. Ask me how I know this. A ride through the desert on a 106+ degree day and trust me it doesn't take long at all. You don't have to be riding in hot weather to become dehydrated. 
10.  Eating lighter meals will make you much more comfortable when traveling on two wheels. Don't make the mistake of putting yourself into a food coma at the Mexican burrito buffet. I promise this will make the rest of your day miserable and all you will want to do is sleep. Motorcycles and large amounts of food =not a good combination.